Four graduating students were selected by University of Kentucky President Eli Capilouto to represent the Class of 2026 as speakers at UK’s May Commencement Ceremonies. These students reflect the breadth of the UK experience — leaders, scholars and innovators whose paths have been shaped by discovery, service and a strong sense of community.
Mostafa Mubarak, a 2026 Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering graduate, delivered the first student address at the 9 a.m. Friday, May 8, ceremony.
Mubarak, an international student from Alexandria, Egypt, graduated with three bachelor’s degrees in electrical engineering, computer engineering and computer science.
An entrepreneur and student leader, Mubarak has combined rigorous academics with campus leadership and creative ventures during his time at UK.
“Honestly, surreal,” Mubarak said of graduating. “Three degrees at once wasn’t easy, but I’m more relieved than proud right now. Ask me again in a week — I’ll say proud. Ask me a week after that, and I’ll say I miss my second home.”
Mubarak arrived in Lexington from Egypt at age 17 and quickly found a community on campus.
“It’s home. Genuinely,” he said. “I came from Egypt, and this place — the people, the campus, the random strangers who showed up for me for no reason — made me feel like I belonged here before I even earned it.”
During his undergraduate career, Mubarak founded a startup, Jomo Figures, which transforms customer photos into custom-designed figurines, blending engineering, creativity and user-focused design. He also co-founded the Student’s Association of the Middle East and North Africa, helping build a campus community that supports Middle Eastern and North African students.
In addition to his academic and entrepreneurial work, Mubarak has remained active in student life through the UK Boxing Club, where he serves as a main fighter and promotions lead, and through volunteer work with UK’s International Village, supporting incoming international students as they adjust to campus life.
As a UK Commencement speaker, Mubarak hoped his message resonated with students stepping into their next chapter.
“Stop waiting to feel ready and just go,” he said. “And I love you for all the time we spent together. I will remember it forever.”
After graduation, Mubarak plans to scale his software ventures while pursuing work authorization to formally launch his entrepreneurial career in the United States.
