The sky is no longer a ceiling; for Saudi Arabia’s next generation of scientists, it is the ultimate laboratory and the starting point of a new era.
Nora Almohizai is a rising star in Saudi Arabia’s STEM and space scene, serving as a physicist and youth ambassador with a natural flair for high-impact leadership. She is currently igniting systemic change through education, innovation, and a commitment to inclusion within the scientific community. By leveraging hands-on space programs, global collaborations, and inspiring mentorship, Nora is effectively propelling young women into orbit both literally and metaphorically. As a passionate communicator and explorer, her mission bridges the gap between science and society across the new frontiers of the Middle East.
A Leadership Foundation in STEM Education
Leadership has always been a core component of Almohizai’s professional identity. During her time at university, she chaired four student clubs, including the prestigious Phyzica Club. This experience allowed her to develop vital skills in strategic planning, risk management, and team communication, which she now applies to the broader space sector.Her influence has been recognized at the highest levels, as she began 2026 ranked among the Top 100 Women in Aerospace and Aviation, a testament to her growing impact on the industry.
Her influence extends into high-profile advocacy, notably appearing on the MBC program for World Science Day to discuss the rising passion for space science among Saudi youth. As an Astrophile (آستروفايل) Ambassador, she works to make space science accessible and inspiring for the next generation of explorers.
Propelling Youth Empowerment and Global Space Collaboration
In 2025, Almohizai participated in a competitive global training program in Space Systems Engineering through the Space Generation Advisory Council. This program involved project-based learning on mission design and payload development, where she collaborated with experts from NASA, ESA, and other leading space agencies.Her ability to turn complex scientific insights into global impact was further highlighted as a key speaker at the Smart Rebel Convention, where she explored how curiosity and human imagination shape our world.
Beyond her technical training, Almohizai has taken on significant mentoring roles. As a teaching assistant for the Space2102KAUST program, she mentored over 150 students as they built their own CubeSat structures. She also guided them in developing projects focused on the sustainability of the Red Sea coral reefs, demonstrating the practical applications of aerospace technology to environmental challenges.
Pioneering the Future of Aerospace and Innovation
As of January 2026, Almohizai continues to expand her technical repertoire. She recently obtained certifications in Introduction to Materials Science from Arizona State University and Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals. These skills position her at the intersection of material design and artificial intelligence, two critical pillars of modern space exploration.
Her leadership has been recognized internationally, including her role as a panel moderator at the Women in Aviation Middle East Annual Conference in December 2025. There, she led discussions on transitioning from classrooms to cockpits, advocating for young voices in the aviation and aerospace industries.Nora Almohizai is more than a physicist; she is an adventurer seeking new frontiers. Whether representing the Saudi space community as an ambassador or launching the Gulf Space Alliance, her mission remains clear: igniting change through education and propelling young women into orbit.
