JOINT IYNC2018-26TH WIN GLOBAL ANNUAL CONFERENCE - JULY 2018| ISSUE NO. 16
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JULY 2018| ISSUE NO. 16
IYNC BULLETIN
INTERNATIONAL YOUTH NUCLEAR CONGRESS
WWW.IYNC.ORG
ROLE OF YOUNG GENERATION IN
JOINT IYNC2018-26TH NUCLEAR WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
WIN GLOBAL ANNUAL HIGHLIGHTS: THE NICE FUTURE INITIATIVE
CONFERENCE
INTERVIEW: AN AUSTRALIAN IN FINLAND
2
Welcome Message from New IYNC President
IYNCWIN18 was a true success with more than 420 participants from 37 countries – young
professionals, senior leaders and mentors – all together for an unforgettable week-long event in
beautiful San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina. During the Congress, out of many considerations and
stimulating discussions, there are two major takeaways that I would like to reflect on and to bring with
me for the next two years, while leading the IYNC network as the newly elected IYNC President.
The benefits of nuclear science and technology, in all its applications, needs to be communicated
effectively outside of the nuclear community. I believe promoting a global platform for open
discussion, with accurate information and without prejudices, it essential for a prosperous future. If
the young generation doesn't do it, who else will?
We discussed extensively during IYNCWIN18 about the need to innovate in the nuclear industry and
the I4N, Innovation for Nuclear. I believe that innovating, not only in technology, but also the culture, is
paramount for our generation in nuclear.
IYNC has a role to play at the forefront of these two efforts, worldwide.
IYNC has grown exponentially in the last 20 years, which we just finished celebrating with our 20th
Anniversary book, and we are ready to step into the future. I am very honored to be the next IYNC
President and, with your contribution, we will shape the next two years together. I would like here to
share my vision for IYNC and await for your feedback.
I believe, IYNC shall support YGN regional networks and foster the creation of new ones. IYNC shall
open and strengthen collaboration with new and old partners, and promote activities to
communicate the benefits of nuclear energy. IYNC shall confirm its role as platform to facilitate global
initiative.
I am really excited for the forthcoming IYNC2020 to be held in Sydney, Australia, where we will focus
on diversity in nuclear and await for your input to make this Congress another big success.
I would like to thank all IYNC Board members and all IYNC community for the continuous support and
I am eager to work with you all to bring IYNC into the future.
Luca Capriotti,
IYNC President 2018-2020
December 2017 / IYNC Bulletin
3
Contents
IYNC Network Officers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . 4
IYNC Network News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Argentina Nuclear Energy Sector in
Danger Despite Major Congress
Success . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Role of Young Generation in
Nuclear Workforce Development. . . . 12
Anniversary X International Forum
ATOMEXPO 2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
YGN News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Interview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 IYNC Bulletin #16
Editor-in-chief Editor
Alina Constantin Lubomir Mitev
Authors
Denis Janin
Cristian Vega
Sungyeol Choi
Lidiia Litvinenko
Maria Zotova
Daniil Blokhin
Raphael Chesori
Maud Vanderthommen
Polina Kuzina
www.iync.org
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin
4 IYNC 2018 - 2020 Network Officers
Luca Capriotti
President
Luca Capriotti has a master degree, with honors, in Nuclear Engineering at the Politecnico di
Milano, Italy. Untilearly 2016 he worked, as a grantholder, at JRC-Karlsruhe (European Commission,
Germany) on the topic of post irradiation examination of fast reactor metallic fuel for transmutation.
He is affiliated as PhD student at TU-München. From April 2016, he is working as nuclear fuel
engineer at Idaho National Laboratory in the division of Advance Characterization & Post Irradiation
Examination with particular involvement in the Advance Fuel Campaign.
Luca is passionate about energy & policy, building a strong network and young professional
organization / societies in which he fulfills different leadership role such as Vice President at
International Youth Nuclear Congress (IYNC, 2016-2018) and Local Chapter Leader at NAYGN
(Idaho Chapter). He is IYNC President for the 2018-2020 term.
Lena Andriolo
Vice President
Lena Andriolo is a research engineer in EDF, France, her activities being related to severe
accidents simulations for light water reactors and fast reactors. She has a PhD from the
Université Grenoble Alpes on the Impact of innovative sphere-pac fuels on safety
performance of sodium cooled fast reactors. She was the IYNCWIN18 Program Chair
and IYNC16 Workshop Chair. Now she will support even more IYNC being elected the
IYNC Vice President.
James Hardiman
Executive Secretary
James completed is Engineering degree (Industrial Chemistry) at the University of New South
Wales in Australia. James joined the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation
(ANSTO) in 2011 as a graduate engineer and has worked on a number of key projects including
the Synroc waste treatment facility and the National Radioactive Waste Management project
aimed at citing a national waste management facility for Australia. James has recently completed
a diploma of Project Management and now manages a team of 20 in his role as Leader of Waste
Operations at ANSTO. James has developed a strong passion for knowledge transfer since
attending his first IYNC in Burgos, 2014. James is an advocate for student development and also
holds the role of Dean of Basser College at the University of New South Wales where he focuses
on student leadership.
Denis Janin
Past President
Denis is nuclear engineer at E.ON since 2011. He was responsible of core design and
safety analysis activities for the NPP Grafenhreinfeld until 2015. He then joined the
department of energy economics at PreussenElektra, the nuclear subsidiary of E.ON,
where he is charge of assets optimization, energy systems simulation and power hedging.
