PAST FELLOWS
Abigail Wicks
Biomedical Engineering
Abigail is a passionate and innovative engineering student, who enjoys finding and solving challenges in her community, to help improve people’s quality of life. She is currently studying her Master’s in Biomedical Engineering, with the end goal to work within rehabilitation and assistive technologies. Abigail is excited to create social change through the power of technology, whilst growing the support of the TOM community at Flinders University. In her spare time, Abigail enjoys reading, tap dancing, and hiking.
Flinders University
Adin Sacho-Tanzer
Mechanical Engineering
Adin is a mechanical engineering student at The Cooper Union in New York, driven by a passion for outer space, engineering, and community service. Known for his unwavering commitment to his academic endeavors, he consistently strives for excellence and embraces opportunities for personal growth. Additionally, Adin actively seeks ways to use his engineering skills to make a positive impact on his community, whether through volunteering or community-focused projects. His dedication and enthusiasm fuel his desire to contribute meaningfully in his chosen fields and uplift those around him.
Cooper Union
Agma Aju
Product Design & Multimedia Design
Motivated by a passion for innovation and a drive to make a positive impact on society, she recognizes the transformative power of technology and its potential to address pressing global challenges. As a double major student in product and multimedia design, she brings a unique perspective to the table, combining her expertise in design thinking with a solid foundation in technology. Eager to work alongside like-minded individuals, she aims to leverage the TOM Fellowship to collaborate with diverse teams, share knowledge, and collectively develop assistive technologies that enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities. Through the TOM Fellowship, Agma envisions a platform where she can channel her passion, foster innovation, and make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
Dubai Institute for Design and Innovation
Alina Duisenova
Special Education
Alina is a third-year student pursuing a Special Education degree at The Education University of Hong Kong. She is also minoring in Social Studies and Public Policy & Management. Alina holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Nazarbayev University and has a proven track record of volunteering and participating in several TOM: Makeathon events in Astana. Alina is presently working on bringing together the TOM Community in Hong Kong. Driven by her passion for creating an intersectional, inclusive, and equity-driven society, Alina seeks to combine her two competencies in low to high-tech assistive technology solutions. Beyond her academic and professional pursuits, Alina enjoys reading books, learning aerial arts, and participating in various fandom activities.
The Education University of Hong Kong
Alison-Naomi Wandja Nana
Masters of Science in Accessible Human- Centered Computing
Alison is a dedicated researcher in the field of accessible technologies. Currently pursuing a Masters of Science in Accessible Human- Centered Computing at Gallaudet University, she brings a unique perspective as a deaf individual. With a strong interest in research, statistics, and technology, Alison is driven to develop innovative solutions that promote inclusivity and enhance accessibility for everyone. Her recent focus on IT motivates her to ensure technology is accessible to all individuals, regardless of their abilities. Outside of her studies, Alison seeks adventures, enjoys dancing, singing, and finds solace in movies. Her laughter brightens any room, and she cherishes moments spent with loved ones.
Gallaudet University
Amit Lavie
Holon Institute of Technology
Amit is a curious, motivated fourth year student for industrial design. Together with Erez Solomon, her co-Fellow on campus, they established the TOM:HIT student community last year. Her main interests are assistive technologies, inclusive design, and human centered design. In her spare time, Amit loves to practice yoga, run and read. This is her second year at the fellowship program, and she is excited to be a part of it!
Industrial Design
Anton Rahul Obordo Karve
Engineering & Design
Anton is an undergraduate studying engineering, design and entrepreneurship. He is passionate and curious about developing new products to solve problems untouched by the mass market. As President of his school’s Makerspace Club, he is a key contributor to developing maker’s culture within his community and hopes to continue to do so while working with TOM. In his free time, Anton likes to play guitar, drums and sports such as badminton, tchoukball, and volleyball.
