Institution news
The events began with the Southern Asia regional meeting on 3 April followed by the Global Speak out For Engineering Finals (SOFE), International Strategy Board meeting and International Young Member Committee (IYMC) meeting.
The Southern Asia regional meeting was chaired by regional chair, Shekhar Chakravarty and attended by other committee members. The meeting was also observed by Alex Boardman, International Operations Executive, Nicole Rinaldi, Head of Global Membership Development and Raymond Hodgkinson, International Strategy Board Chair.
The meeting brought together representatives from the regions volunteer network to discuss the strategy and plans for the Institution to support existing Members and the engineering community across Southern Asia.
Key discussion topics included the business development operations in India, planning of Member events and developing the support needed for Member volunteers across the region.
In the evening, a reception dinner was organised for the Global SOFE participants and other international delegates. Shivangi Chopra, SAR SoFE finalist said, “it’s a great opportunity to represent my region through this global platform”.
The second day began with the Global Final of the Speak Out for Engineering competition. SOFE was set up in 1964 by the Young Members of the Institution. The competition challenges entrants to deliver a short and engaging presentation on their chosen engineering topic, judged by a panel. This year’s final was the first to include representation from all eight of IMechE’s geographical regions.
In a close contest, Duncan Henderson representing the Oceania Region, won first place for his presentation ‘Speargun development’. Second place was awarded to Bhoshaga Mitrran Ravi Chandran, South East Asia Region, for ‘The Smog-Free Twister: a 21st century innovation’. Third place was awarded to Shivangi Chopra, Southern Asia region for ’Cryptic coins, the mystery beneath and much beyond’.
The event concluded with sumptuous dinner and networking for all attendees, which gave an opportunity especially to Young Members to interact with the ISB and IYMC.
The final two days were dedicated to ISB and IYMC meetings. The Institution's seven International Region Chairs meet to plan the strategic activities for the year ahead.
This year, Young Member representatives from all seven international regions also came together to discuss and plan activities for international Young Members.
It is extremely valuable for members of the board to meet in person regularly, the opportunity provides a more effective way to make the best decisions for the Institution and its international Members.
The Young Member Committee chaired by Siddartha Khastgir discussed new initiatives for Member development including new ways to support young developing engineers and engaging Members who are already volunteers with the institution. Outcomes also included plans to develop links between industry and academia and refine the roles of international Young Member representatives. Plans also included reviewing how we can develop the student community.
The four-day event concluded with excellent feedback from all attendees. Overall, the events culminated in a high note, with great enthusiasm and commitment from all delegates and volunteers. ISB Chair, Raymond Hodgkinson said: “The weekend was extremely successful with enthusiastic participation throughout.”
The Members also recognised the time and planning of the events was well spent. With events of the highest standard, as well as a high quality SOFE final, it was a memorable experience for all. Attendees thanked Ankit Sharma, Alex Boardman and Young Members of India Branch for their efforts in organising these events.
Who does the ISB represent?
The Institution has more than 30,000 Members based outside the UK and this number is growing all the time. We have a network of volunteers around the world supporting Members.
Looking for more information related to events and activities in your Region? You can contact your Regional Chair or representative via the Near You section of the website.
About the Young Members’ Network
The Institution has a thriving Young Members' Network made up of over 65,000 Affiliates, Associates or Members who have achieved professional registration within the last 10 years. Find out more about Young Member activities.