MEET THE UAE MISSION CREWS
United Arab Emirates
Meet the Endeavour Scholarship Recipients! Mission Team 1
Four Emirati students and two teachers will be representing the United Arab Emirates at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center’s renowned Space Camp in Huntsville, AL in August 2021! The winners were presented their award by Apollo 15 Command Module Pilot Col. Al Worden, USAF-Ret. and Tom Kallman, CEO of Kallman Worldwide, at the Dubai Airshow 2019.
They were joined by H.E. Dr. Mohammed Nasser Al Ahbabi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency; and John Rakolta, Jr., U.S. Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, along with government, military and industry leaders to congratulate the winners of an all-expenses paid, week-long, hands-on astronaut training experience at Space Camp.
Student-Designed Mission Patch
Mission Team 1 Scholarship Recipients
Alanood Alhajri
Saif Baha Al Badawna
Omran Rahma Al Shamsi
Mohammed AlDhaheri
My name is Alanood Alhajri. I am 16 years old. I am a student at Al Khaleej National School in Dubai, U.A.E., and I am interested in pursuing a career in aerospace and mechanical engineering. I am passionate and driven by my enthusiasm for space.
Saif was born in the city of Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates on the 10th of December 2004. He joined International Community School (ICS) by age 4 where he completed 11 years and now at grade 9 at the age of 14. He and his father (who is a Biomechanical Engineer graduate from Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA) have developed a passion for anything technological; especially, building robotics and drones. Saif has built 6 racing drones in the past 3 years under the supervision of his father. He also excels in flying these drones both in racing mode and acrobatics. Saif is looking forward to peruse his future career in the engineering sector of STEM where he wishes to contribute to the UAE’s success and prosperity in the future space sector.
I’m Omran Rahma Al Shamsi, a 16 year-old student at Al Resalah American International School. Space and Robotics enthusiast Vex Robotics Competition Community Award winner Ranking the first group among UAE students and worldwide. A space ambassador and one of the first batch of Arab students training at Yuri Gagarin astronauts training center. Last but not least, a winner of the Astronaut Al Worden Endeavour Scholarship.
My name is Mohammed AlDhaheri. I am 16 years old. I study at International Community School. I am interested to pursue a career that engage STEM Education. I would like to study at the field of engineering to design and build satellites under the name of my country.
Mission Team 1 Educators
Rasha Abou Arkoub
Rasha Abou Arkoub holds a Master Degree in Physics from Beirut Arab University- Lebanon. She has been in the educational field for more than 10 years. She taught physics in different settings including universities, schools, and offered trainings for industrial companies. In addition to teaching physics at International Community School-AD, she has been appointed as the school’s Innovation Coordinator since 2018, and since that time, she made remarkable achievements in the National STEM based competitions where she led her teams to win the 1st place in the “Water Rocket Competition 2018” that was organized by the Emirates Aviation University-Dubai, the 1st place in the People’s Choice Award-AD Prize in the “Think Science 2019 Competition” for a project entitled “Smart Truck” along with winning the 2nd place in the Judges’ choice- AD in the “Think Science 2019 Competition” for a project entitled “Carcinogen Test”.
Ghaleb Awad Wahbi
Ghaleb Awad Wahbi was the Head of Science Department and the Innovation leader K-12 at GEMS Al Khaleej National School. Currently working as a Teacher Development Coach at Alef Education. Ghaleb Graduated from the Lebanese University with a Masters-1 degree in Chemistry; Majoring Biochemistry, and a License in English Literature and Arts and from The British University of Dubai with Masters in Educational Leadership. Achievements include first place in Energy Chemical category in 2018, the project was nominated to Intel ISEF in Pennsylvania Pittsburgh to represent UAE. Won the first place in SMART Systems category in 2017. Won the first place in Energy in 2017, the project was nominated to Intel ISEF in Los Angeles California US to represent UAE. Won the first place in Vehicle Design and Aviation category in 2016, the project was nominated to Intel ISEF in Phoenix Arizona US to represent UAE. Nominated to be one of the four teachers who represented UAE at Honeywell Educators Space Academy Program in USSRC Huntsville Alabama in 2016. Contributed to Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Award for Gifted and Talented students on Mission to Mars Initiative.
