CALD Voices in STEM (2025)

26/04/2025

🎙 Thriving in Tech Without Coding with Diana Malcomess 🖥️

In this episode of CALD Voices in STEM, Dr. Chloe Lim engages in a compelling conversation with Diana Malcomess, a distinguished technology strategist at Microsoft. Diana shares her journey from a non-STEM academic background to becoming a pivotal figure in the tech world, highlighting the importance of curiosity, adaptability, and networking in achieving success.

🔍 Key Takeaways:

🌐 Diana Malcomess underscores the significance of curiosity and learning continuously in the ever-evolving tech industry.
💻 Transitioning into tech can be successful even without a formal background in STEM, focusing instead on relevant skills and adaptability.
🤝 Building genuine relationships without a specific agenda is a crucial strategy for networking and career growth.
👩 Mentorship and personal growth are integral to managing perceived challenges in the STEM field and pushing past difficulties.
👩‍💻 The importance of aligning personal values with career goals and finding fulfillment in one's work environment is highlighted.

Listen to the episode here: https://drchloelim.com/ep-20-thriving-in-tech-without-coding-with-diana-malcomess

*Season 2 of CALD Voices in STEM was made possible by YWCA Canberra Great Ydeas Small Grants program.*

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/cald-voices-in-stem/id1702014079
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ekS0zhlfXXIYJ2DCgY4K1

27/03/2025

🎙 Unlocking Transferable Skills: Moving From Lab Science To Policy With Dr Supre Ponnappa 🧪

Dr. Chloe Lim hosts Dr. Supre Ponnappa, a seasoned materials scientist who transitioned into the Australian government's policy-making arena. The episode offers an engaging discourse on Dr. Ponnappa’s career switch from a thriving academic life to a pivotal role in shaping STEM policies. Facing the unique challenges of transitioning career paths, Dr. Ponnappa unearthed valuable lessons in the integration of invaluable transferable skills from her PhD into policy-making.📖

🔍 Key Takeaways:

🌐 The importance of believing in oneself and leveraging transferable skills in transitioning from STEM research to policy-making.
🏢 The challenges faced by CALD women in STEM, emphasizing the need for more defined career pathways and mentorship to ascend into leadership roles.
🔬 Importance of networking and presenting oneself as a versatile candidate open to interdisciplinary roles is underscored as critical in career progression.
🏆 Dr. Ponnappa shares her personal achievements in both academia and governmental roles, illustrating the impactful influence of diverse perspectives in policy development.
👩‍🔬 Growing the representation of CALD women in senior positions within the government remains a significant challenge and area of opportunity.

Listen to the episode here: https://drchloelim.com/ep-19-unlocking-transferrable-skills-moving-from-lab-science-to-polic-with-dr-supre-ponnappa

*Season 2 of CALD Voices in STEM was made possible by YWCA Canberra Great Ydeas Small Grants program.*

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/cald-voices-in-stem/id1702014079
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ekS0zhlfXXIYJ2DCgY4K1

28/02/2025

🎙 Leading with Grace: Becoming an authentic leader in STEM with Professor Dipti Talaulikar 👩🏾

Professor Dipti Talaulikar is a renowned clinical and laboratory haematologist at Canberra Health Services, having contributed to the field for over two decades. In this episode, she joins Dr. Chloe Lim to discuss her inspiring journey from India to Australia and her groundbreaking work in STEM. They delve into the challenges and triumphs of being a culturally diverse woman navigating the nuances of a career in STEM. 🔬

🔍 Key Takeaways:

🩸 Professor Talaulikar's groundbreaking journey as the first woman to earn a Doctorate in Medicine in haematology in India and her impactful career in Australia.
🧪 The importance of hematology for advancing research due to its unique integration of clinical and laboratory disciplines, especially in genomics.
👩‍🔬 The dual focus needed to improve women’s participation in STEM: personal development and systemic changes, with a call to action for women to embrace their diversity.
🏢 Her mentorship role through the LINK program, providing support and guidance for women in health, emphasizing the value of authenticity and resilience.
🌏 Insight into handling cultural differences with empathy and grace, highlighting the broader systemic shifts necessary for gender and cultural inclusivity in professional environments.

