Building a Strong Digital Identity: Key Collaborators and Strategic Growth

To build and improve my digital identity, I rely on key collaborators who can offer invaluable support. Universities and professors play a pivotal role by providing academic guidance, references, and access to research or career opportunities. Their expertise helps ensure my digital presence is informed and grounded in credible academic foundations. Mentors and industry professionals further refine my profile by offering feedback on its optimization, endorsing my skills, and keeping me updated on the latest industry trends. Their insights are crucial for adapting my identity to the evolving demands of the field. Additionally, peers and alumni networks are instrumental in expanding my professional connections, facilitating opportunities to connect with recruiters, collaborators, and others in my industry. By building relationships with these individuals, I can gain access to new opportunities and advice that drive the continuous growth of my digital identity.

To access my DI, please do refer to this attached link: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGW1qzT0cs/7cTYSsg7Az8jCG7HGyVbhQ/view?utm_content=DAGW1qzT0cs&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=editor

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About NAUFAL AFIF PRAHASTHO

Innovative Sustainability Expert | MSc Candidate in Advanced Materials: Innovative Recycling Erasmus Mundus Program | Experienced Analyst in Renewable Energy & Environmental Sustainability Solutions

Personalized Learning Environment (PLE) by Naufal

The Personalized Learning Environment (PLE) by Naufal Afif Prahastho integrates tools for personal, professional, and academic growth. It includes personal and professional social media for connections, work management, and training platforms for productivity and skill development in areas like programming, AI, and automation. Video conferencing enables hybrid work, while research tools support academic pursuits. Entertainment options like gaming and interactive activities provide relaxation and community engagement. Additionally, the PLE emphasizes sustainability with tools for emission evaluation and meaningful data visualization, creating a balanced framework for learning, work, and leisure.

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About NAUFAL AFIF PRAHASTHO

Innovative Sustainability Expert | MSc Candidate in Advanced Materials: Innovative Recycling Erasmus Mundus Program | Experienced Analyst in Renewable Energy & Environmental Sustainability Solutions

Going through “The Week” was an eye-opening journey that took me through a mix of intense emotions. That first video hit hard—I felt a deep sense of agony and disgust realizing how severe the climate crisis is. The problem seemed so overwhelming that hopelessness set in, making me wonder if anything we do can really make a difference.

But as the week progressed, things changed. The discussions with Naufal, Jerome, and Laki were especially valuable. Talking with them helped me process these heavy emotions and learn to express them openly. Those conversations turned the experience from being just informative to being deeply personal and reflective, helping me move from despair to a place of hope. The sessions showed that there are real, tangible ways to tackle the crisis, and that we aren’t powerless. By the end of the week, I felt motivated and more responsible—not just as an individual but as an upcoming engineer who will have a role in shaping a sustainable future.

Learning about climate change isn’t just about facts; it’s about facing the emotional impact head-on. It starts with shock and sadness, then anger at the failures that led us here, and finally, hope—sparked by seeing that solutions exist and that collective action can bring change.

Being a parent to my 8-month-old daughter makes all of this hit even closer to home. Her future weighs heavily on my mind, and that worry pushes me to act. As an engineer in training, I know that my choices and actions contribute to the kind of world she will grow up in. “The Week” reinforced that while fear can be overwhelming, it can also fuel action. Thanks to those meaningful discussions with my peers, I’m more committed than ever to playing my part for her future—and for all of ours.

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About OSCAR LINDBERG AUGESTAD

Innovative Sustainability Expert | MSc Candidate in Advanced Materials: Innovative Recycling Erasmus Mundus Program | Experienced Analyst in Renewable Energy & Environmental Sustainability Solutions

My professional future

Reflecting on my professional future through the lens of Yuval Noah Harari’s insights, it’s clear that the rapid development of AI is reshaping the landscape of work and society. In a recent conversation between Harari and a program leader, he emphasized the paramount importance of adaptability and flexibility in career planning. As an engineering student, this advice resonates deeply. The notion that specific job roles could quickly become obsolete as AI systems advance requires an adaptable mindset—one ready to pivot and embrace new opportunities and skill sets as they emerge.

Harari argues that in a world dominated by technological progress, the ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn is not just valuable but essential. This perspective underscores the importance of cultivating a mentality that is open to constant change, where being attached to a singular career path might be limiting. Instead, I need to prioritize versatility, developing a toolkit of skills that allows me to shift roles or approaches seamlessly as AI begins to fill more technical and repetitive positions in engineering and beyond.

