Funliving Global Partner Conference 2025: Partner · Play · Progress — Shaping the Future of International Student Living
Beijing, China – October 23, 2025 — The Funliving Global Partner Conference 2025, themed “Partner · Play · Progress,” was successfully held at JEN Beijing by Shangri-La, bringing together global leaders in the Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) sector, university representatives, education organizations, and industry experts to discuss one key question: “What does the future of international student living look like?”
The one-day event offered a dynamic platform for collaboration, innovation, and strategic exchange. The morning workshop session, “PBSA & China Focus Strategy,” delved into how international PBSA providers can expand and localize their presence in China’s fast-growing student housing market. Distinguished participants included some of the world’s leading student accommodation brands including iQ Student Accommodation, Unite Students, Homes for Students, Now Student Living, Unilife Student Living, Greystar (Australia), Coliwoo (Singapore), Yugo, Scape (Australia), and Y Suites.
Discussions centered on the evolving needs of Chinese students, how operators can enhance the overseas living experience, and where new opportunities and challenges lie in a changing global education landscape. The session emphasized the importance of cultural understanding, digital engagement, and service innovation in building stronger connections with students from China.
The afternoon forum, full of data, insights and fresh perspectives, was opened by Mr. Tony Li, CEO of Tomato Education International, who shared the company’s latest milestones and strategic vision for global partnerships and student well-being.
Following his address, speakers from EasyTransfer, BONARD, the British Council, Heriot-Watt University, Beijing Foreign Studies University, and iQ Student Accommodation offered forward-looking insights into international education trends, cross-border collaboration, and the integration of data-driven solutions in student mobility.
The conference concluded with a lively panel discussion moderated by Tony Gao, focusing on the two key phases of the Chinese student journey to the UK, before departure and after arrival. Panelists from British Council, Global Education Alliance Limited, University of Nottingham (UK), and iQ Student Accommodation shared their front-line experiences and practical perspectives on how institutions and partners can better support students academically, emotionally, and socially throughout their international experience.
The conference highlighted a clear consensus that in China’s dynamic and resilient international education market, only through close strategic collaboration and continuous innovation in service models can the sector enhance its global appeal and competitiveness, ultimately achieving shared success for students, institutions, and partners alike.
Funliving remains dedicated to fostering global dialogue and partnerships that drive quality enhancement and innovation in international student accommodation and education services. Moving forward, Funliving is committed to working closely with partners worldwide to build a smarter, more student-centered ecosystem that effectively meets the evolving needs of global learners.