Denis Janin is involved in the French Nuclear Society Young Generation (SFEN-JG)
activities since 2010. He has held various roles and responsibilities within the SFEN-JG but
also at the European (ENS-YGN) and international (IYNC) level.
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin
Steven Ward 5
Treasurer
Steve Ward has been a leader in various professional societies since 2008 including
Institute of Nuclear Materials Management, American Nuclear Society, North American
Young Generation in Nuclear (NAYGN), and IYNC. Steve most recently served as
Treasurer for NAYGN's Board of Directors. Steve has a Masters degree in Nuclear
Engineering from the University of Michigan in the US. Steve's career includes work in IAEA
safeguards, nuclear material accountancy and control, security, licensing, and regulatory
inspections. Steve has worked for the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Entergy
Operations at Grand Gulf Nuclear Station, DTE Energy at Fermi Nuclear Power Plant,
ENERCON Services Abu Dhabi, and Nawah Energy. He currently works as a Team Leader
on regulatory issues for the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the UAE. Steve also works as
an advisor to several start-up companies around the world and loves Lean Six Sigma
Fabricia Pineiro
External Relation Chair
Fabricia Pineiro is Manager for Marketing, Strategy and External Relations in SNC-Lavalin.
She is involved in market research and analysis for nuclear engineering services, new
build and decommissioning and waste management, engagement of nuclear industry
organizations and participation in joint initiatives for the promotion of CANDU reactor
technology. She supports international nuclear business development activities and
strategy and conducts communications strategy and delivery for nuclear stakeholders
engagement. She actively supported past editions of IYNC, being the Publication Chair
for IYNCWIN18 and now she took the position of External Relations Chair. She is also the
program coordination for seminars, workshops and other initiatives for the Canadian
Nuclear Society (CNS)..
Lubomir Mitev
Communication Chair
Lubomir Mitev has been working as a Strategic Communications Specialist at the
Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation since May 2016. Prior to this, he was a
Communications Manager at the European Atomic Forum (Foratom) in Brussels, and
supporting the European Nuclear Society (ENS). His previous experience includes being
a journalist for a number of publications mainly on energy and environmental topics.
Lubomir holds a BA in Philosophy, as well as an MA in European Studies and an MSc in
European Politics and Policies. He has been engaged with IYNC since 2014
Everlyne Achieng Onyango
Innovation Chair
Everlyne Achieng’ is the Co-Founder of Uthabiti App and a finalist doctor-on-training
particularly interested in health policies and leadership. She has a passion for Nuclear
Medicine. This is a field that uses radionuclides for diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Data
from Ministry of Health shows that cancer is the number one cause of mortality in Kenya,
having surpassed Malaria. She is the Innovation Chair for International Young Nuclear
Congress. Through collaboration with African Young Generation In Nuclear, Everlyne
promotes nuclear innovation especially among people in High Schools and Universities.
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin
6 Jing Hu
Strategy & Impact Chair
Jing recently got her doctor degree in Materials Science from University of Oxford
where she worked in an international consortium on how to design better and safer
nuclear fuel cladding alloys with Westinghouse and EDF. She later joined the IAEA
working in the Fuel Cycle and Materials section, using her scientific background to
promote nuclear knowledge across different member states. She has been working
for IYNC since 2015, first as the Communication Chair for IYNC2016 in Hangzhou,
China,Executive Secretary for IYNC 2016–2018 and now Strategy & Impact Chair.
She now lives in Chicago and works at Argonne National Laboratory, Nuclear
Engineering Division.
Myra Liyana Razali
IYNC Grant and YGN Diversity
Graduated with a Bachelor of Human Sciences in English Language and Literature from
the International Islamic University Malaysia (UIA) in 2006, her foray into nuclear energy
started in 2007 when she joined the Malaysian Nuclear Agency as a Publication Officer.
At present, as the Manager for Corporate and Strategic Communications at the Malaysia
Nuclear Power Corporation (MNPC), she is responsible for stakeholder engagement
and corporate communications for the nuclear power programme development in
Malaysia. She is a passionate advocate of inclusive, effective youth and women
empowerment, as well as building positive relationships between youth and women
albeit differing backgrounds and generations.
Kristine Madden
Project Chair (Climate Change)
Kristine Madden has a bachelors of science in Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences
from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA and is curently completing her Masters in
International Service at American University, Washington D.C., USA. Kristine began her career as
a nuclear engineer and senior reactor operator at USA based utilities before moving to Ukraine
where she led the pre-commissioning and commissioning of the Chernobyl ISF-2 project.
Kristine has worked at the IAEA in Vienna, Austria for the past three years. Kristine has been a
part of the IYNC Board of Directors since 2010. For the last three years, she has led IYNC
activities related to climate change and assisted IYNC in developing numerous international
partnerships. Kristine is an avid reader and traveler. She's explored 39 countries thus far.
Alexander Gladtsin
Web Chair
Alexander works as a system administrator and security engineer at the National
Research Nuclear University «MEPhI» in Moscow. He graduated from the faculty of
«Nuclear systems and materials» and has a Diploma in Nondestructive Control. After
graduation, he continued to work in the Laboratory of Non-destructive Control as a
design engineer. His field of interest include a data acquisition and processing
systems, non-destructive controls, ARM-based telemetry and automation systems,
Linux-like operation systems. In his free time he goes hunting, doing exercises with a
barbell, archery among others.