“When you have passion, and you work from the bottom of your heart, the sky won’t be your limit anymore, space is the new limit!” - Rasha Abou Arkoub
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Mission Team 5
Student-Designed Mission Patch
Astronomy has been a part of Arabic life since the dawn of time. From the Babylonians to the ancient caravans navigating the great deserts. The United Arab Emirates channels its passion for the heavens through one of the most progressive space programs in the world. In the last ten years, our UAE Endeavour Scholars have seen the countries first satellite, first astronaut, first female astronaut, first mission to Mars, and much more.
This crew knows “the stars are not the limit” when it comes to their future. The team was celebrated at the Dubai Air Show in November 2021 where Apollo Astronaut Charlie Duke , Endeavour Ambassador, the UAE Space Agency – وكالة الإمارات للفضاء and Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre مركز محمد بن راشد للفضاء Directors were on hand to present their awards. Led by Miss Rasha, their fantastic teacher, the six students, Saif, Maha, Abdulla, Shaika, Hessa, and Faris, were stars of Space Camp!
Mission Team 5 Scholarship Recipients
Shaika Alzaabi
Faris Almheiri
Hessa Alnuaimi
Abdulla Almarashda
Hello everyone! My name is Shaikha Eissa Alzaabi. I am from the UAE; Abu Dhabi specifically. My school has selected me for the Al Worden Endeavour Scholarship. I am so lucky, blessed and proud to be part of this since I have been chosen for it!! My desire for STEM and exploring the infinite space played a great role in being just right here! I am planning to study aerospace engineering where I find it very exciting and that it would really help me in shaping my future.
Hello! My name is Faris Mohamed Almheiri. I am from Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. My school nominated me for the Al Worden Endeavour Scholarship and I feel like one of the luckiest people ever to have been chosen. My passion for science and hard work have got me here! I love to further my knowledge especially in astronomy! My main goal is to study space science in the world’s best institutes and my first step starts here at the Dubai Airshow!
Hello, this is Hessa al-Nuaimi, the future ambassador of innovation & technology. Here in the United Arab Emirates until Alabama, yet why? How am I an ambassador you might wonder? I am taking my passion toward artificial intelligence through learning how it is applied today in aircraft, spaceships, or even rockets. Within a mind awaiting to explore the wonders that space is hiding for us along with my endeavor collages. Just remember the stars are not the limit.
Hello, my name is Abdulla Almarashda from the United Arab Emirates. I have always wondered how early astronomers and astronauts felt about exploring the cosmos, from Galileo to the days of the Apollo program. Nowadays, international cooperation is a prerequisite for a country to be competitive in the space sector, and Space Camp provides the right environment for the youths’ minds to flourish. Thanks to the Endeavour scholarship, I will be able to meet people from all over the world with all sorts of backgrounds and experiences. I hope that I and my colleagues learn from this experience and help pave the way for the United Arab Emirates in the space sector.
Maha Al Seiari
Hello, my name is Maha Al Seiari, I’m 17 years old, from United Arab Emirates. I think that space is such an extraordinary place; I’ve always grown up to have an interest in it, so the Endeavor Scholarship is a great opportunity for me since it’s something I love and willing to pursue in my future. I’m looking forward to experience, learn, and explore many things that will expand my knowledge and have a better understanding of our mysterious universe. In the future, I see myself as a person who would influence the upcoming generation and who will add value and impact into this world and to my country. I’m delighted and honored to be a part of this program and I can’t wait to see what I will carry out at space camp.
Mission Team 5 Educator
Rasha Abou Arkoub
Rasha Abou Arkoub holds a Master Degree in Physics from Beirut Arab University- Lebanon. She has been in the educational field for more than 10 years. She taught physics in different settings including universities, schools, and offered trainings for industrial companies. In addition to teaching physics at International Community School-AD, she has been appointed as the school’s Innovation Coordinator since 2018, and since that time, she made remarkable achievements in the National STEM based competitions where she led her teams to win the 1st place in the “Water Rocket Competition 2018” that was organized by the Emirates Aviation University-Dubai, the 1st place in the People’s Choice Award-AD Prize in the “Think Science 2019 Competition” for a project entitled “Smart Truck” along with winning the 2nd place in the Judges’ choice- AD in the “Think Science 2019 Competition” for a project entitled “Carcinogen Test”.
