Ayr State High School student Jorja Jerkic has been named a 2026 Girls STEM POWER ambassador, joining an elite group of just 60 students across Queensland to receive the honour.
The STEM Girls POWER initiative is a year-long program that encourages girls to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It provides hands-on activities, workshops, and mentoring with female role models, helping students develop leadership skills and consider future STEM pathways.
Jorja follows in the footsteps of 2025 ambassador Bella Lawry, continuing a proud tradition of Ayr High girls excelling in STEM. As part of the handover, Bella passed along a book that records memories, tips, and advice from each ambassador, ensuring knowledge and experience are shared with future participants. She described the program as a lasting tradition, saying, “It is a legacy, and we hope someone else finishes it next year.”
Teacher Rob Scalia congratulated Jorja on the achievement, noting she had been selected from students across the state and praising the leadership opportunities the program provides. “It's a wonderful achievement for Ayr State High School. Congratulations, girls,” added Scalia.
The STEM Girls POWER program encourages young women to pursue studies and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. For students like Jorja and Bella, it provides a platform to develop leadership skills while inspiring the next generation of female STEM leaders.
Jorja Jerkic follows in the footsteps of 2025 ambassador Bella Lawry, continuing a proud tradition of Ayr High girls excelling in STEM. Photo source: Ayr State High School
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