When we launched the inaugural Women of Colour in STEM Awards last year, we hoped to spark a shift. What we witnessed instead was a wave — a surge of visibility, pride, and recognition that rippled across Australia’s STEM community. Now, in our second year, the impact of this movement is undeniable. More women stepped forward. More organisations listened. More stories — once hidden — found the spotlight they deserved.

This year, we honour 80 remarkable women of colour whose excellence continues to reshape what STEM leadership looks like in Australia. And for the first time, we also celebrate their allies — individuals who actively use their influence to champion equity, representation, and opportunity. Their inclusion reflects a simple truth: systemic change is only possible when those within the system help drive it forward.

We have expanded the Awards to 15 categories, including three new categories dedicated to STEM teachers, recognising the educators who ignite curiosity, nurture talent, and ensure the next generation sees themselves in STEM from the very beginning.

A new milestone this year is the introduction of the Inspire STEM Gallery — a physical exhibition bringing these stories to life in a way words alone cannot. Seeing these women and allies represented on gallery walls is powerful; it transforms recognition into legacy and visibility into permanence. It allows communities, schools, families, and young girls to walk through a space and witness what possibility looks like.

Within these pages — and on those gallery walls — you’ll find innovators, researchers, engineers, creators, educators, and pioneers whose journeys are marked by resilience, brilliance, and unshakeable purpose. They are thriving in spaces that were not designed with them in mind, and in doing so, reshaping those spaces for everyone who will follow.

To every awardee: your courage and excellence continue to push boundaries.

To every ally: thank you for standing beside us and carrying the change forward.

To every reader: may these stories inspire you to lead, uplift, and dream boldly.

In just two years, this Awards program has become a catalyst for representation, belonging, and systemic change. And we are only just beginning.

With immense pride and gratitude,

Dr. Ruwangi Fernando

Founder & Director, STEM Sisters