Hisham Mohammad - Dissertation du lauréat, 2021
I am a Systems Design Engineering graduate student at University of Waterloo. Having spinal cord atrophy and being confined to a wheelchair has helped me understand the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. My goal is to contribute towards an inclusive society by developing innovative medical technologies.
My experiences have exposed me to many medical devices, accessible sports equipment, and various types of disabilities. I was a member of the Canadian Men’s U-23 National wheelchair basketball team and provincial wheelchair racing team. I was honored for my achievements and was named the Ambassador of the Abilities Centre, a barrier-free recreational facility. I used my platform to advocate for active living. I personally understand how the most minute adjustment to a mobility aid significantly improves a user’s performance. This sparked my passion for the research and development of medical technologies. So, I completed my bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Biomedical Engineering at McMaster University.
As an engineering intern at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehab Hospital, I worked with a team of clinicians and patients to design biomedical technologies. I designed devices that enabled children with mobility devices to independently navigate their environment and empowered non-verbal children to communicate using speech software. I learnt the direct impact of technology in improving quality of life in children with disabilities.
I am currently pursuing graduate studies to further my knowledge in brain-machine interfaces. I want to implement artificial intelligence to develop systems that augment performance and allow individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential.