Keynote Speakers

Dr Dina Mehmedbegovic-Smith is Associate Professor of Education and Applied Linguistics at University College London (UCL). Her research explores multilingualism, language policy and the cognitive and wellbeing benefits of language learning. Bridging education, neuroscience and social justice, Dina developed Healthy Linguistic Diet (HLD) – a framework that positions language learning as essential nourishment for the brain. As Founder and Director of Healthy Linguistic Diet Ltd, she works internationally across five continents with schools, universities and policymakers to promote inclusive, plurilingual education. Her HLD concept is endorsed in two key European Commission reports and has influenced language policy and teacher training initiatives across Europe. She has introduced three original concepts in applied linguistics: Healthy Linguistic Diet, Imported Bilingualism and Academic Monolingualism - each contributing to a deeper understanding of how languages shape cognition, identity and wellbeing. Her work continues to inspire global efforts toward more equitable and enriching approaches to language education.