Abi Way is graduating today with a degree in Product Design Engineering from Queen’s – the first student with a significant visual impairment to complete the course. 

Abi, originally from St Alban’s, joined the course in 2021, knowing that it would involve working with highly visual tools and software not designed with accessibility in mind. Computer-Aided Design (CAD) – a cornerstone of the programme – was one of the biggest early challenges. 

As Abi explains: 

“I can't deny that I panicked when I first realised the extent of the accessibility issues but I was determined to find a way to make it work. I spent many extra hours learning the software, often relying on memory rather than visual cues, and the university provided 1:1 support to act ‘as my eyes’ which really helped.” 

Abi’s perseverance paid off as she not only overcame her initial doubts but ended up achieving her highest module mark in CAD that year, going from her most feared subject to her favourite and strongest. 

Abi’s time at Queen’s has been defined by more than just academic success. She was an active member of the Formula Student team and Queen’s Propulsion Laboratory, and also found time for music and trampolining. During her placement year at Airbus Defence and Space, she worked across multiple departments in innovation management and took part in the UK Challenge – a demanding three-day event involving running, mountain biking, canoeing and problem-solving. 

That same year, Abi launched her own charity, Boomerang, to help visually impaired children access STEM education: 

“STEM subjects can be really difficult to access at school if you’re visually impaired – from the teacher’s handwriting to calculator displays. Boomerang aims to change that by offering mentoring, hands-on events and an online community to help bridge those gaps.” 

Abi’s work has already been recognised nationally. She received the National Trust Time and Space Award during her placement year and recently won the Enactus Spark 2025 competition to support Boomerang’s growth. She was also awarded the Walter Wilson Scholarship from Ulster Carpets for her contribution to the School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Queen’s. 

Reflecting on her time at Queen’s, Abi says: 

“Having a disability means you’re often the only one who really knows what you’re capable of. There were times I had to make sacrifices and adapt how I worked, but the support from the University made a big difference – they listened and worked with me.” 

And Abi’s advice for anyone in a similar position as her: 

“It won’t be easy, but if you’re passionate and determined, go for it. Technical subjects still have accessibility gaps, but university support can be far better than you expect – don’t let past experiences hold you back.” 

Abi was born with Oculocutaneous Albinism and Nystagmus, a condition affecting her vision but not her determination. She now plans to pursue a master’s degree in either space or design engineering and continue developing Boomerang alongside a career in the space industry – a dream she’s held since childhood. 

Abi’s final words of wisdom: 

“Life is a challenge – take it head on.” 

Media

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