NEXT Innovation Scholar spotlight: Yasmine Shaban

A place where curiosity and innovation can flourish, the NEXT Innovation Scholars (NIS) program at the University of Cincinnati empowers a new generation to become leaders.

The program immerses students in interdisciplinary experiences across various industries, fostering forward-thinking problem solvers who embrace ambiguity with curiosity and confidence. Among the current cohort of scholars is Yasmine Shaban, DAAP ‘25, whose time as a NEXT Innovation Scholar has helped her grow as a leader. Recently, Shaban shared her experiences and insights that she gained from the program.

Yasmine Shaban: I transferred to UC as an international student, looking for more than just a degree. I was determined to explore my interests and passions in a meaningful way, even if that meant taking an untraditional path. When I came to UC, NIS did not exist, but I took the Future of Work class with Aaron Bradley. That course opened my eyes to the possibilities of the future and introduced me to design thinking.

Shaban: NIS has transformed the way I approach leadership. Through the program, I learned that true leadership is often about listening, observing and creating space for others to bring their ideas forward. NIS taught me to lead with curiosity and humility, navigate ambiguity with confidence, and ask better questions rather than rush to answers. I also gained skills in strategic foresight, systems thinking, and design thinking, some of the most valuable tools that have helped me think more holistically and work fluidly across disciplines.

Shaban: If you can be part of this community, the kindest thing you can do for yourself is to lean into the experiences it offers and approach every situation with an open mind and a sense of curiosity. There is always something new to learn about yourself and others and a problem to solve. When you lead with curiosity and reflect on the 'why,' you create more space for connecting with others and building trust in yourself.

Featured image at top: Yasmine Shaban. Photo/Provided.