Season 16 Innovators

About

At 31, Khadidja is establishing a solid foundation towards leadership in the realm of biomedical engineering. With a comprehensive education that spans a five-year major in biomedical engineering, followed by a master's degree and a Ph.D. in Biomedical Instrumentation, Khadidja's academic achievements are both extensive and impressive. 

Khadidja's path to Stars of Science was inspired by her personal connections to the show, from her family’s enthusiasm for past seasons to the influence of an alumnus from the Season 7 program, who is also her professor at Abou Baker Blkaid University in Algeria. Encouraged by friends and motivated by a desire to turn her innovative ideas into reality, she applied to the program and ultimately secured her spot in its competitive lineup.

About the Project

Driven by her familial experiences with diabetes, and the challenges observed in her community, Khadidja’s project introduces a promising solution to diabetes management: a smart device that utilizes electrocardiogram (ECG) technology to estimate blood glucose levels non-invasively.

It caters to a broad audience, including those newly diagnosed with diabetes, fitness enthusiasts, and the elderly, offering early detection and on demand monitoring without the discomfort of conventional methods. Her academic and professional background, especially her Ph.D. research in Internet of Things (IoT) applications for biomedicine, has been instrumental in the development of her project.

This device not only promises affordability and sustainability but also offers a pain-free alternative to traditional glucose monitoring methods. 

Impact

This innovative tool aims to transform the way individuals manage diabetes––one of the leading causes of mortality in the MENA region––by making blood glucose monitoring more accessible and less intrusive. Khadidja's invention addresses the economic and physical burdens faced by diabetic individuals, providing a viable solution that could enhance the quality of life for many.

The realization of her device’s potential impact on people's lives, particularly the ability to aid in early diabetes management, fueled her dedication to this project. 

Looking ahead, Khadidja aspires to establish her own company in the biomedical engineering field, with plans to gain experience and build a network in the industry beforehand. Her vision extends beyond personal success, aiming to contribute meaningfully to healthcare innovations that can alleviate the challenges faced by diabetic individuals worldwide.

Her advice to other Arab innovators is a powerful message of faith and perseverance: she encourages aspiring innovators to work diligently, remain steadfast in the face of doubt, and believe in the possibility of turning dreams into reality.