The Bionics Institute Girls in STEM Mentoring Program wrapped up its 2024 program with a celebratory event at the NAB building in Melbourne—kindly provided by NAB. The morning brought together students, mentors, educators, and STEM professionals to acknowledge the efforts of everyone involved in this year’s program.

Guests heard from two engaging speakers:

• Dr Kate Hoy, Clinical Neuropsychologist and Head of Cognitive Therapeutics at the Bionics Institute, who shared her professional journey combining clinical work and research. Her story offered students a valuable glimpse into the different paths a career in STEM can take.
• Stephen Tomisich, CEO and Managing Director at Trajan Scientific & Medical, who spoke about the importance of storytelling to communicate scientific concepts and the value of applying the scientific method across different areas of life and work.

The event recognised the contributions of the 70 students from 15 schools who took part in the 2024 program, with each receiving a certificate of participation. In addition, 24 women from the fields of science and engineering who served as mentors were acknowledged for generously volunteering their time and expertise—including two mentors from Trajan Scientific & Medical.

The Tomisich Foundation provided morning tea for attendees.

We’re pleased to share that veski will be facilitating the program as of 2025 and, with continued support, veski hope to expand the program to reach even more students.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of this year’s program, with special thanks to Breanna Smith and Wendy McManamny who facilitated the Celebration Event and Mentoring Program throughout 2024.