SOAS and Alumni Events
SOAS hosts a vibrant and diverse calendar of events throughout the year, both online and in person. From dynamic music performances and inspiring art exhibitions, to thought-provoking public lectures and conversations with leading academics, global thinkers, and influential figures in politics, finance, and beyond – there’s always something happening.
In addition to SOAS-organised events, our global alumni network plays a key role in creating opportunities to connect. Alumni groups around the world host reunions and special gatherings that celebrate the spirit and impact of the SOAS community.
Please note: Some events are organised by individual SOAS departments, while others are coordinated at the university-wide level or independently by alumni groups. Please note that the alumni team does not manage all events directly, and as such, details and accessibility may vary. While not all events are available online, we work to ensure as many as possible are accessible to our global alumni community.
Below is just a snapshot of what's coming up. To explore the full range and get involved, visit SOAS events
Feedback or questions? We’d love to hear from you at alumni@soas.ac.uk
Alumni Receptions Around the World
-
Alumni Receptions in North America
9 – 20 October 2025
This October, join Vice Chancellor Professor Adam Habib andProfessor of International Relations at SOAS Dr Leslie Vinjamuri for a series of exclusive events across North America.
Join us in Los Angeles for an alumni reception to reconnect with your fellow alumni, and in Washington, New York and Toronto to explore pressing questions about the global economy, shifting tariffs, and the future of globalisation. These evenings offer a chance to hear updates from SOAS, and engage in timely conversations about global change.
RSVP for your chosen city and be part of these thought-provoking conversations with fellow alumni.
-
Alumni Receptions in India
24 - 30 October 2025
This October, SOAS is heading to India to celebrate and strengthen our vibrant alumni community - and we want you there.
Join Dean of College of Law, Professor Eddie Bruce-Jones, for a series of exclusive alumni evenings in Mumbai, Kolkata, and Delhi.
In Mumbai and Kolkata, enjoy relaxed networking drinks with Professor Eddie Bruce-Jones and fellow alumni - a chance to meet new faces, reminisce and hear updates from SOAS. In Delhi, we're thrilled to announce that Professor Bruce-Jones will be joined by Keshav Suri, a prominent Indian activist, entrepreneur, and law alumnus, for an evening of inspiring conversation and connection.
Events in London
-
Karl Singporewala: Cosmos, Memory, Scale
9 October to 13 December
10:30 - 5pm
SOAS Gallery, London
Visit the Shapoorji Pallonji Institute of Zoroastrian Studies’ inaugural Artist-in-Residence Fellowship exhibition by Karl Singporewala, a British-born Parsi architect and artist celebrated for his innovative approach to architectural and sculptural practices.
The exhibition features large-scale installations and new and past artworks which explore his heritage through art and architectural form.
-
Is President and Supreme Leader Xi Jinping on his way out?
13 October
5pm - 6.30pm
SOAS campus, London
What is the impact of the millennia-long China's political DNA on present-day CCP politics, including the future of Xi Jinping? Will he rule until 2032?
Chinese politics expert Dr Willy Lam will examine Xi Jinping's economic policies, the impact of Trump's tariffs and the CCP’s power projection in Southeast Asia and Australia.
-
‘A Young Photographer in Old Beijing’– a talk with pictures by Patrick Dransfield
13 October
6pm - 8pm
SOAS campus, London
Photographer and SOAS Alumnus Patrick Dransfield will share highlights from the 800+ archive; his thoughts on art and doing business with Chinese people in the context of these unique images of a China in transition. Explore the hidden stories of Beijing and get a glimpse of the city's past in a unique way.
-
Liberation and Corruption – Why Freedom Movements Fail by Peter Hain
27 October
7pm
SOAS campus, London
Why are liberation movements often betrayed once their leaders attain power? Why do ideals forged in struggle - justice, freedom, equality - give way to authoritarianism, misrule, and corruption? These are the questions at the heart of a new book by Peter Hain. This event will feature a talk by the author, followed by a Q&A and book signing.
-
Distinguished lecture series: Professor Robert Hillenbrand
3 November
6pm - 9pm
SOAS campus, London
Join us for the inaugural Distinguished Lecture Series for the SOAS-Alphawood Postgraduate Diploma in Asian Art where Professor Robert Hillenbrand will present ‘Creating spirituality in Islamic painting: the Muhammad cycle in the Edinburgh World History of Rashid al-Din’.
The evening will conclude with a reception to connect with alumni and staff from the SOAS-Alphawood Asian Art network.
-
City of Desire: Biography of the Largest Informal Settlement in Bangladesh
5 November
5pm
SOAS campus, London
City of Desire by Tanzil Shafique is a portrait of the largest informal settlement in Bangladesh.
It seeks to develop a Southern perspective on urban slums, challenging mainstream Western discourses. Shafique's approach is rooted in a personal and thematic exploration of slum dwellers' lived experiences, proposing new ways of understanding their struggles and aspirations.