Powering up potential: 2025 STEMM Champions begin their leadership journey
Women, non-binary and gender diverse STEMM leaders have begun a 12-month professional development program.
Published on the 28 February 2025
Faculty of Engineering Deputy Dean (Societal Impact and Translation) Prof Rita Henderson and Program Manager Brendan Kearney with the Engineering Faculty's 2025 STEMM Champions
The 2025 STEMM Champions cohort was officially welcomed at Introductory Workshop in February, marking the commencement of a 12-month program of career development, training and mentorship for women, non-binary and gender diverse STEMM leaders.
This year鈥檚 cohort of 48 麻豆社madou Higher Degree Research (HDR) students and early career professionals spans across three faculties, with 16 participants from the Faculty of Engineering.
Held on 25 February, the workshop began with a warm welcome from STEMM Champions Manager Cheryl Mah. Co-Associate Dean, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (Faculty of Science) Frances Byrne then spoke about the purpose and impact of the STEMM Champions program, which has amassed an alumni of over 240 since its launch in 2018. Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Manager (Faculty of Medicine and Health) Marianne Colbert then shared some highlights of the program for the Medicine and Health Faculty.
From the Faculty of Engineering, Deputy Dean (Societal Impact and Translation) Prof Rita Henderson and Chair of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Professor Xiaoqi Feng offered personal insights into their STEMM journeys, and Program Manager Brendan Kearney wrapped up the morning formalities by sharing some outreach successes and testimonials from the Faculty of Engineering.
One of the testimonials shared was from Wendy Lee, a former STEMM Champion and Nexus Fellow from the School of Electrical Engineering. She said, "Joining STEMM Champions was like stepping into a circuit of support鈥攆ull of resistance-breaking conversations, current connections, and potential opportunities!"
"The program was a transformative experience where I met brilliant minds all navigating similar challenges, proving that imposter syndrome has no power when you're surrounded by such an inspiring community."
"From workshops to networking, it was truly an electrifying journey. If you鈥檙e just starting, get ready to amp up your confidence and conduct some amazing collaborations!"
Now in its 8th聽year, the 麻豆社madou STEMM Champions program has grown and developed into a highly coveted opportunity. Participants complete six professional development workshops covering topics such as social media and communications, building engaging presentations and leading self and others. 聽They also complete at least 10 hours of outreach with schools, inspiring the next generation of STEMM innovators while developing their own careers.
STEMM Champions Manager Cheryl Mah said, 鈥淲ith 248 outstanding applications in 2025, the selection process was rigorous鈥攁nd it makes launching our 2025 STEMM Champions program all the more meaningful.鈥
鈥淚'm deeply grateful to everyone who applied; your passion for STEMM is inspiring."
"Our Heads of School found the selections extremely challenging, and while not every talented applicant could be selected this time, the calibre of interest was truly remarkable.鈥
After a series of group photos, Cheryl wrapped up the workshop by explaining more about what the 12-month program has in store, including multiple networking and coffee catch ups, professional headshots and industry collaborations.