I'm a third-year Computer Science student at the University of Toronto, specializing in Computer Vision. My passion lies at the intersection of hardware and software solutions—aiming to build meaningful, impactful projects. Previously, I developed assistive technologies to support visually impaired students, making STEM education more inclusive and accessible. This summer, I'm working on a forensic science research project that involves optical dyeing using a multi-spectral LED array to enhance sperm cell identification in forensic samples. The tinkerer inside me loves messing around with robotics and tech, opening up random gadgets and making my own gizmos. Outside of technology, I enjoy cooking and exploring restaurants, always drawing inspiration for my next creation.

Hello everyone! My name is Dhruvi, and I am a rising junior studying Healthcare Management and Policy at Georgetown. My research for this summer focuses on understanding the biochemical effects of short-chain forever pollutants in living organisms to contribute to our understand their health effects in humans.  

Hello everyone! I'm Aisha Adamu, a Lester B. Pearson Scholar studying psychology and neuroscience at the University of Toronto. My interests lie in mental health advocacy, educational equity, and empowering marginalized communities. I founded a nonprofit at 15 to support education and youth empowerment, particularly for young women and internally displaced youth in Nigeria. Currently, through the Laidlaw Scholars Program, I'm researching the psychological impact of the Almajiri educational system in Nigeria, aiming to develop culturally sensitive interventions informed by comparative models from Senegal and Ghana. Outside of academics, I enjoy swimming, running track, and exploring new recipes through cooking. I'm passionate about making meaningful connections and creating positive social change.

Hi everyone! My name is Beatrice Wharton-Hood and I am a Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering student from Trinity College Dublin. I am from Johannesburg, South Africa, and moved to Dublin for university. I am super excited to be a part of the Laidlaw community and look forward to connecting with all of you! My Summer 1 research project this summer delves into the world of nanomaterials and how they can be used to enhance and improve perovskite solar cells. This project aims to identify which nanomaterial is the champion in enhancing the cell's efficiency, stability and durability, as well as how it can help the cell be manufactured on a larger scale. Furthermore, the environmental and economic impacts of the material's inclusion will be analysed and discussed. This summer, I am completing my LiA! I am currently working on a documentary that focuses on 2 organisations that are working together to deliver digital education in the Greater Bushbuckridge region of Mpumalanga, South Africa, and to create an economic and employment ecosystem within the area.  Apart from having a keen interest in sustainability and engineering, I am an avid sports fan, particularly tennis and field hockey! 

Hey! I’m Amna, a third-year molecular biology student at the University of Toronto. I’ve worked in labs studying genetics and nanoimmunoengineering, but I also care a lot about science communication, from writing about microbes to speaking at places like the UN. For my summer research project, I am exploring anticipatory science diplomacy in Geneva. When I’m not deep in research mode, I’m probably planning my next escapade. Always down to connect, especially if you care about science, systems, or asking big questions.  

2025 scholar with a primary interest in microfinance within informal economies. My research aims to understand whether the inclusion of a "peer-support" element in a microfinance programme (where those funded by the programme regularly meet up to form a community) can notably boost the success of microenterprises and improve payback rates on loans. My research has a primary focus on informal economies in Nairobi, Kenya, but I aim to broaden this out to other parts of the world in the future. I'm interested in connecting with anyone, especially those with a focus on development economics, microfinance, informal economies and institutional knowledge building/sharing practices. 

Hi! I'm Lizzie, a second-year Biological Sciences student at Durham University. Deeply passionate about advocating for and taking action to maintain environmental health and sustainability, I aim to contribute meaningfully to these efforts by expanding my understanding of such challenges and collaborating with like-minded individuals who share a dedication to environmental conservation.   I have a particular interest in conservation strategies that focus on umbrella species, such as the macaw, where protecting one species can generate wider ecological benefits for entire ecosystems. This interest has been deepened through my current summer placement with the Macaw Recovery Network in Costa Rica, where I am contributing to species recovery and environmental education. My work includes practical conservation tasks at the breeding centre and reserve, supporting welfare and maintenance, developing resources for volunteers, and collaborating with staff and community members to strengthen outreach programs. Alongside this, I am documenting activities and recommendations to create a volunteer guide, ensuring future interns and volunteers can contribute effectively. These experiences are helping me explore how conservation initiatives can balance ecological impact with community engagement, while also testing and developing my leadership capacities and character. In my free time, I actively participate in environmental volunteer work and love to do anything creative, from painting to crocheting and reading. I also enjoy spending time outdoors, particularly dog walking, and practising karate with my university club.