Singapore University of Technology and Design
Arick Iglesias
Mechanical Engineering
Arick Iglesias is a third year undergraduate student at the New Jersey Institute of Technology majoring in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Applied Physics. Passionate about helping people through the use of engineering, Arick is the president of the Engineers Without Borders NJIT organization which assists underdeveloped communities, and has worked on assistive pediatric exoskeletons at NJIT which is where he was first introduced to TOM's. As a TOM fellow, Arick hopes to work with the TOM organization and other fellows on improving the lives of people with disabilities, elderly, and many more communities. Other hobbies of his include whittling, exercise, and catching up on the latest aerospace news. He is excited to be a 2023-2024 TOM fellow of the NJIT Campus!
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Atar Naftali Perach
Mechanical Engineering
Atar is a mechanical engineering student specializing in Biomechanics. From a young age, Atar had a passion for engineering and complex problem solving which led him to study engineering later on in life. Atar's first career focused on the maritime cruise industry, where he acted as a Chief Security Officer. After 10 years in the field, Atar rediscovering his old passion and decided to get into the world of mechanical engineering and advance technology as a life long career.
Braude College of Engineering
Austin Rowland
Computer Engineering
Austin is an ambitious individual who wants to continue using his skills and knowledge to positively impact the world. He is currently an undergraduate computer engineering student at Georgia Tech with an interests in software development, product design, and startups. He enjoys leveraging his wide skill set (engineering, software, product management, design, leadership) in order to create solutions to problems that people need. Outside of school, you can find him taking photos, traveling, spending time with loved ones and mentoring others. His main goal in life is to change as many lives as possible during his own.
Georgia Tech
Bader Albader
Chemical Engineering
Bader Albader is a dedicated and accomplished chemical engineer with a proven ability to excel under pressure. With a strong passion for sustainability and a deep commitment to volunteer work, Bader has represented Bahrain on numerous international stages, including visits to India, Jordan and Japan. Over the span of nine years, Bader has actively engaged in volunteering and youth initiatives, leveraging this experience to explore innovative solutions aimed at improving societal well-being.
University of Bahrain
Benyamin Zermati
Polymer Materials Engineering with specialization in Industrial Design
Beni is undergraduate student at Shenkar studying Polymer materials engineering, with a specialization in industrial design. He enjoys bringing his interaction design skills, working with his hands, and merging new technologies and working methods to solve needs and problems. Beni believes that we must combine the fields of engineering and design in order to create new and Innovative technology or products that will help everyone who needs. Beni loves CrossFit training, scuba diving, and Snowboarding.
Shenkar College of Engineering, Design and Art
Brayam Hernandez
Electrical Engineering
Brayam is an Electrical Engineering student at California State University San Marcos. He is passionate about using his engineering skills to create affordable solutions for people with disabilities. Brayam is always looking for ways to make a positive impact on society and is excited to explore his interests in the field. He's particularly interested in the intersection of engineering and healthcare, and is eager to learn more about how he can use his skills to help others. In his free time, Brayam enjoys creating small electronics projects and going to the gym.
California State University San Marcos
Brianna McIver
Biomedical Engineering
Brianna is an inquisitive and passionate student who enjoys learning and applying engineering concepts to medical applications. She has a keen interest in the human body and how technology can be implemented alongside it to improve an individuals health and abilities. She is currently an undergraduate student obtaining a double degree in Biomedical Engineering. with a mechanical engineering background. She loves seeing the impact that her work can have. Brianna loves learning new skills and helping others develop their own skills through teaching.Outside of her study, Brianna enjoys playing sports, reading and making ceramics.
Flinders University
Catherine McLaughlin
Kinesiology and Psychology
Catherine (Katie) McLaughlin is a determined third year at the University of Virginia majoring in Kinesiology and minoring in Psychology. She is passionate about health and well-being and is on the Pre-Physical Therapy track. Katie volunteers at UVA Hospital through the Madison House, is involved in CHAARG, a women's health and fitness organization dedicated to girls finding their fit and becoming the best version of themselves, and is an active Class Council representative. She works with adults with intellectual disabilities and is motivated to help others. She enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and two dogs, in addition to running and staying active. Through the TOM Fellowship, Katie plans to raise awareness in the community and make a difference by connecting with the disabled population.
