Award-winning inventor a finalist in Alumni Awards

Award-winning Saudi inventor and Essex graduate Ali Al-Hoorie is a finalist in the Study UK Alumni Awards 2021-22.

Ali, who graduated from Essex in 2006 with a Masters in Applied Linguistics and in 2018 with a Masters in Social Science Data Analysis, is a finalist in the social action category in Saudi Arabia.

Currently working at the Jubail English Language and Preparatory Year Institute at the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu, Ali’s research interests include motivation theory, research methodology and complexity.

He has won several awards for inventing a device that can detect the early symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease via linguistic analysis using artificial intelligence.

“It is such an honour to be recognized by British Council’s Study UK Alumni Awards. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me, and I hope this recognition will inspire others to serve their communities,” he said.

He said his two Masters degrees from Essex helped him advance his academic career and during his studies at Essex he enjoyed being part of an international community.

“In every class, there were students from all parts of the world, which was a great chance to meet new people and learn about their backgrounds.”

His advice to anyone wanting to succeed with their goals was to “think big and long term”.

“You should not leave it to chance. Focus on your target and keep assessing your progress regularly (annually or biannually). Hold yourself accountable for the goals you set for yourself.”

The Alumni Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of alumni and showcase the impact and value of a UK higher education. Award winners and finalists are leaders in their fields who have used their experience of studying at a UK university to make a positive contribution to their communities, professions and countries.

The final will be held on Wednesday 2 March.