Countries Represented by Our Researchers
Youth STEM Initiative Annual Journal 2024
All the work and initiatives done by YSI members over the past year in 888 pages...we are proud to announce the publication of our first annual journal!! Youth STEM Initiative had a busy 2024 with 69 research articles written and published by our Research Team, 13 new chapters launched on 5 continents, 6 webinars with STEM professionals from world-renowned scientific institutions, 3 new partnerships, an impactful research workshop series (STEM Quest) with 120 attendees globally, the launch of 11 courses led by 11 fantastic course directors, and 134 new members joining the organization from around the world 🙌🏻 🎉
We are especially grateful to the following Researchers who contributed their amazing scientific work to this journal: Francesca Romana Centini (Cesca) (our Head of Research), Vasiliki Avgeri, Souad Menif, Arshia Akhgari, Elif Hangül, Abeer Iftikhar, Mark-Daniel Leupold, Elina Rostami, Nicole Yeung, tisha malla, Eman Mohammed, Manal Hakeem, Deniz Guler, Hamnah Zaman, Nergis Çelebi, Reindy Faith Sanon, Nayra Cadavid, Izabela Ninu, Zoe Triantafyllidou, Bardia Malackzadeh, Jisara Wuttikreekiat, Lana Almansour, Judy Ayman, Ali Salman, Doruk Öge, Batool Atef, Vlada Yarosh, Myrto Terpsiadou, Renzo Honorato, Amina Kalandarova, Oğuz KIRMIZI, Haley Best, Parker Manci, Jemimah Fadare Owolabi, Zofia Hardek, Mielle van den Berg, Clay Gitobu, Anastasiia Kratiuk, Maria Fujisawa, and Amirali Banani.
You may check out and download the entire journal online at this link:
Head of Research
Francesca Romana Centini 🇮🇹
MILAN, ITALY
Francesca Romana is a fourth-year medical student at Humanitas University in Milan, Italy. As a modern Renaissance woman, she tries to embrace the Renaissance spirit of learning and growing across multiple disciplines. Francesca Romana's journey spans from neuroscience research to creating digital content and exploring multiple arts such as writing and photography, music and drawing, and sees science as an art form that bridges knowledge and creativity. She is also the President of the Humanitas University Undergraduate Neurological Society (HUUNS) and the Associate Founder of a B2C service provider called Brightdale, with a goal to inspire others to pursue their passions while also excelling in their academic and professional lives. Along with her role as our Head of Research, Francesca Romana is also the Chapter Leader for Italy and an Ambassador for YSI. You may follow her on Instagram @cesca.centini and connect with her on LinkedIn below!
Abeer Iftikhar 🇵🇰🇦🇪
SHARJAH, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Hey there! I am Abeer, from Pakistan, born and raised in the UAE. I am currently majoring in Biotechnology, because I absolutely adore the research & development aspect of healthcare, and would love to make contributions to the drastically advancing field of science. Some of my other interests include learning about AI (is it not so cool?), reading thriller books and content writing! A fun fact about me would be that I absolutely hate not having anything to do, it stresses me out! I’m super excited to contribute to Youth STEM Initiative as part of the Research team and piece together compelling research for the organization!
Anastasiia Kratiuk 🇺🇦🇨🇦
RICHMOND, BC, CANADA
Hi everyone! I'm a 17-year-old high school student from Ukraine. I came to Vancouver in 2022 when the Russian invasion of Ukraine started. My hobbies include sports (basketball, fencing, rollerblading), arts (drawing, music), and aviation. In my free time, I enjoy going out in nature for hiking or just for a walk. Currently, I’m researching Quantum Computing and Particle Physics. Back in Ukraine, I received many awards in sports and music. At the age of 14, I won a video contest where I talked about environmental challenges in my hometown. Thanks to that, the other finalists and I were able to meet with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and I was able to convey these problems to him in person. A fun fact about me is that when I was a kid I always created new words for things, which I still do to this day!
Valentina Romero Santamari 🇨🇴
BOGOTÁ, COLOMBIA
My name is Valentina Romero Santamaria, I am from Bogotá, Colombia and I am a second-year student in Hungary pursuing a major in Biochemical Engineering. I am very passionate about bioprocesses and biomolecular nutrition; my goal is to open a restaurant that would apply these innovative aims to create new and interesting recipes that can promote a healthy and enhanced nutrition combining chemistry, biochemistry and bioprocess solutions with natural and quality products. I look forward to sharing my research in these areas with everyone through Youth STEM Initiative!
Hamnah Zaman 🇵🇰🇺🇸
HOUSTON, TX, UNITED STATES
Hi! My name is Hamnah Zaman and I am from Texas, USA, but ethnically I am Pakistani Arab. I'm currently a junior in high school and am extremely passionate about research, science, neuroscience, and STEM overall. Through my research, I am motivated to create a positive impact in the scientific world. I'm interested in studying biochemistry and neuroscience at my dream school, Rice University, and aspire a career in medicine.
Mielle van den Berg 🇨🇦
VANCOUVER, BC, CANADA
Hi, I'm Mielle, a 16 year old from British Columbia, Canada. I am interested in emerging technologies, especially the ones that are related to climate change like carbon capture. Currently, I'm doing research on emerging carbon capture technologies such as ocean carbon capture, and I look forward to sharing some of this research with the Youth STEM Initiative community!
Elena Mishina 🇮🇹🇭🇺
PÉCS, HUNGARY
Elena Mishina is an undergraduate student studying Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience in Hungary. She is passionate about research and biotechnology, seeking ways to turn modern scientific breakthroughs into innovative businesses. She also loves to explore various customs and traditions! Right now, she is learning Hungarian, Japanese, German, and Italian languages to dive deeper into the study of the human inner world and cultural heritage. Elena looks forward to contributing her knowledge in science to Youth STEM Initiative!
Maria Fujisawa 🇯🇵
TOKYO, JAPAN
Hi! My name is Maria Fujisawa, and I’m from Tokyo, Japan. I am a junior in high school who's passionate about neurotech / brain-computer interfaces, AI, and research. Outside my academic interests I enjoy playing volleyball, and I also recently started taking dance classes. I am interested in researching more about brain-computer interfaces—especially its applications in assistive communication and healthcare. Through my projects and research, I hope that I can contribute to the developments in this exciting and ever-changing field.
Portia Wang 🇨🇦🇨🇳
CALGARY, AB, CANADA
My name is Portia Wang and I am a first-generation immigrant from China, having been born in Calgary, Canada. I am in my junior year in high school and I am a strong advocate for women in mathematics and science. Having been a dedicated science student and an aspiring engineer, I plan to pursue a career in engineering and chemistry in the future. Some of my notable accomplishments include receiving honours recognition at my school since grade 7, as well as receiving my RCM Grade 8 Certificate after 8 years of dedicated playing. Outside of school, I love to dedicate my time to volunteering with youths through mental health advocacy, playing the flute and the piano, singing, and participating in national contests such as the CEMC Canadian High School Computing Challenge. In addition, I am a dedicated learner both inside and outside the classroom with everything I do, and I do them with enthusiasm and passion. My Instagram is @portiaywang, and my Discord username is @porillin.
Jisara Wuttikreekiat 🇨🇦
WEST VANCOUVER, BC, CANADA
Jisara Wuttikreekiat is a Grade 11 student at Sentinel Secondary School in West Vancouver, Canada and she is happy to be a part of the Research Team at Youth STEM Initiative. Other than her passion for STEM, she enjoys travelling to new places and thrives on learning something new everyday. She hopes that through research, she will be able to create a positive impact in the scientific world as a successful biomedical engineer in the future.
Ali Salman 🇨🇦
MISSISSAUGA, ON, CANADA
Hey, I'm Ali, born and raised in Mississauga, Ontario, currently in my freshman year at Glenforest Secondary School. While my heart beats for all things STEM and AI, what truly fuels me is the desire to create positive change in society, particularly within the rapidly evolving field of technology. Beyond the classroom, my passions consist of photography, playing football (soccer), and going on nature trails. That being said, I'm eager to contribute and work with like-minded individuals at Youth STEM Initiative. Feel free to connect with me on Instagram: @ali_5alman
Sean Thumb 🇭🇰🇨🇦
VANCOUVER, BC, CANADA
My name is Sean Thumb and I’m from Hong Kong. I'm currently a Gr.12 student studying at Vancouver College in Canada. I’m passionate in pursuing my studies in Software Engineering. Fun fact: I love sports and I’m in my school’s track and field team for long jump and triple jump. In my free time, I love writing articles and sleeping.
