Irish graduate Ella Flanagan has been shortlisted into the global top 20 for the James Dyson Award 2026 for her invention Noli, a proximity-based emergency wristband designed to support the safety of mental health nurses.
Global Recognition for Technological University Dublin Graduate
The innovation developed by the Technological University Dublin graduate now advances to the final stage of judging. Inventor James Dyson will review the shortlisted designs to select an overall winner who will receive €35,000. Flanagan plans to continue developing and testing the device while collaborating with health innovators during the patent-pending stage.
The James Dyson Award is an international competition targeting engineering and design students and recent graduates. It focuses on ambitious designs that address everyday problems or global issues. Kay Yeong, principal engineer and James Dyson Award top 20 judge, noted that favourite entries typically surface problems that require practical solutions to improve daily lives.
Improving Safety in Mental Health Settings
Flanagan intends to see Noli adopted widely across mental health settings to build safer environments for both healthcare staff and patients. The proximity-based wristband eliminates complex alarm procedures, allowing nurses to summon immediate assistance with a single physical motion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Noli and how does it work?
Noli is a proximity-based emergency wristband designed for mental health nurses. It contacts the nearest available staff member when the user pulls and holds the strap.
What happens next in the James Dyson Award 2026?
The invention has advanced to the final stage of judging. The global winners will be announced on November 4, following a final review by James Dyson.
What is the prize for the James Dyson Award winner?
The overall global winner of the James Dyson Award receives a cash prize of €35,000 to support the further development of their invention.