What might we learn, one day, because of Bella’s curiosity?

‘I enjoy STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) because each of these subjects connect like a puzzle,’ said Bella De Waele, a participant in the CSIRO Young Indigenous Women’s STEM Academy (YIWSA).

‘Astronomy makes me wonder not only about what ‘is’ in the world but also what could be.’

The Year 10 student is one of the highest rated academic students within the YIWSA North Queensland region and last year received the Junior Indigenous Award and the Year 9 Spirit Award at her school.

‘There are so many different questions,’ Bella said.

‘Did the ‘big bang’ occur? What was the cause of the ‘big bang’? Astronomy study interests me because I am curious about whether there is life on Mars. The possibility that there could be life in other solar systems fascinates me.’

Bella’s mother Kathleen had a role to play in this curiosity.

‘As a family we have tried to support her in pursuing her interests and especially with her progress in the STEM Academy,’ Kathleen said.

‘We are looking forward to her being involved in more camps and CSIRO activities, because she really enjoys meeting new people and working with Aunty Amy [Gulbinas] as her mentor.’

Bella learned about the YIWSA through her school Indigenous Education worker.

‘The STEM Academy is awesome. I feel like I have both a support person and a family,’ Bella said.

‘On one of our camps we had a yarning circle every evening and that was my favourite part of the whole time. We all shared our stories and experiences. We came out of that experience with greater self-confidence and a deeper respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures.’

‘My regular check-ins with Aunty Amy Gulbinas help me a lot. I feel like she is now part of my family. She encourages me to do my best at school and stay focused on the goals we set together.’

Bella said the program helped her think about all the opportunities she could have in the future.

‘At this point I am interested in being an astrophysicist working on the science and maths behind the stars, planets and finding life,’ she said.

‘One day I want to get my Ph.D in science. It seems like a long way away but I would also like to see myself doing work that helps other people pursue their passion for science too.’

The success of the rising generation, like Bella, has always been dependent on the continual support of the current generation, both personal and through education and programs like YIWSA.

‘From when Bella was in primary school, she showed an interest in maths and science,’ Kathleen said.

‘She had very supportive teachers in those subjects and they always encouraged her to ask questions and tackle the more difficult tasks. When she started at the STEM Academy, her interest soared and cemented her love of maths and science.’