Fareeda Shamloul 🇨🇦
OTTAWA, ON, CANADA
Hi everyone! My name is Fareeda Shamloul, and I am a high school student from Ottawa, Ontario who is passionate about Microbiology, Immunology and Pharmacology. I also have a deep interest in poisons and enjoy researching about them a lot! I’m excited to be writing for Youth STEM Initiative, and can not wait to see where my research takes me!
Elif Hangül 🇹🇷
ISTANBUL, TÜRKIYE
Hi! I'm Elif, a high school student from Türkiye with a constant desire to improve. I'm interested in research and learning new information in the realm of science, which is why main goal is to study science in college. Furthermore, I have a science-related blog on Medium & Substack and write articles on a variety of topics, mostly in biology. In the future, I'm willing to contribute to my field with my research as an academician. In my spare time, I read books and interested in both team and individual sports. A fun fact about me is that I am the president of the Model United Nations Club at my school, and in addition to my leadership skills, I also give MUN training. I look forward to contributing my research to Youth STEM Initiative!
Izabela Ninu 🇧🇪
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM
Hello! My name is Izabela Ninu, a 10th-grade student in Bruxelles, Belgium, at the European School. I am passionate about plant species and gene editing, looking into genetic pathways to improve sustainability and create more inclusive and impactful agriculture! I look forward to sharing my research and insights with Youth STEM Initiative! My LinkedIn profile is linked below, and to get a better sense of my scientific work you may check out my science articles at my Medium profile here: medium.com/izabelam.ninu
Jiya Gupta 🇮🇳
VADODARA, INDIA
Hey everyone! I'm Jiya and I'm from Vadodara, India. As a high school senior with an altruistic spirit, I love to dwell deep in topics of effective altruism and reading books such as The Precipe. My passion is to explore the field that combines neuroscience and astronomy, write songs, and play the guitar! I can't wait to work with all of you to share some valuable science with the world!
Vasiliki Avgeri 🇬🇷
PANÓRAMA, GREECE
Hi everyone! I'm Vasiliki, a 15-year-old student from Greece. I am passionate about synthetic biology, particularly its intersection with medicine and mental health. Some of my interests include public speaking, advocating for sustainability, and volunteering. In my free time, I enjoy reading and playing the guitar. I look forward to working with you all!
Nayra Cadavid 🇪🇸
SABADELL, CATALONIA, SPAIN
Hey, I’m Nayra. I’m an 18-year-old high school student who is passionate about learning science, especially gene editing, as a means to work towards a more sustainable and green planet. My interests primarily lie in sustainability, caring for our planet, and coexisting with other animal species. In my free time, I love being in touch with nature through activities like running, hiking, and exploring the outdoors. I look forward to contributing some valuable scientific work and research to Youth STEM Initiative!
Parker Manci 🇺🇸
SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CA, UNITED STATES
Hey there! My name is Parker Manci, I'm from Pennsylvania, USA, and I'm a sophomore at Abington Heights High School. I love learning about emerging technology, especially in the AI and clean energy fields. In my free time I love doing arts and crafts, listening to music, and playing the guitar. I'm very excited to be a part of the Youth STEM Initiative Research team and I can't wait to learn all that I can about the world!
Krish Bhoopati 🇨🇦
TORONTO, ON, CANADA
Hey! My name is Krish, a 17 year old from Toronto, Canada with a passion for everything tech related. Currently, I'm a senior in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Fun fact: I'm a varsity swim, badminton, and volleyball player. So, I think it's pretty clear that I love sports. In my free time, I'm building stuff that make people say "dope", and then writing about them so you can see what they're about.
Belen Montesinos 🇵🇪🇺🇸
LIMA, PERU / BRUNSWICK, ME, UNITED STATES
Belen Montesinos is a Peruvian freshman at Bowdoin College who is passionate about combining her interests in neuroscience and government. Her research topics focus on gravitational wave physics, binary black holes, neurotechnology, among others. This knowledge has led her to publications and international presentations in educational programs for young people. In recent years, she has been an activist for girls in STEM and a writer on related topics. Outside of science, she works in her eco-friendly sanitary napkin venture, practices water sports, and takes care of her pets.
Jennahvieve Johnson 🇨🇦
VANCOUVER, BC, CANADA
Hey everyone! I’m Jennahvieve, a 16 year old from Vancouver, and I’m in grade 11. I love to draw and play instruments as well as research black holes and the life of stars! Fun fact: my aunt went to high school with Taylor Swift!
Eshal Alam 🇵🇰🇨🇦
OAKVILLE, ON, CANADA
Hey! My name is Eshal Alam. I am born in Pakistan and raised in Ontario, Canada. I am currently in my graduating year of high school (as of April 2024), and am excited for university! I love to read and draw in my free time, and a fun fact about me is that my favourite show is Brooklyn 99!
Yuejia Wang 🇨🇦
WEST VANCOUVER, BC, CANADA
Hey everyone! I am Yuejia Wang, from Vancouver, British Columbia, and I am about to graduate from high school where I will be pursuing an education in sciences at UBC. I enjoy studying philosophy, psychology, and neurobiology, so most of my research lies in these areas. I look forward to sharing my scientific work with everyone on Youth STEM Initiative!
Ela Öztürk 🇹🇷
ISTANBUL, TÜRKIYE
Hey everyone! I am Ela and I'm currently in my second year of high school in Istanbul. I am deeply interested in science and a dedicated member of my school's robotics team, in which we participate in international competitions like FLL, FRC and more. A fun fact about me is that I can speak three languages and love to travel the world. I look forward to working with this talented team of researchers in Youth STEM Initiative!
Varnika Nimmagadda 🇮🇳
VIJAYAWADA, INDIA
Hi everyone, I am Varnika from Andhra Pradesh, India. I am 17 years old and completed high school recently. I'm deeply interested in blockchain technology, AI, and various tech-related topics, all with a vision to improve the world. I'm particularly enthusiastic about AI in agriculture, which has the potential to empower farmers, and I'm dedicated to environmental causes. Other than that, I am passionate about cooking, reading books, and playing badminton. Looking forward to leaving my mark on Youth STEM Initiative!
Seoyeon Cho 🇰🇷🇺🇸
HOUSTON, TX, UNITED STATES
Hello! My name is Seoyeon Cho, a dedicated student with curiosity for the Immersivr Technology and Human Computer Interaction. My journey into this captivating realm is driven by a deep passion for exploring the future of digital experiences and their profound impact on society. I hope to share some of my knowledge in this field with the readers of Youth STEM Initiative!
Gabriela Lombana Arias 🇺🇸
CHICAGO, IL, UNITED STATES
Hi everyone! I’m currently a 14-year-old ninth-grader who lives in Chicago, USA. I love to constantly learn more about emerging tech, but my interests focus mostly on sustainability and climate tech—how we can use technology to improve the Earth's climate. I am passionate about renewable energy like solar and wind power and how we can improve them with new technologies, and I look forward to sharing my research on these topics with Youth STEM Initiative!
Vlada Yarosh 🇺🇦 🇪🇸
BARCELONA, CATALONIA, SPAIN
Hey everyone! I‘m Vlada, from Kyiv, Ukraine. I am finishing high school this year in Barcelona, Spain and my main passions lie in politics and science, which is what I want to pursue in university and beyond. A fun fact about me is that I have lived in 4 different countries. I’m excited to be a researcher for Youth STEM Initiative and look forward to contributing my work to the organization! You may check out my LinkedIn at the link below, and here is my Medium profile where you can find some of the science articles I've written: medium.com/@yarosshvlada
Umaima Khan 🇵🇰
KARACHI, PAKISTAN
Hello! My name is Umaima, and I'm an A-level student in Pakistan. Here's a fun fact: I'm an introvert who enjoys self-reflection. In fact, I consider myself my own best friend! I'm passionate about pursuing a career in medicine, particularly family practice or research. To that end, I volunteer remotely with NGOs to advocate for healthcare and medicine. I have a strong desire to learn and grow, and I'm always striving to become a better version of myself. I'm excited to see what the future holds and I'm determined to achieve my goals and aspirations.
Shifa Hussain 🇨🇦
TORONTO, ON, CANADA
Hi there! I'm Shifa, an aspiring innovator and entrepreneur from Toronto, Canada. I've always been deeply fascinated by the intersection of technology, innovation, and social impact. From a young age, I've actively engaged in various STEM competitions, where I've had the opportunity to showcase my creativity and problem-solving skills. Outside of academics, you can often find me exploring new ways to merge my interests in space exploration, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence. Whether it's participating in hackathons from various space agencies or collaborating on projects to address environmental challenges, I'm always eager to contribute to cutting-edge advancements in science and technology!
