National Youth Science Forum
Last year, Darwin High School student Upani Muthumala was selected to attend the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF), she was one of only two students selected from the Northern Territory.
Unfortunately, like many interstate events, NYSF was postponed because of COVID and this meant Upani was unable to attend. However, the organisers ran an online version and Upanis was able to participate in some interesting activities and lectures.
By Upani Muthumala
Despite the incredibly exciting in-person event in January being postponed due to COVID, NYSF online was the most educational, useful and inspiring program I have ever been a part of.
My highlights were getting to meet and chat with Nobel laureates, tour (albeit virtually) the archives of the Natural History Museum in London, spend a day in the life of a marine biologist exploring plastic pollution, speak live to all 3 teams currently working at the Australia Antarctica Stations in Antarctica, and deep dive into the enormous range of STEM careers out there. However, my favourite part of this experience was getting to meet hundreds of like-minded, enthusiastic people and build relationships with others all over the country. I’m looking forward to all of the in-person events scheduled around Australia throughout 2022, where I will finally get to meet everyone face-to-face, and immerse myself further in the wide and incredible world of STEM.
Pictured above: Upani's NYSF selection was recognised at a special function at Government House late last year.
