"A genuinely transformative experience"
Meet Aquila and Elizabeth, your 2027 NYSF Year 12 Program Chiefs of Staff!
They’ve lived the NYSF experience, come back for more, and now they’re here to help make your session one to remember.
From delivering speeches and leading chants, to making ALL the NYSF magic, they’re all about creating an environment where our participants can dive in, be themselves and get the most out of every opportunity.
Read on to get to know them, what keeps them coming back, and their top tips for making the most of your time at NYSF.
2027 NYSF Year 12 Program Chiefs of Staff, Aquila and Elizabeth (L to R)
Aquila
Hey! My name is Aquila, and I am stoked to be returning to NYSF as a Chief of Staff for the 2026 Year 12 Program!
Currently, I am finishing my studies of Advanced Science majoring in Zoology and Ecology and am aiming to continue to post graduate work. I have a passion for ‘crunching the numbers’ in conservation and it is my ambition to bridge the gap between science and public perception!
Outside of my studies, I frequently get lost in the bush looking at bugs or bottom up in coral gardens! I am fanatic for live music, camping, and a game of pool!
I have never experienced an environment quite like NYSF. From the life-long friendships you make, to the thought-provoking conversations you find yourself in with strangers, to the mind-opening exposure you get from so many avenues and people of STEM, NYSF challenges your perception of science, gives you a sore belly from laughter and fills you with life-long memories!
My piece of advice for the program is let yourself be passionate! Immerse yourself into every aspect of NYSF, start the conversations, and don’t be scared to show who you are! After all, “unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not”.
I am beyond ecstatic to welcome you Science Fans to the NYSF family and see you flourish as your incredible selves!
Elizabeth
Hello!
My name is Elizabeth and I’m super excited to be one of your Chiefs of Staff for the 2027 Year 12 Program!
I'm currently studying biomedical engineering and computing - both are rapidly developing fields and I'm keen to see where they go in the future. I'm really interested in interdisciplinary problem solving, and I want to contribute to initiatives and technologies that make our world a better place.
Beyond university, I like to spend my time listening to music, reading, hanging out with my friends and family, and trying desperately to befriend my local magpies. I'm always down for a great conversation, so when you see me around on session, please come and say hi!
The NYSF Year 12 Program is a genuinely transformative experience.
Seeing students come out of their shells, find new passions for STEM, and explore so many exciting opportunities through the program is one of the biggest joys that has kept me coming back as a volunteer over the past few years.
My top tip would be to bring your full, authentic self to the program, and then to embrace and support everyone you meet who is doing the same.
The most incredible people I know are NYSFers, and they inspire me every day to be more than I thought I could be.
I cannot wait to meet you and watch you grow as confident, curious, community-minded young people.
See you there, Science Fans!
Want to support us in future NYSF Year 12 Programs? Read more about the Student Staff Leadership Program