Makenna Yen 🇨🇦
VANCOUVER, BC, CANADA
Hi! My name is Makenna Yen and I am a grade 11 student in Vancouver, BC. I am incredibly passionate about human physiology and sports science, and I am driven by my goal to pursue orthopaedic surgery in my post-secondary studies. My interests lie in understanding how the human body moves and heals, which fuels my hope to support people in maintaining healthy, active lifestyles. I look forward to sharing this passion with others and inspiring young minds to ponder the workings of the world around them.
Eva Fata 🇨🇦
OTTAWA, ON, CANADA
Hello! I am Eva, a high schooler based in Canada, and I am interested in cancer, biology, genetics, nutrition and many more things! I look forward to contributing my work and research on these topics with a wider scientific audience through Youth STEM Initiative.
Sogand Shirkavand 🇮🇷🇨🇦
CALGARY, AB, CANADA
Hey everyone! My name is Sogand and I’m from Calgary, Canada. I’m currently in Grade 9 and I’m passionate about sports and science, particularly biology. A fun fact about me is that I was part of the Alberta provincial youth track & field team, which I qualified for through the Calgary Track and Field (CALTAF) club. I look forward to contributing to Youth STEM Initiative!
Shanzay Zehra Merchant 🇬🇧
ENGLAND, UNITED KINGDOM
Hi! My name is Shanzay, and I’m a GCSE student in the UK. I really enjoy all kinds of science, but I find computer science especially interesting. Aside from that, I love to paint and explore different kinds of art. With Youth STEM Initiative, I hope I can learn new things in science and help to promote youth in STEM. You can find me on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube: @_shanzayzehra_
Manal Hakeem 🇸🇦
MEDINA, SAUDI ARABIA
Hey everyone! I'm Manal Hakeem, proudly representing Medinah, Saudi Arabia, and currently rocking my sophomore year at Alaqeeq International Schools. Space and rocket technology? Yep, that's my thing! When I'm not buried in textbooks, you'll catch me under the night sky, launching model rockets, or catching up on my favourite book classics. Always up for a challenge and eager to explore the cosmos, I'm on a mission to soak up every bit of knowledge and adventure that comes my way.
Maya Nino 🇨🇦
VANCOUVER, BC, CANADA
Hi everyone! My name is Maya Nino, and I am currently a senior at St. Patrick Regional Secondary in Vancouver, Canada. In this thriving, fast-paced, and ever-evolving environment, I am passionate about making a positive impact in the scientific world! When I'm not immersing myself in intriguing information, you can find me dedicatedly training at the swimming pool, participating in choirs, enjoying music, or binge-watching Netflix. I am looking forward to exploring my research journey and discovering where it leads me!
Tamlyn Stevens 🇿🇦
CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Hey everyone! I'm a high school senior living in South Africa with a deep love for reading, learning, and exploring the intersections of technology and science. Coding and diving into marine science research are my passions, alongside delving into robotics. I'm dedicated to integrating modern technology to foster sustainability for both humans and animals. Outside of my studies, I enjoy reading, music, and traveling. My ultimate passion lies in leveraging science to create a more sustainable world. I am excited about writing and collaborating with researchers and writers at Youth STEM Initiative!
Myrto Terpsiadou 🇬🇷
THESSALONIKI, GREECE
Hey everyone! I'm Myrto from Greece and I am a first year Physics student at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, in my hometown. My interests include astrophysics, particle physics and chemistry. I am also passionate about science communication and education. A fun fact about me is that I play a lot of music. I look forward to contributing to Youth STEM Initiative, particularly through my research in physics!
Ayesha Shahid 🇦🇪
DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Hi! I’m Ayesha Shahid, born and raised in the UAE. I’m currently pursuing my degree in Pharmacy, as I was drawn to its research and development aspects as well as the many opportunities in the field. I'm fascinated by the potential to contribute to advancements in medicine, and I'm driven by a passion to make a positive difference in the field. Apart from my academic and research pursuits, I enjoy mystery movies, reading novels, and have a keen interest in interior design! I look forward to contributing to Youth STEM Initiative as a Researcher!
Sristhi Yadav 🇮🇳
NEW DELHI, INDIA
Hi! I’m Srishti Yadav, based in New Delhi, India. I’m a high school senior with a zest for life and a passion for making a difference. My interest in neuropsychology stems from a desire to understand the intricacies of human behavior and the mind. I am fascinated by the potential of integrating psychological insights into technology and AI to create more human-centric solutions. A fun fact about me is that I once managed to juggle basketball, books, music sheets and paint brushes! Driven by a heartfelt desire to merge the worlds of neuroscience and technology, I eagerly embrace new connections and experiences that align with my vision. As I embark on this journey, I am reminded of the words of Maya Angelou: “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” I am thrilled to connect with like-minded individuals who share my enthusiasm for learning, growth, and making a meaningful impact.
Raya Chandok 🇨🇦
TORONTO, ON, CANADA
I’m Raya, a 14-year-old student in Toronto passionate about exploring the future of brain-computer interfaces and learning about medical innovation. One of my goals this year is to develop a deeper understanding of medicine and utilize the concepts I learn for the purpose of driving innovation. I am currently a freshman at Markville Secondary School in the Great Toronto Area, and I enjoy playing musical instruments, dancing, and swimming in my spare time. I look forward to contributing as a researcher to Youth STEM Initiative!
Nicole Yeung 🇨🇦
RICHMOND, BC, CANADA
Hi, there! My name is Nicole Yeung and I am currently a high school student in British Columbia, Canada. I enjoy writing STEM blog posts, which is how I’ve developed a passion for neuroscience. When I’m not with my laptop, I read books, crochet, and play musical instruments. As a writer, I hope to inspire others to dive into the world of STEM and contribute to the ever-changing fields of science!
Yakshith Kommineni 🇨🇦
TORONTO, ON, CANADA
Hey everyone, my name is Yakshith and I'm a 9th-grade student in the Greater Toronto Area, Canada. I'm currently exploring the fields pf neurotechnology and brain-computer interfaces; feel free to check out my Medium page below for some cool projects I've built! I'm also an avid Chess player, currently at 410 elo but slowly making my way up. I hope to share my projects with the Youth STEM Initiative community!
Rafaa Alharbi 🇸🇦
MEDINA, SAUDI ARABIA
Hey, I'm Rafaa, a junior student from Saudi Arabia. I'm incredibly passionate about biology and chemistry. I also enjoy writing as I see it as a means of articulating and expressing my passions in science and beyond. For this reason, I look forward to showcasing my writing on Youth STEM Initiative! Feel free to follow me on Instagram: @rafaa_alharbi
Mark-Daniel Leupold 🇩🇪
WOLFSBURG, GERMANY
Hi! I'm Mark, a 10th grade student from Germany. Since I love both cars and programming, mainly algorithms and AI, my main interest is autonomous driving. And in most of my articles for Youth STEM Initiative I'll write about building something cool. Besides that, I also like fighting judo, kickboxing, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, as well as playing the piano. I hope you'll enjoy reading my work on autonomous driving technology and AI!
Carla Jaffal 🇱🇧
BEIRUT, LEBANON
Hey everyone! I’m Carla, an 18 years old from Lebanon currently a student at Le Lycee National in Beirut and will be pursuing a Bachelors in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the American University of Beirut starting autumn 2024. I am passionate about STEM and am always on the look for ways to better our community. I would love to use my writing skills to express more about my major and what engineering is really like in Youth STEM Initiative and beyond. A fun fact about me is that I have won a partial scholarship to Cambridge and Oxford for my research about women in leadership.
Habeeb Abdulfatah 🇳🇬
ABUJA, NIGERIA
Hi everyone! My name is Habeeb Abdulfatah. I am from Nigeria and am studying mechatronics engineering. Besides being an engineer, my passion lies in science and research, along with writing articles and larger projects. My goal in STEM is to provide as much benefit to humanity as I can through my scientific research and engineering studies. I hope to leave a significant mark through these avenues on Youth STEM Initiative!
Amy Zhou 🇨🇦
VANCOUVER, BC, CANADA
Hello! I'm Amy, a grade 12 student from Vancouver, Canada. This fall, I will be pursuing a degree in biomedical engineering at Duke University. I am passionate about writing, particularly in exploring the gaps in healthcare support and developing/researching solutions accordingly. My favourite animal is the Oahu rooster, and in my spare time, I enjoy binging true crime documentaries. I look forward to share the pieces I write on healthcare with the Youth STEM Initiative community!