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin
7
IYNC Network News
IYNC Teams Up with WiN for Successful
Congress in Bariloche
By Denis Janin, IYNC Past President & IYNCWIN18 General Co-Chair
From 11 to 17 March 2018, a large group of nuclear industry professionals descended on
the city of Bariloche - a scenic lake-side town located at the foot of the Andes mountains
in Argentina, for what became the biggest nuclear conference in South America: the
IYNCWIN18 Congress. The congress was a true success, with over 420 participants from
37 countries – young professionals, senior leaders and mentors – spent a week long
exchange of views and expertise.
Co-organized by the International Youth Nuclear Congress (IYNC), the Argentine Youth
Nuclear Generation (AYNG), Women in Nuclear (WIN) Global and Women in Nuclear
Argentina, the event provided a forum for young professionals and women in the nuclear
field to discuss and collaborate on knowledge transfer, nuclear science and technology
research and implementation, professional development, and communication. In
particular, the conference brought together young professionals that are looking to further
their careers and senior leaders that are willing to share their knowledge and expertise
with younger generations.
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin
8
The success of the Congress cannot be attributed to a single factor, but is a combination of synergies
between people and organizations. Christian Vega, President of the Argentine Youth Nuclear Generation
(AYNG) and General Co-Chair of the Congress, opened the event with a question: “How do you explain
why some people are able to achieve things that seem impossible?
“This story begins two years ago when a group of young Argentinians organized an IYNC Officers visit to
Argentina and Brazil. The result was the birth and formal establishment of the Argentine Youth Nuclear
Generation, with an amazing team of young professionals representing the whole spectrum of the nuclear
industry in Argentina”.
Following this a clear working plan was prepared, including winning the bid to host the IYNC2018
conference. This was the start of a complex process including the demanding work of organizing a major
international event. For AYNG the target was quite clear from the beginning: creating an active space for
critical transformative discussions and leadership opportunities for young people in the nuclear field. But
mainly giving young Argentinians in nuclear a voice and a proper framework to propose innovative ideas.
Denis Janin, IYNC President (2016-18) and General Co-Chair of IYNCWiN18, said: “The conference theme -
‘Challenge the Present, empower the Future’ - is a call to us all. The energy business is going through a fast
and deep transformation worldwide. The rapid development of renewable energy sources, the
decentralization of power grid systems and the digitalization of energy solutions will remain the pillars of the
current transformation. Those are opportunities for nuclear energy”.
As a CO2-free energy, a dispatchable power source and a technology requiring highly skilled workers,
nuclear energy has the potential to enrich millions of inhabitants and contribute to limit climate change. In
Argentina, the IYNC was pleased to observe a support for nuclear new builds together with several foreign
partners while its own research and development technology is exported worldwide.
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin
9
“Young nuclear professionals are prepared for the future, and IYNC stands out as the global voice of
these young professionals. We will continue to learn from each other, find ways to further improve our
work, but also develop a community, enrich our networks and make many new friends. This is critical to
the future of our field, and to our world,” concluded Mr Janin.
However, nuclear technology goes beyond energy: medicine, food and agriculture, water treatment,
industrial applications were all addressed throughout the conference. In the current context, innovation
will make the difference. For IYNC encouraging innovation was a priority as is demonstrated by the first
edition of I4N, Innovation4Nuclear contest. I4N is an innovation contest launched by IYNC to incubate
the innovation spirit in students and young professional minds in the field of nuclear science and
applications.
On the last day of the IYNCWIN18, we saw three of the teams competing against each other, and being
evaluated by an international committee of experts in the nuclear field. The committee had a difficult job
due to the high quality of the proposals. The fantastic finalist teams included:
● Benjamin Govier Moore, with his review of Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology and a study
case of its applicability in the United Kingdom.
● Kristof Gladinez, soon to attain his Doctorate, with his engaging technological application for GenIV
reactors.
● The Innovatome team “Innov’in” with their prototype “SyMoN” (Système Modulable de Nettoyage
meaning Modular Cleaning System) - an autonomous robot that executes a contamination scan and
vacuums dust while moving around a room in an industrial nuclear site.
The winner of the first I4N contest was Innovatome with their fantastic idea for using a fleet of SyMoN
which will enable a limitation of personal working in nuclear zone and the optimization of the logistics of
the cleaning activities.
Furthermore, IYNC is happy that IYNCWIN18 put women
empowerment forward. The atom does not recognize gender
and it is our role to encourage Women in science, technology,
engineering and mathematics, together with promoting the
role of youth in these fields. The cooperation between IYNC
and WiN meant that the Congress promoted youth and
women as two groups that face common challenges in the
future of the nuclear industry. It also meant that a strong focus
on the promotion of science, technology, engineering and
mathematics subjects among young women could be
prioritized for the event.
IYNC’s cooperation with WiN will continue into the future and
we will seek out new and emerging opportunities for
collaboration and joint activities. As part of this, do not be
surprised if you find IYNC representatives at the 2019 WiN
Congress, which will take place in Madrid, Spain.
Finally, IYNC also welcomes all WiN participants to join the
IYNC2020 to be held in Sydney, Australia, where we will focus
on diversity in nuclear.
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin
rosnops DNOMAID 81NIWCNYI
10
Argentina Nuclear Energy Sector in Danger
Despite Major Congress Success
By Christian Vega, President of the Argentine Youth Nuclear Generation
In March 2018, the largest nuclear conference ever held in South America took place in Bariloche,
Argentina. Organized by the International Youth Nuclear Congress (IYNC) and Women in Nuclear (WiN)
Global, the IYNCWIN18 Congress welcomed more than 400 participants to the scenic mountain town
which hosts the Bariloche Atomic Center and research and development company INVAP.
