Year 12 student and school captain at San Sisto College Jemma Donovan has become a state finalist in the prestigious Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and Women in Mining and Resources (WIMARQ) 2022 Exceptional Female Student of the Year Award.
Jemma is one of only four high achieving secondary students in the list of 16 women at the top of their game in the resources sector across Queensland.
As a current Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) Ambassador, and previously a University of Queensland Science Ambassador for 2021, Jemma said the opportunities through the College and these roles have provided her with a platform to share her passion for science and become a leader in learning for young women like herself who are considering career in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM).
“I am so proud to have been nominated for this award alongside so many other inspiring women, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to celebrate the role of females in the mining and resources sector," Jemma said.
“My involvement with the QMEA has been fantastic for my personal and professional growth, as it has allowed me to connect with industry professionals who will assist me in my future career path.
“I have had the opportunity to interact with like-minded individuals who share similar passions to myself, growing my knowledge of the mining and resources sector."
To provide progressive, real-world experiences, San Sisto College partners with leading universities and institutions, including the University of Queensland, Monash University, Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) and technology providers.
San Sisto College Principal Shelley Hamilton said the College embraces agile and innovative education and pedagogical practices that equip students with 21st century attributes.
“Our dedicated teaching team pursues leading-edge, best-practice pedagogy to maximise learning, and prepare students for occupations in the future that do not currently exist," she said.
“We believe we provide dedicated and committed teaching, wellbeing and support staff who work to create a vibrant learning environment that nurtures and supports each student. We place great value on this holistic approach to educating young women."
After completing her secondary studies at San Sisto College, Jemma hopes to continue this path by studying a Bachelor of Engineering.
“My nomination as a finalist, connections through the College, and involvement with the QMEA has opened my eyes to the wealth of career paths and opportunities available in the mining and resources sector, consolidating my goal of being a process and environmental engineer in the industry," Jemma said.
“One day, I hope to combine my passion for engineering and love for the environment by working on ways to create more sustainable mining and energy production practices, within the mining and resources sector."
The winner of the Exceptional Female QMEA Student Award will be announced in front of an anticipated 1000-strong crowd at the QRC/WIMARQ awards at an International Women's Day breakfast in Brisbane on 8 March, presented by Anglo American.
The awards will be compered by journalist and TV presenter Jennifer Byrne and feature seven categories.
For more information on the awards and see Jemma's profile, visit 2022 QRC / WIMARQ Resources Awards for Women Finalists.