University of Virginia
Chuyi Wang
Computational Design; Sustainable Design; Studio Art
Angie (Chuyi) Wang is a current graduate student at Carnegie Mellon University. She is an artist, designer, maker, and programmer that explores diverse creative avenues to help build a more just and inclusive tomorrow. Her research endeavors revolve around the intersection of sustainability, the human- nature relationship, human-computer interaction, and design for AI products. Angie's works take on multiple forms, encompassing physical computing, interactive technologies, creative robotics, digital media, and traditional studio art. By fusing various disciplines, Angie aims to push the boundaries of creativity, fostering innovative solutions that bridge the gap between art, design, technology, and society to help build a better future.
Carnegie Mellon University
Devin Smith
Biomedical Engineering
Devin is majoring in Biomedical Engineering with a minor in Art and Design at the University of Michigan and has a particular interest in biomedical product design. In college, Devin is involved in research studying the effects of muscle strength on concussions in high school soccer players. She also spent her 2023 summer working at TOM in Israel on the Research and Design team.
University of Michigan
Débora Einhorn
Software Engineering
Débora is a driven and creative Software Engineering student at Azrieli College, who is passionate about the limitless possibilities of technology. Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Débora actively seeks out new experiences and enjoys exploring unfamiliar places, embracing the opportunity to broaden her horizons. She has a deep interest in both physical and digital realms in the finer points of handmade crafts and boxing. As a second- year student, Débora is dedicated to sharpening her skills in software engineering, aiming to develop innovative solutions that enhance how people interact with technology. Her curiosity and love for adventure continue to shape her journey as she seeks to make a meaningful impact in the field.
Azrieli College of Engineering
Eden Ben Horesh
Mechanical Engineering
Eden is a Mechanical Engineering student and is always eager to help. She is inquisitive and tries to find solutions for optimum usage. She is innovative and comes up with ideas to address special needs of the users she works with. Her heart is in her work and she always tries to make sure the user is content and not just accepting. She is attentive and willing to help anyone in need.
Sami Shamoon
Eden Brunner
Bioengineering and Computer Science
Eden is a driven undergraduate student at the University of Pittsburgh pursuing both Bioengineering and Computer Science. Her insatiable passion for knowledge drives her to explore the captivating crossroads of biotechnology and computers, particularly in bioinformatics and data analysis in an effort to gleam new medical insights. She is excited by the prospect of learning from all the talented individuals in her TOM cohort and the fellowship program in its entirety. Eden enjoys utilizing her technical engineering skills, and employing her creativity to try to tinker things in her free time. Beyond her academic endeavors, she enjoys immersing herself in diverse cultures and indulging in artistic pursuits such as reading, painting, and even embracing the controversial realm of pineapple pizza.
University of Pittsburgh
Eliza Hill
Chemical Engineering
Eliza Hill is a junior at Vanderbilt University studying chemical engineering. She was born in Madrid, Spain, and then moved to Colorado when she was ten years old. Eliza loves playing tennis, hiking, and flying planes. For the past two years, she has been involved with TOM: Vanderbilt and has participated in five different projects. Through TOM, Eliza has been able to develop her engineering skills while making a difference in the lives of others. She was recently selected as one of the Grand Prize winners in the 2023 Global Innovation Challenge for creating an independent feeding device for a boy with a rare autoimmune disorder and feeding tube. TOM has been a highlight of Eliza’s college experience, and she is incredibly excited to lead the Vanderbilt Make-a-thon and connect with the global TOM community!