Ugo Odom 🇳🇬🇺🇸
ROCHESTER, NY, UNITED STATES
Hi! My name is Ugo Odom, I’m from Nigeria and currently studying Epidemiology with a minor in Statistics at the University of Rochester in New York state. I’m deeply passionate about public health, particularly in vaccine distribution and HIV interventions. Aside from academics, I enjoy building things with Lego and writing poetry. I also have a strong passion for cars, and if I could pick any car, my dream would be a Porsche 911 Dakar. I look forward to contributing some of my best research to Youth STEM Initiative!
Enya Dumitru 🇷🇴🇨🇦🇪🇸
SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, CANARY ISLANDS, SPAIN
Hello! My name is Enya Dumitru, a 15-year-old student based in The Canary Islands, Spain, but I’m originally from Romania and Canada. I am passionate about sustainability and green everything! Through my research, specifically in the field of biomimicry, I am hoping to make a positive impact on the world around me and give nature a helping hand. Outside of my academic research, I keep myself busy by volunteering at local shelters, playing the piano and flute in a band, and folding origami. I look forward to sharing my research and insights with all of you and Youth STEM Initiative! I’m always open to talk so feel free to reach out to me on LinkedIn below.
Jemimah Fadare Owolabi 🇳🇬🇬🇧
CAMBRIDGE, ENGLAND, UNITED KINGDOM
Hey, pleasure to meet you! I'm Jemimah, a Spanish-born Nigerian currently studying in The Leys, Cambridge in the UK. I'm an aspiring engineer with a strong passion to use its transformative power to help create pragmatic change. I have a few interests from cooking and investing in stocks to playing sports like volleyball. A fun fact about me is that I started a crochet business at 12. This endeavour ignited my creativity and since then I have always wanted to learn more about business and STEM! My journey into research started with a report on the potential of repurposing HDPE plastics into useful materials like hockey sticks, a report on Sustainable Construction in Singapore, and my most recent work in Carbon Capture! As part of Youth STEM Initiative I'm excited to share my findings on the future of cosmetics, renewable energy, and a net-zero carbon society!
Polina Parker 🇰🇿
ALMATY, KAZAKHSTAN
Hey everyone! My name is Polina and I'm currently a grade 10 student from Kazakhstan. I'm an innovator at The knowledge Society (TKS) researching various topics in cellular and molecular biology. At the moment I'm working on a project in cellular agriculture and gene editing in the hope of solving the climate crisis and animal welfare problems. I look forward to sharing some of my research in this area with the Youth STEM Initiative community. My goal is to be the first teen to land on Mars!
Naz Oğuz 🇹🇷
IZMIR, TÜRKIYE
Hello everyone! I'm Naz Oğuz from Türkiye, currently a junior in high school. I have always been passionate about STEM and this passion of mine has continued during my high school years with subjects such as Computer Science, AI, and Research. I'm always eager to learn new skills and explore fresh opportunities in STEM to advance my knowledge and promote my scientific work. Beyond academics, I like playing tennis and volleyball. I also play the piano in my free time. My main goal is to use the potential of technology to improve lives as I firmly believe that technology is essential for human development. I look forward to sharing my research with everyone at Youth STEM Initiative!
Farangiz Tolibkhonova 🇺🇿
TASHKENT, UZBEKISTAN
Hey! My name is Farangiz or just Farah, I’m 18 years old and I live in Uzbekistan. I graduated from high school last year and took a gap year, and this upcoming September 2024 I plan to start my education. My interests include cooking/baking, reading different genres of books, especially novels and detectives, playing the piano, learning something new (especially anything related to space), and discovering new information in the field of emerging technology, business and entrepreneurship. I also enjoy learning new languages, and I speak in 3 languages fluently: Uzbek, Russian and English. Currently, I'm learning French and Arabic as well. A fun fact about me is that I can fell asleep wherever and whenever I want!
Roza Anastasiadou 🇨🇾
PAPHOS, CYPRUS
Hello! My name is Roza and I'm 17 years old. I am going to graduate from high school this year in Cyprus. I am especially interested in the junction of organic chemistry and cancer research, as I am very enthusiastic about uncovering the molecular intricacies of cancer and the role of innovative organic chemistry in this important field of study. I am also very passionate about politics, where I actively get involved in discussions and debates—for instance at the European Youth Parliament Cyprus. My passion for science stimulates my inquisitiveness and helps me discover the mysteries of nature, which I hope I can use to contribute valuably to Youth STEM Initiative. Also, an interesting fact about me is that I speak six different languages!
Salomé Blandón Atía 🇨🇴🇨🇦
THUNDER, ON, CANADA
Hey there! My name is Salomé Blandón Atía and I’m from Colombia. I am currently a grade eleven student in Ontario and an Innovate student at The Knowledge Society (TKS). I’m passionate about learning how to find treatments and solutions for diseases as complex as cancer using different technologies like artificial intelligence to do so. I have been able to follow this by being in TKS, which has provided me with the chance to deeply study in these issues and formulate feasible scientific solutions. A fun fact about me is that I speak two languages: Spanish and English!
Hande Naz Kavas 🇹🇷
ISTANBUL, TÜRKIYE
Hi, my name is Hande and I’m a grade 11 student from Istanbul, Türkiye. I am interested in using technology to solve global problems and develop sustainable solutions to them. I mainly work on Computer Science and Brain -Computer Interface (BCI) related projects, particularly through The Knowledge Society (TKS) program. One of the best projects I’ve built is a BCI program that turns Morse code encrypted blinks into an AI voice to help people with speech disorders speak without using any muscles. I’m also working on sustainable development goals (SDGs) such that I’ve built gonullubul.com with a friend, a website that helps teens discover a diverse range of volunteering opportunities. I look forward to working with Youth STEM Initiative and sharing my research with all of you!
Calin Popescu 🇷🇴
BUCHAREST, ROMANIA
I'm Calin, from Bucharest, a 10th grade student currently attending the French high school "Anna de Noailles". In my free time I like to read anything from classical novels to science and geopolitics journals, and I am currently playing basketball for one of Romania's most well known sports clubs. Since my field of knowledge and research is mostly related to technology, I would be most suited to write in that category especially since Youth STEM Initiative lacks content in this area. I already have some ideas, mostly related to how geopolitical conflicts were won by the western countries due to their better STEM development (such as the British sonar, or how mathematicians cracked the Nazi "Enigma" code using math and technology). I hope to contribute some of my knowledge in these areas to Youth STEM Initiative's Technology articles! My socials are "calin_ppsc" on every platform, and below is the link to my Instagram.
Oğuz Kirmizi 🇹🇷
ISTANBUL, TÜRKIYE
Hey everyone! I am an 11th grade student who currently lives in Istanbul, Türkiye. I'm a universe explorer and Innovator at The Knowledge Society (TKS) as well as a Rise Finalist for 2024. I have an extremely curious mind, particularly fascinated by the intricacies of quantum mechanics, and most of all, I'm a technology aficionado on a mission to change the world. I look forward to making a difference in Youth STEM Initiative with my research and hope that my work inspires the next generation of technology aficionados to innovate!
Ivanna Tung 🇨🇦
RICHMOND, BC, CANADA
Hi! My name is Ivanna and I'm a sophomore in Richmond, BC. I have a strong interest in kinesiology and anything related to the human body. In my daily life, I enjoy skating and listening to music. I hope to be able to greatly contribute to Youth STEM Initiative with my knowledge of human biology and kinesiology!
Mariem Degdagui 🇹🇳
TUNIS, TUNISIA
Hi everyone! I am Mariem Degdagui, a 17-year-old girl from Tunisia, North Africa, with a keen interest in STEM and technology. Currently, I'm a rising high school senior with the specialty of physics, biology, and mathematics and a French baccalaureate graduate. My passions extend beyond academics as I have a deep love for music and arts, including painting and photography. I have had the honour of participating in multiple initiatives, driven by my passion for public entrepreneurship and activism. My goal is to make the world a better place by leveraging every opportunity I have to create a positive impact, and hope to do so through a scientific lens as part of Youth STEM Initiative. Fun fact: I can play three different musical instruments!
