What area or field of engineering do you work in?

I work in renewable energy technologies and power electronics, focusing on how energy systems are designed, converted, and delivered. As an educator, I teach and support the next generation of engineers, helping them develop the technical skills and critical awareness needed to address global energy challenges in sustainable and inclusive ways.

Who has had the biggest influence on your journey as an engineer—and how? 

My dad has had the biggest influence on my journey. From an early age, he recognised the ‘young engineer’ in me through the way I approached everyday life, encouraging my curiosity and problem-solving. His support shaped my confidence and continues to influence how I approach engineering and support future engineers.

What makes engineering more than just a job for you? 

Engineering has the power to shape a more sustainable and equitable future. Through my work in renewable energy and education, I contribute to training future engineers from across the world who will address global challenges. Supporting their development makes my work purposeful, impactful, and closely connected to real-world change.

How does your work contribute to a safer, fairer, or more sustainable world? 

My work contributes by supporting the development of engineers who can design and implement sustainable energy solutions. Through teaching renewable energy, I help students understand both the technical and societal impact of their work, enabling them to create technologies that are safer, more inclusive, and better suited to global needs.

What is the biggest career highlight or achievement you’re most proud of? 

I am most proud of being recognised with a University of Leeds Teaching Award and being shortlisted as a national finalist for the IET Young Woman Engineer Award. Together, these reflect both my commitment to supporting students and my contributions to the engineering profession, particularly in promoting inclusion and excellence.

Why did you choose to become professionally registered?

I chose to become professionally registered to formally recognise my engineering practice and the standards I uphold. It reflects my commitment to the profession and to continual professional development. As an educator, it is also important to lead by example and demonstrate the value of professional recognition to future engineers.

What does professional integrity mean to you in engineering? 

Professional integrity, to me, means holding myself to high standards and taking responsibility for the impact of my work. It is about accountability, professional judgement, and continual reflection. It also means being intentional in ensuring that my work contributes to safe, sustainable, and inclusive outcomes, and setting that standard for the engineers I teach.

How has professional registration benefitted you or your employer? 

Professional registration has strengthened my professional identity and raised my profile, allowing my work to be more widely recognised. It provides a clear demonstration of my standing as an engineer and the standards I bring to my practice, reinforcing my credibility within the profession.

If you could change one perception about engineering, what would it be and why? 

If I could change one perception about engineering, it would be that it is defined solely by maths. Engineering is a creative, problem-solving discipline that shapes real-world change. It also needs diverse perspectives to create better, more inclusive solutions, as different experiences lead to more thoughtful and impactful outcomes.

How do you hope to inspire the next generation of engineers?

I hope to inspire the next generation of engineers by showing that engineering is both creative and impactful. Through my teaching, I aim to equip them with the fundamental engineering knowledge and skill set, encourage critical thinking, and highlight the importance of diverse perspectives, helping them shape meaningful, positive change through inclusive engineering practices.

Do you identify as disabled, or as a member of a minority or under-represented group? Would you like to comment on what impact or influence you feel this has had upon your career?

Navigating an engineering career as an African Arab woman who stammers has not always been easy. However, through determination and commitment, I have learned to turn challenges into opportunities. My journey has shaped who I am today, and I hope to pave the way for future engineers, particularly women with intersecting marginalised identities.