Vanderbilt University
Elyse Barnes
Biomedical Engineering
Elyse is a senior studying Biomedical Engineering and Mathematics with a minor in Assistive Technology. Her current research is on air-jetting based bioprinting. Outside of her research, Elyse is the founder and president of her university’s chapter of Girl Gains Lifting Club and is also a member of the Society of Women Engineers. She is passionate about the mission of TOM and she is excited to help establish a TOM community at Duquesne.
Duquesne University
Emily De La Cruz
Software Engineering
Emily is a third-year student at California State University of San Marcos. Currently studying Software Engineering, Emily joined TOM as an opportunity to help people in need. She believes that technology has the power to transform lives, and she wants to contribute to that positive change. She is passionate about creating innovative solutions that can make a meaningful impact in the field of software development. Emily is also eager to collaborate with like-minded individuals in the TOM community to expand her knowledge and skills. She looks forward to participating in projects that tackle real-world challenges and bring about tangible improvements through technology.
California State University of San Marcos
Emuna Rouhani
Cornell University
Emuna is a Junior at Cornell University, where she is studying Operations Research and Information Engineering. This past summer, she conducted research at Bar-Ilan University in the field of process mining, gaining valuable analytical skills that she looks forward to applying to her upcoming TOM project. During a previous summer, Emuna participated in the Onward Israel program and interned at the Palta Institute. This institute focuses on promoting inclusive and innovative clothing designs for individuals with disabilities. Emuna had the opportunity to present her ideas to representatives from various associations and companies, including the Creative Director of the Blind Association in Israel and the Chief of Design and Innovation at H&M Clothing. Her presentations aimed to guide them on creating more inclusive clothing options. As the new semester approaches, Emuna is excited to apply her research and internship experiences to excel in her upcoming TOM projects!
Operations Research and Information Engineering
Erez Solomon
Industrial Design
Erez is a third year Industrial design student at Holon Institute of Technology. He was born and raised in Jerusalem, and currently living in Holon. His is very passionate about taking part in the design process, especially in cases of products that can improve someone's daily routine. Erez has become experienced in 3D printing and modeling. He does his best to stay updated about technology and innovation news, and integrates these insights into his product development.
Holon Institute of Technology
Ethan Eisenberg
Biomedical Science
Ethan is a curious and intellectual researcher who is using his studies in Biomedical Science and engineering to advance technology that will improve how others can live and engage in the world around them. As a current undergraduate student at the University of Pennsylvania, Ethan continuously seeks to learn and advance the field of science and is researching how to best treat Epilepsy through neuroimaging. He is excited about using his experience to develop assistive and affordable technologies that can be used by all. In his free time, Ethan also enjoys bike riding and playing basketball with classmates.
University of Pennsylvania
Fasil Tariku
Biomedical Engineering
Fasil Tariku embarked on his academic journey at Bahirdar Institute of Technology, specializing in mechanical engineering. With a strong foundation in the field, Fasil's passion for knowledge led him to pursue a Master's degree in Biomedical Engineering. Driven by his innate curiosity and problem-solving abilities, Fasil discovered his true calling as a maker, finding immense satisfaction in repairing various types of equipment, particularly in the medical and office domains. His meticulous attention to detail and analytical mindset make him an exceptional troubleshooter, ensuring that every device he works on is restored to optimal functionality. Beyond his technical pursuits, Fasil also nurtures his creativity and visual acumen through graphic design, allowing him to express his artistic side. With his diverse interests and unwavering dedication, Fasil Tariku continues to forge a path as a skilled engineer and graphics designer, leaving a positive impact in both fields.
Bhair Dar Institute of Technology
Gavin Hawk
Plant Sciences
Gavin is an energetic environmentalist who loves plants and nature. He is pursuing a plant sciences degree at Penn State University where he grows and learns all about about plants and the ecosystems they love in. He has been a coder and robotics engineer for 6 years now and has worked on multiple robotics teams. He also codes video games in his free time. Outside of school and robotics, Gavin loves boxing and is working on his amateur career.
