MAGNIFY
12th Issue
June 2024
MAGNIFY – ISSUE 12
With the 12th issue of MAGNIFY, We remain committed to championing the talent, resilience, and leadership of women of colour who are shaping the future of STEM. What began as a small idea has grown into a thriving community—one that connects science with culture, identity with innovation, and personal stories with collective progress.
This edition brings together a diverse tapestry of experiences. We highlight mentees and mentors who are shaping STEM across Australia—voices like Laura Rey Gomez, Sampurna Shrestha, Gaihong Wang, and mentor Merve Nur Guven Bicer, each offering their own reflections on growth, resilience, and belonging. Our STEM Mother, Dr Farzana Kastury, shares her honest and inspiring perspective on balancing research with motherhood, and our Ambassador Spotlight features emerging leaders driving change within their fields.
This issue also broadens our creative and cultural lens: Nature in STEM offers a fresh way of seeing the mathematics and beauty in the natural world, while the CHINA feature provides a meaningful cultural insight that enriches our global understanding of diversity in STEM. These additions remind us that STEM is not just a discipline—it is a landscape shaped by identity, heritage, and imagination.
As STEM Sisters expands into New South Wales and our network grows stronger, we remain committed to creating spaces where women of colour feel supported, represented, and empowered. MAGNIFY continues to stand as a celebration of community, courage, and the many ways women lead and innovate.
Together, let us keep moving forward—with curiosity, connection, and confidence—toward a more inclusive and brilliant STEM future.
Editorial
As we present the 12th issue of MAGNIFY, I reflect on the remarkable journey that has brought us here. What began as a vision to elevate the voices of women of colour in STEM has grown into a strong, connected, and empowering community.
Across each edition, we’ve shared the stories of inspiring women who’ve broken barriers, redefined expectations, and made meaningful contributions across Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. We’ve explored the intersections of culture, identity, and innovation, shining a light on the rich experiences that shape our STEM landscape.
In this special issue, we continue that mission with renewed purpose. We feature women who are leading change in academia, industry, and entrepreneurship. We explore the hidden STEM wonders found in nature and reflect on how these natural phenomena continue to inspire curiosity and discovery.
We also celebrate the resilience of STEM mothers who balance ambition, family, and identity with incredible strength
As we reach this milestone, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to our contributors, readers, and supporters. Your belief in MAGNIFY has been the driving force behind our growth and impact. Together, we’ve created a platform that not only celebrates achievements but also fosters a sense of belonging, confidence, and representation.
Our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and empowerment remains unwavering as we look ahead. We will continue to amplify the voices of women of colour in STEM, challenge stereotypes, and inspire future generations to pursue their place in this field.
Thank you for being part of the MAGNIFY journey. Here’s to the next chapter—and the stories still to come.
Dr Ruwangi Fernando
Founder & Director – STEM Sisters
Editor-in-Chief – MAGNIFY