Overview:

In this talk for the CMBES, Rashmi Prakash reframes inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility as engineering design requirements rather than social add-ons, showing how health technologies and systems often fail when entire populations are overlooked. Through real-world examples, she shares practical ways engineers can intentionally design solutions that are safer, more sustainable, and truly serve everyone.

Presenters:

Rashmi Prakash 

Rashmi Prakash is an internationally recognized biomedical engineer, educator, and entrepreneur working at the intersection of human and environmental health. She is the Founder and CEO of Aruna Revolution, a fibertech company developing compostable absorbent materials for sustainable hygiene products, and an Adjunct Professor at UBC, where she teaches biomedical engineering with a focus on real-world impact and sustainability. Her work spans research commercialization, circular materials, and health equity.