On Wednesday 26th September I was honoured to be guest speaker at a special event hosted by Women in STEMM Australia: Empowering Connections in STEMM. The event was run in partnership with the Rotary Club of Brunswick-Tullamarine and the Royal Society of Victoria; and was promoted to secondary and university students, their teachers, parents, and career advisors.

I spoke about the work of the SRI, the importance of international research collaboration, and the SRI’s recent launch of the Spinal Cord Research Hub. I also shared my career journey as a women in STEMM, and how the skills and experience I have gained in the technology industry benefit my role as Senior Executive Officer of the SRI.

The evening finished with a panel discussion with five professionals at different career stages in academia and industry, including the SRI’s Marnie Graco who is completing her PhD. The panel spoke about key decision‐making times for girls and women interested in STEMM, what influences their choices, and how to foster a much‐needed culture shift to ensure more girls pursue STEMM education and careers, and more women in STEMM reach senior‐level roles.

Proceeds raised on the night were donated to the SRI and we are sincerely grateful to Women in STEMM Australia, Rotary Club of Brunswick-Tullamarine and the Royal Society of Victoria for their support.

Kristine Hendry

Senior Executive Officer