Listen to the episode here: https://drchloelim.com/ep-18-becoming-an-authentic-leader-in-stem-with-dipti-talaulikar

*Season 2 of CALD Voices in STEM was made possible by YWCA Canberra Great Ydeas Small Grants program.*

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/cald-voices-in-stem/id1702014079
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ekS0zhlfXXIYJ2DCgY4K1

30/01/2025

🎙 Helping Communities to Innovate Against Climate Challenges with Dr Aparna Lal 🌏

Dr. Aparna Lal, an award-winning scientist, shares her journey from India to New Zealand and now Australia, highlighting the pivotal moments that led her to specialize in addressing environmental impacts on public health. Throughout the episode, Dr. Lal delves into her research focus on environmental changes, climate impacts, and biodiversity loss and how these factors drive human health risks. 🔬

🔍 Key Takeaways:

🌳 Environmental Intersectionality: Dr. Lal underscores the interconnectedness of climate change, biodiversity loss, and public health, sharing insights from her global research initiatives.
🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Community-Centric Solutions: Emphasizes the need for tailored, low-maintenance interventions that empower local communities to sustainably manage health risks associated with environmental changes.
👩🏾‍🔬 Quiet Leadership Value: Advocates for recognizing and nurturing different leadership styles in STEM, particularly the strengths of quiet leaders.
📗 Academic Barriers and Privilege: Discusses systemic challenges faced by diverse groups in academia, encouraging privileged individuals to elevate underrepresented voices.
🧪 Supporting Emerging Scientists: Details the creation of a new award aimed at empowering early-career researchers to innovate and pursue impactful studies.

Listen to the episode here: https://drchloelim.com/caldvoicesinstem-ep17-aparna-lal

*Season 2 of CALD Voices in STEM was made possible by YWCA Canberra Great Ydeas Small Grants program.*

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/cald-voices-in-stem/id1702014079
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ekS0zhlfXXIYJ2DCgY4K1

23/12/2024

🎙 Navigating the Commercial World in STEM with Nadine Najmeddine 👩

Nadine Najmeddine, a dynamic figure in the scientific sales arena, delves into her extensive career journey and resonates the importance of resilience and flexibility in STEM. Nadine shares a compelling narrative about her academic foundations and her transition from Lebanon to Australia, which has shaped her impressive career in scientific sales and channel management with Thermo Fisher Scientific ANZ. 💼

🔍 Key Takeaways:

📗 Nadine highlights the importance of continuous learning as she shares her journey in advancing her education and skills alongside her career and family commitments.
💰 Insights into the unique challenges and rewards of Nadine’s roles in STEM sales, emphasizing client engagement, time management, and fostering relationships.
🏢 Discussion on post-COVID workplace flexibility and effective time management strategies as vital components for career growth and personal well-being.
🌏 The importance of building resilience and leveraging multicultural backgrounds to provide unique perspectives in professional settings.
🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Nadine advises on stepping out of comfort zones, defining personal success, and surrounding oneself with positive influences to propel career progression.

Listen to the episode here: https://drchloelim.com/caldvoicesinstem-ep16-nadine-najmeddine

*Season 2 of CALD Voices in STEM was made possible by YWCA Canberra Great Ydeas Small Grants program.*

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/cald-voices-in-stem/id1702014079
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ekS0zhlfXXIYJ2DCgY4K1

30/11/2024

🎙 Economics and STEM: How Economic Modelling Can Help Non-Profit Organisations 📖

Economist and women’s empowerment advocate Dr. Madhumita Iyengar shares her journey into economics, highlighting its integral role as a STEM field and its profound impact on policy-making and community outcomes. As an advocate for social justice, Dr. Iyengar emphasizes the importance of evidence-based economic analysis in driving positive social change, particularly for marginalized groups. 🌏

🔍 Key Takeaways:
📗 Dr. Iyengar's career in economic modelling underscores economics as a vital component of STEM, requiring rigorous mathematical analysis to inform policies and programs.
🧑‍🤝‍🧑 The creation of IWIN aims to provide a culturally safe platform for addressing gender inequality and promoting women's rights among migrant communities.
💰 Economic impact analysis can play a crucial role in securing funding and demonstrating the effectiveness of community programs.
👩🏾‍🔬 Building support networks for multicultural women in STEM is essential for nurturing talent and fostering empowerment through collective wisdom and shared experiences.
🤝 Inclusive community engagement and leadership development can drive significant social change and create equitable opportunities for all individuals.

