Our World, Connected is the award-winning podcast from the British Council. Host Christine Wilson, Director of Research and Insight, explores how culture, language, and education are shaping our lives and our shared future. She speaks to experts and changemakers around the world to discover what con
What happens when a story crosses a border? Can it also help us move beyond our own boundaries? In the first episode of season four of Our World, Connected, host Christine Wilson speaks with Elif Shafak about belonging, memory and the power of literature in divided times. Elif recalls on how, as a solitary child moving across cultures, she found both freedom and friendship in a place called “Storyland”. As now as an adult reflecting on a polarised world, she reflects on how stories can take us beyond ourselves, challenge divisions between “us” and “them”, and act as an “antidote to apathy”.…
Our World, Connected , the award-winning podcast from the British Council, is back for season four. Join host Christine Wilson, Director of Research and Insight, as she meets experts and changemakers from around the world to discuss the most pressing issues of our time. Hear big ideas and personal stories about what connects us: from stories across borders to AI and the changing nature of soft power. Follow Our World, Connected to be the first to hear the new season.
In this episode of Our World, Connected , host Christine Wilson speaks with Professor Mariana Mazzucato, Professor in the Economics of Innovation and Public Value at University College London and Founding Director of the UCL Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose. Together, they explore why we need a new way of thinking about economic growth, one that places creativity, culture and the common good at the heart of prosperity. They discuss the role of governments in shaping innovation, why arts and culture should be seen as essential public infrastructure, the role of imagination, and how…
Did you know that 12 August is International Youth Day? But what happens the day after is just as important, so how can we ensure that it’s both a short-term celebration and a catalyst for lasting change? In this special episode of Our World, Connected, host Christine Wilson revisits conversations from season 3, including previously unheard audio, with six inspiring young people. They work across a range of fields, including climate action, health, disability rights, youth policy, culture and filmmaking. A selection of our guests from the past season - Amanda da Cruz Costa, Bukky Adebowale,…
What can football teach us about connection, community and diplomacy in an interconnected world? In this episode of Our World, Connected, host Christine Wilson speaks with Dr. Lindsay Sarah Krasnoff about football’s role as a tool for soft power, exploring how major tournaments such as the FIFA Men’s World Cup shape international relationships and global perceptions. We also hear from Nomonde Mashabane, a coach and educator from the Soweto township of Johannesburg, South Africa. Her experiences with the British Council and Premier League’s Premier Skills programme demonstrate how football…
What skills will young people need to thrive in a greener, more inclusive digital future? In this episode of Our World, Connected, host Christine Wilson speaks with William Mutero, Director of the Center for Inclusive Digital Transformation of Africa at Carnegie Mellon University Africa in Rwanda, about how digital transformation and climate action are reshaping societies and opportunities around the world. Together, they explore the growing connection between digital and green skills, the importance of inclusive innovation, and why Africa is central to conversations about the future of…
What does it really mean to reset a relationship between nations? In this episode of Our World, Connected , host Christine Wilson is joined by Professor Jane Ohlmeyer, Erasmus Smith’s Professor of Modern History at Trinity College Dublin, to discuss the complex and deeply intertwined relationship between the UK and Ireland. Drawing on her own life and work across Ireland, the UK and beyond, Jane reflects on how history, imperial legacy and mobility continue to shape identities and relationships across these islands. Exploring difficult conversations about the past and the challenges brought…
What does it really mean for a city to be a “city of culture”? And what role can culture play in shaping more peaceful and connected societies? In this episode of Our World, Connected , host Christine Wilson speaks with Shanaz Gulzar, Creative Director of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, about how cultural programmes can transform the way cities see themselves and connect with the wider world. Drawing on Bradford’s story, Shanaz reflects on the power of culture to bring communities together, create space for dialogue about identity and history, and build lasting international partnerships…
What can cultural relations organisations be doing now, and in the future, to support people in the midst of the conflict in the Middle East? In this special mini-episode of Our World, Connected , host Christine Wilson speaks with Zahid Mahmood, the British Council’s Director in Libya, about the role of cultural relations in times of conflict. Drawing on his experience working across the Middle East and North Africa, Zahid reflects on building trust in conflict-affected regions, the long-term impact of youth and cultural programmes, and why soft power and diplomacy remain vital even in…
What does diplomacy look like in an era defined by conflict, mistrust and geopolitical rivalry? In this episode of Our World, Connected , host Christine Wilson speaks with Laurie Bristow , former UK Ambassador to Afghanistan, Russia and Azerbaijan, about the evolving role of diplomacy in a more volatile and transactional world. Drawing on more than three decades at the heart of British foreign and national security policy, Laurie reflects on the end of the Cold War, the invasion of Iraq, the fall of Kabul in 2021, and what these moments reveal about power, perception and policy. From…