"International cooperation is a prerequisite for a country to be competitive in the space sector, and Space Camp provides the right environment for the youths’ minds to flourish"
- Abdulla Almarashda
Mission Team 5 Award Ceremony
Students were awarded their scholarships at the 2021 Dubai Airshow. Our Endeavour Scholarship Good Will Ambassador, Charlie Duke (Apollo 16 astronaut and moonwalker) welcomed the students to the program along with UAE Astronaut Hazzaa Al Mansouri. The all-star-line-up at the ceremony also included a number of government officials and private-sector executives. The Endeavour Scholarship students truly represent our global connection through STEM!
Mission Team 16
Student-Designed Mission Patch
In close coordination with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, our next Endeavour team represents the leading young STEM minds in Dubai and the surrounding region. Our judging panel has selected the top 6 students out of more than 150 candidates identified by the Ministry of Education for their outstanding academic achievements. The team was honored at Dubai Airshow 2023 at the USA Partnership Pavilion. Previous scholarship recipients Miss Rasha Arkoub, Shaikha Al Zaabi, and Maha AlSeiari were in attendance, as well as Sultan Al Neyadi. Also in attendance were guests of honor, the Honorable Martina Strong, U.S. Ambassador to the UAE (#AmbStrong), Mark Napier, Executive Director, Commercial Aftermarket, Americas at Spirit AeroSystems, UAE Astronaut Hazza Al Mansouri and Col. Mike Bloomfield (USAF, Ret.), former NASA – National Aeronautics and Space Administration Space Shuttle Pilot/Commander (STS-86, 97, 110), who attended the show as the goodwill ambassador for the scholarship program.
Thank you to all our in-country partners and supporters. We’re grateful to the International Community Schools, AmCham Dubai, AmCham Abu Dhabi, the Dubai Airshow, and Spirit AeroSystems; your support for the future leaders in STEM is inspiring! View the photos here.
Mission Team 16 Scholarship Recipients
Shahad Abdulla
Hello, I am Shahad Abdulla, a 16-year-old high-school student from the United Arab Emirates. I attend Dubai National School – Albarsha. Many may question how my scientific interest grew over the years. I must highlight that this passion has grown since I was six when I first started my experimental lab in the small room within our apartment. I used to mix compounds and design a range of devices that triggered a sense of curiosity and critical thinking in me. However, this passion did not stop in that room since I knew I had to spread it everywhere. Therefore, I participated in diverse competitions and initiatives that incorporate the concepts and skills associated with science, engineering, mathematics, and art. Furthermore, I uncovered different sides of me that shaped who I am physically and mentally. Nevertheless, this shaping does not stop here as I am eager to learn, prosper, and become determined. Hence, I am forever grateful for the opportunity granted by the Endeavour Scholarship Program, as it is a privilege and honor to represent my country in it. Lastly, I would like to conclude that I am looking forward to making new friendships, learning from others, and enjoying the overall experience, given that my love for space is growing daily, striving to create a better community through such desire.
Hind Khalid Alsuwaidi
Hello! I’m Hind Khalid Alsuwaidi, a 16-year-old high school student from Dubai National School – Albarsha in Dubai, UAE. My passion for science started early, but it was a visit to Bristol’s aerospace museum that truly sparked my fascination with the workings of the universe. Since then, I’ve enthusiastically engaged myself in building model rockets, crafting prototypes, and showcasing my concepts for future space travel at local science fairs. I’ve been on an exciting quest to pursue a career as an aerospace engineer, while also diving into my diverse range of interests, including graphic design, reading, cooking, swimming, and hiking. Joining ‘Team UAE’ and connecting with other Endeavour Scholarship students is a dream come true! I’m incredibly excited about how this experience will propel me closer to making my mark in the field of space exploration.
