Inspiring the Next Generation at STEMXX Sisters 2026

On Saturday, our Women in Surveying and Spatial Sciences WA Chairperson, Kelly Maloney had the privilege of travelling to Bunbury as the keynote speaker for the sold-out STEMXX Sisters event. Representing both the Western Australian Institution of Surveying and Women in Surveying and Spatial Sciences WA, it was an honour to connect with more than 100 young women and professionals from across the South West who share a passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

STEMXX Sisters is an annual, free STEM engagement event specifically designed for girls in Years 5 to 9. Organised by the Science Teachers Association of Western Australia (STAWA), the program aims to empower young women to explore future secondary and tertiary pathways in STEM through hands-on activities, professional mentoring and career exploration opportunities.

Throughout the day, students took part in interactive workshops and connected with women working across a wide range of STEM disciplines. From engineers and scientists to technology specialists and surveyors, the event showcased the incredible diversity of careers available to young women and the many pathways that can lead there.

For Kelly, one of the highlights was sharing the surveying profession with the students and showcasing the many women already working successfully across our industry. Surveying remains one of those professions that many students have never heard of, yet it offers exciting opportunities across construction, infrastructure, mining, land development, spatial technology, environmental management and beyond.

She endeavoured to highlight the growing networks of women across STEM professions and the importance of being brave enough to pursue your goals, even when the path may seem challenging. Today more than ever, the support, resources, mentors and opportunities are there for young women who are willing to pursue their ambitions.

A key message throughout the day was the importance of subject choices and keeping doors open. The girls learned how the decisions they make throughout secondary school can help shape future study and career opportunities. More importantly, they were encouraged to be curious, ask questions, explore new possibilities and pursue careers that genuinely interest them.

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It was equally inspiring to meet so many passionate women who are championing their professions and generously giving their time to encourage the next generation. The collective energy in the room was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when women support women and work together to create opportunities for future leaders.

A memorable moment came during the question-and-answer session at the end of the day. A young girl put her hand up and asked organiser Annabel Kanakis, "Why do you do this for us?"

The answer was simple.

"Because we need to show you that women can. We need you to see what is possible. You can be anything you dream of being, and the pathways, support and opportunities are there to help you get there."

It was a powerful reminder of why events like STEMXX Sisters matter. Sometimes all it takes is seeing someone who looks like you working in a role you never knew existed to spark a new possibility.

From Kelly “This event left the me feeling incredibly grateful, humbled and inspired. Spending the day with so many bright, engaged and curious young women was a privilege. It genuinely felt like I walked away with 100 new friends, each with their own unique talents, ambitions and potential.

I am proud to champion our profession of surveying in all its forms, to bring light to a sometimes unknown career and the importance of what surveyors do each and everyday in our built environment”

The enthusiasm from attendees was evident throughout the day, with many already expressing their excitement about returning next year.

The challenge now is ensuring this wonderful initiative continues to grow and reach even more young women across regional Western Australia. Events like STEMXX Sisters rely on the support of volunteers, industry professionals, organisations and peak bodies who are willing to invest in the future of STEM.

If you, your organisation or your industry association would like to become involved and help inspire the next generation of women in STEM, please reach out to Women in Surveying and Spatial Sciences WA or STAWA. Together, we can continue creating pathways, building confidence and showing young women that their future possibilities are limitless.