Meet our ToSI participants

To date our Teachers of STEM Initiative has supported 63 First Nations women who have either completed or are still completing their university STEM teaching qualifications.  Our program is funded by the NIAA as part of the Indigenous Girls’ STEM Academy.

Teachers of STEM participants receive scholarship to help with study costs, together with mentoring and networking opportunities. The Institute also provides professional development programs to introduce Indigenous pedagogies.

Here are a few of our current participants.

Kyla Bokelund

My hopes for the future of education in Australia are centred on equity inclusion, and excellence for all students. I aspire to create learning environments where every child has access to quality education regardless of their background or circumstances.’

Kyla decided to pursue a career in STEM Education with ToSI after realising that teachers could have a profound impact on students’ lives and futures. She recognised the issues with the education sector and saw the impact of her teachers on her own life and the lives of her peers.

“My first-hand experiences of facing barriers in education, including racism, lack of resources, and low expectations, have equipped me with a unique understanding of the challenges that students, especially First Nations young people, may encounter.”

Gail Laffin

‘I have barely begun my journey with the Teachers of STEM Initiative and already feel like I’m part of a very special group of Deadly First Nations women who will make a difference to not only our First Nations Jarjums.’

Gail lives on Wulgurukaba country (Townsville); is a descendent from the Gudjala and Tagalaka nations but was born and grew up on Mitakoodi and Kalkadoon countries (Cloncurry/Mount Isa) in the great northwest of Queensland.

Gail is studying a Master of Education (specialising in STEM) with the Australian Catholic University, and this is her first year in ToSI. Gail has been inspired by working with Traditional Owners and community Walking on Country and embracing Indigenous Knowledges, particularly those that relate to the STEM curriculum.

Portia Rennie

‘As a First nations woman in STEM, I draw inspiration from the intersectionality of my identity – being both a woman and Aboriginal, belonging to First Nations communities. I acknowledge that navigating the STEM fields can be inherently challenging, often accompanied by feelings of vulnerability and the risk of judgment. My deep connection with country inspires my exploration of environmental sciences and sustainable practices.’

Portia grew up in Biripi Country; however, her family is from Kamilaraay Country. She is currently living in Meanjin, and studying a Bachelor of Education specialising in STEM, Science and Trauma Informed Practice.

Portia says that she applied for ToSI as she was ”motivated by a desire to connect with fellow Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander individuals …. and exchanging ideas on how to enhance STEM engagement, especially within Indigenous communities”.

We still have places available in the Teachers of STEM Initiative for 2025. To find out more, visit our website or Contact Us for more details.