The President of Nucleoeléctrica Argentina was joined by several officials from the regional government of
Patagonia for the opening session of the Congress. As the General Co-Chair of the event, representing the
Argentina Youth Nuclear Generation (AYNG), it was my pleasure to welcome our distinguished guests. I
also took the opportunity to present the position of the AYNG for the future development of the nuclear
energy and research sectors in Argentina, which will provide opportunities for development of the
country’s youth and continue to support the economic development of the nation.
Upon the end of the Congress,
the AYNG left with a sense of
optimism for the future of the
nuclear industry in Argentina.
However, this sentiment was
dampened just two months
later when the government
announced the cancellation of
the planned construction of
new nuclear energy plants in
the country. We believe that this
decision has cause instability
and anxiety in the workers of
the national nuclear industry as
a whole, particularly among the
youth, as it seriously affects the
future opportunities for young
people in the sector.
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin11
We are not oblivious to the economic and financial situation that Argentina is experiencing, but we
are convinced that energy policy is directly associated with citizen welfare and economic growth.
Nuclear energy is not a problem - it is part of the solution as it provides a reliable and clean supply of
energy (it does not emit greenhouse gases), which is fundamental for a model of sustainable
development and energy security.
Furthermore, the cancellation of nuclear projects threatens the maintenance of the scientific and
technical capabilities achieved over the last 68 years and the valuable human resources and
expertise Argentina currently has. We consider that canceling the plants is an inefficient decision in
the short- and long-term perspectives. Young people, as well as more experienced and qualified
personnel, looked forward to the opportunities that would be created for them to be part of
Argentina’s nuclear energy industry and future prosperity. This is not to mention the number of
private sector companies that have invested in the expansion of their capabilities in the country in
recent years. Now, they will have to look elsewhere.
The nuclear industry is undoubtedly a source of economic and social development. Not too long
ago, we completed the construction of Atucha II, which included around 7,000 workers at the peak
of construction. It will continue to provide long-term, sustainable and high-value jobs for decades to
come, contributing directly to the establishment of a knowledge-based economy in Argentina.
Building on the success of the IYNCWIN18 Congress, the AYNG continues to promote a pluralistic,
constructive and proactive dialogue on these issues. The nuclear sector as a whole should reflect
on how the decision to cancel the planned new-build projects in Argentina was reached, and
should sincerely acknowledge and recognize those errors. This will allow us to combine our
collective efforts beyond circumstantial differences and truly address the challenges we face now,
and prevent similar issues to arise in the future.
Now, as a result of the successful network the AYNG established during the IYNCWIN18 Congress,
we are left to answer questions such as, “Why did Argentina suddenly make this decision,” and
“What will happen to the youth looking to build a career in the nuclear industry”. With the support of
the IYNC and WiN Global networks, we might be able to obtain an answer to these questions.
Christian Vega is the President of the Argentine Youth Nuclear Generation and the National
Representative to the Board of Directors of the International Youth Nuclear Congress. He
successfully led the bid to host IYNCWIN18 in Bariloche, Argentina, at the preceding IYNC Congress,
held in Hangzhou, China.
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin12
Role of Young Generation in
Nuclear Workforce Development
By Sungyeol Choi
Assistant Professor, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology
President, Korean Young Generation Network in Nuclear
Korean Representative to IYNC
On the last day of May 2018, the International Youth Nuclear Congress (IYNC) hosted a
panel on the role of the young generation in nuclear workforce development. The panel was
a side event as part of the 3rd International Conference on Human Resource Development
for Nuclear Power Programme of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), held in
Gyeongju, South Korea. The theme of the IAEA conference was “Meeting Challenges to
Ensure the Future Nuclear Workforce Capability” and the side event was well received by full
a full house audience from mixed ages, diverse countries, and balanced genders.
Three young leaders discussed the role of the young generations in nuclear workforce
development. They represented different professional backgrounds including an academic
institute, a research institute, and an industry – respectively, Sungyeol Choi (Korea Advanced
Institute of Science and Technology, Korea), Martin Boissavit (EDF, France), and Mr. Sudi
Ariyanto (Director for Training and Education Centre, BATAN, Philippines) made a
presentation on behalf of Dimas Irawan (National Nuclear Energy Agency of Indonesia
BATAN, Philippines). After the opening message by Sungyeol, Martin briefly introduced
objectives and activities of IYNC to the audience. Then, three presentations on each
country’s cases followed.
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin13
In particular, the presenters focused on how to attract students into the nuclear industry and how
to promote nuclear workforce development. Martin and Sudi explained how they engaged with
young students by visiting schools, offering scholarships, implementing competitions,
developing learning materials, creating young generation networks, and using social media to
increase outreach.
These activities have made actual progress not only in changing student opinions about nuclear
energy but also recruiting young students to the field. Sungyeol showed that attitudes of 20-30
year old to nuclear power could be changed positively with an example of the citizen’s jury of
Shin-Kori 5 and 6 in Korea. After a series of educational initiatives and discussions for about one
month, over 50% of 20-30 year-olds supported continuing with the construction of the two units,
while their initial support was below 20%.
From the three countries’ experiences, attracting young people to nuclear energy is a
challenging issue regardless of the different stages of nuclear programs around the world. It is a
problem of all global nuclear communities and the need to provide practical solutions to directly
support organizational, national and international levels to develop and maintain the human
resources needed for the safe and sustainable operation of nuclear power programs was
emphasized.