Does multilateralism still matter - and what would change if global cooperation were built for today’s world, not yesterday’s? Marking the 80th anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly, this episode of Our World, Connected explores whether multilateralism can still deliver in a world shaped by geopolitical rivalry, global crises and declining trust in institutions. As the international system faces growing pressure, the episode asks what does global cooperation look like now - and who is it serving? Host Christine Wilson is joined on this episode by Jane Kinninmont , Chief…
What does radical inclusion really look like – and what would change if dignity, access and belonging were built into our systems from the start? Marking the UN’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities, this episode of Our World, Connected explores how societies can move beyond charity and good intentions towards a rights-based approach to disability inclusion – one that centres listening, participation, and meaningful action. Host Christine Wilson is joined on this episode by Nada Ehab , a youth development specialist and advisor to the British Council’s Inclusive Youth Empowerment…
How can higher education remain resilient in an age of uncertainty? Universities everywhere are under pressure, from political interference and funding cuts, to rapid technological change and shifting public expectations. In this episode of Our World, Connected, host Christine Wilson speaks with Michael Ignatieff , an award-winning author and historian, former leader of Canada’s Liberal Party, and former President and Rector of Central European University (CEU). A keynote speaker at the British Council’s Going Global 2025 conference, Michael reflects on the “storm clouds” gathering over…
How can culture and creativity be powerful tools for connection, diplomacy, and intercultural dialogue? In this episode of Our World, Connected, we explore how art and cultural exchange can drive global cooperation, inspire climate action, embrace youth aspirations, and open new pathways for understanding in an increasingly divided world. Host Christine Wilson is joined by Ambassador Antonio Patriota , Brazil’s Ambassador to the UK, and one of the country’s most experienced diplomats, for a wide-ranging conversation about the power of cultural exchange in shaping international relations. We…
What does cultural heritage have to do with climate change, and how can creativity help communities respond to a crisis that threatens both land and legacy? In the opening episode of Season 3, host Christine Wilson explores cultural heritage and creativity in the context of climate action. From a local neighbourhood in Cairo, to the cultural policy conference Mondiacult, to the United Nations’ global gathering on climate change (the Conference of the Parties - COP), we’re asking how culture and creativity can build more resilient communities and more sustainable futures. Christine is joined…
We’re back! Join us over the coming 12 episodes, where we’ll be continuing our global conversations about culture, education and language, asking how creativity, learning, and international exchange can help us meet the challenges of today’s complex and interconnected world. This season, we’ll be exploring pressing themes of our time, and meeting inspiring people who are making a difference. From how cultural heritage and creative writing are inspiring new approaches to climate action, to how international cultural seasons help build bridges between nations, we’ll hear stories from people…
What role can education play in times of war, displacement, and uncertainty? And how can schools and universities provide not just learning, but hope, courage, and resilience for communities in crisis? In this bonus episode of Our World, Connected, host Christine Wilson reflects on her conversation with Professor ‘Funmi Olonisakin , Vice President at King’s College London and founder of the African Leadership Centre. Drawing on her own experiences of conflict in Nigeria and her career at the UN, ‘Funmi shares why she sees education as central to rebuilding societies — from restoring…
What does it mean to tell stories through the spaces we live in? And how can architecture be a source of memory and repair? In this bonus episode of Our World, Connected, host Christine Wilson revisits a powerful conversation with Kabage Karanja, architect, researcher, and co-founder of Nairobi-based design studio Cave_bureau. A leading voice in rethinking architecture through the lens of ecology, memory, and justice, Kabage shares his reflections on vernacular architecture, the legacy of British colonialism, and the importance of caves as spaces of cultural knowledge. His work, including…
How is technology shaping the way we live, learn, and connect? And what does that mean for young people growing up in a digital-first world? In this bonus episode of Our World, Connected , host Christine Wilson revisits a powerful conversation with Baroness Beeban Kidron, crossbench peer in the House of Lords and founder of the 5Rights Foundation. A leading advocate for children’s digital rights, Beeban reflects on the urgent need to rethink how technology is designed and regulated — and the responsibilities of governments, educators, and tech companies in keeping young people safe online.…
How do we really listen — to each other, and to the world around us? In this final episode of season two, host Christine Wilson explores the practice of deep listening — a powerful communication method rooted in empathy, openness, and the desire to understand across divides. Christine is joined by journalist, media executive and author Emily Kasriel , who developed the Deep Listening methodology. Drawing on her work from across news, conflict resolution and academia, Emily’s new book Deep Listening: Transform Your Relationships with Family, Friends, and Foes offers a practical guide to…
