Researcher wins responsible innovation award

Okonkwo is a collaborator on Sugarcrete®️, a project to create a low-carbon alternative to bricks and concrete blockwork, developed by UEL. As part of her role, she carries out a constant literature review on the topic while making Sugarcrete®️ samples for testing. Her PhD objective is to optimise the product so it can be used safely, especially in countries with an abundance of sugarcane waste.

Okonkwo was delighted with the win and to have her – and her team’s – hard work recognised. She said,

This is a win for the whole Sugarcrete team and UEL! This would never have happened without them.  And a special thank you to Shift for all the amazing work they are doing in east London. I am rejoicing not just because of this wonderful win, but also because I know that there is so much more good news to come from our side. Our team is working hard to make sustainability a priority with imminent positive change."

Having joined UEL in 2013, Okonkwo has been studying or working at the university ever since, gaining both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in architecture, with the latter focused on new materials research. She says her time at UEL has brought her key career opportunities, with her tutors helping her secure two architectural jobs. She has also made meaningful connections personally and keeps in touch with many of her classmates. 

Okonkwo reflected on her journey at UEL and how the university has developed over the past decade. She said, “The university is now, more than ever, affiliated with people of high calibre and they strategically know how to retain talent. I feel very supported by the university, we are like a family at UEL and we always wish to see each other succeed.”