Back in September 2020, Cosmo ME was already blown away by our then-18-year-old cover star, Alia Al Mansoori. Two years ago she had launched Emirati Astronaut, a platform that encourages dialogue between aspiring astronauts and veterans of space flight; and became the youngest person ever to be appointed Scientific Research Fellow at New York University Abu Dhabi.
Photography by Efraim Evidor
What’s Alia Al Mansoori up to now?
Ofc, her *genius* didn’t stop there. Emirati researcher Alia Al Mansoori is now 20 years old and has studied space biology, even designing an experiment measuring the changes in genetic material while in space. Earlier this year she even had the chance to meet His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for her many accomplishments.
It’s no surprise that the young talent has been listed in Forbes Middle East‘s illustrious 30 Under 30 2023 list. Alongside 120 other innovators and impactful game-changers in the region, Alia is (basically) just getting started.
This Emirati role model has been recognised for her experiment which won first place at the U.A.E.’s inaugural Genes in Space competition, consequently sending her to the U.S. to work with a team at Harvard University before going to Florida’s Kennedy Space Center to watch a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket carry her experiment into orbit.
Fun fact: She’s also the first Emirati to send an experiment to the International Space Station. Major (!!)
Via @alia.a.al.mansoori on Instagram
We’re beyond proud of Alia for making it to the Forbes Middle East 30 under 30 list, it’s definitely well deserved! Click here to read our September 2020 cover story with the star.