Penn State University
Hadar Benaych
Industrial Design
Hadar is a an Industrial Design student. She likes her field of study and likes to use her skills to help other people. She enjoys the personal connection she makes with the Need Knowers she works with. Hadar also enjoys traveling, drawing, and especially drawing during her travels.
Hadassah Academic College
Hannah Clark
Occupational Therapy and Assistive Technology
Hannah is a 4th year occupational therapy student with an assistive technology minor at Duquesne University. In the past year she has had the opportunity to create personalized assistive technology products for students at a special education school. After graduation, she hopes to work within the justice system to bring occupational therapy to children in the foster system. She is hoping to continue to grow her skills during the TOM fellowship and meet other fellows that share her passion. Outside of school, Hannah is a competitive ballroom dancer and enjoys crocheting.
Duquesne University
Hila Curiel
Design and Education
Hila is a third year design student and a yoga teacher. She is passionate about working with different types of people and finding creative solutions for their needs. Hila sees Yoga as a guide in her life, which helps her communicate and think with compassion, while adopting a holistic point of view to life.
Kibbutzim College
Huh Dam Adam
Engineering Product Development (Innovation Management)
Huh Dam believes in the potential that quality STEAM education can unleash in our generation to direct our future and fight back against the Moloch - from Meditations on Moloch. With Stick 'Em and TOM Global, he is building robust communities and launch new initiatives to democratise STEAM education, social leadership experiences and empower PWDs to develop impactful change-makers regardless of their background or situation.
Singapore University of Technology and Design
Ido Rosenfeld
Biomedical Engineering
Ido is a highly motivated biomedical engineering student, who led several projects in the Techmed industry. He believes in the power of people and community, striving to make a positive impact. With his energetic nature, he overcomes obstacles and inspires others. Ido values effective communication, fostering collaboration, and sharing ideas. He is dedicated to advancing healthcare technologies. His belief in collective efforts drives him to create meaningful change.
Technion-Israel Institute of Technology
Ikram Shah
Integrated Innovation for Products and Services
Ikram is a creative and empathetic professional, currently pursuing a degree in Integrated Innovation for Products and Services at Carnegie Mellon University. With a background as a Software Engineer at GE Aerospace, he has a knack for integrating human elements into technical products and delivering user-friendly solutions. His problem- solving skills and data-driven mindset enable him to approach challenges from a holistic perspective, resulting in optimal outcomes. Outside of work, he finds joy in playing tennis and expanding his knowledge through business podcasts, gaining valuable insights into entrepreneurship and innovation.
Carnegie Mellon University
Jeannette Nyiramana
Biomedical Engineering
Jeannette is PhD Biomedical Engineering student where she researches how using low intensity ultrasounds stimulates the regeneration of injured neurons, as well as how using high intensity ultrasounds (HIFU) stimulates the ablation of cancer cells or re- sensitization of resistant cancer cells to cancer drugs. Her research is trying to find new and improved ways of dealing with neuronal injuries which normally do not recover and lead to paralysis or loss of functions. In addition, by Combining HIFU with current cancer drugs on the market, we can increase their efficacy. She enjoys tackling problems related to individuals' health, hence her choice in pursuing a degree in biomedical engineering. In her spare time, she enjoys reading books and listening to music.
Tulane University
Jennifer Zukoski
Landscape Architecture & Environmental and Urban Design
Jennifer is passionate about interdisciplinary collaboration and helping vulnerable communities. She is currently driving an initiative to unite STEM and Design students for collaborative projects, and hopes to continue to spread awareness about the field of landscape architecture through her work. After an incredible experience at her school’s Makeathon, where her brother participated as a Need-Knower, she became inspired to be an active member of TOM. She hopes to combine her experience with 3D modeling and fabrication with her connection with the disabled community to give back and positively impact lives. Outside of academia, she loves to spend her time surfing, swimming, free diving, and hiking. She eagerly looks forward to making a meaningful difference in her local community and contributing to the growth of the TOM:FIU community.
