28/09/2026
Every great project needs someone working behind the scenes to turn plans into reality. For the founding AAUB CanSat team, that person was Shafeen Ahmed.
Taking a brand new team all the way to Virginia for a global competition seemed like a massive mountain to climb. While the engineering crew focused on building the satellite, Shafeen was busy building our path to get there. As our 2025 Project Manager, he spent six relentless months managing tight budgets, pitching to sponsors, and sorting out complicated international travel logistics. He pushed himself to master communication and networking, and he successfully secured the sponsorships and support we needed to make the trip happen.
But Shafeen did more than just get us on an airplane. During the competition, he connected with people from all over the world. He absorbed lessons on leadership and collaboration, and experienced firsthand how small habits like punctuality and professionalism can shape a much larger system. He brought that open, adaptable mindset right back to our team, showing us how to handle pressure, respect different viewpoints, and make the right choices when it matters most.
Shafeen, you showed us that building a CanSat is about much more than just engineering. It is about friendship, teamwork, and finding a way to make the impossible happen. Thank you for doing the heavy lifting, securing our foundation, and paving the way for the 2026 team to dream even bigger.