DAAD Award for Outstanding International Student: Congratulations to our Innovation Intern, Mariam Bilge

Excellence, curiosity, and a passion for innovation:
Master’s student Mariam Bilge, currently completing her internship in Lohmann’s Innovation Department, has been honored with the DAAD Award 2025.

Each year, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) recognizes international students who combine outstanding academic performance with exceptional social engagement. Originally from Georgia, Mariam is enrolled in the English-taught master’s program Management, Leadership, Innovation (MLI) at Koblenz University of Applied Sciences and ranks among the top ten percent of her class.

From Research to Real-World Innovation

Mariam first learned about Lohmann during the StartUpDay at Koblenz University.

“When I heard about the Innovation Hub, I knew I wanted to apply,” she recalls. “I was really impressed by how Lohmann connects established expertise with forward-looking ideas.”

Today, Mariam supports the Innovation Management team in driving Lohmann’s digitalization initiatives and refining internal innovation processes.

“The atmosphere in the team is incredible,” she says. “Everyone is supportive and open-minded, yet they give me the trust to contribute my own ideas. It’s inspiring to be part of projects where innovation is not just a concept but something we live every day.”

Her experience at Lohmann demonstrates how theory and practice can come together to generate meaningful progress – and how even small ideas can lead to significant results.

Innovation as a Mindset

Before joining Lohmann, Mariam had little experience with the adhesives industry.

“I was surprised by its scale and versatility – and by how much innovation potential it holds,” she says.

To her, innovation is not limited to groundbreaking inventions but also means rethinking existing approaches, finding better ways to solve problems, and creating value. “It’s about seeing possibilities where others see limitations,” she explains.

In her current role, Mariam applies key insights from her academic work – particularly in leadership and process development – to real-world innovation projects at Lohmann.

A Shared Vision for the Future

After completing her studies, Mariam plans to begin her career as an Innovation Manager, ideally in the region she now calls home.

“I’ve grown to deeply appreciate both the people and the innovation potential here,” she says. “There are so many opportunities to make a meaningful impact – especially in companies like Lohmann that value creativity, teamwork, and purpose.”

“I’m very proud and happy to see that Lohmann continues to attract such bright and curious minds,” says Cornelia Hoß, Head of Innovation Management and Business Development. “We live innovation every day – and that’s exactly what makes us an inspiring place for young talents like Mariam. Her achievement shows how valuable it is to combine creativity, courage, and collaboration. We warmly congratulate her on the DAAD Award and are excited to see where her journey will take her.”