Meet CSIRO’s own STEM squad, the Young Future Shapers.
What if you could peek inside a real science lab, visit a university, or advise Australia’s national science agency? That’s exactly what happens when CSIRO’s Young Future Shapers get together. They’re a national STEM team for students in years 5 to 10.
Every year, Future Shapers score personalised STEM experiences designed just for them. Think: science camps, behind-the-scenes tours, shiny new tech gear and chats with real scientists.
It’s a boost for students from under-represented groups in STEM: Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students, girls, and those from lower opportunity or regional areas. These experiences are exactly what’s needed to build confidence, capability and connection with STEM.
Ariba
Age 15
Having travelled from Wagga Wagga, Ariba arrived at the Future Shapers camp curious about medicine and left inspired by tech: “Future Shapers helped me realise that STEM and medicine fit together perfectly!”
At camp, Ariba learnt about AI, drones and uni life. Her advice? “Give everything a go – you don’t know unless you go!”
Image (above): Meet Ariba, who’s mixing STEM with medicine. Image: Supplied.
Mathieson
Age 18
Mathieson creates award-winning video games with family and friends. In 2023, Future Shapers sent his family to PAX Australia, a gaming event in Melbourne, to meet real indie game developers.
Mathieson says, “I met amazing indie developers and realised I could actually do this.” Since then, he’s gone from being a homeschool student, straight into a tech career with Telstra.
Felicity
Age 13
Felicity has travelled across Australia as part of Future Shapers. A highlight for her is being part of CSIRO’s Youth Reference Council, a student team that guides the agency’s decision-making on youth matters. “Being able to give advice to CSIRO and see it used makes you feel like you’re making a real difference.”
This article was first published in Careers with STEM: Primary and was produced in partnership with CSIRO. Find out more about CSIRO’s Young Future Shapers program.