Israe Loumiti 🇲🇦
MEKNES, MOROCCO
I'm a rising junior majoring in math from Morocco (in Morocco, we choose our majors from the 11th level). I'm an aspiring engineer passionate about astrophysics, climate change, and genetic engineering. These are subjects I primarily research. My hobbies include writing, video making, content creating (I'm working on my podcast), and reading, especially about philosophy. A fun fact about me is that I'm a passionate home chef, and I love experimenting with new recipes from around the world.
Gabriel D'Alton 🇮🇪🇨🇦
VANCOUVER, BC, CANADA
Gabriel Dalton is an Irish-Canadian entrepreneur based in Vancouver, Canada. He stands out in web development with a four-year track record of innovation and commitment to sustainability. Starting with a passion for digital creativity, he quickly focused on eco-friendly practices. Gabriel has worked with a variety of clients, including notable projects with the Stanley Park Ecology Society and SustainableWWW, showing his ability to blend tech skills with care for the environment. He founded Oasis of Change Inc. at the age of 15. Under his leadership, it has become a key player in sustainable web design, contributing to planting nearly 8,000 trees and stopping over 6,700 plastic bottles from reaching the oceans through partnerships like Tree-Nation and Plastic Bank. When Gabriel isn't focused on his businesses, he dedicates his time to language learning. He has studied 20+ languages, achieving a 90% accuracy rate. Gabriel is excited to contribute valuably to Youth STEM Initiative!
Aarthi Ramesh 🇮🇳🇦🇪
ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Hey everyone! My name is Aarthi Ramesh, and I’m a grade 10 student based in the United Arab Emirates, but I’m originally from India. I’m passionate about the STEM branch and always eager to learn more about it. I specifically find chemistry and biology fascinating. My interests include a wide range of things, such as singing, dancing, martial arts, baking, reading, writing blogs and poetry, and learning more about new things. I mainly enjoy writing about technology and the sciences. I can speak four languages, which include English, Tamil, Kannada, and bits of Hindi. My future goal is to become an oncologist and conduct extensive research on it.
Prishita Bhatt 🇮🇳🇨🇦
SASKATOON, SK, CANADA
Hello! I'm Prishita Bhatt, originally from India and now proudly rooted in Canada. As a high school junior, I'm deeply passionate about research, particularly in science, neuroscience, and STEM. This summer 2024, I'm eagerly joining the SHAD Canada STEAM program to further explore these interests. My goal is to make a positive impact in the scientific world, focusing on biochemistry and neuroscience, with dreams of a career in medicine. Outside academics, I dabble in graphic design, website development, and blogging. Fun fact: I speak four languages and find joy in expressing myself through dance.
Ruhi Ambone 🇮🇳
MUMBAI, INDIA
Hello, my name is Ruhi and I am from Mumbai, India. I am currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering. Since childhood, I've been deeply curious about nature and its elements, finding tranquility and solace in its pace. This fascination drives my passion for research in this area. Being in the technical domain for a quite some time has taught me that solving issues requires peace and patience, which I find particularly through writing. I enjoy reading novels and historical books, listening to music, and engaging in nature photography. I am very eager to contribute to Youth STEM Initiative!
Zofia Hardek 🇵🇱
POZNAŃ, POLAND
Hey everyone! My name is Zofia and I'm from Poznań in the magnificent country called Poland. Currently I'm in high school and going into my senior year. My main interest in science and research lies in Virtual Reality (VR) technology, and I play the violin and practice acting in my spare time. I'm also an alumni of The Knowledge Society (TKS). Fun fact: my dream is to go to Stanford University and attend a bilingual class!
Amina Kalandarova 🇺🇸
NEW YORK CITY, NY, UNITED STATES
Hey there! My name is Amina, and I am a rising senior at Forest Hills High School in NYC. I am passionate about Brain-Computer Interfaces and coding, especially Artificial Intelligence. I also have experience in Social Media Marketing and Operations across various organizations. In my free time, I like to act on stage and play volleyball, and I am also learning to sing. A fun fact about me is that I have changed six schools!
Ojaswita Dey 🇮🇳
KOLKATA, INDIA
Hey everyone! I'm Ojaswita Dey, a 15 year old from Kolkata, India. I am currently a sophomore at high school who is really passionate about Physics & Astronomy. I recently got into the field of AI as well and topics such as machine learning and deep learning fascinate me a lot. I'm also an Indian classical music performer (under the guidance of Ustad Rashid Khan for the last 10 years). My biggest hobbies include singing, reading books, and studying scientific breakthroughs!
Deniz Guler 🇹🇷
ISTANBUL, TÜRKIYE
Hello everyone, this is Deniz from Istanbul, Türkiye. I am currently a rising senior at my high school in Istanbul. Since I was a child, I have always been passionate about science, particularly biology. Through my research, I am aiming to contribute to society positively and unravel molecular biology techniques. I have also been a competitive swimmer for more than 10 years and I often compete at Turkish National Swim Races. I really look forward to sharing my research in science as part of Youth STEM Initiative!
Tisha Malla 🇳🇵🇦🇪🏴
ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Hey everyone, my name is Tisha and I'm a freshman at the University of Bolton in England pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. From a young age, I realized that I'm deeply passionate about the complex nature of the human brain, both neurologically and psychologically. The large research gap in this field only intensifies my fascination. My goal and commitment to Psychology are to conduct research that enhances our understanding of the field and to possibly discover something new to help bridge the research gap and advance our understanding of the brain. Fun fact: I am from Nepal and I am currently working on a philanthropic project for my country.
Steven Liu 🇺🇸
LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES
Hi! My name is Steven, a high school junior from California, USA. Some of my hobbies are running track, photography, and hiking. I am extremely passionate about molecular & quantum physics and hope to pursue an education in applied physics in college (hopefully at my dream school, Stanford). A fun fact about me is that my favourite artist is 21 Savage. I’m looking forward to using my knowledge to make a positive impact at Youth STEM Initiative. Feel free to follow me on Instagram: @steven1iu
Judy Ayman 🇪🇬
HELIOPOLIS, CAIRO, EGYPT
Hi everyone! My name is Judy Ayman and I’m a grade 12 student from Egypt. I am mostly specialized in mathematics and am extremely passionate about research and its contributions to our daily world. I am interested in quantum computing and I'm an IQRG (Introduction to Quantum Research for Girls) alumni and finalist, led by PhysicsBeyond. I hope to pursue computer engineering in university and contribute with meaningful research to the quantum field. I also have a strong interest in psychology, the study of human behaviour and habit formation. A fun fact about me is that I have MANY other interests that are non-STEM related; I love ballet, painting, writing inspirational quotes, and I value my volunteer hours! I look forward to contributing meaningful research at Youth STEM Initiative and inspiring young scientific minds globally!
Fatima Imam 🇵🇰🇨🇦
KARACHI, PAKISTAN
Hey everyone! My name is Fatima Imam. I was born in Pakistan, but lived in Canada for some time. I am an upcoming junior in high school and am extremely passionate about Gene Editing. A fun fact about me is that I aspired to become a singer when I was younger, and took singing lessons to help me do so. As I want to dive deep into other cutting edge technologies, my aim at the moment is to write articles to spread these ideas to a wider audience as an enjoyable read. That being said, I am excited to express my endeavours as a researcher as part of the Youth STEM Initiative community!
Julia Piaseczna 🇵🇱
KONIN, POLAND
Hey everyone! My name is Julia and I'm from Poland, where I am going into my 4th year of high school. In the Polish education system, students must choose 3 extended subjects. I chose biology, chemistry, and English as I am mostly passionate about science!
Now, onto my passions and hobbies! I'm interested in human rights, climate issues, and volunteering. When it comes to science, I love the connection between science and business, particularly startups. My favourite fields of science are neurology and psychology, so I definitely want to pursue a career in these fields.
Fayrouz Selima 🇪🇬
MARKAZ EL SHOHADA, EGYPT
Hey everyone! My name is Fayrouz Selima, and I am a 17 year old from Egypt. I'm currently a rising high school senior at Menofia STEM School. As you may be able to tell from the name of my school, I am deeply passionate about STEM and scientific research. I've always been curious and determined, which has shaped my high school journey in STEM schools across different fields like engineering and astronomy. At the moment I am also interested in biomedical engineering, botany, and medicine. I'm not just interested science, though. I'm also a graphic designer with a love for combining my design skills with my research work to create unique and impactful work. I'm all about making my projects stand out! Fun fact about me: My love for biology transformed me from a lazy koala into an active, inspiring squirrel! Diving deep into the world of scientific research energized me and fueled my passion for discovery and innovation.