Fatma Mansoor Habib
My name is Fatma Mansoor Habib. I am a 17- year old Emirati senior at Dubai National School – Albarsha. Although I’ve always found space to be fascinating, I’ve always thought it would be quite difficult to reach the stars. However, coming from the lands of the United Arab Emirates, our leaders have always taught us that We Can Make the Impossible, Possible. Witnessing my country’s remarkable achievements, particularly in the realm of space exploration has ignited a profound interest in me. In the near past, our young astronauts have made history in the Arab region. As I reflect on these successes, I find myself drawn to the mysteries of space. We have yet to uncover so many of its magical aspects. The key to unlocking these secrets lies in fostering strong global relations. Recognizing this, I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of a unique journey that will introduce me to individuals from diverse corners of the world, all while delving into one of the most captivating topics in the universe. I look forward to the future, excited about the possibilities and opportunities that will enable me to explore and expand my full potential.
Hamad Bushahab
Hamad Bushahab My journey into STEM has been really exciting. I’m going to share some of the things I’ve achieved and why I love all things STEM as a current student of Almawakeb School Al Khawaneej. Ever since I was a kid, I loved asking questions about the world. Doing well in math and science wasn’t just about school, it was my way of exploring the fascinating stuff around me. When I became big enough to use computers and technology, I jumped right in. I learned how to make computer programs and built a game that was similar to Pac-Man but added a bit more details. Science is all about finding out how things work. Whether it’s in a lab or just exploring on my own, I love digging into the mysteries. I also did some projects like a hand that was controlled by water pressure and also I also built a windmill with reusable energy that showed me science is all around us. So, that’s my journey with STEM. STEM isn’t just school subjects for me, it’s my way of exploring and figuring out how things tick. From playing with numbers to coding, building things, and exploring the wonders of science, I’m on a journey of discovery in the world of STEM.
Gillian Hammond
Miss Gillian Hammond is the Chief Education Officer of Excella and Principal at Repton Dubai. Miss Hammond has a wealth of expertise and leadership experience and has been Repton Dubai’s Inclusion and Safeguarding Governor since 2018. She joined Repton Al Barsha in September 2022, after proudly serving as the Principal of Repton Abu Dhabi for over four years, successfully leading the school to an Outstanding rating by ADEK. Miss. Hammond earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Combined Science and Qualified Teacher Status with Honours in the year 2000 from Lancaster University, which is among the top 10 universities in the United Kingdom. She was also awarded her National Professional Qualification for Headship from the University of Manchester in 2005. Miss. Hammond demonstrates an unwavering desire to provide a world-class education and the best for every child, and currently leads the Digital & STEM Working Parties across our three Repton schools. She passionately believes that families and staff collectively share the responsibility to enjoy and promote learning, so that every student loves coming to school each day.
Mission Team 16 Educator
Miss Gillian meets the Endeavour team, including Executive Director, Tom Kallman and Col. Mike Bloomfield (STS-86, 97, 110)
News: Repton students break the Guinness World Record... as astronauts! (25 October 2022)
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Mission Team 17
Student-Designed Mission Patch
In close coordination with the ADNOC Group and International Community Schools (ICSchools), the Endeavour Scholarship selected the fifth team from the UAE who form Mission Team #17, UAE! The selected winners were celebrated in Abu Dhabi on Al Worden’s Birthday. With the addition of our 17th team, we honor Al’s legacy by providing more opportunities for driven individuals to reach for the stars.
Thank you to the Honorable Martina Strong, U.S. Ambassador to the UAE, for being among our guests of honor at the Endeavour Scholarship Awards Ceremony. We are so excited to have two teams from the United Arab Emirates joining us this year!
