Breaking Barriers in STEM: Brodie O’Breza Recognised for Outstanding Contribution

From Saibai Island to the science labs at Curtin University, Brodie O’Breza’s journey is inspiring change across communities and coastlines. Her latest recognition as Aboriginal STEM Student of the Year is just one chapter in a growing legacy.

We are proud to celebrate the achievements of Brodie O’Breza, one of our inspiring residents at St Catherine’s College Curtin. In 2024, Brodie was named Aboriginal STEM Student of the Year at the Premier’s Science Awards. This honour recognises her dedication to both academic excellence and community impact. Brodie is currently studying Coastal and Marine Science and Environmental Management at Curtin University and brings a deep commitment to marine conservation, sustainability and cultural leadership.

“Receiving the Premier Science Award in the Category, Aboriginal STEM Student of the Year is an incredible honour. It represents my connection to my Torres Strait Islander heritage and my dedication towards my studies, but it importantly highlights breaking barriers in STEM. This achievement is not just for me but for my community, as it highlights the power of representation and the importance of encouraging more young Indigenous people to pursue studies in STEM.” Brodie O’Breza

Brodie’s academic and professional journey has taken her around the world. She gained hands-on experience through a New Colombo Plan Scholarship in Fiji, a STEM Sustainability Study Tour in Nepal and a placement with Woodside. She has also completed advanced conservation training with Sea Women of Melanesia Inc., reinforcing her commitment to protecting Sea Country and mentoring future leaders.

As a proud Torres Strait Islander woman from Saibai Island, Brodie brings cultural knowledge and a strong voice to her field. Her leadership and generosity were recently acknowledged with the 2024 WA Naturalists’ Club Serventy Memorial Prize, awarded by Curtin University’s School of Molecular and Life Sciences.

Brodie’s journey continues to inspire others across our community. We’re proud to recognise her as a leader in science, sustainability and cultural knowledge.