Merah’s Journey: Inspiring Change in STEM
As a passionate student with numerous achievements across various fields, I’ve had the honor of serving in key roles such as the Sustainability Ambassador with Masdar (2023), IELTS Ambassador with the British Council (2021), and the Community Awareness Ambassador (2024). I’ve also been the Climate Change Main Committee Leader at EAD, Valedictorian of the Class of 2024, President of the AYPS Student Council, and an active member of organizations like the Green Youth Majlis, Environmental Friends Society, YOUNGO, and Youth for Sustainability, with the privilege of speaking at COP 28. In addition to these roles, I’ve won several local and global awards in STEM fields.
What inspired your passion for STEM, and how has it shaped your academic and personal interests?
My passion for STEM was sparked by my curiosity about how technology can be applied to solve real-world problems. This curiosity grew even more when I joined the TDRA camp, where I learned about Arduino machines and started inventing using Arduino. This hands-on experience with technology inspired me to explore further into programming and electronics. It also shaped my academic interests, as I now focus on integrating technology with environmental sustainability, particularly through projects that utilize tools like Arduino to develop innovative solutions
Can you describe a recent STEM project or experiment you worked on, and what you learned from the experience?
Recently, I worked on developing a “Sustainable Timer Device” using Arduino. This device is designed to conserve water by measuring water waste and providing users with real-time feedback on their water usage. The project taught me a great deal about the practical applications of technology in sustainability, particularly how small innovations can contribute to larger environmental goals. It also enhanced my programming and hardware skills, enhancing the importance of efficiency and resource conservation in tackling global challenges like water scarcity.
How do you see technology or innovation impacting the world in the next decade, and where do you see your role in that future?
I see technology and innovation revolutionizing sectors like education, healthcare, and sustainability in the next decade. The rise of AI and smart technology will create new opportunities to improve our quality of life and address societal challenges. I aspire to become the Minister of Youth, where I will focus on raising awareness about the importance of technological advancements and empowering young people to drive innovation. I see myself leading initiatives that inspire youth to engage in STEM fields and contribute to the future of technology-driven solutions.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your STEM journey, and how did you overcome it?
One of the biggest challenges I faced was balancing my STEM interests with my leadership responsibilities in various initiatives. Managing multiple projects while maintaining academic excellence required better time management and prioritization. I overcame this by developing strategies like scheduling, which allowed me to allocate time effectively for both academic and leadership commitments. By staying organized and setting clear priorities, I was able to excel in my studies while continuing to lead initiatives and contribute to meaningful projects.
What advice would you give to younger students interested in pursuing STEM fields?
My advice would be to stay curious and never give up. Find what excites you within STEM and dive deep into it. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, explore different subjects, and tackle problems that seem difficult—those challenges are often the most valuable learning experiences. Embrace your passion, and remember that every step you take brings you closer to your goals in STEM.
