Birmingham‑born Atiyyah Zafar has been awarded the 2025 Millennium Point scholarship, giving her a fully funded place on Birmingham City University’s Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence course, positioning her to join the UK’s next wave of ethical AI talent.
Employers have been warning that Britain could be 150,000 digital specialists short by 2030, so judges felt Atiyyah’s commitment to building AI tech is a sound investment in the future, emphasising why investing in local talent matters now more than ever.
The former Joseph Chamberlain Sixth Form College student is the 11th winner of the scholarship and intends to focus on AI tools that help close the digital skills gap in the West Midlands — an area that, apparently, the area is falling behind in. She said:
“Winning the scholarship made me feel really validated, and like all my efforts had been seen. It feels like this is the first time I’ve been able to actually voice my opinions about what’s going on in the West Midlands. A lack of digital skills has led to high unemployment, growing inequality, and increased online risks in the region. Many people struggle due to limited access to resources, fast-changing technology, and a lack of education.”
Abbie Vlahakis, CEO of Millennium Point, added: “Atiyyah is evidence of our belief that it’s important to back bright minds early. You’re not just changing a life, you’re strengthening the region’s future workforce. And with the potential for a digital skills crisis in the near future, it is this exact sort of thing we need to be backing.”
Last year’s recipient Patrick Mezzano is now studying Real Estate at BCU after impressing judges with his affordable‑housing ideas, underlining how the scholarship channels talent into sectors crying out for fresh thinking.
Over the last 10 years, the Millennium Point trust has supported organisations in the region with more than £45 million — including discounted rents, donations, scholarships and other support.
Award-winning venue and charity, Millennium Point, welcomed over 1,000 local school children to explore the world of engineering at its free SciENGINEERING Showcase on 10 June. The event offered students an exciting day of hands-on workshops, live demonstrations, and inspiring talks from leaders in the engineering sector.
A host of leading organisations—including Thinktank, The Air League, Rolls Royce, British Army, Birmingham, BOM & BCU STEAMhouse —joined forces to deliver engaging activities and insights into careers in engineering. From structural design challenges to robotics and sustainable tech, students got a glimpse into the innovations shaping our future.
Abbie Vlahakis, CEO of Millennium Point, said:
“It is incredibly rewarding to open young minds to the possibilities within engineering. Events like SciENGINEERING are vital in showing students how they can shape the world through creativity, problem-solving, and innovation.”
The SciENGINEERING Showcase was part of Millennium Point’s annual Sci-series, designed to improve access to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths) careers for young people across the West Midlands. This year’s event spotlighted roles such as civil engineers, robotics technicians, and environmental engineers through fun, interactive experiences.
With over £45 million invested in STEM education across the region, Millennium Point continues to empower the next generation of engineers and innovators.
Delivering an impactful STEM event takes more than a great idea — it takes planning, experience and a dedicated team. At Millennium Point, we’ve spent years developing a programme of events that excites pupils and supports teachers.
Our events are built around real-world STEM concepts, from sustainable engineering to space science. Behind the scenes, our education and event teams work together to design interactive workshops, presentations and guided tours that fit school learning goals.
Every school is different, and our team helps tailor events in line with curriculum areas, age groups and SEN considerations, while also considering the changing shape of the job market. Our on-site staff handle set-up, safeguarding and technical logistics.
Visits often include a screening in our giant screen Auditorium, and hands-on sessions where pupils get to build, test or create. We also provide downloadable pre-visit and post-visit materials so teachers can extend the learning back in the classroom.
It’s not just about the day itself — it’s about the longer term impact. We want pupils to feel inspired and curious, and give teachers the support they need to make STEM education come alive. That’s what makes a Millennium Point event more than just a trip — it’s an experience designed to last.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming a practical tool in education, and one of the most accessible options for teachers is ChatGPT. Whether used for planning lessons, generating resources, or offering pupils a new way to explore topics, ChatGPT can add real value to the classroom.
Teachers under time pressure can use ChatGPT to quickly draft lesson plans, suggest classroom activities or even create worksheets tailored to specific learning objectives. For example, a science teacher might prompt it to generate quiz questions on STEM-related topics or write a script for a role-play about climate change.
ChatGPT can also support differentiated learning. With the right prompts, it can produce simplified or advanced versions of the same content to meet the needs of diverse learners. It’s not a replacement for teachers’ knowledge and experience, but it can offer a powerful starting point.
There are also ways pupils can benefit directly. Encouraging older students to ask ChatGPT research questions can help develop critical thinking and digital literacy, provided they are guided on how to assess and evaluate responses.
At Millennium Point, we’re seeing how AI fits into the broader picture of STEM education. Our workshop events explore real-world applications of technology, and we encourage teachers to integrate digital tools into their teaching practice.
Used thoughtfully, ChatGPT can be a valuable ally in making lessons more dynamic and responsive.
The final weeks of term are the perfect time to reward students with a trip that combines fun, curiosity, and a hint of inspiration. For Birmingham-based teachers planning an educational yet enjoyable day out, the city offers several excellent options that can complement classroom learning and create lasting memories.
