Early Beginnings: The Power of Curiosity 🌱
What started with a simple ball of clay would evolve into a series of experiments that would deepen my understanding of materials science. As I shaped small jewellery pieces and pots in my shed, each touch and manipulation of the material sparked questions that would later fuel my journey into the world of materials science. This tactile experience would be the first step on a path that would transform my life and potentially impact countless others.
Within just two years of first touching clay, I found myself absorbed in academic papers about advanced ceramics. This intersection of art and science ignited an interest I never knew existed within me. The key moment came when I envisioned using nanomaterials in ceramic glazes for healthcare settings - suddenly, my hobby had the potential to improve lives.
First Steps into Scientific Discovery 🧪
- Each type of clay revealed its unique properties through tactile exploration
- Every glaze application became a practical lesson in chemistry
- Traditional craftsmanship naturally led to scientific methodology
- Documentation became a crucial part of my learning process
The world of ceramic glazes introduced me to a new range of possibilities. Colours, textures, and the chemistry of heat and composition became my playground.
The Journey of Growth and Challenge 🌟
Life had other plans along the way. The birth of my son redirected my focus, pouring all my energy into giving him the best possible start. Yet, this period of personal growth unexpectedly prepared me for my current role, teaching valuable lessons about adaptation and resilience.
Innovation and Leadership Evolution 💡
The transition from hobbyist to professional wasn't without its hurdles. Time constraints and self-doubt, rooted in my unconventional educational background, were significant challenges. However, participating in the West Midlands Scale Up programme and studying for a Masters in Entrepreneurship at the University of Staffordshire were instrumental in shaping my approach to materials science and innovation.
Milestone Projects and Achievements 🏆
Augmented Reality for Scientific Visualisation
- Self-initiated project combining materials science with emerging technology
- Making complex scientific ideas accessible and engaging
- Breaking down barriers to scientific understanding
- Creating interactive learning experiences
Data Science Collaboration with STFC
- Marked a true scientific breakthrough
- Opened new possibilities in data-driven materials research
- Demonstrated the power of interdisciplinary approaches
- Led to innovative approaches in material analysis
- You can find out more here
The Power of Cross-Disciplinary Work 🤝
When someone's an expert in their field, listen first, question second. There's an art to balancing curiosity with respect for expertise.
Working alongside engineers and data scientists has transformed my approach to innovation:
- Value of diverse perspectives in problem-solving
- Importance of speaking multiple 'professional languages'
- Benefits of combining traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology
- Learning CAD design alongside engineering colleagues
- Developing data analysis skills through collaboration
Shaping Tomorrow: Materials Science for Global Change 🌍
The foundation industries are crucial to the UK economy, representing:
- 10% of total CO2 emissions
- £66 billion annual turnover
- 260,000+ jobs nationwide
- Critical role in net-zero transition
Current Innovation Projects 📊
- Leading a Horizon Europe consortium project
Examples of Material Science Impact on Daily Life 🏠
- Thermal management in smartphones
- Self-cleaning building materials
- Advanced materials for renewable energy
- Sustainable alternatives to traditional resources
- Smart, adaptive materials for everyday use
Building Global Bridges 🌐
My vision extends beyond local impact, particularly focusing on:
- Connecting with my father's homeland, the cradle of early materials science
- Bridging cultures through scientific innovation
- Creating international collaborations for sustainable solutions
- Inspiring diverse voices in STEM/STEAM fields
- Developing solutions for local challenges with global impact
Becoming a Voice for Change 🎤
As someone who has consistently navigated life as a minority, I'm acutely aware of the lack of diverse voices in many spaces. My planned initiatives include:
- Interactive workshops in schools across the North West, particularly Liverpool.
- Demonstrations that make science tangible and relevant
- Sharing my journey from curious child to materials science innovator
- Highlighting real-world applications of materials science
- Creating pathways for underrepresented groups in STEM/STEAM
- Learn more about my work as a Materials Science Ambassador: Layla Hashim - Materials Science Ambassador
A Call to Future Innovators ⭐
To those beginning their journey in materials science or any innovative field:
- Persistence matters more than perfection
- Personal growth and professional development go hand in hand
- The best innovations often come from unexpected paths
- Your unique perspective could unlock the next breakthrough
- Don't be afraid to pivot when necessary
Looking Forward 🚀
The future of materials science isn't just about new compounds or technologies – it's about creating a more sustainable and inclusive world. Whether you're a:
- 🎓 Student discovering your path
- 💼 Professional seeking innovation
- 🔬 Scientist exploring new horizons
- 🌱 Sustainability enthusiast
Remember: the world of materials is yours to explore and shape.
