The British Omani Society were honoured to fund the participation of 5 Omani students at the London International Youth Science Forum 2025, as part of our charitable objectives to advance the education of Omani nationals by the promotion of learning and a wider knowledge by assisting individuals and organisations by providing bursaries, awards, scholarships, training, apprenticeships and financial and logistical support. Read more here.
Blog written by Saif Al Hashar
A Journey Beyond Science
Participating in the London International Youth Science Forum in 2025 was not just an event but a chapter of my life. It was a journey that reshaped how I see science, culture, and my own future. Being one of the few students representing Oman filled me with pride and a deep sense of responsibility. LIYSF brought together more than four hundred bright young scientists from over ninety countries. To be part of this global community was an unforgettable privilege.
The Beginning of an Unforgettable Experience
The forum began with a speech by the Royal Patron, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal. This was followed by a powerful keynote from Nobel Prize Laureate Professor David MacMillan. His story of setbacks and persistence reminded me that real science is not about shortcuts, but about resilience and courage. Over the sixteen days, we attended lectures from Nobel laureates and world-class professors who inspired us to keep asking questions and stay curious.
Every single moment felt like a spark for new ideas, and each lecture gave me a deeper sense of what it means to pursue science not only as knowledge, but as a responsibility. I remain grateful to the LIYSF team, Richard Myhill, the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation in Oman, and the British Omani Society for sponsoring my participation and giving me this incredible opportunity.
Env.ai on the Global Stage
At the Science Bazaar, alongside brilliant young scientists from all over the world, I presented Env.ai, our AI powered system for sorting plastic waste. Sharing our vision of how artificial intelligence and computer vision can help solve plastic pollution was both challenging and rewarding. Many participants and professors were curious about how a project that started in Oman could grow and make an impact in other parts of the world.
Being interviewed by LIYSF media about Env.ai was another proud moment. It gave me the chance to explain not just the technical side, but also the vision behind the project: creating a cleaner, smarter future. This experience reminded me that innovation knows no borders. Env.ai is more than a technical solution, it is a vision for sustainability that can reach far beyond where it began.
Science and Discovery in Action
Beyond the lectures, we visited some of the United Kingdom’s most inspiring research hubs. At the Bristol Robotics Laboratory, I saw real world applications of robotics and artificial intelligence. At the University of Cambridge, I explored advanced optical systems in neuroscience. At Imperial College London, I attended lectures from leading professors and Nobel Prize winners. At University College London, I gained insights into security and crime science.
We also visited the Science Museum, where centuries of human curiosity were on display, reminding me of how far we have come in the pursuit of knowledge. Each of these visits deepened my understanding, broadened my perspective, and strengthened my passion for science and innovation.
Culture, Tradition, and Representation
One of my favorite moments at LIYSF was the Traditions of Home day, where I had the honor of representing Oman. Sharing our culture and seeing how others shared theirs was a true celebration of diversity. It was moving to see how interested people were in learning about Oman’s traditions, while I also enjoyed discovering theirs in return.
We also visited the Embassy of Oman in London and met with His Excellency Badr bin Mohammed bin Badr Al Mandhari, the Ambassador of Oman to the United Kingdom. It was inspiring to feel the support of my nation while standing on an international stage. These experiences reminded me that while science connects us through innovation and discovery, our cultures are what make each of us unique.
Connections that Last a Lifetime
If I had to describe LIYSF in one word, it would be connections. Over those sixteen days, I met friends and colleagues from across the world. Conversations happened everywhere — during breaks, over meals, or late at night after lectures. These exchanges opened my mind to new perspectives and gave me insights that I will carry forward into my future.
Science brought us together, but it was the people who made the journey truly special. The relationships and friendships I built at LIYSF will remain one of its most valuable gifts.
Looking Ahead
This experience was more than a forum. It reshaped my ambitions and sharpened my vision of the innovator I want to be. As someone passionate about sustainability, I now see how artificial intelligence, environmental engineering, and urban planning can come together to tackle one of the biggest challenges of our time.
LIYSF was not only about learning science but also about connecting with humanity and culture. It was, in every sense, a life changing forum where science, culture, and humanity came together to create a shared vision of a better tomorrow.
Read the blogs of our LISYF 2025 Participants
Hala Al Zaabi
Al Muntaser Al Mamari