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum: A STEM-Focused Favourite
Located within Millennium Point, Thinktank is a top choice for schools seeking a trip that’s both educational and interactive. Managed by Birmingham Museums Trust, Thinktank offers curriculum-linked activities across science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM). Highlights include the Science Garden, Planetarium, and engaging workshops suitable for all key stages.
While Millennium Point itself does not offer school trip packages, it supports STEM education through the Millennium Point Charitable Trust, which funds initiatives across the West Midlands to enhance learning opportunities. Schools looking to enrich their curriculum with hands-on science can benefit from both the museum’s facilities and the broader educational ecosystem in and around the venue.
Expand the experience: Outdoor & cultural add-ons
Make the most of your day out by exploring the Eastside City Park, just outside Thinktank. With ample green space and water features, it’s ideal for lunch breaks or post-museum downtime. For groups interested in cultural enrichment, nearby attractions such as the Library of Birmingham or Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery can add variety to the itinerary.
Planning your visit
Teachers can book directly through Birmingham Museums Trust for Thinktank visits. Pre-visit materials, risk assessments, and optional add-ons like workshops or planetarium shows are available. The venue is centrally located with good transport links, coach-friendly access, and facilities that support school group needs.
Birmingham is bursting with exciting opportunities for young minds to explore the world of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) this summer. Whether you’re a parent looking for engaging experiences during the school holidays or a teacher planning an educational day out, the city offers something for everyone.
Millennium Point is one of the leading destinations for STEM-inspired learning. With interactive exhibitions and hands-on workshops, provided at a series of events throughout the year, the venue seeks to make learning fun and accessible.
This summer, for example, sees the return of the venue’s summer school series — this time in partnership with Playground Games (Forza series) — where 11-15 year olds can take part in three days of activities built to improve their digital skills and more. And that’s all after the fourth installment of SciSERIES in June, which is an annual event dedicated to inspiring the next generation of students.
Elsewhere, Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum offers immersive exhibits and a planetarium experience that children won’t forget. And, the Library of Birmingham is also running summer reading challenges and tech-based storytelling workshops.
What makes these activities especially valuable is their ability to spark curiosity while supporting learning beyond the classroom. STEM careers are growing rapidly, and early exposure through fun, informal education helps build confidence and interest in these fields.
For those looking to stay local, Millennium Point’s central location makes it an ideal base for a full day out, with nearby green spaces and family-friendly restaurants. Booking early is advised for workshops and events.
This summer, make it a priority to mix learning with leisure. Birmingham’s STEM offerings are not just educational – they’re making a real impact.
Millennium Point and the Osbournes have announced a new exclusive event for Birmingham. On Friday 4th July, the Birmingham landmark will host the world premiere cinema screening The Nine Lives Of Ozzy Osbourne – the acclaimed film detailing the extraordinary life of the godfather of heavy metal, with special guest Jack Osbourne.
For more than five decades, Ozzy Osbourne has personified rock and roll rebellion. In an unparalleled career, Ozzy has won 5 Grammy Awards, has been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame twice, and became the first metal performer to be given a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Nine Lives Of Ozzy Osbourne traces his life from his childhood in Birmingham, through the meteoric rise of Black Sabbath, to even greater success as a solo artist.
The world premiere is the latest exciting news for Midlands music fans following the announcement of Ozzy Osbourne’s final ever concert at Villa Park on the following day. With a huge line-up of rock’s biggest stars joining him for the concert, The Nine Lives Of Ozzy Osbourne is set to complete a city-wide weekend of celebration for Ozzy.
Fans will have two opportunities to enjoy The Nine Lives Of Ozzy Osbourne – at 4pm or 6.30pm on Friday 4th July. At the end of the evening, special guest Jack Osbourne will be appearing live for an exclusive Q&A for bookers of the 6.30pm screening. Following the iconic MTV series The Osbournes, Jack has found huge success as a reporter and presenter in shows such as Jack Osbourne: Adrenaline Junkie, Saving Planet Earth, Ozzy & Jack’s World Detour, and Jack Osbourne’s Haunted Homecoming.
Millennium Point CEO, Abbie Vlahakis commented: “Like all of Birmingham, we love the Osbournes, and are excited to be hosting the world premiere of The Nine Lives Of Ozzy Osbourne at Millennium Point. Birmingham’s biggest star belongs on Birmingham’s biggest screen!”
Profits from the event will be donated equally to Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital and Acorns Children’s Hospice.
Tickets sales for The Nine Lives Of Ozzy Osbourne open at 10am on Thursday 22nd May at www.millenniumpoint.org.uk.
Millennium Point has announced a record-breaking year for its events business. In 2024-2025, the company recorded a 35% year-on-year increase in income. The landmark building attracted an increased number of national conferences to the area and welcomed 62,000 visitors to over 500 events across the year.
New Event Spaces and Technology Drive Millennium Point’s Growth
Millennium Point’s continued events growth follows recent improvements to the building, including new event spaces and increased investment in presentation, screening and live-streaming technology. Offering an easily accessible location and Birmingham’s biggest screen, the venue is a popular destination for conferences, film premieres and brand expos.
