YOUNG girls in Port Macquarie are discovering that science is something they can explore, experiment with and perhaps pursue as a career.
University of Newcastle biomedical science student Jorja Schofield founded the nonprofit Girls in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Club, offering free workshops for girls aged seven to 12 at Port Macquarie Library.
Jorja chose this age group deliberately, hoping to build confidence and belonging before the social pressures of high school.
“I believe it’s really important that we show young girls their possibilities in STEM before they get into high school,” she told News Of The Area.
Her motivation is personal. As a science-loving school student in the Hastings Heroes robotics team, Jorja noticed how few girls participated.
“It’s so hard to get a foot in and feel like it’s your place,” she said.
She also wants regional girls to access opportunities often concentrated in cities.
“Regional girls kind of get left behind a bit,” she said.
The club’s first program brings 16 girls together for five weekly 90-minute human biology workshops.
Every place was booked within five days.
Participants extract DNA from strawberries, use scientific equipment and meet local STEM professionals, including a cardiac sonographer and speech pathologist.
Jorja spent around a year planning the program and volunteers her time. A $1,000 Australian Government Inspiring Australia grant funded materials, while Port Macquarie Library provides space and promotional support.
Around 40 per cent of participants are neurodivergent. For Jorja, who is autistic and dyslexic, representation matters.
One girl was thrilled to discover that Jorja was autistic and pursuing science.
“I could tell she was so happy to see someone like her doing things she wants to do,” Jorja recalled.
“That was just such a big moment for me that made me really happy.”
Encouraged by families’ feedback, Jorja hopes to offer holiday workshops and an engineering-focused series, connecting more girls with local women in STEM.
More information: www.girls-in-stem-club.com.
By Rasa KABAILA
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