Imperial College London Engineering Postgraduate is Highly Commended for a Therapy that will Tackle Balance Issues Arising from Inner Ear and Brain Problems

WuQing received the Highly Commended trophy for the development of WeAlign, a solution to help people with balance issues arising from inner ear and brain problems. She explained: “Twelve years ago, my mother was diagnosed with vestibular impairment, resulting in dizziness that made daily tasks, like navigating supermarkets and crowds daunting. This inspired me to look for ways to help manage the problem.

“Our healthy vestibular systems are essential for balance, but they tend to degrade with age, leading to dizziness and increased risk of falling. Currently, Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy is a leading treatment for this dysfunction, but access to therapy is limited by time, money, and transport. If a patient manages to access this therapy, they must continue their exercises daily without feedback or data. WeAlign software combines scientifically validated therapies and metrics, with engaging gamification and transparent data analytics. This empowers users to play the games and track their progress from the comfort of their own home. It makes the therapeutic process enjoyable and encourages consistent practice. This innovation will increase accessibility and adherence to vestibular rehabilitation.”

Thrilled by the recognition for her innovation, WuQing said, “The Engineers in Business Competition has introduced me to a network of inspiring start-ups, helped me hone my pitching skills, and practice thinking quickly during pitch Q&As. I have learned, and gained, so much from the EIBC experience. I’m so grateful that the judges want to highlight my project with the new, Highly Commended Award. I’m energised to continue to develop my business much further!”

The Engineers in Business Competition, which awarded the prize, is unique. Instead of creating an add-on competition, it provides prize funds that are integrated into each partner university’s existing offering. The undergraduates and postgraduates who take part and win a prize in their university competitions then enter the EIBC Champion of Champions Final for a chance to win further seed funding. WuQing is one of these inspiring winners.

The EIBC prize fund is provided by Engineers in Business Fellowship whose patron is Lord Sainsbury of Turville. EIBF’s President, David Falzani MBE, explained the rationale for awarding universities £700,000 over four years for business ideas competitions: “Research tells us that introducing business education to young engineers and technologists makes them better engineers, makes them more employable, more effective in the workplace and it is better for the UK economy. What is exceptional about the young engineers and technologists who are engaging with business ingenuity is that they are developing concepts while in education and many go on to develop real businesses that tackle problems in society. They are bringing new technologies to people and will create jobs. We are delighted for WuQing and look forward to seeing how WeAlign develops.”

You can see more photos of WuQing receiving her award here