Two young Maribyrnong locals have been named as finalists in the 2024 Victorian Young Achiever Awards, recognised for their hard work and dedication to their causes.
West Footscray’s Catriona Vi Nguyen-Robertson is a finalist for the Strategic Alliance Network Career Achievement Award, while Maidstone’s Mohamed Semra is up for the Saward Dawson Community Service and Social Impact Award.
Ms Nguyen-Robertson said over the course of her career she has been involved in a range of different things, which she believes has led her to be nominated.
“I really want to get people passionate about science, both adults and children,” she said.
While studying, Ms Nguyen-Robertson has continued working and volunteering with a range of organisations.
“I did a PhD in immunology and realised while I was studying that I really enjoyed sharing science with other people and doing science outreach,” she said.
“Now that I have finished my studies, I work at Scienceworks to work with audiences of all ages and really get excited and curious about everything in the world around them.
“Alongside that I have volunteered to be the science communications officer for the Royal Society Victoria and Convergent Science Network.”
In these positions Ms Nguyen-Robertson wrote articles which explained scientific research and looked into public health problems and global challenges like climate change.
Mr Semra works as a anti-racism campaigner and co-founder of Endeavour Youth Australia, working to help culturally and linguistically diverse students feel empowered.
Last year he was nominated for Victorian Young Australian of the Year and has since worked closely with the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority.
He has also worked with the Department of Education and Training to support students and staff on cultural competency and conversations on racism.
The winners will be announced on Friday, June 14, at The Sofitel Melbourne.