As a global network of a new generation of nuclear professionals in over 50 countries, the IYNC is
a practical framework to directly reach young students, to communicate the benefits of nuclear
technology and facilitate the knowledge transfer between generations.
The side event manager, Sungyeol Choi, is the Korean National Representative to IYNC and the
IYNC Organizer is Melissa Crawford, IYNC President (2014-2016). IYNC is grateful for the support
and presentations by Martin, Sudi, and Dimas, and the large number of people who joined and
actively participated in the discussion. IYNC also thanks the IAEA and Korea Hydro & Nuclear
Power (KHNP) for the generous and kind professional support.
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin14
Anniversary X
International Forum ATOMEXPO 2018
By Lidiia Litvinenko, Maria Zotova, Daniil Blokhin from Rosatom Youth
During the three-days of 14-16 May 2018, over 600 participating companies from 68
countries attended the Tenth Annual ATOMEXPO International Forum. The event took ATOMEXPO is the nuclear
place at the Main Media Centre in Sochi, Russia. industry’s largest international
congress and exhibition event
Over its ten-year history ATOMEXPO International Forum has become a truly significant that has been marked with
event in the global nuclear industry, as a platform for an engaging with partners and enthusiasm and ecstasy for a
constructive dialogue among heads of major nuclear companies, government agencies, decade now. Since its
international organizations, and leading experts. inauguration in 2009, as an
initiative of ROSATOM, the forum
A highlight of the event took place on 15 May when the CEO of ROSATOM, Alexey has attracted the key industry
Likhachev, met the young leaders from nuclear industry companies who are actively players, government agencies,
involved in the development of the Youth Council project and the unified information representatives of international
space for ROSATOM Youth. and public organizations,
scientists, experts and nuclear
enthusiasts where views, ideas
and best practices in nuclear
industry has been shared
leading to a robust growth and
realization of technological
developments around the world.
Between 2009 and 2017, about
38,000 attendees from 83
countries have participated with
close to 1000 companies
exhibiting and over 1000 expert
speakers sharing and enriching
experiencing in 141 round table
discussions. Over 300
agreements and international
cooperation documents have
been sealed since the year 2009
The main focus of the Youth Council in Russia will be developing international in the past nine forums.
cooperation, science and technology, horizontal interaction and corporate culture. The
participants of the meeting presented to the leaders of the industry their vision: “We are
forming a new way of thinking of young people, raising a generation that will change
ROSATOM, Russia and the world!”
July 2018 / IYNC BulletinOn the following day, an important event for ROSATOMYouth took place as a meeting of young
15
nuclear professionals from around the world gathered to discuss areas for cooperation.Tatyana
Belyaeva, Head of universities cooperation and graduates recruitment,Maria Zotova member of
ROSATOM Youth,Msc. Ing. Cristian A. Vega, President Argentine Youth Nuclear Generation (AYGN)
took the opportunity to talk about the International Youth Nuclear Congress (IYNC) and Russia’s future
engagement with the organization.At the IYNC-WiN 2018 Congress in Bariloche, Argentina, and for
the first time in history, a largeteam of young professionals from Rosatom (Russia) took part in different
activities and tracks. It was a big challenge and responsibility for them, but the resulting experience
and professional development is a great incentive.
As the President of the AYGN, ChristianVega presented the organization of IYNC and the strategy for
organizing the IYNC-WiN 2018 Congress.Many questions were asked about specific tasks and
activities in the IYNC and the possibilities for students and others to participate and volunteer. One of
the students who attended the meeting said: "Thank you for organizing this valuable meeting with
IYNC, it was a great benefit for me to take part in such an event.”
We look forward to an active collaboration between Russia and IYNC.
Testimonials
"Nowadays,Rosatom is open to international cooperation and partnership. This is necessary for
from the YG
preserving our planet, developing clean energy and promoting global scientific thought. All of this
attendees
determined the nature of the ATOMEXPO–a global nuclear team-building event, which paid much
attention to the challenges of the new generation.
In my opinion, today Rosatom paid much attention to the development of young people.
Therefore, various youth events such as the final of the TEMP tournament, a meeting of the Youth
with the CEO of Rosatom, and a plenary session dedicated to IYNC were held at ATOMEXPO."
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin16
“This has had a positive effect. Those who attended the IYNC plenary session at the conference
paid great attention to the reports of Zotova Maria, Tatyana Belyaeva and ChristianVega. It seemed
to me that this topic and the activity itself was received very warmly, which was felt through an
endless stream of questions to the speakers and the genuine interest of students and young
employees. I believe that the inclusion of young people in the processes of global cooperation is a
very important step towards the preservation of our planet and the development of science and
technology. Today, IYNC is one of the main drivers in this direction!”
Ekaterina Solntseva - LEAD specialist
FSUE “SRI SIA “LUCH”
“Christian's speech was informative. I got information about the International Youth Nuclear
Congress (IYNC). This is an excellent opportunity for professional development and to engage with
other young professionals in nuclear from around the world. I believe promoting a global platform
for open discussion, with accurate information, is essential for our future. Christian inspired me. I
would really like to attend the IYNC2020 in Sydney, Australia, and tell like-minded people about my
scientific developments.”
Lena Goreva,
the winner of Tournament of young professionals TeMP 2018
"Like the other TeMP finalists, I attended the International Forum ATOMEXPO from 14 to 16 May
2018 in Sochi. In the scope of the forum, I was lucky to witness the appearance of Maria Zotova
and ChristianVega.
