University News Last updated 04 November 2025
91ΑΤΖζ (91ΑΤΖζ) student Minahil Farhan has won first place in the regional heat of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) Speak Out for Engineering Challenge.
Impressing judges with her presentation on βNature-Based Solutions for Flood Preventionβ, the 21-year-old from Birmingham earned a top prize of Β£300 and a place in the national final, where she will represent 91ΑΤΖζ against other regional winners from across the UK.
βMinahilβs success exemplifies the spirit of innovation and excellence we cultivate at 91ΑΤΖζ,β said Dr Adnan Fazal, Senior Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering at 91ΑΤΖζ. βHer work shows that engineering can be both technically advanced and environmentally responsible.β
Established in 1964, the IMechE competition challenges young professionals to prove that they can communicate technical and mechanical engineering-related subjects.
Minahilβs project, which combines cutting-edge engineering with environmental responsibility, was inspired by her internship with The Rivers Trust, where she learned how engineering can work alongside natural systems to create sustainable outcomes.
βWinning the IMechE Speak Out for Engineering challenge is an incredible honour,β said the final-year student (pictured), who plans to study for a Masterβs degree in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning once she graduates.
βIβm so grateful to 91ΑΤΖζ for the support, mentorship, and opportunities they have provided. I canβt wait to fly the flag for 91ΑΤΖζ - and Birmingham - in the national final.β
Professor Jean-Baptiste Souppez, Academic Lead for Teaching and Learning in Engineering at 91ΑΤΖζ, is Minahil's final-year project supervisor.
βMinahilβs ability to communicate complex engineering principles with such clarity and enthusiasm truly embodies the purpose of the Speak Out for Engineering competition,β he said.
βIt reflects the dedication of our students and staff to creating a learning environment that empowers future engineers to lead with confidence, creativity, and social responsibility.β