Trizah Noel Awuor Akeyo

Trizah Akeyo is a Masters student, currently studying Transport Planning and Engineering MSc at the Institute for Transport Studies.

The combination of academic excellence and industry connections made the University of Leeds the perfect place for Trizah to develop her understanding of how infrastructure contributes to sustainable development. 

“The Institute of Transport Studies at the University of Leeds was my natural choice because of its exceptional program, which is delivered by top-tier professionals in the field,” she said.  

“I knew that if I wanted to excel in the field of transport, I needed a program that not only offered top-notch education but also strong ties to the industry.

Leeds was the perfect place for me to expand my knowledge and open up promising career opportunities.” 

Broadening horizons

For Trizah, the best aspect of the course has been the way it has challenged her thinking around sustainable transport, and how it has inspired her to make a positive impact on society.  

Through providing sustainable and resilient transport facilities, I not only uplift communities but also help shape a better sustainable future

She said: “Analysing global transport case studies and exploring transportation issues worldwide has significantly broadened my perspectives on potential solutions to transport problems. This intellectual stimulation and exposure to diverse perspectives have been incredibly enriching.

Through providing sustainable and resilient transport facilities, I not only uplift communities but also help shape a better sustainable future.”

During the course, Trizah participated in the sustainable transport commute initiative. This programme was about encouraging students to use public transport and other forms of active transport to get to campus and around the city. 

It included taking pictures of her commute and sharing on social media platforms to encourage others to also take part. After she was elected as a course rep, Trizah also used the opportunity to share her own sustainable commuting tips. 

A rewarding career

She firmly believes the course can make a significant contribution to our daily lives.  

She said: “First, it focuses on innovating new sustainable methods of travel, which directly impacts on how people move around in their daily lives. This can lead to reduced pollution, more efficient transportation systems, and better access to essential services.

Additionally, access to reliable and efficient transportation is often a key factor in enabling individuals to access education, employment and healthcare, which are crucial elements of improving their quality of life.”

One of the most exciting projects Trizah has been involved during her course is the KURA LOT 15 road project in Kenya. This project was part of a national program to upgrade 10,000km of roads in Kenya with a significant investment.  

It aims to reduce people’s commuting time, reduce vehicle operating costs, boost economic activity in agriculture, commerce and tourism, and create employment opportunities. It also prioritises local hiring to benefit areas with high poverty rates and low GDP.  

The completed road is expected to connect the local population to essential social services, including health facilities, schools and business centres.  

Trizah said: “This made it an exciting and impactful project, as it not only addressed transportation infrastructure needs but also had far reaching implications for local economic development and improving the quality of life for the communities it served.” 

Looking to the future

Looking to the future, Trizah has ambitions to become a chartered engineer with a globally recognised organisation such as the Institution of Civil Engineers. 

"I plan to stay in the UK for a few years after I finish my studies to gain international experience and work toward achieving this goal,” she said. 

“As I look ahead, I'm determined to go back to my home continent, Africa, which still faces numerous challenges in its development process and contribute to sustainable development.

I want to use the knowledge and expertise I've gained to make a positive impact on Africa by sharing what I've learned and using my skills to help create a better future for the people and communities there.” 

Trizah believes her experience at Leeds has provided her with the skills to realise her ambitions.  

She said: “My experience as a course representative for my Masters has enabled me to gain soft skills such as effective communication, collaboration and respect for equality, diversity and inclusion which I would say will help me the most in my career as a future global leader to be able to work with people from different backgrounds.” 

I want to use the knowledge and expertise I've gained to make a positive impact on Africa by sharing what I've learned and using my skills to help create a better future for the people and communities there.

A message to future students

For students considering the course, Trizah’s message is simple.  

She said: “If you have a strong passion for transport engineering, sustainable development and the desire to contribute to a brighter future, then this is the perfect course for you.

The way this course is taught, along with the interactions you'll have with fellow students from diverse backgrounds, will undoubtedly transform your perspective and broaden your thinking.” 

Join us

Discover more about studying for a postgraduate degree at the Institute for Transport Studies.