Graduate recognised for innovative use of technology

A Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence graduate at Northumbria University, was selected as a finalist and received a commendation at the Digital Technology Leaders Awards.

At the London event last month, Gabriela Piatek was recognised as ‘Highly Commended’ in the Young Digital Professional of the Year category for her project, Cyber Eye – a venture that utilises machine learning and AI to improve the lives of those with cerebral palsy.

Cyber Eye is an innovative device and algorithm used for tracking the eye to allow care home residents to communicate with their friends and family. Currently in the research phase, Gabriela and her team put the technology to the test across 2,000 Polish nursing homes.

Driven by a passion for technology and social change, the idea for her final year project came to Gabriela after many years of experience in the tech field while feeling inspired by her mother’s job in a nursing home.

At just 15-years-old, Gabriela won the award for ‘Best Project in Poland and Lubelskie Voivodeship’ for an integrated technology-social project for retirement homes.

The success came after completing a programme called ‘Exempt from Theory’, which aims to make practice more important than theory. Gabriela spent time as part of a team aiming to ensure that the elderly are both seen and heard.

She was also awarded the title ‘Woman in AI Top 100 award in Poland’, which inspired Gabriela to explore the potentials of upcoming technology.

Gabriela’s most recent recognition at the Digital Tech Leaders Awards 2023, has given her yet another platform to share her story and inspire other woman to pursue their dreams regardless of barriers. It has also opened up opportunities for Gabriela to collaborate with other individuals and organisations to further develop her skills and knowledge.

Speaking of her achievements, Gabriela said: “As a young woman in tech, I am dedicated to breaking down gender barriers and empowering other women through involvement in initiatives like Woman in Tech.

“My biggest dreams are to be a role model for young women and create a future of an inclusive tech industry.”

During her time at Northumbria University, Gabriela has conducted research for machine learning models for pneumonia and worked as a Peer Mentor, Course Representative, Digital Content Creator and Event Representative where her passion for using technology to create social change came to the forefront.

Alongside the creation of Cyber Eye, Gabriela also co-founded Workabled.org, a platform promoting accessibility in public spaces, and established Smart Oak, an online space that engages young people in social activities.

Following on from her experience of working with both the Polish Parliament and UK Parliament, Gabriela is now about to go and work at US Congress.

Associate Professor Dr Kyle Montague, Gabriela’s project supervisor at Northumbria University, said: “Gabriela has always gone above and beyond with both her studies and other projects, which is why she is so deserving of this nomination

“Her work is of a high standard, I am sure she will go on to do great things.”

Dr Xiaomin Chen, module tutor for the final year project on the Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence programme, said: “It is wonderful to see students gaining recognition for their work on a national level. This no doubt provides them with renewed confidence in their abilities as they take their next steps towards their chosen career path or furthering their studies.”

Discover more about the Department of Computer and Information Sciences at Northumbria, including study options, at www.northumbria.ac.uk/cis