Mission Team 17 Scholarship Recipients
Zainab Alfaqeeh
Hi there! I am 16-year-old Zainab Alfaqeeh, and I attend International Community School in Abu Dhabi as a high school student. Since my early years, astronomy and space have played a big role in my life. My fascination in space was piqued the moment I viewed my first space documentary. Driven by a constant need for information, I engaged myself in an array of shows, movies, and books. My constant search for knowledge is a reflection of my dedication to education and discovery. I have a strong interest in STEM in addition to astronomy. I have participated in my school’s annual Innovation Day and actively participated in a number of STEM projects. Being a collaborative person by nature, I work best in groups where everyone’s efforts encourage creativity and progress. Being able to participate in Team UAE and the Endeavour Scholarship program is a great honor for me. I am excited for the opportunity to work with other scholars and further our common objectives. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance, and I promise to seize it with enthusiasm and commitment.
Yousef Al-Badawna
Greetings! I’m Yousef Al-Badawna, a seventeen year old Emirati hailing from Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates where I attend International Community Schools Al Mushrif Branch. My journey into the domain of science and technology began at my early life, fueled by my inquisitiveness about the world around me. From imagining simple experiments in my bedroom to delving into complex mathematical concepts like trigonometry, I’ve always been drawn to the wonders of STEM. Inspired by the groundbreaking achievements of my home country in various scientific endeavors, I’m impassioned about contributing to the explosive landscape of knowledge and innovation. Joining the Endeavour Scholarship Program is an incredible opportunity for me to connect with individuals who are en rapport, broaden my horizons, and embark on a journey of discovery that transcends limits.
Sara Abuhaliqa
Hello, I’m Sara Abuhaliqa, a 16-year-old high school student from Aisha Bint Abi Baker High School for girls in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Growing up, I always enjoyed watching documentaries about the mysteries of space learning that our knowledge about space is a brushstroke of a humongous canvas that drove me to want to learn more about the universe. Through my journey with space, I learned that space exploration isn’t just about launching rockets and sending astronauts into orbit; it’s about pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and understanding. I became captivated by the idea that everything we learn on Earth whether it’s physics, biology, chemistry, or geology can be put to the test in the vastness of space. I saw the potential to unlock further mysteries of the cosmos. Whether it’s using chemistry to analyze the composition of distant planets, applying biology to study the potential for life beyond Earth, or harnessing physics to understand the fundamental laws governing the universe, I believe that collaboration across scientific disciplines is key to advancing our exploration of space. I aspire to be one of those who cultivate the knowledge of the universe. I’m extremely grateful to be a part of the UAE team and it is an amazing opportunity to work together with other Endeavour Scholarship recipients.
Salmeen Khaled
Hi, I’m Salmeen, an 18-year-old aspiring scholar with a deep-seated passion for physics and mathematics. Beyond my academic pursuits at Al Yasmina Academy, I lead an extracurricular initiative where I mentor younger students in constructing miniature F1 carts using CAD and 3D printing techniques. Among my hobbies is wakeboarding, for which I have achieved national and international recognition. Alongside my athletic endeavors, I serve as a leader in my high school, committed to creating a supportive academic environment and guiding my peers to aim higher in their pursuits. Additionally, I am actively working towards achieving a Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
Mission Team 17 Educators
Gillian Hammond
Rianne Al Tamimi, a passionate educator, holds a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology. Her journey began in the banking sector, but a pivotal moment, her son’s ADHD diagnosis, led her to transition to teaching 12 years ago, driven by a desire to better understand and support him. Falling in love with teaching, her mission became making a difference in the lives of her students. Currently serving at International Community Schools in Abu Dhabi, Rianne wears multiple hats as the Head of Assessment, Digital Learning Coordinator, and Computer Science Coordinator. One of her proudest achievements is spearheading and leading the student magazine initiative at her school—a platform where talented students showcase their skills, interests, and voices. Furthermore, Rianne is excited about her upcoming project: publishing a digital comic book series featuring one of her school’s exceptionally talented students. Her dream and goal is to inspire and uplift those around her, leaving a lasting impact on her school community.
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Upcoming Events
Mars Simulation WorkshopFri, Sep 26Kennedy Space Center
Annual Gala and Scholarship Awards NightFri, Sep 26Exploratorium Museum
Alumni Networking ExtravaganzaFri, Sep 26U.S. Space & Rocket Center