Argha Das 🇨🇦
SASKATOON, SK, CANADA
Hey everyone! My name is Argha Das and I'm from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. I am a rising senior, however I have already challenged myself with numerous grade 12 courses such as physics, calculus, chemistry, computer science, psychology, etc. My academic life has mostly revolved around physics, and for the past couple of years I have spent the majority of my time researching and theorizing about the secrets of the cosmos. My general interests are in quantum mechanics, general relativity, quantum chromodynamics, and particle physics. I also have some interest within the realm of astrophysics; topics linked with the big bang, black holes, and dark matter/energy have been fascinating to me. Due to my research background, I indulge in reading research papers, scientific journals and articles and writing personal research papers as a hobby; that is how I spent most of my days.
Amy Wren 🇨🇦
VANCOUVER, BC, CANADA
Hi everyone! I go by Wren, and I'm a rising junior at Crofton House School in Vancouver, Canada. My main passions involve human anatomy and psychiatry, as I am fascinated with the body and the mind. Beyond academia, you can find me feeding my many pets, collecting enamel pins, and/or experiencing the anxiety levels of an animal being hunted for sport. I look forward to contributing some valuable science to Youth STEM Initiative!
Brandon Licata 🇺🇸
BOCA RATON, FL, UNITED STATES
Hi! My name is Brandon Licata, a 19-year old from Boca Raton, Florida near Miami. I am currently a 2nd-year Biomedical Sciences major at Florida State University. I have a passion for research pertaining to the sciences, particularly neuroscience. As someone who aspires to enter healthcare professionally, I love learning about technological advances and the ways in which they impact modern medicine. In my spare time I enjoy listening to music, practicing Taekwondo, playing Elden Ring, and biking with my friends. I’m excited to be a part of the Youth STEM Initiative team!
Yigit Kaan Kizlier 🇹🇷
IZMIR, TÜRKIYE
Hi! My name is Yigit Kaan Kizlier. I live in Izmir, Türkiye and I'm a rising junior in high school. I'm interested in neuroscience/ health technologies and research. I enjoy playing chess and football in my free time. I look forward to sharing my scientific work with everyone at Youth STEM Initiative!
Muhammad Faizan Ali 🇵🇰
LAHORE, PAKISTAN
Hey everyone, I'm Muhammad Faizan Ali, from Pakistan. My curiosity is rooted in biology, particularly in the brain—a fascinating organ that studies itself! Alongside my interest in neuroscience, I'm passionate about history and run a digital museum showcasing my collection of ancient relics. As an A-level student, I'm excited to dive into research, adapt, learn, and deepen my understanding of science and of course have fun along the way!
Prabh Abinas Singh Gill 🇨🇦
SASKATOON, SK, CANADA
Hey everyone! My name is Prabh and I am currently a high school senior at Evan Hardy Collegiate in Saskatchewan, Canada. At 17 years old, I am passionate about IT, biomedical engineering, and computer science. I joined Youth STEM Initiative because I want to contribute to an international STEM organization for youth, aiming to make a significant impact on the world. My mission is to enhance this impact by leveraging technology and innovative projects to boost the reach and influence of Youth STEM Initiative as a youth-led and run science organization that seeks to share knowledge with humanity and empower aspiring scientists globally. I'm excited to connect, learn, and collaborate with all of you! Find me on Instagram @prabhabinas or you can connect with me on my website prabhabinas.com
Batool Atef 🇪🇬
CAIRO, EGYPT
My name is Batool Atef, and I'm a 16-year-old high school student from Egypt. I am deeply passionate about scientific research, especially in robotics, mathematics, and computer science, and STEM fields in general. Along with my academic research, I also love participating in extracurricular activities. I am very excited to be a part of the research team at Youth STEM Initiative and contribute what I can. A fun fact about me is that I love solving puzzles and brain games, and I consider them a great way to develop critical thinking skills.
Rachel Vu 🇨🇦
BURNABY, BC, CANADA
Rachel is a current high school senior living in Metro Vancouver, Canada. She expresses an insatiable enthusiasm for all topics concerning neuroscience, currently undertaking an investigation into the neurobiological basis of schizophrenia in hopes of proposing an innovative treatment method. As the recipient of various service awards, she dedicates her time beyond her studies to community service through her executive membership in a local non-profit organization. Rachel is pleased to be able to contribute her research to Youth STEM Initiative as a member of its team!
Zelal Canpolat 🇹🇷
ISTANBUL, TÜRKIYE
My name is Zelal Canpolat and I am a 12th grade student from İstanbul, Türkiye. Natural sciences have always been my major passion since my childhood. I am currently interested in neuroscience and ethology, however, this year I was researching for the CERN BL4S (Beamline for Schools) competition with my team and hopefully we will earn our certificate of attendance to perform our experiment at CERN in Geneva, Switzerland! So, I have a history with performing scientific research and I would love to pursue this further with Youth STEM Initiative!
Jodie Lechtenberg 🇩🇪
DUISBURG, GERMANY
Hey everyone, I’m Jodie, a 10th grader from Germany with a passion for writing and exploring new ideas. I love crafting articles on topics that interest me, especially politics, debate, scientific hypotheses, and technology such as coding and brain-computer interfaces. When I’m not diving into these subjects, you can find me on the tennis court or playing the piano!
Nazlı Dolap 🇹🇷
ANTALYA, TÜRKIYE
Hey, I’m Nazlı, a 17-year-old high school student from Antalya, Türkiye with a passion for solving business challenges through mathematics and technology—this fuels my ambition to study industrial engineering in college. I’m particularly interested in carbon capture technologies, especially direct air capture (DAC) which led me to establish a team called ACCT in my school, dedicated to integrating DAC technology to drones. Beyond my academic pursuits, I have a t-shirt brand called Brocken Dream Designs and I'm proudly a mentor of the FRC (FIRST Robotics Competition) team, Scorpions #7672. A few fun facts about me: I love theatre and acting, playing volleyball, and spending time with my cat, Silver. I’m really excited to be part of this amazing community! My Instagram: @naz.dol_ and Medium: https://medium.com/@nzldlp.
Zoe Triantafyllidou 🇬🇷
THESSALONIKI, GREECE
My name is Zoe Triantafyllidou, I'm 15 years old and I live in Thessaloniki, Greece. I am going into 10th grade at Anatolia College as of September 2024. In my free time, I like playing tennis and writing literary essays, while also watching series and movies with my family and hanging out with my friends! I strongly believe that the feeling of helping people in need and volunteering to save the community is something unique and life changing. I love interacting with people from all over the world, so public and persuasive speaking are some of my main interests, and I also enjoy participating in debate and diplomacy clubs. I am willing to learn more about the emerging tech, so I decided to join TKS community and soon I'll be starting my year there. Thank you Amirali for inviting me to the YSI team! Looking forward to meeting you all!
Zehra Desen Çelik 🇹🇷
ISTANBUL, TÜRKIYE
Hey everyone, my name is Zehra and I am currently a high school senior at Uskudar American Academy in Istanbul. My hobbies include playing the piano, listening to classical music, and bowling. I am mostly passionate about chemistry, molecular biology, human anatomy and neuroscience. A fun fact about me is that I am obsessed with watching aesthetic studying videos on YouTube and TikTok, and I also try to make content on TikTok and Instagram about studying!
Deniz Tiryakioğlu 🇹🇷
BURSA, TÜRKIYE
Hi! My name is Deniz Tiryakioğlu, and I am from Türkiye. I'm currently a senior in high school and am extremely passionate about research, neuroscience, and STEM overall. Through my research, I am motivated to create a positive impact in the scientific world. I'm interested in studying pre-med and neuroscience, and I aspire to pursue a career in medicine, particularly in neurology. I look forward to making a positive difference through Youth STEM Initiative!
Kerem Yaman 🇹🇷
ISTANBUL, TÜRKIYE
Hi, I'm Kerem, a high school student from Istanbul, Türkiye. I have a strong passion for science, especially biology, and I'm part of the newly founded "Gelecek Bilimde High School Community," a science-focused group in Türkiye. In addition to science, I enjoy expressing myself through art and theatre, which I pursue as a hobby. I speak English and I am currently learning German and Bulgarian. At school, I take pride in my academic achievements, having finished 9th grade at the top of my class. I love learning new things through conversations with others, and my curiosity about the world drives me to think like a researcher. Biology captivates me because it helps explain the wonders of nature—like understanding how something as simple as grass is alive while a stone is not.
