From AUS to Forbes: Two alumni featured on the Forbes Middle East 30 Under 30 list

Two alumni from American University of Sharjah (AUS) have been recognized on Forbes Middle East 30 Under 30 list this year. Mohanad Alkhodari, 29, a graduate of the College of Engineering (CEN), and Nora Zeid, 26, a graduate of the College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD), are making remarkable strides in their respective fields. 

Mohanad Alkhodari earned his Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering from AUS in 2019 under the guidance of Dr. Amer Zakaria and Dr. Nasser Qaddoumi at the College of Engineering and is currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Oxford. Forbes recognized Alkhodari for his work in AI and cardiology, as well as his recently founded startup, HyTwin—an innovative AI-based startup that is transforming the way hypertension assessments are conducted through real-time monitoring for clinical and home settings. Alkhodari’s accomplishments include over 40 published scientific papers, three book chapters and a US patent currently under review. 

“I’m honored to be recognized by Forbes for my work developed at Oxford. This acknowledgment reflects the hard work and skills I gained at AUS, where I was encouraged to think creatively and develop innovative ideas. The guidance I received from professors like Dr. Amer Zakaria, Dr. Nasser Qaddoumi and Dr. Hasan AlNashash in the biomedical engineering program was invaluable. They fostered my confidence in proposing ideas and leading projects, helping me bridge the gap between research and real-world applications. My advice to aspiring engineers is to set clear goals, focus on quality work and always aim to make your research practically applicable,” said Alkhodari.

“At the College of Engineering, we are incredibly proud to see alumni like Mohanad Alkhodari working on innovations that have the potential to transform industries and improve lives. His remarkable work in AI and cardiology exemplifies the forward-thinking and problem-solving skills we nurture at CEN,” said Dr. Fadi Aloul, Dean of CEN.

Nora Zeid, an illustrator and visual artist based in the UAE, earned a Bachelor of Science in Visual Communication from AUS in 2018. Known for her distinctive comics and illustrations, Zeid has become a significant voice in the regional art scene. Her work has been featured in the Sharjah Art Foundation’s annual anthology, and in 2021, she held her first solo exhibition, titled Cairo Illustrated: Stories from Heliopolis, at Tashkeel in Dubai. Zeid’s collaborations with high-profile clients such as Google, Bloomberg Markets and Cadillac Arabia showcase her versatility and creativity, enhancing her reputation as one of the Middle East’s emerging artistic talents. 

Zeid is currently working on a graphic novel in collaboration with the Egyptian Heritage Rescue Foundation.

“I am incredibly honored to be featured alongside such talented and driven individuals on the Forbes Middle East 30 Under 30 list. My time at CAAD was instrumental in shaping my work. The professors, many of whom are actively working in the field, brought invaluable real-world experiences into the classroom. They not only taught me technical skills but also encouraged me to explore my personal voice as an artist. Professors like Riem Ibrahim and Hala Al Ani, who emphasized the importance of integrating Arabic design into the curriculum, were key influences. I’m also grateful to Phil Sheil, who believed in me long before I recognized my own potential. To other aspiring artists and illustrators, my advice is simple: don’t wait for perfection. Keep creating, keep learning and let your growth guide you forward,” said Zeid.

“At CAAD, we aim to inspire every student that walks through our doors to dig deeper into their individual talents and interests. We strongly believe their time here is as much about personal discovery and growth as it is about excelling in a design discipline. This is why many of our alumni succeed by transcending disciplinary boundaries. Stories such as Nora’s, re-affirm to us that we are on the right track in the unique approach we take at CAAD, which allows our alumni to thrive after they move on from AUS,” said Dean Varkki Pallathucheril, Dean of AUS’ College of Architecture, Art and Design.

Alkhodari and Zeid’s inspiring stories exemplify the transformative power of an AUS education, where students gain not only technical expertise but also the confidence and vision to impact their fields.

Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS commented on Zeid and Alkhodari’s success, saying:

“The success of Mohanad and Nora is a testament to the transformative power of an AUS education. We empower our students not only with technical skills, but also with the mindset to innovate, collaborate and lead in their respective fields. It’s inspiring to see our alumni making a significant impact in these diverse industries, and we are proud to have played a role in their journeys.”