Stepping into the UK as an international student is more than just a change of address. It is a leap into new cultures, opportunities, and challenges. My journey from classrooms and research labs to industry projects has been a blend of curiosity, resilience, and discovery.

In this session, I will take you behind the scenes of that journey. I will share how academic projects became stepping stones to real-world innovation, how leadership opportunities shaped my voice, and how research fueled my passion for technology with purpose. Along the way, I will offer reflections on cultural transitions, professional hurdles, and the mindset shifts that turned challenges into growth.

Attendees will walk away with practical insights on building technical expertise while staying adaptable, using research as a bridge between academia and industry, developing leadership skills that resonate across cultures, and making the most of opportunities to stand out in a competitive global market.

This is not only my story. It is also a roadmap for anyone who aspires to shape their career at the intersection of technology, research, and leadership.