Inspiring the Next Generation at LIYSF 2026

Sharing expertise and experience

A key theme across the Ambassadors' sessions was helping students understand the many different ways they can make an impact through engineering.

Ada Nwadigo's specialist lecture, What Type of Innovator Are You?, explored her own journey into civil engineering and introduced students to her Innovator Index tool. Designed to help participants identify their individual innovation styles, the session encouraged students to recognise their strengths and think about how they could contribute to solving future challenges.

Reflecting on the experience, Ada said one of the highlights was seeing students "begin to recognise their own strengths and creative potential. It was a powerful reminder that innovation is not one-size-fits-all; every young person in that room had something unique to bring to the table."

Students were also encouraged to think critically about the future of the built environment during Eng Ofetotse's specialist study day, Designing Net Zero & Climate-Resilient Buildings for a Changing World. The session explored how engineers can create buildings that use fewer resources, withstand extreme weather conditions, and support people's wellbeing.

For Eng, engineering is not just about what is technically possible, but about making responsible choices. As she reflected after the session, engineers should consider "not only what we can build, but what we should build."

Learning from a global community

Beyond the lectures themselves, LIYSF provided a unique opportunity for students from around the world to learn from one another.

Meng Wu was particularly struck by the students' enthusiasm and ambition. Despite coming from diverse backgrounds and cultures, he observed a common determination to use engineering to make a positive contribution to society.

"The students' desire to become engineers and contribute to society through their engineering skills gives me confidence in the future of engineering," he said.

For Meng, the international nature of the Forum highlighted how engineering can unite people around shared goals, regardless of where they come from.

Raj also reflected on this, stating that "aspiring engineers hold the capacity to think outside the box and apply engineering principles to real-world problems and bring out solutions."

Thoughtful conversations about engineering careers

The programme also gave students the chance to engage directly with ambassadors and ask questions about their careers, research, and future opportunities in engineering.

Raj Shekhar Peri noted the breadth of topics students were interested in discussing, from artificial intelligence and his own research to decisions around pursuing engineering careers and PhDs.

These conversations reflected a genuine curiosity about engineering's future and the many pathways available to students interested in the profession.

Looking ahead

As the Forum came to a close, the QEPrize Ambassadors reflected on the messages they hoped students would take away from their experiences.

For Ada, it was important to show young people that "a career in STEM is not only achievable but incredibly rewarding." Raj echoed this sentiment, encouraging students to remember that while engineering can be challenging, it is also a field that offers immense opportunities to make a difference. 

Eng also added that "the message I most wanted students to take away was simple: see yourself as someone who can shape the future."

Together, the Ambassadors' contributions demonstrated the power of bringing experienced engineers together with aspiring STEM leaders. By sharing their expertise, experiences, and advice, they helped students gain a deeper understanding of engineering and the role they can play in shaping the future. 

Thank you to LIYSF for hosting another inspiring programme, and to all of the QEPrize Ambassadors who generously shared their time and expertise with students from around the world.