Florida International University
Jenny Sampon Alter
Biomedical Engineering
Jenny Sampson is a charismatic, empathetic, and funny 24 year old. Jenny has lived in Mexico City all her life, where she completed her degree in Biomedical Engineering, a career that fascinated her and has led her to seek different lifestyle in which she can be in contact with issues related to health; jobs, courses, activities and others. Outside of work, she enjoys meeting new people and engaging in conversations. Driven by her desire to improve lives, Jenny strives to assume leadership roles and leave a lasting impact in the industry, combining her passion for healthcare with her love for connecting with others. Additionally, Jenny really likes to cook and spend time with her friends and family.
Universidad Anáhuac México Norte
Justin Lockwood
University of Southern California
Justin is a motivated and curious engineer who enjoys working with his hands and creating new things. This year, he graduated from the University of Southern California with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and will be getting his M.S. in Industrial & Systems Engineering this coming spring. His previous experiences include design and process optimization roles within primarily manufacturing environments. Before joining TOM: USC on his campus, he worked in robotics as a research fellow at the Center for Advanced Manufacturing at USC. He currently works in the medical device industry and hopes to continue to leverage his skills to advance technology and enhance the lives of individuals.
Mechanical Engineering, Industrial & Systems Engineering
Justina Vaicelionyte
Architecture
Justina, a passionate individual with a bachelor's degree in Sustainability and the Environment, is currently pursuing a Master of Architecture at Florida International University. She excels at problem-solving and thrives in collaborative team environments, always striving to contribute to the greater good through design process. Apart from her architectural pursuits, Justina is a highly creative individual who finds joy in painting and cooking during her free time. Her artistic inclinations are evident in her unique perspective and innovative ideas. With a firm belief in the power of design to make a positive impact, Justina blends her sustainability knowledge with architectural practices to create harmonious and environmentally conscious spaces. She is committed to exploring alternative approaches and continuously pushing boundaries to achieve a better, more sustainable future.
Florida International University
Karmel Salah
Artificial Intelligence
Karmel, a dedicated individual with a dream of empowering her community through technological advancement, has always been driven by her passions. From a young age, she displayed a keen interest in logical concepts, constantly striving to unravel the inner workings and interconnectedness of various systems. As a master's student in Artificial Intelligence, Karmel's love for her field drives her to create AI solutions that simplify people's lives and contribute to community empowerment. Currently, she is a computer vision researcher at a startup called Pictime, where she focuses on developing cutting-edge technologies. With a desire to effect significant change in the world, Karmel understands the importance of starting small, believing that even incremental advancements can make a substantial impact. Her ultimate aspiration is to leverage her expertise to bring forth advanced technology, solving real-world problems and leaving a lasting societal impact.
An Najah University
Leilani Elkaslasy
Engineering
Leilani is an engineering student at Harvey Mudd College from NYC. In New York she has interned at the Adaptive Design Association for several years and is committed to their mission of improving access through building custom adaptations. She looks forward to bringing Adaptive Design to her club at Harvey Mudd with the support of the Fellowship. Outside of school you can find Leilani in the water, surfing, diving, kiteboarding, or just floating around. Through her degree, she hopes to enter the field focused on sustainability. More than anything, Leilani loves to bring people together and share her passions and what she's learned about her areas of interest.
Harvey Mudd College
Leslie Cano Ochoa Huerta
Mechanical Engineering
Leslie is an undergraduate student at California State University, Los Angeles, pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Alongside academic pursuits, she holds the position of Vice President at Golden Eagle Makers, a club focused on utilizing engineering expertise and maker skills to assist the community. Leslie is dedicated to promoting the TOM ideology through Golden Eagle Makers, striving to find innovative solutions to real-world challenges. She works in a machine shop located at her school where she develops her manufacturing skills. Additionally, she volunteers as a judge and t-shirt designer for the SoCal FIRST Tech Challenge, actively supporting and encouraging aspiring engineers. Outside of her studies and engineering engagements, Leslie finds joy in exploring her hobbies, including art, music, and aquarium maintenance.
