The path to science and technology is open for girls. They can confidently stride forward!
For Nodira Tillayeva the UniSat program became the first step in her professional career
Friends, a couple of years ago, we introduced you to Nodira Tillayeva, a participant in the first UniSat program. Read our story to learn what has changed in her life since then, what successes she has achieved, and what plans she has for the future.
***
The path to science and technology is open for girls. They can confidently stride forward!
For Nodira Tillayeva the UniSat program became the first step in her professional career. Through her participation, she discovered a field that combines technology, space, and research.
"UniSat – a fusion of technology and science – has become more than just a project experience.It shaped my lifestyle and the direction of my entire career," says Nodira. "UniSat not only defined my trajectory but also demonstrated that even in an era of rapid artificial intelligence (AI) development, ’living’ fields such as ecology, sensors, and satellites remain relevant and in demand."
Nodira also emphasizes that the guidance and support from UniSat mentors played a significant role in her professional development, helping her take first confident steps in scientific research.
Following the program, Nodira worked at the Space Research and Technology Agency "Uzcosmos," completed an internship in data transmission at Huawei Datacom, enrolled in a master's program in Japan, published research at international conferences, and spoke at events organized by the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNOOSA).
Today, she acts as a mentor for girls entering the programme for the first time. Nodira is passionate about sharing her experience and knowledge with them.
"It brings me immense joy to now stand alongside my former mentors. It feels symbolic -they once supported me through challenges, and now I can do the same for a new generation of participants. Even more than that, we are co-creating new tools that expand opportunities for every girl. This sense of belonging to a vast chain of mutual support and inspiration is one of the most valuable parts of my journey," says Nodira.
Nodira continues her education and scientific research at Nagoya University's Graduate School of Automotive Engineering, pursuing a Master's in Electrical Engineering.She also works as a research associate at the Ubiquitous Computing Lab.
Nodira’smain goal is to pursue A PhD and areas advance research in of geospatial artificial intelligence and social, economic, and demographic processes (GeoAI and Urban Analysis). But she sees this path as more than personal..
"While mentoring, I saw how excited girls are about the geographic information systems (GIS technologies). Their curiosity inspired me to think about creating a community focused on open data, geoanalytics, AI, and related fields. I want girls to have a space where they feel supported, can engage in real research, and discover new possibilities in science together," says Nodira.
This community will join the global #30DayMapChallenge movement in November., where girls will create ecological maps of Uzbekistan. Thgese projects help to fill the gap in environmental data, promote digitalization, and demonstrate that every idea can have a real impact.
Girls often need assistance even when mentors are not around. That’s whyNodira came up with the idea of creating her own AI agent - Unisat - to answer girls' questions 24/7, providing round-the-clock support and motivating them to work independently.
Nodira's story can serve as an example and inspiration for girls who are choosing careers traditionally considered male-dominated.
"I know how important it is for girls to see that the path to science and technology is truly open. When they have role models and support, they move forward with confidence. I want to be part of that foundation and inspiration for the next generation - so every girl can believe her dreams of science and space are real!"
