Welcome to London!
Join our international
student activities
We welcome and support international students,
connecting you to our community!
We wish to welcome all students from outside the UK, both European and International – a very warm welcome to London! Life can be very different moving to a new country and studying abroad. We understand that you are facing new challenges, new languages and a different culture. Finding your place in London will take time and we are here to help! Friends International is a local Christian charity, which aims to support you in building friendships with other students, make local links with families and explore life in the UK.
We organise events and social meet ups, to help you learn about and take part in British culture to get the most out of your time here while at university or language school – learn more about us below.
Meet the Team!
Kirsten
Hi, I’m Kirsten. I’m originally from Wales but have lived in London for over 20 years.
I love meeting students from all over the world, getting to know them and their cultures. I’m the London Centre team Leader. As well as supporting the staff and volunteers, I organise and run events like TABLEtalk on Thursday evenings in Greenwich.
Geoff
Hi, I’m Geoff. I am the co-ordinator for the Philip Project, Friends International’s Bible training course for Christian international students.
I am married to Rachel and have three sons in their twenties and teens. I have lived in southeast London since 2008. I love exploring the riches of God’s Word, hill walking and listening to music (especially Shoegaze).
Ballzi
Hi, I’m Hoi Nam Yau, but you can call me Ballzi!
I’m from Hong Kong . I was a graphic designer but three years ago I started working with Friends International in London. I’m based in Stratford, supporting local churches and Christian Unions.
I love visual arts, studying the Bible and having deep conversations with people. I’m especially enjoy sharing the gospel through creative arts with international students from South Asia.
What international students say!
The memories of our days out too are etched in my heart...”
- Indian student
Thanks for organising the wonderful TABLEtalk session tonight. All of us had an amazing time…"
- X, from China
Thank you. I had a happy time in London getting to know you, an amazing memory in my mind...”
- R, from India
So how do I join
your community?
We would love for you to join us as much or as little as you feel comfortable to. Click the icons below to visit our social media.
Contact Us
One of our team will be happy to respond to any questions you have – simply send us a message via our social media links above or email us: london@friendsinternational.uk
Visit one of our Events?
One of the main ways to connect with us is to come to one of our regular events. There are free Cafés, supper clubs, TABLEtalk – all great places to meet new people, make new friends and practice your English, play games, or discuss important questions about life. Check out our events calendar to find out what’s on…
Meet our local hosts? (Local Link)
One of our students’ favourite experiences is being able to spend time with local hosts, often visiting their home.
Our Local Link programme gives you an opportunity to do this – simply use the Local-Link section of our App to sign up! If you have trouble with downloading the app you can also send an email to: london@friendsinternational.uk