The ability to grasp new frameworks and adjust to different sets of rules quickly will be a competitive advantage. For an engineer like me, this might mean going beyond traditional training and incorporating interdisciplinary knowledge, such as data science, ethical AI considerations, and circular economy principles, into my expertise. This adaptability, coupled with ongoing learning, aligns with Harari’s prediction that the future belongs to those who can navigate the interplay between technology and human creativity.

To prepare for a career in this dynamic landscape, I need to stay proactive in identifying emerging trends and be ready to re-skill when necessary. Embracing this mindset will ensure that my work remains relevant and impactful in an era where technological development is both a challenge and an opportunity.

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About OSCAR LINDBERG AUGESTAD

Innovative Sustainability Expert | MSc Candidate in Advanced Materials: Innovative Recycling Erasmus Mundus Program | Experienced Analyst in Renewable Energy & Environmental Sustainability Solutions

A Personal Reflection on my Professional Future

Reflecting on Yuval Noah Harari’s insights in “The Two Most Important Skills for the Rest of Your Life” brought both excitement and introspection about where technology is taking us—and where it leaves me as a Material Engineer with a passion for sustainability and circular economy principles.

Harari introduces a future where human “hackability” isn’t science fiction. It’s about algorithms and AI understanding our choices before we do, predicting what we want or need next, and shifting our interactions with the world. This idea sparked a personal question: How will this AI-driven insight affect industries where sustainability and resource efficiency are key? Could AI predict not just material needs but also the most sustainable approaches to sourcing, lifecycle, and waste reduction? As exciting as these advancements sound, they come with ethical implications, particularly in sustainability fields where transparency is critical.

For me, this means adaptability isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential. Harari points out that, beyond technical expertise, we’ll need emotional resilience to pivot with each wave of change. As someone in a field rooted in problem-solving and environmental responsibility, I see this as a call to embrace lifelong learning. Today, I might be refining recycling processes; tomorrow, I could be collaborating with AI to discover the next best circular materials.

In a world where technical skills alone might not keep pace, I believe developing emotional intelligence will be my biggest advantage. It will help me stay grounded, stay curious, and ultimately, stay human in a world driven by technology. Harari’s message has deepened my commitment to sustainability and reinforced that adaptability and self-awareness aren’t just “soft skills” but vital tools in building a resilient, meaningful career.

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About LAIBA ZAHID

A materials engineer specializing in advanced recycling and circular economy, currently pursuing a Master's in Circular Economy for Minerals and Construction Products at Universidad Politécnica de Madrid.

About Myself!

Hello everyone!

My name is Laki, and I am from Bangladesh. I am a passionate and driven master’s student specializing in Advanced Materials & Innovative Recycling (AMIR), an EU-supported program under the Erasmus initiative. I have completed my first year at Masters of Material science and Engineering from NOVA School of Science and Technology (NOVA FCT) – University of Lisbon. Currently I am doing my second year, Masters of Circular Economy_ Priorities construction Materials at Technical University of Madrid (UPM). I have gained extensive knowledge in recycling, circular economy, and sustainability principles.Throughout my academic journey, I have developed strong expertise in materials recycling, waste-to-energy projects, carbon capture and storage (CCS), construction and demolition (C&D) recycling, sustainable product design, and packaging. My studies, paired with professional experience in entrepreneurship and sustainability management, have prepared me to make meaningful contributions to the recycling and sustainability sectors. I am very happy to connect with you, All!

Objective:I am actively seeking a challenging and dynamic internship or thesis project that aligns with my background in materials recycling, waste management, and sustainability. I am open to working in various environments, from urban centers to remote locations, and am eager to apply my knowledge to impactful projects that drive sustainable innovation.

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About LAKI KHATUN

Hello everyone! My name is Laki, and I am from Bangladesh. I am a passionate and driven master’s student specializing in Advanced Materials & Innovative Recycling (AMIR), an EU-supported program under the Erasmus initiative. I have completed my first year at Masters of Material science and Engineering from NOVA School of Science and Technology (NOVA FCT) – University of Lisbon. Currently I am doing my second year, Masters of Circular Economy_ Priorities construction Materials at Technical University of Madrid (UPM). I have gained extensive knowledge in recycling, circular economy, and sustainability principles. Throughout my academic journey, I have developed strong expertise in materials recycling, waste-to-energy projects, carbon capture and storage (CCS), construction and demolition (C&D) recycling, sustainable product design, and packaging. My studies, paired with professional experience in entrepreneurship and sustainability management, have prepared me to make meaningful contributions to the recycling and sustainability sectors. I am very happy to connect with you, All! Objective: I am actively seeking a challenging and dynamic internship or thesis project that aligns with my background in materials recycling, waste management, and sustainability. I am open to working in various environments, from urban centers to remote locations, and am eager to apply my knowledge to impactful projects that drive sustainable innovation.

