Shamia Sultana pitching at Falling Walls Lab in Berlin© Shamia Sultana

I had the incredible opportunity to represent Bangladesh as the first Falling-Walls-Lab winner from Bangladesh at the Berlin science summit from November 7 to 9. The summit was a platform to present my winning pitch, titled “Breaking the Wall of Plastic Dependency.”

The journey began with the extended program on November 5 and 6, featuring an engaging intro event and dinner hosted by DFG (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft), providing a unique chance to connect with fellow participants and experts. The insights into German research during this session were invaluable, offering a deeper understanding of the country’s scientific landscape.

The summit extended beyond the presentations, including a science excursion and a city tour. The science excursion offered a glimpse into cutting-edge research facilities, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. The city tour provided a cultural immersion, allowing me to explore Berlin’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

The following days were filled with the main summit activities. Presenting my pitch on breaking the wall of plastic dependency was an exhilarating experience, with the opportunity to share innovative ideas and solutions with a diverse audience. The following feedback and interactions were enriching, providing valuable perspectives for further development.

The Falling Walls Lab Science Summit proved to be an unparalleled experience, offering a platform for global collaboration, insightful discussions, and exposure to groundbreaking research. The connections made and lessons learned during the event will undoubtedly shape my future endeavors in scientific innovation.

Shamea Sultana
Winner of Falling Walls Lab Bangladesh 2023