On 17 June 2026, the Europa Ship welcomed the international alumni community of Hungary for the second Stipendium Hungaricum and Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship Alumni Fest. Bringing together newly graduated alumni, representatives of Hungarian universities, and organisations supporting international students and graduates, the event celebrated the connections, experiences, and stories that continue long after graduation. With panoramic views of Budapest along the Danube, the gathering embodied the spirit of the event’s motto: "We Connect, We Belong."
The event was opened by Dr. Krisztina Lantos, president of the Board of Trustees of the Tempus Public Foundation, who congratulated the graduating students and highlighted the importance of maintaining international connections beyond university years. Following the opening remarks, participants watched video messages from the Hungarian Embassies in Kyrgyzstan, Algeria, and the Philippines, whose representatives congratulated the newest graduates and encouraged them to remain active members of Hungary's global alumni community.
One of the highlights of the programme was the Your Story of Change alumni talk show, featuring Clara Youssef (Egypt, Semmelweis University), Damilia Arzybekova (Kyrgyzstan, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences), and Muhammad Mouiz Ghouri (Pakistan, Eötvös Loránd University). The speakers reflected on the experiences, challenges, and unexpected moments that shaped their journeys in Hungary.
Rather than focusing solely on major milestones, the conversation explored how small experiences—from friendships and cultural encounters to academic achievements and personal growth—can lead to lasting change. Their stories demonstrated that studying in Hungary is not only an academic journey but also a transformative personal experience.
The event also featured two memorable musical performances: Tisza Fizli, a Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship student at Corvinus University of Budapest, and Kate Mbinya, a Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship holder at the University of Debrecen. Both performers sang a traditional Hungarian folk song in Hungarian alongside an international favourite, filling the room with energy as the audience danced along.
Another key element of the afternoon was the Networking Expo, where participants connected with representatives of Hungarian universities and organisations supporting international students, graduates, and researchers, including the Hungarian Diplomatic Academy and the National Association of Doctoral Students (DOSZ). Alumni also had the opportunity to meet members of the Alumni Network Hungary Volunteer Programme and learn more about the Practice Your Hungarian language course. The expo provided valuable opportunities for professional networking, career development, and future collaboration while helping alumni discover new ways to remain engaged with Hungary after graduation.
As the Europa Ship sailed along the Danube, participants enjoyed panoramic views of Budapest while continuing conversations and building new connections. The atmosphere reflected the unique character of Alumni Fest: a celebration not only of academic achievement but also of belonging, friendship, and shared experiences.
As the newest graduates joined the growing global community of Alumni Network Hungary members, the message of the day remained clear: graduation is not the end of the journey. Through friendships, professional networks, and a shared connection to Hungary, alumni continue to inspire and support one another across borders.
We connect. We belong. And together, we continue the story.
Photo credit: Tamás Lékó