Emmanuelle SM Kangumba, a PhD student in the department of Architecture and the Built Environment at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC), has won first prize at the fifth International Youth River Exchange and been named a 2026 River Messenger.
Representing South Africa, Emma was one of just six young participants to reach the final of the international competition, which brought together young people from countries including Pakistan, Morocco, Indonesia and China. Her winning project, presented through a keynote speech titled Route to Roots, explored how traditional irrigation practices could inspire more sustainable urban development and strengthen communities’ connection with rivers.
The judging panel praised her work for combining strong local relevance with potential for global application, offering fresh perspectives on how young researchers can use rivers to address challenges including climate change and urban heat.
Emma’s achievement builds on research she began at UNNC during her master’s degree in 2024, in Urbanism and Sustainable Environments. With support from her UNNC supervisors, Wu Deng, Yina Sima and Matthew Pike, she further developed her research into the award-winning project, demonstrating how rivers and existing water infrastructure can deliver environmental, economic and social benefits in rapidly urbanising cities.
After completing her master’s degree, Emma chose to continue at UNNC as a PhD student, where she now focuses on flood management. She credits the University’s academic environment and the encouragement of her supervisors with giving her the confidence to pursue her research and take it onto an international stage.
As a 2026 River Messenger, Emma has been be invited to host the next International Youth River Exchange and continue contributing to international academic dialogue on sustainable water management.
Her success reflects UNNC’s commitment to providing students with the research opportunities, academic support and international perspectives they need to turn their ideas into impact.
Published on 10 October 2026