What does the future hold for the English language? And how is technology transforming the way we speak, write and connect across borders? In this episode of Our World, Connected, host Christine Wilson explores how digital culture is reshaping the English language, from the rise of internet slang to the impact of AI, social media, and globalisation on how we communicate. Christine is joined by renowned linguist and author David Crystal , one of the world’s leading experts on the English language. With more than 100 books to his name – including the landmark Cambridge Encyclopedia of the…
When girls are educated, communities thrive – but how do we make that a global reality in the digital age? In this episode of Our World, Connected , host Christine Wilson explores the urgent issue of girls’ education in a rapidly changing world – where access to schooling, digital literacy, and life skills can transform futures and communities. Christine speaks with Wadi Ben-Hirki , a Nigerian activist and founder of the Wadi Ben-Hirki Foundation, who has spent nearly a decade advocating for marginalised girls across Nigeria. From addressing early marriage to supporting school re-entry, Wadi…
Can art be a tool for repair? And what happens when exhibitions themselves move across borders? In this episode of Our World, Connected , host Christine Wilson dives into the relationship between art, architecture, and place — and how both disciplines are being used to challenge colonial narratives, spark dialogue, and imagine alternative futures. Christine is joined by writer, artist and curator Rosie Olang’ Odhiambo, who speaks about her collaborative, cross-disciplinary practice and her recent exhibition, In Transit: Under Another Sky , which she co-curated with E.N. Mirembe. First shown…
What are the benefits — and the ethical challenges — of relying on EdTech in crisis environments? Can technology offer true educational equality when access is still uneven? For many children around the world, the start of the learning day is marked not by the opening of a classroom door, but of a laptop. As education increasingly moves online, technology has become both a bridge and a barrier — especially for young learners living through conflict. In this episode of Our World, Connected , we explore the transformative role of educational technology in some of the world's most challenging…
How do we protect young people in a digital-first world? And who’s responsible for protecting kids online? From social media to AI, technology is evolving faster than policy, and young people are at the center of this digital revolution. While the internet offers incredible opportunities for learning, creativity, and connection, it also exposes children to risks that we are still learning to navigate. So how can we ensure young people develop the digital skills they need, whilst staying safe online? In this episode of Our World, Connected , host Christine Wilson delves into the complexities…
How do international education and research shape global relationships? And why do countries invest in knowledge diplomacy? From pioneering scientific collaborations to cross-border academic partnerships, the exchange of knowledge has long been a bridge between nations. But beyond the benefits for students and universities, how does knowledge diplomacy serve national interests, foster trust, and enhance global influence? In this episode of Our World, Connected , host Christine Wilson explores how international higher education, research, and innovation contribute to diplomacy and soft power.…
How does film shape global narratives and foster understanding? And how can filmmakers navigate the challenges of representation? Whether it’s an iconic sci-fi opening that transports us to a galaxy far, far away or a documentary that reshapes the way we see the world, storytelling through film has an unparalleled power to connect diverse people across borders and cultures. In this episode of Our World, Connected , host Christine Wilson explores the role of film as a tool for cultural exchange, national identity, and social change. Can film help amplify the voices of so-called ‘marginalised…
This week, we examine what it means to think long-term and act as ‘good ancestors’ for future generations. How do the choices we make today shape the world of tomorrow? And how can governments, businesses, and individuals take responsibility for ensuring a sustainable and equitable future? Host Christine Wilson is joined by Derek Walker, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, to discuss the groundbreaking Well-being of Future Generations Act and how Wales is pioneering future-focused policymaking. That is, a way of thinking, governing and taking decisions that meets people's needs ‘in…
In this episode of Our World, Connected, we explore the concept of soft power—what it is, how it differs from hard power, and why it’s crucial in today’s interconnected yet fractured world. From the staggering reach of K-pop to the global legacy of the Olympics, soft power shapes perceptions, builds trust, and strengthens both high level international relationships, as well as everyday community interactions. Joining host Christine Wilson is Professor J.P. Singh, Distinguished University Professor at George Mason University and an expert in international diplomacy, trade, and cultural…
“I regard the theatre as the greatest of all art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being.” The words of Oscar Wilde set the stage for this episode, where we are examining the power of the theatre to inspire and connect across borders. In this episode, we’re specifically looking at the concept of identity, in particular national identity and national culture, and how this is played out on stage, by examining the role of national theatre and telling a nation's story both at home and in the wider world. Host…
About Our World, Connected
Our World, Connected is the award-winning podcast from the British Council. Host Christine Wilson, Director of Research and Insight, explores how culture, language, and education are shaping our lives and our shared future. She speaks to experts and changemakers around the world to discover what con
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