Students presentation: Oscar Augestad


A little about me

Hello, I’m Oscar Augestad, a 26-year-old Norwegian materials and chemical engineer with a deep-rooted passion for recycling and sustainability. From an early age, I’ve been captivated by the potential of recycling to transform our world and contribute to a more circular economy. This curiosity has driven me to pursue education and hands-on experience in material technology and recycling.

A Journey Across Continents

Living in multiple countries across Africa, South America, and Europe has given me a global perspective on sustainability challenges and opportunities. My experiences abroad have not only enhanced my adaptability but have also fostered a collaborative mindset, as I’ve learned to thrive in culturally diverse teams. I’m now based in Spain, where I continue to learn and innovate.

Academic and Professional Background

I hold a bachelor’s degree in material technology from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), where I explored subjects like metallurgy, corrosion, nanotechnology, and heat transfer. Currently, I’m pursuing a master’s in Advanced Materials and Innovative Recycling (AMIR) from institutions in Spain and France, which allows me to delve into subjects like urban mining, life cycle assessments, and sustainable building materials.

My professional experience has been hands-on and dynamic. At SINTEF Industry, I worked as an R&D intern on projects involving aluminum recycling and spectroscopy techniques, such as Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) and GD-OES. I’ve tackled the challenges of operating aluminum smelters and sand-molded casting, learning firsthand about the intricacies of recycling metals. I even shared some insights in a video to make the technical accessible and engaging!

An Eye on the Future of Recycling

With my expertise in material science and my passion for circular economy solutions, I aim to contribute to a world where recycling and sustainability become the norm. My journey has only just begun, and I’m excited to keep exploring how we can innovate to create a greener, more sustainable future for all.

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About OSCAR LINDBERG AUGESTAD

Innovative Sustainability Expert | MSc Candidate in Advanced Materials: Innovative Recycling Erasmus Mundus Program | Experienced Analyst in Renewable Energy & Environmental Sustainability Solutions

Professional Introduction: Naufal Afif Prahastho

Background

I am a dedicated sustainability expert and MSc candidate specializing in advanced materials and innovative recycling through the Erasmus Mundus program. I bring over 3 years of hands-on experience in material science, project management, and environmental sustainability. My career spans roles in management consulting, renewable energy market analysis, and product lifecycle management. I excel at designing and implementing sustainable solutions that enhance business operations and reduce environmental footprints.

Contribution & Interest

In previous positions, I’ve contributed to sustainable policy development, renewable energy management, and operational transformations. Passionate about emerging technologies in the sustainability field, I’m particularly driven to optimize supply chains with eco-friendly solutions.

With a focus on environmental sustainability, I’m committed to pushing the boundaries of material science and circular economy strategies. My goal is to leverage my skills in project management, data-driven analysis, and sustainability to drive meaningful change in the industries I serve.

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About NAUFAL AFIF PRAHASTHO

Innovative Sustainability Expert | MSc Candidate in Advanced Materials: Innovative Recycling Erasmus Mundus Program | Experienced Analyst in Renewable Energy & Environmental Sustainability Solutions

Introducing myself: David Duarte

Hi readers! My name is David Duarte, I am from Colombia. I have a degree in materials engineering with an emphasis on ceramic materials for the construction industry. I am a student of the Master’s Degree in Advanced Materials and Circular Economy and I want to develop binder materials with a lower carbon footprint, friendly to the environment.

My professional goals are to join research groups dedicated to the reuse of waste for its reincorporation into the production chain and achieve a transition from the linear economy model to a circular and sustainable model.

My areas of expertise are: life cycle analysis of products, binder materials, ceramic glazes and glass. Valorisation and reincorporation of industrial wastes. Physical-chemical characterization of materials and implementation of new technologies.

About DAVID DUARTE NIETO

Hello! I am David Duarte, I was born in Colombia, but I grew up in Venezuela. I work in the field of materials and their potential in the construction world. I'm currently studying a master's degree in advanced recycling of materials, a path that brings me closer to the goal of contributing to a more sustainable world. I like being in contact with nature. If I can overcome laziness, I like hiking and mountaineering. At home, I usually read manga and watch Japanese animation, a culture that awakens a lot of curiosity and admiration in me. I also enjoy exploring the gastronomy of each new place I visit.