Fellow initiative wins Oxford Map the System Final

Nomken, an initiative co-founded by fellow Aliaa Ahmed (2022), recently won the University of Oxford Map the System Final, a competition where which students map systems to address global systemic challenges. The initiative will continue on to the inaugural Map the System Semi Final hosted on Hopin, a state-of the art online event and conferencing platform, showcasing students systems-mapping projects from across the world. Nomken, established in December 2022, raises awareness of how nutritional intervention can enhance the quality of life for children and adults with Down Syndrome. Nomken holds workshops on a variety of topics, such as nutrition, psychological support and success stories for individuals with Down Syndrome and their caregivers. It also raises awareness about Down Syndrome, challenges misconceptions about it and highlights the potential of individuals with Down Syndrome to contribute positively to society given the right support and opportunities. Aliaa is the head of the nutrition and research unit at Egyptian Food Bank. She is also the founder of Alma, a virtual nutrition clinic. She is deeply inspired by her young daughter, who was born with Down Syndrome.​