The conference began with structured reflection. WAAB members reviewed the past year through a 'Year in Review' workshop and a network health check, using these tools to identify where the network has grown strongest and where momentum can be further accelerated.

For many, the most meaningful developments in 2025 were not simply the number of events hosted, but the depth of connections that began to form between alumni, schools and students.

Alice Oh (Dulwich College Suzhou, Class of 2017) highlighted the growing strength of institutional ties, particularly through Dulwich College Suzhou, where alumni contributions were transformed into tangible resources for current students. She also noted the success of sourcing alumni to advise students on critical, niche topics such as university admissions and navigating Korean military service. For her, the most rewarding part was seeing alumni involvement become a meaningful extension of school life.

Across regions, leaders also saw progress in expanding the network's footprint. Grace Chan (Dulwich College Beijing, Class of 2013), in her first year as USA Regional Lead, described the year as a period of establishing foundations—hosting five events across New York City, San Francisco and Los Angeles, and appointing two city region leaders, William and Stanley, in San Francisco. She also noted that WAN members attended three separate events hosted by Dulwich London's OA Network, demonstrating how the network is becoming increasingly interconnected across the wider EiM family.

When alumni support students in specific, practical ways, it shows the network is truly making a difference.

Alice Oh

Dulwich College Suzhou, Class of 2017