Nergis Çelebi 🇹🇷
ISTANBUL, TÜRKIYE
Hello! My name is Nergis Çelebi and I’m from Istanbul. I am a 12th grade IB student and very interested in psychiatry. My hobbies are participating in Model UN conferences, going to the gym, and listening to music. I have conducted three research papers; however, my favourite is about clinical psychology, schizophrenia to be exact, with the research question being: "Identifying the Role of Environmental and Genetic Factors in the Formation of Schizophrenia at the Latent Level." I can say that I am more than excited to be able to share my interests with other students who are aiming to educate themselves in the psychiatry/clinical psychology field. I look forward to sharing these interests and findings through the Youth STEM Initiative community!
Enanga Dorothy Fongwa 🇨🇲
LIMBE, CAMEROON
Hey everyone! My name is Enanga Dorothy Fongwa and I am a 19 year old from Cameroon. I'm currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Microbiology in my 2nd year of university. My passion ranges from community service and solving global problems to research , leadership and healthcare innovation.
My hobbies include dancing and playing football. A fun fact about me is that I am very passionate about education and have taken part in numerous national competitions (winning two of them!) and have been granted research opportunities including the prestigious Beacon Scholars Research Program!
Furkan Yaman 🇹🇷
ISTANBUL, TÜRKIYE
Hi! I’ Furkan, from Istanbul, Türkiye, and I’m currently a 10th-grade high school student. I’ve been interested in science since I was a child, but computer science has always held a special place for me. I’ve always been fascinated by robots, and this year I’ll be participating in the First Robotics Competition (FRC). While my main passion is computer science, I also have a keen interest in quantum physics. Last year, I even participated in the Beamline For Schools (BL4S) event with my school friends. I look forward to making an impact as a researcher for Youth STEM Initiative!
Rosaria Kapya 🇿🇲
LUSAKA, ZAMBIA
My name is Rosaria Kapya and I am a Zambian girl who is passionate about youth empowerment and making the world a better place. I am mainly appreciated for my charismatic and fun social behaviour. I studied civil and environmental engineering at Virginia Tech in the United States, and ALSO attended 30 hours of leadership skills during my stay there. In addition, I visited NASA where I worked at Lockheed Martin Space and I also worked at Denver International Airport. I am a magazine article editor and I spread mental health awareness through my articles. My main hobbies are travelling, dancing, playing tennis and spending time with the people I love!
Djaurv Hipol 🇨🇦
SURREY, BC, CANADA
Hello everyone! My name is Djaurv Hipol, a 16-year-old high school student from Surrey, BC. I’m currently in Grade 12, with a strong passion for Molecular Biology and Biochemistry. Outside of academics, I’m an avid mountain biker and hockey enthusiast. I’m also involved in both my school and local community, serving as the president of the Science Club, Pre-Med Club, and Global Issues Club. Not only that, but I'm an active volunteer with organizations such as the BC Children's Hospital, Peace Arch Hospital Foundation, Diabetes Canada, and several senior homes. These experiences have been incredibly rewarding and have deepened my commitment to making a positive impact.
Maria Rita Coelho 🇧🇷
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL
Hey everyone! I'm Maria Rita, a 16 year old Brazilian girl who is in 11th grade and is very passionate about Aerospace Engineering. My biggest dream is to be able to one day work with engineering some of the famous airplanes you see in those crazy movies, like the SR-71 Blackbird—my favourite plane! I also love discussing aerospace technology with others, and I believe that communication and science together can ultimately transform the places we live for the better. I am excited to make a great impact on YSI as both a Researcher and the Brazil Chapter Leader!
Andrés Vargas 🇨🇴
BOGOTÁ, COLOMBIA
Hi everyone, I am Andrés Vargas from Fusagasugá, Colombia. I live in Bogotá, and am studying for a master of science degree in mathematics. My research interests have changed over time; the last 3 years I have focused on the understanding of non-commutative algebraic structures, particularly Hopf algebras. and currently I am looking into Lie group theory, ergodic theory, and AI. I also have a broad interest in mathematical physics as I am fascinated by topological quantum field theory and mechanical statistics. My main hobbies are playing board games with friends and trying new kinds of food!
Souad Menif 🇹🇳
BEN AROUS, TUNISIA
Hey everyone! My name is Souad Menif, a dental student, content writer, and ghostwriter based in Tunisia. I am passionate about creative communication, blending storytelling with science, and advocating for meaningful causes. As a member of the International Association of Dental Students (IADS) Editorial Board, I craft engaging content that resonates with diverse audiences. I love musicals and played volleyball for over six years. I am also deeply committed to raising awareness about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition that I live with. I thrive on deep conversations and meaningful connections, always seeking to learn, share ideas, and inspire others through my writing, and hope to continue doing this through Youth STEM Initiative!
İlknur Yaren 🇹🇷
AYDIN, TÜRKIYE
My name is İlknur, and I am a junior at Ortaklar Science High School in Türkiye. I have a strong interest in computer science, particularly AI, and I'm exploring this field through a variety of projects. Additionally, I study virtual arts at the Science and Art Center (BİLSEM) in Türkiye to explore my creativity. I enjoy taking on leadership roles and working as part of a team, and my goal is to become a successful leader in the tech industry. In my spare time, I like solving 3x3 Rubik’s cubes, and I’m also a big fan of Harry Potter! I see the YSI community as a great opportunity to expand my network, improve myself, and share my scientific work with other talented students globally.
Shevansh Nagar 🇮🇳
DELHI, INDIA
I’m Shevansh, a high school student from India studying at Amity International School. I am particularly passionate about astrophysics, astronomy, chemistry and theoretical physics. I’m currently working on a black hole simulation merging particle physics, have published a book on Amazon, and am writing a second one on frequencies and God. My achievements include the Pramerica National Silver Medal, Silver Honour in the International Astrophysics and Astronomy Competition, and the Dick Edwards Award from NASA’s Indian Space Settlement Design Competition. Recently, I published a review paper on black holes in the International Journal of Research and Analytical Review. My hobbies include cycling, writing, photography, and exploring Indian and Egyptian mythology.
Danial Poorghaz 🇮🇷🇹🇷
ISTANBUL, TÜRKIYE
Hi! I'm Danial Poorghaz, an Iranian Turkmen living in Istanbul, Türkiye, and I'm currently a senior at Gaziosmanpasa Anatolian High School. Ever since I was a 6th grader, I wondered about our universe and how it works—this is how I got my passion for physics. In high school, I met my best friends who love science just like me and we founded a science club in our school in which we also organized several events with professors. Along with the rest of my team of friends, I participated in the BL4S 2024 physics competition organized by CERN in Switzerland. I feel incredibly lucky that I live in Istanbul, one of the most historical and wonderful cities in the world!
Zosia Serek 🇵🇱
TARNÓW, POLAND
My name is Zosia, and I’m a Polish high school student with a biology, chemistry, and mathematics profile from Tarnów. I love chemistry, especially analytical chemistry, and I’m also interested in topics at the intersection of the hard sciences and psychology, as well as surgery. I’m a finalist in the Environmental Protection and Sustainable Chemistry Olympics, and in my free time, I tutor others, showing that chemistry isn’t just formulas but also fun! I’ve participated in numerous conferences and workshops, including the Gdynia Science Slam and Katowice Science Slam, where I had the opportunity to present on the chemistry of love. I’ve also completed several scientific courses, such as a 25-hour Chemistry Olympiad preparation course and a Surgical Medicine course at the Academic Science Camp @akademicki_oboz_naukowy. Additionally, I’ve attended Adamed SmartUP workshops and weekend workshops in the field of chemistry through the Małopolska Education Cloud at the Cracow University of Technology. I look forward to making valuable scientific contributions to YSI!
Mariem Belaid 🇹🇳
SOUSSE, TUNISIA
Hey everyone! My name is Mariem Belaid, an 18 year old from Tunisia. Currently, I am a senior student specializing in experimental sciences, a field i am deeply passionate about. I have always been intrigued by the intersection of technology and healthcare, and I aspire to become a medical doctor in the future. What particularly captivates me in science is the study of hormones (Endocrinology), their fascinating mechanisms and the vast potential for discovery in this area. I've completed a seminar series on advocating for low-visibility health issues in Tunisia organized by American Corner Sousse, a series of workshops on Computational Thinking by the same organization, as well as an Intro to Public Speaking course with the University of Washington. Outside of academics, I enjoy playing volleyball, a sport that requires strategic thinking and lots of confidence. A fun fact about me is that I love dogs :)
I look forward to contributing to Youth STEM Initiative with my research in science 🙌🏻
Renzo Honorato 🇧🇷
SÃO JOSÉ DOS CAMPOS, BRAZIL
Hey there! My name is Renzo, I come from Brazil and I'm currently a high school senior. I am really into physics and maths in general and wish to follow an academic career in physics. My research involves mostly weird problems and applications of theoretical physics (I'm not much of an experimentalist). I also love playing chess and teaching physics, maths, and computer science whenever I can. I look forward to making a difference in Youth STEM Initiative as both a researcher and tutor!
