BrainSTEM
To build a global STEM collaboration platform where high school students from all over the world are The difference was striking!
A case for raising the next generation of STEM leaders
In May 2015 I had the opportunity to witness one of the most incredible and inspiring events of my life. After having won the BHP Billition Science and Engineering Award, my 15-year-old son represented Australia at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF) – the world’s largest international pre-college science competition. Approximately 1,700 high school students from over 75 countries, regions, and territories are awarded the opportunity to showcase their independent research and compete for approximately $4 million in prizes. Intel ISEF unites these top young scientific minds, showcasing their talents on an international stage, where doctoral level scientists review and judge their work. While my son had an incredibly successful event, including a sit-down lunch with four Nobel Laureates, my wife and I had several opportunities to engage with students from other countries. The quality of their work and level of engagement was truly inspiring. One thing that stood out amongst all the participants was the overall quality and depth of study by the students who had been mentored by a scientist or a professor from their local university. The quality of their research, depth of knowledge as well as validity of relating their study to a “real-world” problem was incredible. In stark contrast, the work done by other students while not lacking in thought and innovativeness did fall short in terms of more depth and relevance. That got me thinking…..
“As a first world country, with a strong science based industry, we should have a structured program that connects our high-schoolers to scientists and mentors to cultivate those ideas and innovate”.
What surprised us most during our first session at St Francis Catholic College (Melton Campus)? 👀
Not the LEGO (Although that was definitely a hit).
It was watching students surprise themselves.
🧱 A few students who joined last year's program came back for the LEGO Design Thinking workshop because they loved it so much.
🌍 Most had never heard of the UN Sustainable Development Goals before the session, but within minutes they were connecting them to issues they already cared about, from poverty and education to conflicts happening around the world.
💬 One teacher even told us that two students had planned to work quietly on their own. By the end of the workshop, they were sharing ideas, asking questions and collaborating with everyone at their table.
That's why we love this program.
It's never just about building with LEGO.
It's about building confidence, curiosity and the belief that your ideas matter.
Over the next six weeks, these students will work with industry mentors to tackle real challenges in their own communities, and we can't wait to share what they create.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a new national approach to artificial intelligence, with Science & Technology Australia (STA) welcoming the move as an important step towards strengthening Australia's AI future.
The announcement builds on recent initiatives, including the National AI Centre and the Australian AI Safety Institute, alongside the forthcoming implementation of Ambitious Australia. Together, these initiatives aim to better connect research, innovation, industry, skills development, intellectual property and the responsible adoption of AI.
The Government's AI and Employment in Australia report, released last month, reinforces why this work matters. It highlights the importance of understanding its impact on Australia's workforce and ensuring we're prepared for the opportunities and challenges ahead.
As AI continues to reshape industries, the conversation is no longer just about the technology itself. It's about ensuring Australia has the skills, research capability and responsible frameworks needed to lead its development.
For educators, this reinforces the growing importance of preparing students with the critical thinking, problem-solving and digital literacy skills that will enable them to thrive alongside emerging technologies.
Video Courtesy: ABC News (Australia)
Science & Technology Australia ABC
Students are far more likely to imagine themselves in STEM when they can see real people working in those spaces.
Earlier this year, Katherine Bennell-Pegg (), Australia’s first professional astronaut to officially represent the nation, delivered this powerful speech when she was honoured at the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards.
Her message highlights something deeply important for the future of STEM education in Australia: visibility matters.
When students can see real pathways into science, technology, engineering, and space industries, those careers begin to feel possible, tangible, and achievable.
Programs, conversations, and role models like these help bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world industries, inspiring the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders.
Video courtesy: ABC iview/ABC Australia (YouTube)
Remember the person who helped shape your path?
Now it’s your turn.
BrainSTEM mentors work with small teams of high school students, guiding them through real-world challenges, sharing insights, and building confidence along the way.
It’s just 45 minutes a week, but the impact lasts much longer.
Could this be you? Register via link in bio.
🌏 Big ideas start early.
When students are given the tools to think critically and creatively, they can challenge real-world problems.
This is what BrainSTEM looks like in action.
This idea came from a student. Imagine what they could do with the right mentor.
We’re looking for STEM professionals, PhD candidates and postdocs to guide the next generation of thinkers through our various programs.
Just 45 minutes a week can make a real difference.
If this sounds like something you’d like to do, get involved and make an impact.
Register via the link - Mentor Registration https://lnkd.in/gptnEcy5
Are you a STEM professional ready to make a real impact?
We’re looking for mentors in Melbourne and Sydney to guide a team of high school students through our STEM programs.
✔ 45 minutes a week
✔ Support the next generation of STEM leaders
✔ Great opportunity for PhD students to contribute to community engagement hours
If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.
Register via the link in bio.
The BrainSTEM Innovation Challenge is a 12-week program where STEM mentors guide Year 9 and 10 students through design thinking, collaboration and problem-solving.
We’re currently recruiting Melbourne-based PhD students and STEM professionals to support our next program.
✔ Flexible, online sessions
✔ Supported every step of the way
✔ Can contribute to PhD engagement hours
A small time commitment with a lasting impact. Link to register in bio.
Click here to claim your Sponsored Listing.
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Bourke Street
Melbourne, VIC
3000
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