Sara Humaid Aljarwan Alshamsi

My name is Sara Humaid AlJarwan AlShamsi. I graduated with highest honors from the American University of Sharjah, majoring in civil engineering with a minor in transportation systems. Subsequently, I joined the Roads and Transport Authority, where I dedicated my efforts to planning and managing bus routes in Dubai. Throughout my tenure, I achieved several milestones, notably becoming the youngest successful project manager within the authority. Additionally, I pioneered the utilization of a technical dashboard for bus route management and planning, a feat unmatched by my colleagues.

Recognizing my exceptional performance, H.E. Mattar AlTayer granted me an opportunity to pursue a master's degree in civil engineering at Imperial College London, ranked the first in UK, and second globally. There, I continued to excel, graduating with distinction. My master's thesis, conducted in collaboration with the Bartlett School of Architecture and Planning (1st in its field in the world), focused on integrating civil engineering and urban planning using real data from Dubai. This research garnered recognition for its novelty, particularly in being the first to address Community Severance in the MENA region. I was honored to receive the prestigious Professor John W. Polak Memorial MSc Award for my outstanding academic performance and novel research, making me the first Arab girl to win this award.

Following my academic achievements, I transitioned to the Almasar office within the Executive Council in the Roads and Transport Authority, specifically in the Urban Planning Affairs section. Remarkably, within just four months, I was promoted to the position of senior engineer. Looking ahead, I am eager to continue contributing to the field of engineering and play a significant role in enhancing my city.

Beyond professional aspirations, I am committed to community engagement and empowering the next generation. I firmly believe in the boundless potential of our dreams and the impact we can make. Joining RTA’s youth council is a natural progression for me, as I am driven to give back to my community and inspire positive change, no matter how small my contribution may seem.