Yuheng Zhai 🇨🇦
BURLINGTON, ON, CANADA
My name is Yuheng Zhai and I'm currently a Grade 11 student in Burlington, Ontario. I am interested in Computer Science and Applied Mathematics and have published a paper on the application of the Lagrange Multiplier Method. Besides, I love playing basketball and I am a super fan of Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors. I am happy to work as a researcher at YSI and I look forward to contributing my research in Mathematics and Computer Science to the organization!
Amaira Akbar 🇮🇳
DELHI, INDIA
Hi everyone! I’m Amaira Akbar from Delhi, India, currently a high school senior pursuing advanced studies in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, and Economics. My research interests include everything from artificial intelligence and neurocognitive science to financial modeling and data-driven solutions for societal challenges. Beyond academics, I’m passionate about robotics, podcasting on economics (through my podcast, EconDecoded), and competitive sports like basketball and football. A fun fact about me is that I enjoy solving Rubik’s Cubes and can complete one in under 25 seconds!
Marcus Milicevic 🇩🇴
SANTA DOMINGO, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Hi everyone, my name is Marcus Milicevic. I’m from the Dominican Republic and currently pursuing the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). Soon, I’ll be stepping into university as an undergraduate student. I’m passionate about finance and technology, particularly coding and hardware. I've worked on projects like trading bots, convolutional neural networks, and Arduino-based automations that make my daily routines easier. A fun fact about me is that my favorite animal is the Quokka, known as the "happiest animal on Earth".
Elina Rostami 🇮🇷🇹🇷
ISTANBUL, TÜRKIYE
My name is Elina Rostami, originally from Iran, but I’ve been living in Turkey since 2021. I’m a 12th-grade IB student passionate about science, biology, and mathematics. Since childhood, I’ve loved logical problem-solving and participated in many math Olympiads and competitions. My interest in research began with the IB Diploma, where I worked on my Internal Assessments.
During the summer, I learned basic lab techniques to conduct original research, and I’m currently taking bioinformatics courses to combine computational and experimental biology. I also enjoy programming and robotics, winning a gold medal at the Seoul International Fair. While I have many interests, I’m now focused on developing my research skills and preparing for a pre-med track.
Lamia Mchirgui 🇹🇳
SOUSSE, TUNISIA
Hey everyone, my name is Lamia. I’m a 22-year-old Tunisian medical student, currently in my 4th year at the Faculty of Medicine of Sousse. If you ask me about my favorite place to be, I’d say “on the top of my feet”—I love running and the freedom it gives me to explore as far as my feet can take me. In fact, at the moment, I’m training for a half marathon.
My academic interests lie in the fascinating world of neuroscience, particularly cognitive neuroscience, behavioral neuroscience, neuroeducation, developmental neuroscience, and affective neuroscience. I enjoy delving into the essence of human nature and linking it to scientific foundations. A fun fact about me? As strange as it sounds, I have a little daily struggle with doors. I somehow manage to bump into them daily. Let’s just say I’ve developed a bit of “doorophobia!”
Traicy Moreno 🇵🇪
LIMA, PERU
I’m Tracy Moreno, a high school senior based in Lima, Peru, graduating in 2025. I’m passionate about neuroanthropology, social neuroscience, and global mental health. My research interests focus on understanding how culture and biology intersect to shape human behavior and addressing disparities in mental health care. I am the founder of an emerging NGO dedicated to promoting health, education, and equality through youth-driven projects aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). I’ve also worked in psychosocial initiatives, supported gender equality advocacy, and participated in environmental volunteer work. As a Researcher for Youth STEM Initiative, I am excited to contribute my research in the health sciences!
Mustafa Özlen 🇹🇷
ISTANBUL, TÜRKIYE
Hi! I’m Mustafa Özlen, a 10th-grade student at FMV Işık High School in Türkiye. I have a wide range of interests, from history to science and technology, and I'm always looking to expand my knowledge. I have experience contributing to my school’s math magazine, where I get to explore complex mathematical concepts and share them with others. Additionally, I actively participate in Model United Nations (MUN), where I have developed valuable skills in public speaking, diplomacy, and negotiation. I’ve participated in both in-person and online MUN conferences, which have allowed me to engage with students from around the world. In addition to my academic pursuits, I enjoy reading, playing sports, and exploring new ideas. I am passionate about learning and finding new ways to challenge myself, and I look forward to being part of the Youth STEM Initiative to continue growing and developing my skills. A fun fact about me is that I once tried to teach my cat how to play chess… but she just kept knocking over the pieces!
Shivansh Soni 🇦🇪
DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Hey everyone! I'm Shivansh and I live in Dubai, UAE. My main passions involve Human Anatomy, Psychology, and Astronomy. Outside of academics, I find great joy in playing basketball, cycling, and caring for my two dogs. I likewise have a passion for volunteering, particularly with animals, and senior citizens as it allows me to contribute meaningfully while gaining a deeper understanding of societal responsibilities. I am looking forward to contributing to YSI I’ve joined and making a positive impact!! Feel free to contact me and check out my profiles below.
Haley Best 🇺🇸🇩🇪
GETTYSBURG, PA, UNITED STATES
Hi, my name is Haley Best, a 10th grader from Pennsylvania! I have always been interested in learning new things ever since I was really young. At the age of five my family and I moved to Germany, and it was one of the best experiences of my childhood! I got to learn a lot about the different culture there and it was just an amazing experience to grow up in the heart of Europe and learn some of the language. We moved back to the US when I was 10 and I hate to admit, I may have lost a bit of my ability to speak German. I absolutely love anything related to space. It really drives me to keep working harder and researching more when I start wondering what's out there and that what I do today could possibly impact the future in some way!
Gianluca Mondillo 🇮🇹
NAPLES, ITALY
Hi, I’m Gianluca Mondillo, from Naples, Italy. I'm a Medical Doctor currently pursuing a specialization in pediatrics. My academic and professional focus includes pathology, medical genetics, and the use of large language models (LLMs) in clinical research. I’m particularly passionate about the intersection of AI and healthcare, with a special interest in applying generative AI to medical imaging, such as ultrasound and radiography, to improve diagnostic precision and create synthetic datasets to compensate for the lack of pediatric data for AI training. I’m also an artist at heart, enjoying painting with watercolors, especially portraiture, as well as engaging with research that touches on the biology of prehistoric life, such as dinosaur pathology. I also enjoy coding, particularly in Python, and I’m always looking for ways to use AI to simplify complex processes, including education and diagnostics. Fun fact: I once considered writing a children’s book combining my knowledge of dinosaurs and medicine to make science more accessible and engaging for young minds!
Hayden Lim Khai Eun 🇸🇬
SINGAPORE
Hi everyone, I am Hayden, a Junior College student (equivalent to 11th grade) studying in Singapore. I am a Researcher at Youth STEM Initiative, and in my free time I enjoy playing chess and football. I'm interested in medicine, particularly neuroscience, and hope to become a medical doctor in the future to give back to society. Furthermore, I am also interested in scientific research and have been part of a few research projects in the past. Through these projects, I hope to contribute to the scientific community meaningfully and hone my skills. I look forward to sharing my passion for these topics through researching at Youth STEM Initiative! If you wish, do connect with me through the LinkedIn link below and check out my instagram page at @haydenlimm!
Rosario De Feo 🇮🇹
SALERNO, ITALY
I’m Rosario, a dedicated medical student at the University of Salerno with a strong passion for oncological research and nutrition. Currently, I am completing an internship in an Immuno-Oncology Lab and the Medical Oncology Unit, where I actively engage in both research and clinical practice. I am particularly in love with translational oncology, as it bridges the gap between laboratory discoveries and real-world patient care, turning scientific advancements into tangible treatments. Driven by a deep commitment to making a meaningful impact, I strive to understand the complexities of cancer and explore innovative approaches to combat it. My academic journey is fueled by curiosity, compassion, and a desire to contribute to advancements in healthcare. With a focus on improving patient outcomes and well-being, I aspire to merge research and clinical practice to create a lasting difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. Looking forward to contributing and being part of this amazing initiative!