We had the pleasure of being part of 3M’s STEM Discovery Day: Excellence in the Making, a fantastic event filled with curious and enthusiastic young minds eager to learn more about science and innovation.

ASI alum Manjekah Dunn was a keynote speaker at the event, sharing insights and lessons she wishes she had known when she was younger. Manjekah represented Australia at the 2014 International Biology Olympiad held in Indonesia, where she earned a bronze medal. Reflecting on her journey from participating in the Australian Science Olympiads to where she is today, Manjekah delivered an inspiring message that resonated with many of the students in attendance.

The event provided a wonderful opportunity to collaborate with one of our valued sponsors, 3M, and see firsthand how they inspire the next generation to explore STEM. Throughout the day, we engaged with students, parents, and 3M employees, along with seven enthusiastic ASI students, sharing information about ASI and the Australian Science Olympiads program. We also gained a deeper understanding of 3M’s work, learning how the company develops and applies innovative products across a wide range of industries.

It was incredibly rewarding to connect with so many passionate young people and witness their excitement for science.

Events like STEM Discovery Day play an important role in fostering curiosity, encouraging exploration, and inspiring future scientists and innovators.

We are grateful to 3M for the opportunity to be involved and look forward to continuing to support and inspire the next generation of STEM leaders. Thank you Manjekah, Kelsie and Molly for representing ASI.

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ASI and 3M partner to foster and support the next generation of STEM leaders.

Through long-standing collaborations, 3M has consistently served as a valued major sponsor of Australian Science Innovations programs that identify and cultivate Australia’s top scientific talent.

Key highlights of the collaborative impact include:

• Developing Talent – 3M’s corporate support fuels ASI’s Talent Development Program, which guides and mentors high-achieving junior secondary school students, with a particular focus on those from underrepresented areas, as they pursue their interest in science, build networks, and prepare for future Australian Science Olympiads.
• Inspiring Junior Scientists – 3M is an official sponsor of the Junior Science Olympiad Program which supports and challenges promising secondary students in Years 7 to 10 through national exams, a digital talent development program, an intensive residential school, and the chance to represent Australia on the global stage.
• Improving Access & Engagement – the partnership champions diversity and inclusion in science and STEM, with a focus on reaching students who may have limited opportunities due to their gender, geographic location, socio-economic background, or Indigenous status. 3M’s sponsorship helps them connect with peers, mentors, experts and opportunities.

3M has been actively and continuously supporting ASI programs for at least 10 years, including several milestones:

• 2016 providing crucial partner support alongside Australian National University (ANU) for the Curious Minds – girls in STEM program.
• 2020-present 3M partners with ASI to provide important sponsorship of the Junior Science Olympiad program.
• 2022 collaborated with the 3M Impact program in Australia where global 3Mers provided pro bono work at 3 institutes, including ASI.
• Today 3M remains a major sponsor of ASI, funding national qualifying exams, residential schools and international travel for Australia’s elite young teams.

Thank you 3M for your ongoing support of our students and programs.