05/01/2025
We are proud to celebrate Fiza Mohamed Hanif Silat as the torchbearer for her university! Fiza's achievement serves as an inspiration to us all!
Below, Fiza shares her thoughts in her own words:
From a young age, I knew that my passion for sciences and mathematics would guide me towards a future where I could make a meaningful impact. Winning a world prize in mathematics and two national awards in the sciences during my A Levels Alhamdulillah, along with the support of my family led me to pursue higher education overseas, where I received a full scholarship for a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at New York University (NYU) Abu Dhabi, where I graduated from in May 2024 as the university’s torch bearer.
Throughout my time at NYU Abu Dhabi, I actively sought opportunities to integrate sustainability with engineering. From designing self-powered desalination units using renewable energy to developing energy recovery devices and thermal exchangers, my research projects allowed me to work on solutions that can help tackle some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. As a young woman in a predominantly male field, I was determined to prove that girls can excel in STEM—especially when we pursue our passions with dedication and purpose.
But it wasn’t just academic work that shaped my university experience; I also took on leadership roles that helped me grow beyond the classroom which I believe are equally important for personal and professional development.
Through my experiences, I’ve learned that every step towards success is a journey. My message to all the young girls dreaming of pursuing higher education is to know that the world is full of opportunities waiting for you to seize them: with the help of the Almighty, with passion, perseverance, the right support, and staying true to your beliefs and customs, it is possible to achieve what you desire while sticking to your roots.