California State University, Los Angeles
Lydia Aruffo
Occupational Therapy
Lydia is a second-year occupational therapy student aiming to utilize assistive technology to help individuals with disabilities to achieve independence in the activities that they find meaningful. Pursuing her doctorate degree, Lydia has a background in the manipulation of environments in order to promote individuals’ success in carrying out all tasks, which she plans to utilize to develop new, useful technologies and devices.
Widener University
Mariam Lambertt
Product and Multimedia Design
Mariam Lambertt is a multidisciplinary designer who takes great pride in her work and is passionate about human-centered design. With her experience in furniture and interior design, she is driven to create functional and aesthetically pleasing designs. Mariam works diligently to carry projects through all stages of design thinking and ensures that every detail is carefully considered. Her creativity and technical skills are valuable assets, and she takes great care to seamlessly integrate products and multimedia experiences into people’s lives. Mariam is extremely motivated to learn, grow, and excel in the Multimedia and Product Design Industry. She is always eager to take on new challenges and expand her skill set to deliver the best possible results. With a dedication to continual improvement, Mariam is confident that she can provide innovative and effective design solutions for any project.
Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation
Mariana Ospina Muriel
Rehabilitation Technologies
Mariana is a Colombian student currently pursuing a master's degree in Rehabilitation Technologies at the University of Pittsburgh. As a Biomedical Engineer, she discovered her true passion and purpose during college: creating affordable technologies for individuals with disabilities. Mariana's vision combines the fields of engineering, medicine, and social innovation, as she dreams of making a positive impact by breaking barriers through design. She is particularly fascinated by 3D printing, universal design, and fostering innovation. Mariana enjoys spending quality time with her loved ones, exploring new restaurants, or attending church. Being a part of the TOM community is a dream come true for her, as she had the opportunity to participate as a Maker in three TOM Makeathons in her hometown and fell in love with the enriching experience.
University of Pittsburgh
Maya Karpel
Design
Maya is a bachelor's degree student in multidisciplinary design at Seminar Ha Kibutzim. She is creative and ambitious, and believes in loyalty and civility. In the past, she worked in the food field and managed kitchens in Tel Aviv. Today she likes to combine the fields of food and design. Outside of studies, Mia likes to cook, spend time with friends, and travel in Israel and abroad.
Kibbutzim College
Mika Okura
Occupational Therapy
Mika is a senior student in occupational therapy at Osaka Metropolitan University in Japan. She is interested in school occupational therapy that helps students participate in activities, caring for their emotional, academic, and mental health. She is still learning how to create the best solution to maximize the client’s quality of life. Her belief is that flexible environments enable people to show their potential.
Osaka Metropolitan University
Mina Kitajima
Occupational Therapy and Dementia
Mina is a postgraduate student in human health science at Kyoto University, studying care and neuroscience, especially dementia. She is passionate about creating a comfortable environment for the elderly and dementia patients using product design or icons. She previously studied occupational therapy as an undergraduate student. She currently practices as occupational therapist at the rehabilitation hospital in Kyoto, Japan. She is excited to meet and work with diverse people from around the world in the TOM community. In doing so, she is convinced that an innovative product can be developed with global impact. In the end, she wishes that people around the world can live a more comfortable life.
