INTRODUCTION
The role of makerspaces in driving innovation has grown significantly in recent years, providing a dynamic environment where ideas are transformed into tangible products. As open-access innovation hubs, makerspaces bring together engineers, designers, educators, and entrepreneurs to explore new concepts, build functional prototypes, and develop technology-driven solutions to real-world challenges. To advance this movement and provide a platform for learning and collaboration, FabLab Mogadishu is hosting the Makers Meetup #1 – 2025, a webinar designed to offer in-depth knowledge on how makerspaces contribute to product development, research, and industry applications. This session, titled “Innovating with Makerspaces – From Concept to Prototype”, will feature Rabab Hassan, Co-Founder & CEO of Karakeeb Makerspace in Alexandria, Egypt.
The webinar will examine the entire process of transforming an idea into a prototype, highlighting the resources, methodologies, and expertise required. Participants will gain a structured understanding of how makerspaces function as incubators of creativity, supporting rapid prototyping and multi-disciplinary collaboration.
MEETUP OBJECTIVES
The primary objective of this Makers Meetup webinar is to provide attendees with a structured, technical, and application-driven understanding of how makerspaces facilitate prototyping and innovation. The event will focus on:
- Understanding the Makerspace Ecosystem: Exploring the infrastructure, tools, and expertise available in modern makerspaces.
- Prototyping and Fabrication Methodologies: Discussing techniques such as 3D printing, CNC machining, and electronic prototyping.
- Industry Applications and Use Cases: Showcasing how makerspaces are utilized across various fields, including healthcare, education, manufacturing, and smart technologies.
- Entrepreneurial and Research Opportunities: Addressing how makerspaces contribute to startups, academic research, and industrial innovation.
- Overcoming Barriers in Access to Innovation Tools: Analyzing challenges such as affordability, digital infrastructure, and skill development in emerging markets.
- Collaboration and Networking: Encouraging partnerships among participants from different disciplines to enhance knowledge exchange and project development.
INTENDED PARTICIPANTS
This webinar is structured for a diverse audience, including professionals, researchers, and students who seek to integrate makerspace resources into their work. It is particularly relevant for:
- Engineers and Technologists: Professionals specializing in product design, IoT, robotics, and smart manufacturing.
- Entrepreneurs and Startups: Innovators looking to leverage makerspaces for rapid prototyping and cost-effective development.
- Academics and Researchers: Scholars exploring fabrication technologies for experimental and applied research.
- Students and Educators: Individuals interested in incorporating hands-on learning experiences in STEM education.
- Policy Makers and Development Experts: Stakeholders focused on integrating makerspaces into economic and technological development initiatives.
KNOWLEDGE LEVEL
The content is designed to accommodate varied levels of expertise, ensuring that all participants benefit from the discussion:
- Beginner Level: Attendees with minimal experience in makerspaces will gain a clear understanding of available tools and their applications.
- Intermediate Level: Those with some knowledge of fabrication technologies will learn advanced techniques and real-world case studies.
- Advanced Level: Experienced engineers and researchers will explore scalable solutions, industry-standard workflows, and cross-sector applications of makerspaces.
DIVERSE APPLICATION AREAS
Makerspaces are interdisciplinary environments, fostering innovation across multiple fields. This webinar will discuss diverse application areas where makerspaces have played a pivotal role, including:
- Healthcare and Biomedical Engineering: The development of 3D-printed prosthetics, assistive devices, and customized medical equipment.
- Industrial and Product Design: Prototyping for consumer electronics, wearables, and precision manufacturing.
- Aerospace and Automotive Engineering: Rapid iteration of mechanical components and testing prototypes for performance evaluation.
- IoT and Smart Technologies: Fabrication of sensor-based solutions for automation, security, and environmental monitoring.
- Education and STEM Learning: Integrating hands-on prototyping into science and engineering curricula to enhance practical learning.
- Sustainable Technologies: Developing energy-efficient solutions and upcycling materials for eco-friendly product design.
INTERNET ACCESSIBILITY
Given that this event is an online webinar, internet accessibility is a key consideration. We recognize that reliable connectivity can be a challenge in some regions, so the following measures have been taken to ensure a smooth experience for all participants:
- Low-bandwidth Options: The webinar will offer an audio-only mode and a low-resolution stream for participants with limited internet access.
- Recording and On-Demand Viewing: A recorded version will be made available for those unable to join live due to connectivity constraints.
- Interactive Chat and Q&A Sessions: Participants can engage with the speaker through text-based questions if live video participation is not feasible.
- Pre-Event Resources: Key materials will be shared in advance, allowing participants to review fundamental concepts before the session.
WEBINAR APPLICATION
The Makers Meetup #1 – 2025 will be hosted on a professional webinar platform that ensures seamless participation, secure access, and high-quality streaming. The platform will support:
- Multi-Device Compatibility: Attendees can join from desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
- Live Screen Sharing and Demonstrations: Enabling a visual and interactive learning experience through real-time prototype presentations.
- Breakout Discussions: Facilitating smaller group discussions to promote direct engagement with the speaker and other participants.
- Post-Event Resources: A follow-up document summarizing key insights and providing additional references will be shared with all registered attendees.
Event Details & Registration
📅Date: March 18, 2025
📍Location: Online Webinar
🎙️ Guest Speaker: Rabab Hassan – Co-Founder & CEO, Karakeeb Makerspace