Listen to the episode here: https://drchloelim.com/ep15-how-economic-modelling-can-help-non-profit-organisations

*Season 2 of CALD Voices in STEM was made possible by YWCA Canberra Great Ydeas Small Grants program.*

*Please note that this episode discusses domestic violence. If you need help, please see the helplines in White Ribbon: https://whiteribbon.org.au/helplines/

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/cald-voices-in-stem/id1702014079
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ekS0zhlfXXIYJ2DCgY4K1

31/10/2024

🎙 Overcoming Stereotypes: How to Thrive in a Male-Dominated Industry like Geophysics with Dr. Yvette Djomani 🪨

In this insightful episode of "CALD Voices in STEM," Dr. Chloe Lim interviews Dr. Yvette Djomani, a trailblazer in the field of geophysics. The discussion delves into Yvette's remarkable journey from her humble beginnings in Cameroon to becoming a prominent figure in geophysical studies and gender equity in STEM fields. Yvette shares her passion for earth sciences ignited during childhood road trips and how it translated into an accomplished career advocating for more women, particularly those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, in STEM. 📗

🔍 Key Takeaways:
🌳 Journey in STEM: Yvette's interest in geophysics was sparked by childhood experiences with nature and the influence of passionate educators.
🏢 Career Transitions: From academia to consulting to government roles, Yvette has navigated diverse sectors, leveraging her skills for broader impacts.
👩🏾 Challenges as a Woman of Colour: Yvette discusses barriers in male-dominated fields and emphasizes the compounded challenges for culturally diverse women.
🔬 Empowerment through Mentorship: Highlighting the importance of mentoring, Yvette actively supports young women in STEM, especially in geophysics.
♀️ Promoting Gender Equity: Yvette advocates for early STEM education for girls and increased visibility and leadership opportunities for women of colour.
Listen to the episode here: https://drchloelim.com/ep-14-overcoming-stereotypes-how-to-thrive-in-a-male-dominated-industry/

*Season 2 of CALD Voices in STEM was made possible by YWCA Canberra Great Ydeas Small Grants program.*

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/cald-voices-in-stem/id1702014079
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ekS0zhlfXXIYJ2DCgY4K1

26/09/2024

🎙 Empowering Youth: Ananya Banerjee's Journey in STEM and Activism 🔬

In the newest episode of CALD voices in STEM, Dr. Chloe Lim engages in a compelling conversation with Ananya Banerjee, a passionate young activist and psychology student from the Australian National University. Ananya shares her journey from being born in a culturally rich yet challenging environment in India to making significant strides in areas like mental health, education, and gender equality through her NGOs. 📗

🔍 Key Takeaways:
🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Intersection of Cultures in STEM: Ananya highlights the integration of Western and non-Western scientific perspectives, emphasizing holistic health approaches.
👩🏾 Impactful Activism: Through her NGO, Sarthi, Ananya has significantly impacted mental health awareness, menstrual hygiene, and gender equality in India.
🌏 Challenges in STEM: Ananya discusses the challenges stemming from cultural diversity, gender, and age in the STEM field.
♀️ Inspiring Youth: Ananya's motivational journey encourages young women and youth to embrace their identities and strive to make a difference.
🎓 Holistic Education: The ‘Sushiksha’ initiative demonstrates Ananya's commitment to providing well-rounded education to underprivileged children, fostering their dreams and aspirations.

Listen to the episode here: https://drchloelim.com/caldvoicesinstem-ep13-ananya-banerjee

*Season 2 of CALD Voices in STEM was made possible by YWCA Canberra Great Ydeas Small Grants program.*

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/cald-voices-in-stem/id1702014079
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ekS0zhlfXXIYJ2DCgY4K1

29/08/2024

🎙 From Academia to Industry to Government: Lessons from a Mum in Science 🧪

In the latest episode of CALD voices in STEM, Dr. Munazza Imran shares her inspiring journey from academia to industry and then into government service. Her insights on balancing career growth, family responsibilities, and personal goals provide valuable lessons for women in STEM facing similar challenges. 🔬

🔍 Key Takeaways:
🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Dr. Imran's passion for serving humanity through her research and career choices is evident in her dedication to making a positive impact in the field of life sciences.
👩‍🔬 She encourages women in STEM to be resilient, pursue opportunities, and not be deterred by failures, but to view them as learning experiences on the path to success.
📗 It is important to not give up on one's dreams and continuously striving for personal and professional growth.