Kyoto University
Monique Chabot
Architecture and Design Research
Monique is a PhD student examining kitchen designs and smart technology to support cognition in older adults to age in place. She has been a practicing occupational therapist for over a decade with experience in geriatric house calls, home modifications, assistive technology, and aging in place. Her love of assistive technology brought her into occupational therapy in the first place. She has thoroughly enjoyed expanding her design skillset in 3D printing and architecture design as part of her PhD studies. Outside of her academic and professional endeavors, Monique enjoys traveling with her husband, training her stubborn but lovable sheepadoodle to be a therapy dog, growing vegetables, experimenting with gluten-free baking, and participating in a whole host of handicrafts ranging from sewing, embroidery, and knitting to watercolor, brush lettering, and modern calligraphy.
Thomas Jefferson University- East Falls
Mustafa Ata Yılmaz
Computer Engineering
Ata is a social and energetic student who likes trying to solve people's daily problems. He takes great pleasure in participating in student clubs and has demonstrated his leadership and communication skills as the vice president of the ESU club during his high school years. Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in computer engineering at Sabancı University, Ata displays a strong passion for the field. In his spare time, he indulges in taking online courses on diverse subjects, maintaining an active lifestyle by going to the gym, and reading various novels. With his dedication to personal growth and a genuine desire to contribute to society, Ata embodies a well- rounded individual driven by curiosity and a commitment to making a positive impact.
Sabancı University
Ngiok Yong Chin
Biomedical Science & Traditional Chinese Medicine
Ngiok Yong is an undergraduate at Nanyang Technological University majoring in Biomedical Science and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Her enthusiasm to create a social impact motivated her to take up minors in Entrepreneurship and Business further and
understand how different faucets of a community intertwine to impact lives. She believes that with the right people, there are great things that can be achieved. Thus, she actively seeks out conversations and like- minded individuals who are passionate about doing good in society. She looks forward to building and expanding the TOM community within her university. In her free time, Ngiok Yong enjoys playing volleyball or tchoukball and having a good meal with her loved ones.
Nanyang Technological University
Noam Ken Dror
Industrial Engineering and Management
Noam is a creative student of Industrial Engineering and Management at Azrieli College in Jerusalem. Her journey is fueled by a passion for applying technical skills to make a positive impact within her community. Throughout her academic studies, she participated in the esteemed "Multicultural Women's Leadership" program, where she served as a mentor to a young student and gained invaluable workshops and enrichment on gender equality and empowering women in the industry. Additionally, Noam exceled in "Aspire: pre-accelerator AtoBe" program at Azrieli College, securing first place after impressing a panel of judges with her pitch.
Azrieli College of Engineering
Ori Luzon
Polymer Engineering
Ori is a second year polymer engineering student with a specialization in design at Shankar Israel, who describes exactly his desire to deal with design and engineering together. He is involved in 3D printing and laser cutting, and he love to do some sport climbing, bouldering, and diving he is a dive master by PADI.
Shenkar College of Engineering, Design and Art
Riddhi Ramesh
Biomedical Engineering
Riddhi is a 5th year student at the New Jersey Institute of Technology graduating in December 2024 pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering on the Biomechanics track. She aspires to work in the medical device design/engineering industry and plans on pursuing a Masters in Medical Device Engineering as well a PhD in Bioengineering. Born in Minnesota, she grew up in Connecticut and is an alum of South Windsor High School. Outside of school and work, Riddhi loves reading, hanging out with friends, watching Netflix, and sleeping. Her mom is her biggest inspiration as well as supporter and motivates her to work hard to achieve her dreams. As someone with a health condition, she is committed to helping others with health problems by advancing the healthcare industry.
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Ruba Siddiqi
Neuroscience
Ruba is passionate about social impact projects particularly those that intersect with healthcare and help people where effective treatment is lacking. She is currently a junior at the University of Texas in Austin where she is majoring in Neuroscience and pursuing certificates in Design and Spanish. Her past works have included designing ergonomic eye makeup brushes for those with hand motor issues and is currently working on VR for quadriplegics. Moving forward, she hopes to further explore developing assistive technology that help provide agency and improve quality of life. Ruba's additional interests lie within religious studies and health and science policy.
University of Texas at Austin