Meet Lana and Taylor — your 2026 NYSF Year 12 Program Chiefs of Staff! Both bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the role, and they’re excited to be returning to help make the program unforgettable. Read on to get to know them, hear about their NYSF journeys, and find out what drew them back to support the program from behind the scenes.

The 2026 NYSF Year 12 Program Chiefs of Staff. From left to right, Lana and Taylor

Lana

Hello! My name is Lana, and I am so excited to come back as one of the Chiefs of Staff for NYSF 2026! When I applied for the NYSF back in 2021, I never would have guessed that it would lead me here. I am so incredibly grateful for everything the NYSF has done for me. 

I am currently studying at the ANU, doing an advanced science degree majoring in Astrophysics! Outside of everything STEM in my life, you can typically find me outside at the beach, on a hike or inside trying to learn a new skill.

NYSF has shaped a huge part of who I am today. When I started  my NYSF journey, I was honestly a very shy and quiet person. Through my years with the NYSF, I have learnt that embarrassment is a myth and the best things in life come on the other side of discomfort. My biggest tip for upcoming NYSFers is to embrace every moment, talk to new people and trust yourself. You are so much more capable than you think! I cannot wait to meet all of you and watch you become your most authentic selves on session!

Taylor

G’day! My name is Taylor Randall, and I am beyond excited to be returning to the NYSF as one of your Chiefs of Staff for the 2026 Year 12 Program!

My NYSF journey started with one simple question… “Are you a science fan?” And from there, everything changed. That one spark ignited a passion for sharing my love of STEM with others, and NYSF opened my eyes to a world of endless possibilities.

Right now, I am studying a dual degree in Science and Education (Secondary) at the University of Queensland – because what could be better than sharing my love of STEM with our future leaders every day?!

Beyond the books, you’ll probably find me enjoying the great outdoors, live music or volunteering with Rotary’s programs for young leaders, Girl Guides, and anywhere else I can jump in and get involved. I love learning and exploring the world but it’s connecting with people I love most!

That’s what makes NYSF so magical to me: it’s the people. From spontaneous conversations about feeling a breeze to exploring deep scientific questions, every moment has led to building friendships, opportunities to learn from professionals and making unforgettable memories. That’s why, if I could give you one piece of advice heading into the program, it would be this: don’t underestimate where a single conversation can take you. Say G’day, ask the question, take the chance… you never know what you might discover, or who you might meet. Trust me when I say, NYSF is like no other.

I cannot wait to meet you in January and support you on your very own NYSF journey!

Want to support us in future NYSF Year 12 Programs? Read more about the Student Staff Leadership Program.