Rebecca Delmore on Millennium Point’s Record-Breaking Year
Rebecca Delmore, Millennium Point’s Commercial Director, commented “We always put our event clients first and continue to adapt our building and services to give them the best possible customer service. We are thrilled that the team’s hard work has resulted in a record-breaking year.”
The record profits will enable Millennium Point to better support local young people via The Millennium Point Trust. The Trust serves the West Midlands by offering grants, funded degrees, free school events, and networking opportunities to help further employment opportunities.
In the ever-evolving world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), diversity isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a catalyst for innovation. Yet, for many LGBTQ+ individuals, the path into these fields remains fraught with challenges.
Recent research revealed that nearly 30% of LGBTQ+ young people in the UK avoid pursuing STEM careers due to fears of discrimination. But amid these statistics, a new generation of LGBTQ+ scientists and engineers is breaking barriers, redefining norms, and inspiring others to follow suit.
Shrouk El-Attar: Engineering change and advocating for refugees
Born in Alexandria, Egypt, Shrouk El-Attar is an electronics engineer and a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ and refugee rights. After seeking asylum in the UK, she pursued her education at Cardiff University, where she combined her technical expertise with activism. Shrouk’s unique approach includes performing as a belly dancer under the moniker “Dancing Queer” to raise funds for LGBTQ+ individuals facing persecution in Egypt.
Her contributions haven’t gone unnoticed. In 2018, she was named one of the BBC’s 100 Most Influential Women, and in 2021, she received the Institution of Engineering and Technology’s Young Woman Engineer of the Year award. Shrouk’s journey underscores the power of resilience and the impact of combining technical skills with advocacy.
Professor David K. Smith: Making chemistry accessible and inclusive
At the University of York, Professor David K. Smith is not only renowned for his work in nanochemistry but also for his commitment to making science accessible. An openly gay academic, David has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in STEM. Through his engaging YouTube channel, he demystifies complex chemical concepts, making them relatable to a broader audience.
David’s outreach efforts aim to challenge stereotypes about scientists and encourage young LGBTQ+ individuals to see themselves in scientific roles. His work exemplifies how visibility and education can go hand-in-hand to foster inclusivity in STEM fields.
Dr. André K. Isaacs: Fusing science with choreography
Dr. André K. Isaacs, a Jamaican-born chemist based in the United States, is redefining science communications. Known for his viral TikTok videos that combine chemistry lessons with choreographed dances, André brings a fresh and engaging approach to education. His signature rainbow lab coat isn’t just a fashion statement — it’s a symbol of pride and inclusivity in the lab.
Beyond social media, André is dedicated to mentoring students and creating supportive environments for LGBTQ+ individuals in science. His innovative methods demonstrate that embracing one’s identity can enhance, rather than hinder, scientific outreach and education.
The importance of representation in STEM
The stories of Shrouk, David, and André highlight the profound impact that representation can have in STEM fields. When individuals see themselves reflected in their professions, it establishes a sense of belonging and encourages diverse perspectives, which are essential for innovation.
However, challenges persist. A study by the Institute of Physics found that 28% of LGBTQ+ physical scientists in the UK have considered leaving their workplace due to discrimination. Additionally, research indicates that transgender and gender non-conforming students continue in STEM majors at a rate roughly 10% lower than their cisgender peers.
These statistics underscore the need for continued efforts to create inclusive environments where all individuals can thrive.
Inspiring the next generation
Fostering diversity in STEM is crucial for driving progress and innovation. By supporting underrepresented groups through scholarships, outreach programmes, and educational initiatives, we aim to break down barriers and open doors for the next generation of scientists and engineers.
Rainbow flags, big celebrations, music, dancing — for a lot of people, that’s the heart of Pride. It’s joy, community and unapologetic self-expression.
But Pride is also about pushing for change, especially where LGBTQ+ people still struggle to feel seen and heard. And yes, that includes STEM — science, technology, engineering and maths.
Now imagine the ideas, breakthroughs, and discoveries that might have been lost because someone didn’t feel welcome to get involved…
So, why does this matter?
Because STEM shapes the world we live in. From tackling climate change to designing new tech, the people working in these fields have a big influence on how we live, work, and solve the problems of today.
Also, here’s the thing: diverse teams are better at solving problems. And that’s backed by evidence. A 2018 study found that when people from different backgrounds and identities bring their own perspectives to the table, the results speak for themselves.
But this can only happen when people feel welcome to show up as themselves.
Pride is a year-round celebration of identity, community, and allyship
It’s about celebrating identity — of course — but also about challenging systems that still don’t work for everyone. In STEM, that means looking at how workplaces, schools, and even outreach programmes are built. Who gets the opportunities? Who gets to lead? Who gets listened to?
It also means giving LGBTQ+ pupils and young people visible role models, not just once a year, but every day. Representation matters, especially for young people figuring out where they belong.
Inclusivity isn’t a tick-box exercise. It’s something that should be built into everything you do. We need to open doors for underrepresented groups in STEM — whether that’s girls in engineering, black and global majority students in science, or LGBTQ+ young people who don’t yet see themselves reflected in the field.
STEM should be for everyone. Not just because it’s fair, but because it makes sense!
