Creating Inclusive Futures Through STEM: Sarah Chapman on Empowering Girls and Communities in Regional Australia 

In this episode of Towards Better, Ricky is joined by Sarah Chapman, Founder of STEM Changemakers, Founder of the Townsville STEM Hub, and Co-Chair of Women in STEMM Australia, for a rich conversation about inclusion, opportunity, and community-led change through STEM.

Together, they explore Sarah’s personal journey into STEM, the barriers women and underrepresented groups continue to face, and how community-based initiatives can create confidence, belonging, and real pathways into valued roles.

Todays Guest: Sarah Chapman

 Sarah Chapman is the Founder of STEM Changemakers, a program focused on empowering underrepresented regional Australian girls in STEM. She has over twenty years’ experience as a secondary science educator and Science Head of Department. Sarah is also the Founder of the Townsville STEM Hub, a volunteer community organisation that has engaged over 15,000+ people in a range of student, teacher and community events. Sarah Chapman is Co-Chair of Women in STEMM Australia and a Board Member of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute. She is passionate about inspiring, engaging and empowering people through STEM. Sarah commits extensive portions of her own time lifting the profile of STEM education, by working with students, teachers and the broader community.

Sarah Chapman’s work with STEM Changemakers was awarded the Raising the Regions Award, 2025 by Women in Technology Australia. In January 2025, Sarah was part of the Australian Team at the Global Chemistry Education Program held in Beijing. In 2019, Sarah was awarded a Commonwealth Bank of Australia Teaching Award Fellowship. In 2018, Sarah was selected as one of ten national STEM Ambassadors by Science and Technology Australia and was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute. She was awarded a Barbara Cail STEM Fellowship in 2016, which involved international travel to research best practice in engaging young people into STEM. Sarah was awarded the prestigious Prime Minister’s Secondary Science Teaching Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in 2013. In 2014 she was selected as a Queensland Government Science Champion. Sarah’s work has also been recognised with a prestigious Peter Doherty, Outstanding Teacher of Science Award in 2008 (Queensland Government) and an Australian Award for Teaching Excellence in 2009 (Teaching Australia). 

What We Cover in This Episode

Introduction

·       A brief introduction to Sarah Chapman, her STEM journey, and key achievements

·       The question that sparked it all: What inspired Sarah to create STEM Changemakers and the Townsville STEM Hub?

Personal Journey & STEM Inspiration

·       Sarah’s journey into STEM and what motivated her to pursue chemistry and teaching

·       The mentors, role models, and pivotal moments that shaped her career

·       How her experience as a classroom teacher influences her approach to STEM advocacy today

Women

Support the show

Love the podcast?! Leave us a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify.
.
Want to connect further, check us out on socials:
.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TowardsBetterCo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/towardsbetterco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/37535138
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCukUKGkOylJNNtUbWKMIfHQ
.
Thanks for Listening!
.
Ricky

In this episode of the Towards Better Podcast, we sit down with Liam Thomas from All Access Education Group (AAE Group) to explore inclusive education, neurodivergent learning, and how stronger connections between education and local businesses can create better pathways from learning to careers.

Liam shares the story behind AAE Group, the three businesses under its umbrella, and the mission driving their work with learners, families, schools, and employers. Together, we unpack the gaps that still exist in traditional education to employment pathways, particularly for neurodiverse and non-traditional learners, and what inclusive education looks like in practice.

We discuss what employers often miss when engaging diverse learners, how AAE Group supports students through tutoring, academic coaching, allied health-informed services, STEM programs, and career-focused experiences, and how these supports translate into meaningful, valued roles.

The conversation also looks to the future of work and how learners can be better prepared for a changing world shaped by automation, remote work, and growing awareness of neurodiversity. Liam shares insights into the strengths neurodivergent learners bring to workplaces and what both learners and employers need to succeed.

This episode offers practical takeaways for local businesses interested in partnering with AAE Group, as well as learners and families seeking clearer pathways from education to careers.

About All Access Education Group

All Access Education Group Pty Ltd is a Queensland-born education organisation providing inclusive, accessible learning support across tutoring, academic coaching, allied health-informed services, and immersive STEM programs. Through All Access Events, Townsville Education Centre, and national online programs, AAE supports learners from early primary through to adulthood.

Founded by Liam Thomas (Founder & CEO) and Rozi Thomas (Managing Director), AAE Group blends expert teaching, STEM innovation, and inclusive practice to help learners build confidence, capability, and real-world skills.

Find out more:

https://www.allaccesseducation.com.au/

https://www.facebook.com/allaccessedu/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/all-access-tutoring/

https://www.instagram.com/allaccesseducationgroup/

Support the show

Love the podcast?! Leave us a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify.
.
Want to connect further, check us out on socials:
.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TowardsBetterCo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/towardsbetterco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/37535138
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCukUKGkOylJNNtUbWKMIfHQ
.
Thanks for Listening!
.
Ricky

Episode Title:
Digitising Dreams: Rob Birnie on Bridging the Digital Divide with LiteHaus International

Description:
From a single laptop donated from a garage in 2017 to a mission of digitising a million dreams by 2027, LiteHaus International has transformed access to technology for hundreds of thousands of students across Australia, the Pacific Islands, and Southeast Asia.