The main theme of their presentation was bringing proactive and talented youth into the
preparation of and participation in the International Youth Nuclear Congress (IYNC). This platform
gives possibilities to the employees of the nuclear industry to realize themselves – show their skills
and knowledge, bring benefit to the world as a whole, and to the world of science in particular. It is
also very important that during the bi-annual IYNC Congress you can meet different interesting
people from all over the world and make useful professional connections.
I was deeply impressed with the attention given to young people (who knows, they may become
famous scientists in the future), to the possibilities they presented that allow you to show your
‘nuclear’ potential, such as the Mentorship program. After the appearance I decided to do my best
to become a part of the IYNC team. I hope this will be only one of the first great steps to my global
aim – to work on interesting projects using my skills and knowledge to the maximum.”
Evgeniy Boyko,
finalist of Tournament of young professionals TeMP 2018
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletinsrosnops MUNITALP 81NIWCNYI
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YGN News
African YGN shines in
ATOMEXPO 2018 Awards
By Raphael Chesori, Secretary General, Africa YGN
Walking the Talk …“Global Partnerships – Joint Success”
This year’s event dubbed “Global Partnerships – Joint Success”, marked the 10th anniversary and the
program included over 20 roundtables and panel sessions attended by over 200 experts.
Over 3,000 representatives of over 600 companies drawn from 68 countries around the world who took
part in the event.
The event culminated in signing of cooperative agreements to enhance international partnerships in
the aforementioned areas. Agreements on strategic cooperation and partnership, commercial
contracts, and project development documents were sealed at the end of the forum.
Success of ATOMEXPO 2018 | Zambia seals deal with ROSATOM
The success of ATOMEXPO 2018 is characterized by 39 agreements and other cooperation and
partnership-making documents, including commercial contracts, which were inked during the Forum.
Most notably, the contract for design, supply and construction of the Center of Nuclear Science and
technology in the Republic of Zambia is a significant step forward for nuclear energy in Africa.
At the signing ceremony, the General Director of the State Corporation Rosatom; Alexey Likhachev said:
“Signing the contract opens a new chapter in the partnership between Russia and Zambia. In the
nearest future, we plan to start extensive practical works, including engineering surveys at the site of the
centre, assessment of nuclear infrastructure and subsequent development plan in accordance with
IAEA recommendations as well as global and Russian best practice. Construction of the center will
enable the Republic of Zambia to become one of the leading players in nuclear technologies
application in the Central and Southern African region”.
Being the first agreement between Russia and Zambia, the pact presents immense opportunities for the
two countries. The Center will ensure wide application of radiation technologies in medicine, industry
and agriculture. The CNST will also promote the growth of national education and science through the
training of highly qualified experts in various fields.
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin18
African YGN feted in the ATOMEXPO 2018 AWARDS
The African Young Generation in Nuclear (African YGN) hit the headlines in the local and
international news following its successful stint in the most coveted industry awards -
The ATOMEXPO 2018 AWARDS. The network emerged among the top in the category
of “Public Communication”. The colorful award ceremony was held on the first day
during the 10th ATOMEXPO that opened on 14th to 16th May, 2018 in Sochi, Russia.
The awards were being marked for the first time, with the aim to celebrate global
excellence in the nuclear industry especially by the companies and entities who have
contributed immensely and uniquely in promoting peaceful uses of nuclear science
and technologies for the betterment of human kind.
The competition attracted a total of fifty-one (51) top notch companies and
organizations drawn from 22 countries. The independent jury evaluated the
applications competitively from a professional standpoint to determine the best where
three (3) finalists were eventually shortlisted in each category. ‘Public Communication’,
one of the five categories of the competition, honored innovative projects in enhancing
public awareness on matters nuclear technology. Nominations jury in this category was
chaired by the Secretary General of the European Nuclear Society, Fernando Naredo,
and it saw the Indian Technology company win the title with their project – “Atom on the
wheel” – a national campaign using a caravan to reach out to the general public and
create awareness on the benefits of the atom in India.
The African YGN received a special recognition for their exceptional work in nuclear
advocacy and communication in informing the general public as well as creating
opportunities for youth in Africa to pursue careers in nuclear. The network is
implementing innovative projects at national level aimed at demystifying nuclear
science and technology in Africa.
The African YGN leadership led by the President; Gaopalelwe Santswere thanked the
ATOMEXPO AWARDS 2018 organizers and the jury for the special recognition and the
confidence they have in the young generation to bolster the concerted efforts on
awareness creation and nuclear advocacy in Africa. According to ATOMEXPO Press,
Gaopalelwe spoke on the sidelines noting that the award was such a great honor
bestowed to African YGN and its affiliate networks: “I am truly humbled and honored as a
young African and the President of AYGN to be a part of these prestige awards. We
highly value that a respected international community such as is this has put such a
great emphasis on allowing young people from around the world to flourish, thrive and
receive recognition.” Gaopalelwe echoed senior leaders, calling for global partnerships
and collaborations especially by engaging and involving the youth as key actors in the
quest for nuclear renaissance. He urged the global nuclear community to continue
supporting youth-led organizations such as African YGN in a bid to build a sustainable
future for the industry. – “The youth are the future of the nuclear industry, as young
people we are preparing ourselves to take the industry to next level and at the same time
improve the quality of life for millions of people across the globe.”
