Melvin Jayson Ogbalu
Melvin Jayson Ogbalu is an award-winning UX Design & Strategy Consultant specializing in AI-enhanced user experiences and sustainable innovation. With over a decade of experience bridging technology, design, and business, Melvin drives impactful solutions that improve user engagement and promote environmental responsibility. He is passionate about applying design thinking to create meaningful change in sustainability and social impact. Currently pursuing an MSc in Design Thinking for Sustainability, Melvin embraces the ambassadorial role to inspire inclusive innovation and empower communities. He is dedicated to harmonizing and building a future where technology and design serve humanity and the planet in harmony.
Jemima Hurley
My name is Jemima Hurley and I am so excited to pursue a Masters in Design Thinking for Sustainability at UCD Innovation Academy. I bring a unique blend of technical expertise and social consciousness to sustainable innovation. With a background in Energy Engineering, technology innovation and experience leading CSR initiatives in my current role, I understand both the technical challenges and organizational dynamics of sustainability implementation. I’m fascinated by what drives sustainability and how it can be a choice accessible to all and I recognize that effective solutions must account for systemic barriers and inequalities. My goal while taking part in this program is to deepen my understanding of sustainable decision-making processes and develop skills to create meaningful positive impact through thoughtful,inclusive design approaches.
Iakov Lagutin
Hey everyone, I’m Iakov Lagutin, a bachelor graduate from UCD City Planning & Environmental Policy. I am a person with deep interests in unique sustainability practices and business models, and I truly believe I can make a big change in the future connecting these fields. My experience includes the award-winning sustainability project “TFI Plastic-to-Travel” and I am also highly experienced in public engagement through open days, social media, and working as a photographer for a number of years. I absolutely can’t wait to represent MSc “Design Thinking for Sustainability” as an ambassador and help students to make the world a better place.
The UCD MSc in Design Thinking for Sustainability is a unique masters programme that combines sustainability knowledge with design skills, ensuring students are ready to apply their learning in real time with real impact on the vital field of sustainability.
The Shackleton Scholarships are named for Irish polar explorer Ernest Shackleton, whose name is also given to one of our active learning spaces, the Shackleton Lounge. It embodies UCD Innovation Academy’s spirit of exploration, adaptability and teamwork.
Learn more about the UCD MSc in Design Thinking for Sustainability .