On National Engineering Day, Amazon has announced the expansion of its Amazon Future Engineer Bursary Programme, providing financial support to 30 women from low-income households studying engineering and computer science degrees in the UK. Among the recipients are four talented students from Glasgow: Masira Abdul, Shika Shamdin, Marija Ali, and Alia Brooks. These students have been recognized for their passion for innovation and commitment to driving change through technology.
The Amazon Future Engineer Bursary, established in 2021 in partnership with the Royal Academy of Engineering, aims to address the underrepresentation of women in computer science and engineering at UK universities. Each awardee receives a financial support package of up to £20,000 to pursue their studies, covering university-related expenses such as accommodation, living costs, and tuition fees. In addition to the monetary support, the recipients will benefit from a comprehensive package of wraparound support, including professional and networking opportunities.
Alia Brooks:
Alia Brooks, 18, has harboured a passion for engineering since childhood. Growing up in the Lake District, she developed a keen interest in STEM subjects, delving into coding and game modifications. Despite the challenges of relocating to East Kilbride, Alia continued to pursue her engineering dream. Now studying Mechatronics at the University of Glasgow, she aspires to become a biomedical engineer, motivated by the impactful work she witnessed at MAGE Control Systems in Glasgow.
“The bursary will help a lot with practical expenses, such as travelling to university and buying textbooks without worrying,” Alia shared. She is excited about deepening her knowledge of electronics and control systems, thanks to the support.
Masira Abdul:
Originally from Malaysia, Masira Abdul found her passion for electrical engineering during her high school years in Glasgow. Undertaking her Gold Duke of Edinburgh award, she participated in a programming course that opened her eyes to the world of programming and hands-on experiments. Now studying Electronic and Electrical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, Masira aims to make a positive impact on people and the environment through scientific knowledge.
I want to use scientific knowledge to make a positive impact on people and the environment, as well as empowering women in STEM,” Masira said, expressing her determination to contribute to the field.
Shika Shamdin:
Shika Shamdin’s journey to Software Engineering was shaped by her experiences as a young girl fleeing war-torn Syria and finding solace in mathematics. Overcoming language barriers, she discovered her passion for coding, inspired by a fellow coder on TikTok. Pursuing her interest, Shika is now studying Software Engineering at Edinburgh Napier University, driven by her love for web design and programming languages.
I’m so glad I get to have this opportunity,” Shika exclaimed, appreciating the support that enables her to pursue her dreams in the tech industry.
Marija Ali:
Marija Ali, 17, found her calling in computer science while being taught by an inspiring IT teacher in high school. Captivated by the possibilities of computer science, she embarked on her journey to become a software engineer. Currently studying Computer Science at the University of Strathclyde, Marija is determined to apply her skills for the greater good, particularly in the healthcare sector.
“The bursary has opened up a lot of opportunities for me,” Marija shared, expressing her excitement about exploring new avenues in her field.
Lauren Kisser, Ambassador for Amazon Future Engineer & Director, Living Room AI, Science, and Tech at Amazon, emphasised the importance of diversity in the tech industry. Through Amazon Future Engineer, we want to break down the barriers to opportunity that so many young people face to help diversify our next generation of tech talent,” she stated.
Applications for the Amazon Future Engineer Bursary for the 2024/25 academic year are now open, providing aspiring women in STEM fields with the opportunity to pursue their dreams.For further information about the Amazon Future Engineer Bursary, please visit Amazon Future Engineer Bursary.
