Meet the Emirati teen prodigy making a difference as inventor, voice of youth
MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)Ali Humaid Alloghani has shown the instincts of an innovator from an early age. Always wondering about how things worked and ways to make them better, he did what many kids were warned not to do: he took his toys apart.At eight years old, he put together some recycled toy parts and built a moving robot that lit up. Now 14, Alloghani is an established inventor and parliamentarian, channelling his curiosity to design solutions that seek to improve lives, in addition to amplifying the voices of Emirati youth.
'That project gave me my first hands-on experience of how creativity and innovation can turn ideas into real solutions,' he told Aletihad in a recent interview. 'It ignited my passion for using invention as a way to solve problems and help others.' One invention he is especially proud of is the 'Smart Wheelchair Glove', which allows individuals with limited mobility to control their wheelchairs through simple hand gestures. 'I want to use technology to make the world more inclusive and supportive for everyone,' the young Emirati told Aletihad. 'This invention is designed to empower people with disabilities by giving them greater independence and safety, helping them move more freely and confidently in their daily lives.'
A True Voice for the Youth As a member of the UAE Children's Parliament, Alloghani feels a deep sense of responsibility that influences his work as an inventor.'It motivates me to create meaningful inventions that can improve education, enhance safety, and promote inclusion for everyone in our community,' he explained.'Through my role, I am inspired to look closely at the challenges our society faces and develop creative solutions that can make a real, positive difference in people's lives.'His main responsibilities at the Children's Parliament include being a true voice for the hopes and needs of children nationwide. He gathers their views directly from schools and communities then conveys them to decision-makers through clear and practical proposals.'I work hand in hand with my fellow parliament members to research issues such as education, health, and the environment, and we submit our recommendations to the relevant authorities to ensure that children's perspectives are an essential part of national policies. This helps build a nation that meets our ambitions and reflects our aspirations for a better future,' Alloghani said.
Big Dreams He credits much of his progress to the unwavering support of his family, school, and the government. 'My family has always believed in me and supported my ideas, even when they seemed unusual. They invested in the tools, courses, and opportunities I needed to learn and grow. My school encouraged me by giving me a platform to showcase my projects and recognised my efforts, which motivated me to keep innovating,' Alloghani said. 'The UAE Government's programmes for youth innovation have provided invaluable resources, mentorship, and inspiration, showing me that my country believes in the potential of young people to shape the future.'Through curiosity, grit, and innovation, he aims to help tackle pressing global challenges and advance humanitarian efforts. 'I hope to develop creative solutions to environmental challenges, such as reducing waste, encouraging the use of clean energy, and conserving water resources. I also aim to design technologies that improve the lives of people with disabilities or special needs, ensuring they can live with greater ease and independence.'
Empowering Young Emiratis Looking ahead, Alloghani dreams of becoming an ambassador for artificial intelligence and an aerospace engineer who will proudly represent the UAE on the global stage. 'At the same time, I hope to continue serving as a voice for children, making sure that their hopes and perspectives shape a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone,' he noted.
To other young Emiratis interested in science, technology, or civic engagement, Alloghani said: 'Believe in your ideas, and don't be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes; that's how you learn, grow, and make a meaningful difference.'
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