Maira Bana receives British Empire Medal

Maira Bana, Chair of IMechE Technical Strategy Board, has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to diversity in engineering, as part of the King’s 2025 New Year Honours.

The British Empire Medal recognises individuals who have made a significant contribution to their communities and professions. Maira’s long-standing commitment to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion within engineering - through her work with IMechE and across the wider sector - makes her a highly deserving recipient.

The medal ceremony took place at the Tower of London on 21 November 2025. Honours were presented by Sir Kenneth Olisa OBE, Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London, to 45 recipients recognised for their positive impact and public service.

As Chair of IMechE Technical Strategy Board, Maira plays an important role in shaping strategic thinking across the Institution. Alongside her position as Head of Computational Engineering at RED, she is an active member of the organisation’s IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility) Network, contributing to initiatives that promote equity, representation and support across the business.

She is a Co-founder and Trustee of SheCanEngineer, a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I) charity based in the UK. The charity is entirely volunteer-based, and they're working to close the gender gap in engineering industries by raising awareness around issues relating to DE&I, showcasing the accomplishments of female engineers, and promoting engineering careers to students.

Maira also plays a key role in STEM outreach, regularly representing the organisation at careers fairs, community events and industry panels, championing future engineers and promoting broader representation across the profession.

"In my volunteering life, the most I’ve ever hoped for is a smile and a thank you. This recognition has taken me completely by surprise - and I’m not sure it will ever really sink in!”

Everyone at IMechE is incredibly proud of Maira’s contribution to engineering and to the communities she serves. Her leadership, advocacy and commitment to inclusion continue to inspire colleagues, emerging engineers and the wider industry.

Congratulations to Maira on this well-deserved recognition.