Being able to make a difference to someone, inspiring other girls and bringing change are just some of the reasons why Year 11 student, Annella Casey, devotes so much of her time to volunteering and social justice initiatives. Even when schools were closed and most of the country was in lockdown, Annella took part in a virtual Auslan Program, organised by Stuartholme School, where students could learn Australian Sign Language.

“I do know someone who is deaf and I thought this would be a wonderful way for me to gain a better understanding of what their life is like when trying to communicate with the hearing world,” Annella explained. In her role as a UQ Science Ambassador, Annella hopes to inspire other girls to take Science, Technology and Mathematics subjects.

“The UQ Science Ambassadors inspired me when I was in Year 7. The Science Ambassadors’ role is to show students the career opportunities available if they go on to study science, plus share latest news and celebrate fun events, such as National Science Week.”

“Stuartholme provides so many opportunities to get involved in volunteering and in leadership, which is a fun way to meet new people.”