Girls Shaping the Digital Future: Nasheetat’s Robotics Journey

In celebration of Girls in ICT Day 2026, stories of determination, growth, and possibility are emerging from young women who are shaping their futures through science and technology. Among them is Nasheetat Zainah Rahman, a three-time gold medalist at the International Robot Olympiad, whose journey reflects the powerful impact of robotics education on young girls in Bangladesh.

Nasheetat’s journey into robotics began in a simple but meaningful way. As a child, she found joy in building with LEGO, but her curiosity truly came alive when she discovered LEGO Mindstorms EV3. The moment she realized she could create a functioning robot sparked something deeper, a sense of wonder that would guide her forward. This curiosity continued to grow when she attended an Arduino workshop organized by the Bangladesh Robot Olympiad, where she explored new ideas and first learned about the International Robot Olympiad. This platform would soon become an important part of her life.

Like many pioneers, her path was not always easy. Entering a field where girls were often underrepresented meant facing moments of doubt and hesitation. Yet, what stands out in her journey is not the challenge itself, but how she responded to it. With the support of mentors and a strong sense of determination, she continued to move forward. Each obstacle became a stepping stone, strengthening her confidence and deepening her passion.

Her experiences at the International Robot Olympiad became some of the most meaningful moments of her life. What began as a love for building transformed into opportunities for creativity, teamwork, and discovery. Each challenge encouraged her to think differently and solve real-life problems. Beyond the technical skills, it was the connections and shared experiences that made the journey truly special. Long nights of preparation, exploring new places, and representing Bangladesh on an international stage created memories she carries with pride. Standing on stage with her country’s flag after winning gold remains one of her most treasured moments.

“Standing on the international stage with my country’s flag in my hands felt unreal. It made me realise that when you truly love something and keep growing with it, it can take you way further than you ever thought you could go.”

Over the years, Nasheetat witnessed a remarkable and inspiring change. When she first joined, girls were rarely seen in international teams. Today, the International Robot Olympiad Bangladesh team often sees half, and sometimes more than half, of its participants being girls, many of whom are performing exceptionally well on the international stage. Nasheetat was one of the pioneers of this shift, helping to shape a quiet but powerful movement. Her journey, along with others, created a sense of possibility that encouraged more girls to step forward with confidence and showcase their abilities.

This transformation also sparked her interest in understanding how confidence and opportunity shape success. It inspired her to look more deeply into how more young girls can be supported in pursuing their passion in technology without hesitation.

Today, she is studying at the University of Alberta, where she is in her first year of engineering and plans to specialize in Mechatronics and Robotics Engineering. She is actively involved in the Autonomous Robotic Vehicle Project club, contributing as part of the electrical team to develop underwater robots for international competitions. Each step she takes continues to build on the passion she discovered years ago.

Looking ahead, Nasheetat hopes to create technologies that solve real-world challenges and make a meaningful difference. Just as important to her is the desire to give back. She is committed to mentoring young learners, hoping to inspire them to explore robotics with curiosity and confidence, just as she once did.

"When young girls like me are encouraged to explore technology, they do more than participate. They grow, they lead, and they inspire others to dream even bigger". 

Her journey is a reminder of what becomes possible when passion meets opportunity and support. On this Girls in ICT Day, stories like hers show that when young girls are encouraged to explore technology, they do more than participate. They grow, they lead, and they inspire others to dream even bigger.