Listen to the episode here: https://drchloelim.com/caldvoicesinstem-ep12-munazza-imran

*Season 2 of CALD Voices in STEM was made possible by YWCA Canberra Great Ydeas Small Grants program.*

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/cald-voices-in-stem/id1702014079
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ekS0zhlfXXIYJ2DCgY4K1

29/07/2024

🎙 From Office Assistant to Senior Executive: A Data Journey Story 👩

In the latest episode of CALD voices in STEM, Dr Chloe Lim engages in an in-depth conversation with Xiaoyan Lu about her remarkable journey from a small mining town in China to becoming a respected leader in the data analytics industry. 🖥️

🔍 Key Takeaways:
👩‍🏫 The importance of cultivating a growth mindset and displaying the courage to challenge oneself beyond the comfort zone.
🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Building a strong support network, including mentors, coaches, and allies, is crucial for career advancement and overcoming barriers in the STEM industry.
👩‍🔬 Self-advocacy is key for women in STEM to ask for development opportunities, training, and recognition they deserve.
🏢 Addressing unconscious bias in recruitment processes and promoting diversity and inclusion are essential for fostering a more equitable and diverse workforce.
📗 The significance of seizing opportunities, continuous learning, and embracing challenges to drive personal and professional growth in the data analytics field.

Listen to the episode here: https://drchloelim.com/caldvoicesinstem-ep11-xiaoyan-lu

*Season 2 of CALD Voices in STEM was made possible by YWCA Canberra Great Ydeas Small Grants program.*

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/cald-voices-in-stem/id1702014079
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ekS0zhlfXXIYJ2DCgY4K1

30/06/2024

🎙 Creating Psychologically Safe Workplaces with Isabelle Vu 👩‍🔬

In the latest episode of CALD voices in STEM, Dr. Chloe Lim interviews Isabelle Vu, a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the STEM field. Isabelle is a staunch intersectional feminist and a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion advocate focusing on gender equity, cultural diversity, mental health and the prevention of sexual, domestic and family violence. ✔️

🔍 Key Takeaways:
🔬 The importance of creating psychologically safe spaces for marginalized individuals in the workplace.
👩‍🏫 The value of mentoring, self-kindness, and adaptability in navigating the STEM industry.
👩 The role of allyship and representation in promoting diversity and inclusion in STEM.

Listen to the episode here: https://drchloelim.com/caldvoicesinstem-ep10-isabelle-vu

*Season 2 of CALD Voices in STEM was made possible by YWCA Canberra Great Ydeas Small Grants program.*

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/cald-voices-in-stem/id1702014079
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ekS0zhlfXXIYJ2DCgY4K1

30/05/2024

🎙 Climbing the academic ladder in the IT industry with Dr. Lubna Alam 💻🌐

Join us on this episode of CALD voices in STEM for a rich conversation with Dr Lubna Alam, an Associate Professor of Information Systems at the Deakin Business School Deakin University. Dr. Alam is the co-founder of the volunteer-run not-for-profit Alo Enlightened Women Incorporated, a member of the Ministerial Advisory Council for Multiculturism and winner of the ACT Outstanding Excellence Award for Diversity and Inclusion at the 2023 ACT Multicultural Awards and Westfield local hero 2023. 🏆

🔍 Key Takeaways:
👩‍🔬 Dr. Lubna Alam's journey into STEM was influenced by cultural expectations in Bangladesh, where engineering and medicine were the preferred career paths.
🔬 Balancing a full-time job, raising a newborn, and completing a PhD was a significant challenge for Dr. Alam, but she successfully navigated these responsibilities with the support of mentors and sponsors.
🌏 Language barriers and cultural assimilation can present challenges for culturally diverse women in STEM, but continuous upskilling and networking can help overcome these barriers.

Listen to the episode here: https://drchloelim.com/caldvoicesinstem-ep9-dr-lubna-alam/

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/cald-voices-in-stem/id1702014079
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ekS0zhlfXXIYJ2DCgY4K1

*Season 2 of CALD Voices in STEM was made possible by YWCA Canberra Great Ydeas Small Grants program.*

CALD Voices in STEM