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin19
School from Brussels wins the Nuclear Game Challenge
By Maud Vanderthommen, Communications Manager at SCK-CEN, Belgium
The Team Nuclairons! from the Collège Jean XXIII (Brussels) won the Nuclear Game Challenge with
their game ‘Enrich U’. “In this game, you go on a mission to take on challenges in the fields of nuclear
energy, nuclear waste, space travel or nuclear medicine. You do not have any possible means at your
disposal. You have to collect them but be careful: you are not the only one! The first to complete the
mission is promoted”, explains Julia Zaman (student at the Collège Jean XXIII).
Nearly 100 students from 17 different schools gathered for the Nuclear Game Challenge to create an
interactive and creative game on the topic of nuclear science and applications. The students were
inspired by the kick-off event in the Natural Sciences Museum in Brussels, where they got to know more
about several nuclear topics. “Radioactivity, radiation protection, nuclear applications and nuclear
research were all discussed. Afterwards, the students began working in groups of five”, states Michèle
Coeck (head of SCK•CEN Academy). “Five months later, we received 18 creative games in total.
Choosing was really tough for the jury!”
The game ‘Enrich U’, invented by the team Nuclairons! of the Brussels school Collège Jean XXIII,
finished in first place. “An innovative and original game thanks to its variety, its constructive level of
difficulty, the various fields of expertise which are dealt with and the challenge of thinking strategically.
“Luck” cards and other tricks keep you at the edge of your seat until the end. Suspense guaranteed!”,
explains Michèle Coeck.The team also added an expansion for this game. YannisTampaxis (student at
Collège Jean XXIII): “In the expansion, some levels are locked by the so-called ‘gamma rays’, which gives
the game another dimension. Other strategies are needed if you want to win.”
The students found their participation in this competition to be a pleasant and instructive experience.
When asked if they would like to participate a second time, they all answered yes. “Participating in the
competition is very intense but it boosts your creativity and challenges you to give your very best.”
Award ceremony
Nuclairons! wins a three-day visit to the EC-
JRC research institute in Ispra. The
Daltonatheneum (Westerlo) and the Sint-
Jozefschool (Mere) finished respectively in
second and third place. This week, both teams
were able to come and get their FNAC
voucher of respectively 1500 and 1000 euros.
Scientific competition
The Nuclear Game Challenge is a scientific
competition for youngsters in third grade
secondary education in which students are
challenged to come up with an educative
game on the topic of nuclear science and
applications. The scientific competition is an
initiative of the Belgian Nuclear Research
Centre (SCK•CEN) and the Joint Research
Centre (EC-JRC).
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin20
Reactivation of Youth Nuclear Society of Sri Lanka (YNSS)
Youth Nuclear Society of Sri Lanka was established in 2008 and had been actively involved in
promotion of peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology among Sri Lankan youth
until 2015. After three years of inactivity, the Youth Nuclear Society of Sri Lanka held an annual
general meeting on 23 May 2018 at National Centre for Non-Destructive Testing, Sri Lanka Atomic
Energy Board, with the participation of some existing members as well as the enthusiastic youth
from number of institutions and universities in Sri Lanka.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Vajira Waduge, Director General of the Sri Lanka Atomic Energy
Board, explained the current applications and the future perspectives of nuclear science and
technology in Sri Lanka. The basics of nuclear power generation, the status and the challenges to
nuclear power planning in the country was presented by Mr. Malinda Ranaweera, patron of YNSS,
and introduced Youth Nuclear Society of Sri Lanka. In his presentation, he also described the
objectives and past activities of YNSS and expressed the importance of the knowledgeable youth
to confront those challenges.
Expressing the views to the audience, members conveyed their pleasure and gratitude for
reactivating the society and indicated the importance of conducting knowledge dissemination
activities to general public starting from the school level. Further, they expressed the significance
of engaging the Sri Lanka nuclear scientists, who are employed in other countries, to YNSS
activities and hence to the development of nuclear industry in country.
The following officers were elected at the annual general meeting
President Mr. Charith Pathirana (Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Board)
Secretary Mr. Poshitha Dabare (Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Board)
Treasurer Ms. A. B. C. Jayani (Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Board)
Bulletin editor Mr. Praveen De Alwis (IMS Holdings)
Research project chair Mr. N. N. Jackshan (Full-time Inventor)
Web chair Ms. Prathibha Wimalasiri (Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Board)
Technical programme chair Mr. Pramod Madushanka (Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Regulatory Council)
Public relations chair Mr. Anuja Jayasekara (University of Peradeniya)
Media chair Mr. Mohomed Afnan (Institute of Chemistry Ceylon)
Institutional Representative Ms. Erandi Disanayaka (Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Regulatory Council)
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin21
Highlights
The NICE Future Initiative
On May 24 2018, the NICE Future initiative was launched in Copenhagen. NICE Future stands for
“Nuclear Innovation: Clean Energy Future” and is an initiative under the framework of the Clean
Energy Ministerial (CEM) platform initiated by Canada, Japan and the USA. As part of the
International Youth Nuclear Congress’ (IYNC) strategic priorities for promoting the future of
nuclear energy and tackling climate change, IYNC supports the initiative and Denis Janin, IYNC
immediate Past-President, moderated the launch of the NICE Future initiative.
The NICE Future initiative will address an improved power system integration through innovative,
integrated, and advanced energy systems and applications, such as nuclear-renewable systems,
combined uses of heat and power, hydrogen production, and industrial decarbonization. It will
highlight the opportunities for nuclear energy technologies to reduce emissions and air pollution
from power generation, industry, and end-use sectors.
