Professor Poya Named to Royal Academy of Engineering Leaders List

Wentworth Institute of Technology Assistant Professor Yalinu Poya recently returned from Perth, Australia where she was named one of 60 emerging global engineering and international development leaders by the Royal Academy of Engineering.

The honor recognizes those in industry, non-governmental organizations, the public sector, and academia.

Poya-who teaches Chemistry in the School of Sciences and Humanities-was recognized during the 24th Royal Academy of Engineering Frontiers Symposium. Held in partnership with the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering, this year's event carried the theme of "Empowering resilience: integrating innovation, sustainable communities, and climate adaptation strategies."

"It was an honor to be selected," said Poya. "The event explored innovative climate adaptation approaches and strategies across various sectors, emphasizing social dimensions, and comprehensive disaster preparedness to foster sustainable and resilient communities in the Pacific and South-East Asia regions."

Poya noted that the symposium additionally explored engineering solutions for climate change adaptation and net zero goals, with a broad focus on sustainable societies. Key items addressed were:

• Advancements in energy, industry, urban development, and natural resource management, with an emphasis on scientific and data-driven solutions to cut carbon emissions and create smart cities

• The roles of finance, rural livelihoods, capacity building, and climate migration, stressing the importance of grassroots involvement and collaboration

• Strategies for disaster preparedness, mitigation, and response with public health and urban planning, to enhance community resilience

Poya said, "I believe this is the start of many great things to come!"