Humber Polytechnic students travelled to Denmark this fall to take part in Charrette 2025 – The Art of Keeping: Sustainability through Care and Maintenance, an intensive international design workshop hosted by EK – Business Academy Copenhagen (formerly KEA). 

Running from October 5 to 10, the charrette brought together more than 100 students and advisors from institutions across Europe, North America and South America. Working in interdisciplinary and international teams, participants developed innovative concepts for real urban areas in Copenhagen, guided by faculty, industry professionals, and local experts. 

For Humber Advertising and Marketing Communications student Amanda Contreras Offermann, the opportunity to learn in a completely new environment was transformative. 

“The most rewarding part was being exposed to a different surrounding and environment, completely different from what I’m used to,” she said. “Doing this on a whole different continent, where you can feel submerged in the culture, was amazing.” 

Rethinking sustainability 

The 2025 charrette theme challenged students to rethink sustainability through care and maintenance rather than constant new development. Through expert presentations and site exploration, students examined how preserving, adapting, and improving existing spaces can lead to more sustainable urban futures. 

“My experience taught me about sustainability not just for the planet, but for the spaces we value,” Contreras Offermann said. “Learning the value of improving and maintaining existing spaces really expanded my perspective on making mindful choices that benefit both the planet and the community.” 

That learning extended into everyday life in Copenhagen. From navigating bike-heavy streets to adapting to highly structured waste-sorting systems, students experienced how sustainability is embedded into daily routines. 

“The biggest difference was the transportation culture,” Contreras Offermann said. “Staying alert around bike lanes was more challenging than I expected. It really showed how intentional design supports sustainability.” 

Collaboration across cultures 

Students were placed in teams of eight to 10, each made up of peers from different countries, disciplines, and educational backgrounds. For many Humber participants, collaborating across cultures was one of the most valuable aspects of the experience. 

Advertising and Graphic Design student Saki Fujitaka described the charrette as a turning point in her personal and professional growth. 

“The most rewarding aspect of studying in Denmark was learning to prioritize well-being and personal growth,” she said. “Connecting with international classmates allowed me to see multiple perspectives and strengthened my communication and teamwork skills.” 

While differing working styles sometimes posed challenges, Fujitaka said they ultimately strengthened collaboration. 

“Everyone had different approaches and ways of communicating,” she said. “Experiencing these differences helped me adapt and understand diverse perspectives in a group setting.” 

Architectural Technology student Rozlyn Mead and her team received the People’s Choice Award for their design.  

The People’s Choice Award is determined by votes from attendees, students and mentors on the project that they connected most with.   

“Being pushed out of my comfort zone and winning the People’s Choice Award made the experience unforgettable,” she said. “It taught me how thoughtful, sustainable design can connect people, strengthen communities, and create lasting impact.” 

Despite the intensive schedule, students still found time to explore the city and connect socially with their international peers. 

Lasting connections and confidence 

Humber students built friendships that extended beyond the workshop, including connections with peers from Toronto Metropolitan University and European institutions. 

“I became close friends with my group mates,” Fujitaka said. “We still stay in touch, and they continue to inspire me personally and professionally.” 

Contreras Offermann also emphasized the importance of those connections. 

“I shared rooms with two amazing German girls,” she said. “We exchanged contact information and even local coins as souvenirs. Hopefully we’ll visit each other’s cities someday.” 

Humber was represented by students including Contreras Offermann, Fujitaka, Ronit Roy, Leah Nkweto, Victoria Hussain, Shani Burrell, Rozlyn Mead, Fatima Molina, and Naila Halder.  

Both Contreras Offermann and Fujitaka encouraged other Humber students to consider studying abroad. 

“Take the leap,” Contreras Offermann said. “Studying abroad is truly life changing. You come back with unforgettable memories and a stronger sense of confidence.” 

Fujitaka echoed that advice. 

“It may feel intimidating, but the experience helps you grow in ways no classroom can,” she said. “You gain independence, resilience and a global mindset.” 

Reflecting on the experience, both students expressed gratitude to Humber’s Global Opportunities. 

“It’s an experience I’ll remember for the rest of my life,” Contreras Offermann said. “I feel very grateful and proud to have been part of it.” 

Find out more by visiting Humber’s Global Opportunities website.