Ghana’s rising talent in facility engineering, Juliana Somuah, continues to put the nation on the global map with a series of prestigious awards and scholarships from the International Facility Management Association (IFMA).
From winning the Ignite FM Student Challenge 2024 to securing multiple IFMA Foundation scholarships, Juliana is setting new benchmarks for academic and professional excellence in the facility management industry.
Trailblazing with the Ignite FM Challenge
In 2024, Juliana and her team emerged victorious in the Ignite FM Student Challenge, a highly competitive platform where top students worldwide showcase innovative solutions for the facility management profession.
Her win demonstrated not only technical expertise but also strategic thinking, teamwork, and the ability to develop real-world solutions to industry challenges. Juliana believes facility management is more than maintaining spaces—it’s about redefining how buildings, people, and technology interact to shape the future of work and sustainability.
Prestigious IFMA Scholarships
Juliana’s academic journey has been equally impressive. She has earned some of the most sought-after scholarships in facility management, distinguishing herself as one of the most decorated young professionals in the field:
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Bucker Fisher IFMA Foundation Scholarship (2024): Awarded for her outstanding academic record, leadership, and potential to influence the future of facility management.
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IFMA Foundation Scholarship (2023): Recognizing her early commitment to facility management research and advocacy.
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Women in Facilities Engineering Award (2025): Celebrating female leaders breaking barriers and inspiring others in the male-dominated industry.
These awards not only provide financial support but also amplify her platform to influence global facility management practices.
Impact Beyond Awards
For Juliana, these recognitions are more than personal achievements—they are opportunities to make a tangible impact and represent Ghana internationally. Through her scholarships and awards, she has:
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Contributed to IFMA research initiatives on personality traits, emotional intelligence, and leadership in facility management.
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Shared insights at webinars and industry platforms, inspiring professionals and students alike.
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Advocated for diversity, mentorship, and inclusion, supporting the next generation of facility management professionals.
Her work helps shape an industry that directly impacts sustainability, workplace efficiency, and economic resilience.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Juliana’s journey is a powerful reminder that Ghanaian talent can shine globally with dedication and vision. Balancing her academic pursuits at UNC Charlotte with professional commitments to IFMA, she ensures her research and leadership address some of the industry’s most pressing challenges.
By winning international competitions and securing multiple scholarships, she is opening doors for other young Ghanaians aspiring to careers in facility engineering, research, and global leadership.
Conclusion
From Accra to international conference halls, Juliana Somuah’s story is one of excellence, impact, and representation. Her achievements, whether as an Ignite FM Challenge winner or a multi-scholarship recipient, reflect not only her determination but also Ghana’s growing footprint in the global facility management landscape.
Juliana is more than an award winner; she is a changemaker, bridging research, leadership, and practice while inspiring others to dream bigger.
Source: Kwame Nsiah Obeng