When I first dreamed of the Women of Colour in STEM Awards, I envisioned more than a night of celebration. I envisioned a movement that would centre the voices, stories, and brilliance of culturally and racially marginalised women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Today, that vision has materialised into something extraordinary.

This special MAGNIFY issue is more than a collection of achievements; it is a powerful testament to the excellence that has long existed, often unseen, within our communities. Here, we honour 60 phenomenal women of colour across Australia who are reshaping the STEM landscape. These pages echo with the courage of trailblazers, the insight of innovators, and the unyielding strength of those who have carved paths for themselves and others who follow.

Each feature is a window into a journey marked by resilience, brilliance, and purpose. You’ll meet environmental champions, data science pioneers, engineering visionaries, rising stars, and lifelong changemakers. What unites them is not just their expertise, but the fact that they’ve thrived despite systems that weren’t designed with them in mind.

At STEM Sisters, we believe visibility is power. And in celebrating these women, we don’t just honour their achievements—we help rewrite the narrative of who belongs in STEM. Let this issue serve as both recognition and inspiration. To every reader: may you see yourself in these stories. To every awardee: thank you for daring to lead, to question, to build, and to shine.

The future of STEM is not just diverse—it is brilliantly so. And it looks like the women you’ll find in these pages.

With pride and gratitude,

Dr. Ruwangi Fernando
Founder & Director, STEM Sisters