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Curtin University PhD researcher Shanelle Tennekoon has secured two awards at the 35th annual WAITTA INCITE Awards gala ceremony, held on July 17, 2026.
Shanelle was recognized in both the Research & Development Solution and Diversity & Digital Inclusion categories with 2 merit awards for her work on SmartWheel— an AI-powered guidance system for assistive wheelchairs.
About the Research
SmartWheel integrates computer vision and artificial intelligence to assist wheelchair users with complex physical disabilities. The technology automates high-precision navigation tasks such as doorway traversal and obstacle avoidance to improve safety, independence, and spatial mobility for users.
About the INCITE Awards
Organized by the Western Australian Information Technology and Telecommunications Alliance (WAITTA), the INCITE Awards are Western Australia’s longest running and most prestigious technology awards program. The annual event serves as a premier showcase for local research and tech innovation.
Shanelle’s dual victory highlights the strength of Curtin’s research environment in turning complex artificial intelligence and computer vision research into accessible, real-world solutions.