I’m Théo, a Life Sciences Engineering (similar to bioengineering) student at EPFL in Switzerland, with a background as a former Chemistry Lab Technician from the School of Engineering and Architecture of Fribourg. I’m especially interested in computational biology and biomedical engineering, where I can apply my passion for science and technology to improve human health. My focus is on understanding complex biological systems and developing new solutions through computational methods. Outside of studies, I’m an endurance sports enthusiast; cycling, running, and lake swimming keep me active. I also enjoy learning languages (fluent in French and English, basic German) and exploring everything from biology to philosophy and art. I’m looking forward to opportunities where I can combine my scientific background and curiosity to contribute to impactful projects.

Hi! I am an English Literature and History student at Durham University, and am part of their 2025 Laidlaw cohort. Talk to me about books!!

Hello there! I'm Ashiya, a member of the 2025 Laidlaw Leadership & Research Programme Cohort. I am a student at the University of Toronto's Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy, pursuing a double major in Peace, Conflict & Justice and Ethics, Society & Law. My passion lies at the intersection of education and the governance of digital technologies, particularly artificial intelligence. I am currently exploring how this affects children facing socioeconomic disadvantage through my Leadership-in-Action project in North-East England. This builds on my previous work in student voice advocacy, my research of Indigenous-led education initiatives in Canada for my first Laidlaw summer, and my new role as a Center for International Governance Innovation Digital Policy Hub Fellow.  I look forward to reading and contributing to the incredible body of work on this platform. Outside of research, I love to read, explore, learn new things and make new friends - please feel free to reach and connect anytime! :) 

Terrah is a rising senior at Barnard College of Columbia University whose work focuses on educational equity, financial literacy, and college access. At 17, she founded Danalize, an initiative that helps students navigate financial aid offers, advocate for appeals, and build financial literacy skills. Through this work, she has supported more than 500,000 students worldwide. Terrah currently serves as Director of Financial Education at College for All, where she mentors students and develops resources reaching over 15,000 learners globally. She also contributes to the Academic Social Contract with Class Action, collaborating with students and legal professionals to advance equity in higher education. As Director of Operations for Connect on Campus, a nonprofit she helped found, she has supported fundraising and operational efforts that have helped students cover essential educational expenses. As a Laidlaw Scholar, Terrah researched the relationship between financial literacy and college access. Her work was selected as one of 25 projects across North America for publication through the 2025 Laidlaw Conference and Taylor & Francis. She has since presented her research at Harvard University and served as a student advocate on issues of economic opportunity and mobility at Barnard College faculty events. Her work has earned her a Truman Scholarship nomination, recognition as a Yale Launchpad Scholars finalist, and the Rising Star Leadership Award for her commitment to educational equity and student success.  In her free time, she enjoys café hopping, coloring, and playing Tomodachi Life. She can be contacted at: tdg2124@barnard.edu for any inquiries or requests for mentorship! :) 

I’m a Year 1 MBBS student at the University of Hong Kong, deeply passionate about making a positive impact through both medicine and community service. I strive to give my best in everything I do, whether in my academic journey or in serving others. With a strong foundation in public speaking and debate, I’ve been fortunate to receive several awards that reflect my love for clear and empathetic communication. Beyond academics, I’m currently the project leader of the We Children Care Team at HKUMed. Our team is dedicated to promoting mental health awareness among secondary school students and equipping them with essential mental health first aid knowledge. This role has been a meaningful way for me to empower young people and advocate for mental well-being in the community. Social service has always been close to my heart. I’ve volunteered in hospitals, participated in flag selling, visited elderly individuals living alone, and contributed to various charity fundraising efforts. I find joy and purpose in building connections and giving back, whether through small gestures or larger initiatives. In secondary school, I served as the head of both the Peer Counsellor Team and the Student Ambassador Team, where I developed leadership skills and a sense of responsibility toward those around me. These experiences strengthened my belief in the power of youth to lead change with compassion and courage. Outside of service and studies, I’m an animal lover who shares my home with a cat, a hamster, and a parrot. I also cherish time in nature—whether it's a quiet walk near home or a breezy day at the beach. These moments remind me of the beauty and harmony we can find in the world, and why it's worth protecting and improving. I aspire to become a safe, competent, and compassionate surgeon, someone who heals not just with hands but with heart. Guided by the motto “Life influences life,” I’m committed to spreading kindness and uplifting others in every way I can. With boundless enthusiasm and a sense of duty, I aim to help build a better, healthier world—for individuals, communities, and generations to come. As a Laidlaw Scholar, I hope to grow as a leader and change-maker, using both knowledge and empathy to serve with purpose and integrity.

Hi, I’m Caitlin. I am a History & Politics student at the University of Cambridge; in particular, I love American History, local politics and modern politics of both the UK & US. I am from Liverpool and play cricket at university. This year, I am also helping run Feminist Society and History Society at my college.