My time in Brisbane revealed the power of open communication and vibrant civic life — qualities that resonated with my extroverted nature and deepened my commitment to environmental stewardship. Inspired by the city’s sustainability initiatives, from urban gardens to renewable energy projects, I actively advocated for greater climate action — contacting Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to urge strengthened sustainability measures. Their response, highlighting new infrastructure to support renewable energy, reflected the evolving dialogue around Australia’s future.

Berlin offered a contrasting experience. While its innovation and cultural dynamism impressed me, challenges like bureaucratic inefficiency and fragmented infrastructure revealed the complexities beneath stereotypes of European governance. Attending the 2024 Berlin Security Conference proved a pivotal moment: engaging with global leaders, including the UK Chief of Defence, underscored the delicate balance between deterrence and diplomacy. His words — “no one truly wants war” — captured the sobering reality behind strategic defense policies.

Protests outside the conference over Germany’s military support for Ukraine further illuminated the diverse perspectives shaping global security debates, deepening my understanding of diplomacy’s nuances and the importance of public discourse.

Socially, Berlin’s emphasis on privacy and close-knit circles contrasted sharply with Brisbane’s openness, teaching me adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and the importance of empathy in leadership. Despite their differences, both cities enriched my worldview and reinforced my commitment to addressing sustainability, innovation, and policy challenges through collaboration and principled leadership.

This year of immersion offered invaluable lessons in critical thinking, diplomacy, and the human dimensions of global governance.