IYNC welcomes this initiative as it works toward building a sustainable future for nuclear power. At
the initiative’s launch, Denis Janin highlighted the importance of innovative nuclear technologies
and integrated energy systems: “This issue is vital for our planet—we need to get it right for the
next generations. All available clean energy systems have a role to play. Nuclear energy is key in
clean energy innovation especially as nuclear power plants do not emit air pollutants.”
Moreover, it is the first time that governments openly start an initiative supporting a dialogue
around nuclear power. For IYNC, this is in line with the mission related to explore new ways for
innovative communication on nuclear science and technologies. The NICE Future initiative
ambitiously promotes open and inclusive discussions, based on facts, putting innovation and
collaboration forward.
“I would like to acknowledge the countries and organizations that have joined the United States,
Canada, and Japan in the creation and launch of the NICE Future initiative,” said Deputy Secretary
Brouillette from the USA. “Secretary Rick Perry and I are quite proud of this initiative and the
ambitious program it sets forth. Having nuclear included at the Clean Energy Ministerial will create
greater global recognition of its many unique benefits.”
Countries participating in the NICE Future Initiative include the United States, Canada, Japan,
Argentina, Poland, Romania, Russia, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom. More countries
have indicated strong interest. The International Energy Agency (IEA) and the OECD Nuclear
Energy Agency (NEA) have noted their interest and support for the initiative. The U.S. DOE
National Renewable Energy Laboratory will serve as an initiative operating agent.
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin22
Interview
An Australian in Finland:
Why did Timothy Rownes Go To Work At Fennovoima?
By Polina Kuzina, Communications Officer at Fennovoima
Tim joined Fennovoima on 4 April 2018, a bit under two
months ago. He became the first employee of the
company coming from Australia. Polina Kuzina,
Communications Officer at Fennovoima, sat down with
him to learn what inspired him to move across the world
and join the new build project in Finland.
Tim, you come from far away. Why did you decide to join Fennovoima?
Last year I was in Europe for three months, both for work and holiday. For the work part, I attended
the European Nuclear Young Generation Forum (ENYGF 2017) in Manchester in the UK, where I
met Finland’s young generation network’s representative Henri Ormus. Henri works in
Configuration Management at Fennovoima. Later, at the World Nuclear University in Uppsala,
Sweden, I met Antti Paajanen, Daria Didenkulova and Irina Mossakovskaya, all from Fennovoima.
I thought that all those people were really cool, and I wondered “what is this company that all these
people are working for?” So, when I got home, I googled the company. I found Fennovoima’s
website and saw a job in operations. It was closing in 24 hours. I submitted an application. Right
afterward I told my mum and my boss, “Look, I applied for this job. I’m not going to get it, but I’m
letting you know just in case.”
Then I forgot about it. Three weeks later I got a phone call with a strange country code. It was from
Fennovoima, asking for an interview. A bunch of interview steps later, and here we are.
What are your first impressions of your work here?
It’s good; it’s so different. I’d never worked in an office building before. And I haven’t worked in the
city before either. So, it’s kind of new to me. We’ve got this buffet lunch downstairs and the whole
company is sharing one office building. In Operations and Maintenance we are on the same floor
with Communications and HR. That’s cool because at my old job I would only see
communications people very occasionally. Now it’s nice that I can run into everybody.
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletin23
What else is different compared to your previous job?
Probably, the biggest difference is what I do. At my previous job, I was a shift supervisor at
nuclear research reactor, so I worked shifts. I’d show up at five o’clock in the morning and we’d
do shift hand over. I’d brief reactor operators and then for the twelve hours I’d be responsible for
the safe and efficient operation of the reactor and the safety of everyone who was working there.
That was a really big responsibility. I always had operations training to stay on top of as well.
Here, at Fennovoima we are preparing for that process. We don’t have a reactor yet, but we are
setting everything up so that we are able to run it safely and efficiently and produce carbon-free
electricity for Finland.
Now I do a lot of reading. The project is huge, and I hadn’t worked in nuclear power before. I’m
learning a lot every day.
Still, there are some things that we have in common, like safety culture. You know, everything
related to how to work with nuclear is the same between both jobs. That makes it easier.
Fennovoima is still a young company and its people are quite receptive. If I see things that could
have been done better, I can easily raise the issue. Everyone I’ve spoken to has been very
receptive to new ideas or making changes to improve the culture of the organization.
Many people pointed out to me that people can make a difference and influence company
processes in Fennovoima…
Yes. I haven’t been here too long and it may be a bit too early to judge, but people listen. I made
two safety observations in my first month, and people from Nuclear Safety Department with
whom I spoke were totally on board. They encouraged me to go ahead. That’s invigorating, and
a culture I’d like to see in every nuclear organization.
What would you advise to nuclear experts who think about relocating to Finland to work at
Fennovoima?
Absolutely go for it! I remember after the second interview I thought, “Wow, maybe I’ll actually be
in the position to be offered this job.” It was a daunting thought, because my life in Sydney was
very comfortable. Everything was going really well.
But I think, over the long term, for my career it’s an opportunity to take on new challenges. It has
always been my dream to live overseas, to learn another language, and to work in an
international context in the nuclear industry on a new build. This project fits so many of my long-
term goals. It’s excellent.
A year ago if anyone had asked if I’d be living in Finland, I would have said, “What are you talking
about?” Now it’s going really well and it was all the result of a chance encounter because of my
involvement with the IYNC. In the end, coincidences such as meeting a Fennovoima employee
at an event in Manchester end up changing your life forever!
July 2018 / IYNC Bulletinwww.iync.org
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