Bucknell recently launched its inaugural “30 Under 30” list, celebrating students and recent graduates making significant contributions across various fields. This year’s honorees span four categories: artistic visionaries, changemakers, entrepreneurial innovators, and industry standouts. Bucknell proudly recognized two exceptional current undergraduate students, Miles Meloni ’26 and Omuhle Ndhlovu ’26, on this year’s list. Read below about their remarkable contributions to their respective fields and their ambitions to create meaningful change in their communities and beyond!
Miles Meloni – “Artistic Visionaries” Award
Miles Meloni, a Computer Science major pursuing minors in Physics, Environmental Science and Mathematics, is making waves through his innovative multimedia storytelling project, ‘Terra Firma”.
The project combines various mediums, including prose, comics, infographics, animated videos, music and video games, to weave a narrative that captivates a diverse audience.
“’Terra Firma’ tells the story of six university students in a post-contact world, discovering how to find love and meaning in a crumbling world that nobody was prepared for and a world they incidentally helped to destroy,” Miles explains. His inspiration for the project stems from his own life experiences and a passion for science fiction that developed during his childhood. “Much of the character drama is inspired by the novels and games that captured me when I was younger,” he shares, naming influential works like “Wings of Fire” and “Deltarune”.
Since its inception, “Terra Firma” has grown into a weekly feature with a rapidly expanding global audience. “I’ve been able to watch the view base grow into one spanning all continents and dozens of countries,” Miles notes with pride. This trajectory reflects his ability to connect with others through storytelling and his understanding of narrative dynamics.
Miles has ambitious plans for the future of “Terra Firma”, intending to introduce more interactive elements. “I can’t really say just yet where I’m taking the story, but it will expand in scope as we begin to feature a larger cast of characters,” he hints, emphasizing his dedication to evolving the project beyond its current format.
In addition to his work on “Terra Firma”, Miles has also engaged in significant research as a Presidential Fellow. His research experiences range from designing 3D models of crystal structures in the chemistry department to modeling the flow of electricity in dark matter detection experiments in physics. “My time as a Presidential Fellow has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have had at Bucknell,” he reflects. This opportunity has allowed him to bridge his academic pursuits with practical applications, fostering a deeper understanding of subjects outside of his major.
Miles’ summer internship at NASA was another highlight, where he was tasked with creating animated training videos focused on cognitive biases. “My greatest takeaway was the ability to find community in professional environments,” he notes. This experience not only solidified his skills but also emphasized the importance of collaboration and mentorship in professional growth.
Looking ahead, Miles hopes to turn “Terra Firma” into a small business while pursuing a career in the aerospace industry.
Omuhle Ndhlovu – “Changemakers” Award
Omuhle Ndhlovu is a Chemical Engineering and Business Management major, enrolled in a five-year dual degree program that reflects her commitment to integrating engineering principles with entrepreneurial initiatives. Hailing from Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, and raised in Gaborone, Botswana, she has a powerful mission: to improve living conditions in Zimbabwe and across Africa.
“I see a critical need for energy security through sustainable, alternative energy sources,” Omuhle asserts. Her drive to address these challenges stems from her personal experiences, where she witnessed the struggles related to energy scarcity in her community.
Omuhle’s education at Bucknell has significantly influenced her journey. “Through Bucknell, I have been able to explore engineering innovation in addressing real-life issues,” she says, highlighting her role as a student engineering consultant at the Small Business Development Center. Her involvement in BizPitch, a program aimed at cultivating innovation and curiosity among students, has also been transformative.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Omuhle founded a non-profit organization called Ikusasa through the Davis Foundation Projects for Peace Grant. This past summer, she launched a program in Zimbabwe aimed at equipping young people with entrepreneurship and design thinking skills. “I look forward to creating more opportunities for young people through Ikusasa,” she expresses with optimism. The program not only provides practical skills but also fosters a sense of community and collaboration among participants.
Recognized on the “30 Under 30” list, Omuhle reflects on her achievements with humility. “It felt amazing, almost surreal. I’m grateful and honored to be listed among such inspiring alumni,” she shares. Her aspirations post-graduation include either pursuing graduate studies or entering the industry, with a keen interest in empowering young engineers in Africa. “I hope to create opportunities that stem from the intersections of engineering innovation and entrepreneurship,” she concludes, emphasizing her commitment to making a difference.
Miles Meloni and Omuhle Ndhlovu exemplify the innovative spirit and commitment to social impact that Bucknell University fosters in its students. As they continue to develop their passions and pursue their goals, they are not only making their mark but also inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