In this episode, we speak with Rob Birnie, Australian Programs Lead at LiteHaus International, about his journey from volunteer to leading programs that have refurbished over 23,000 devices and empowered more than 340,000 students. Rob shares inspiring stories from rural Queensland to Papua New Guinea, unpacks the environmental impact of turning e-waste into opportunity, and explores how partnerships are driving digital equity across diverse cultures.

Whether you’re passionate about education, sustainability, or social innovation, this conversation offers a powerful reminder of how small beginnings can lead to global change.

Learn more & get involved:
🌐 Website: litehausinternational.org
📘 Facebook: LiteHaus International
💼 LinkedIn: LiteHaus International
📸 Instagram: @litehaus_international

Support the show

Love the podcast?! Leave us a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify.
.
Want to connect further, check us out on socials:
.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TowardsBetterCo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/towardsbetterco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/37535138
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCukUKGkOylJNNtUbWKMIfHQ
.
Thanks for Listening!
.
Ricky

Episode Title: Work, Life & IBD: Creating Inclusive Spaces for Invisible Conditions

Episode Description:

Living with an invisible illness like Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) comes with unique challenges—misunderstandings, stigma, and a constant battle for proper care. In this episode, we sit down with Michelle Hobson, a passionate advocate, author, and founder of IBD Hub. After nine years of misdiagnoses, Michelle finally found the answers she needed and turned her journey with Ulcerative Colitis into a mission to support others navigating Crohn’s Disease and IBD.

Michelle’s new book, The Ultimate IBD Handbook: Your Guide to Thriving, Not Just Surviving, is a must-read for anyone looking to better understand their condition, explore treatment options, and take control of their daily life.

We dive into:
✅ The reality of living with an invisible condition and breaking misconceptions around IBD
✅ The importance of peer support and community in managing chronic illness
✅ How workplaces and communities can be more inclusive and supportive of people with IBD
✅ Michelle’s journey from lived experience to advocacy, writing, and leadership

So whether you're newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or simply eager to learn how to make the world more inclusive—this episode is for you.

Links & Resources:
📖 The Ultimate IBD Handbook – Order here
🌐 IBD Hub – Website
🔗 Connect with Michelle: LinkedIn | Instagram | Linktree

🎧 Tune in now to hear Michelle’s inspiring story and practical insights!

4o

Support the show

Love the podcast?! Leave us a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify.
.
Want to connect further, check us out on socials:
.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TowardsBetterCo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/towardsbetterco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/37535138
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCukUKGkOylJNNtUbWKMIfHQ
.
Thanks for Listening!
.
Ricky

Welcome to today’s episode of the Towards Better Podcast!

We’re excited to be joined by Kosta and Jules, the passionate owners of King Konz School of Music, Townsville’s largest dedicated private music school. King Konz is not only about helping students play music like their idols but also about creating a community of growth and support for musicians of all ages and skill levels.

In this episode, Kosta and Jules will share their journey in the music education industry, discuss the importance of developing competency in musicians—young and old—and highlight the unique challenges and rewards of teaching music in a fun and engaging way.

We’ll also dive into the impact of customised employment at King Konz. Kosta and Jules will talk about how they created a customised part-time role for an employee with a disability, aligning their skills with the studio’s needs. The result? A mindset shift that has positively impacted their business, enhanced the work culture, and fostered a more inclusive environment for everyone.

Join us as we discuss how customised employment, employee skill development, and inclusion are all connected and help to build a better workplace and community.

Let’s get started!

Check out their upcoming Event: Hollapallooza
Date: Saturday, 7th December 2024
Venue: PCYC Aitkenvale, 126 Wellington Street
Doors Open: 10:30 am for an 11:00 am start

LINK:https://www.kingkonzschoolofmusic.com/end-of-term-performance

• King Konz School of Music WEBSITE: https://www.kingkonzschoolofmusic.com/
• King Konz School of Music FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/KingKonzSchoolOfMusic
• King Konz School of Music LINKED IN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/king-konz-school-of-music-387379206/?originalSubdomain=au

Support the show

Love the podcast?! Leave us a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify.
.
Want to connect further, check us out on socials:
.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TowardsBetterCo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/towardsbetterco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/37535138
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCukUKGkOylJNNtUbWKMIfHQ
.
Thanks for Listening!
.
Ricky

Welcome to this episode of the Towards Better Podcast! I’m excited to have Margaret Rodgers, the Chief Executive Officer of the Community Resource Unit (CRU), joining us today. CRU is a remarkable organization dedicated to creating and promoting positive change, ensuring people with disabilities can belong to and actively contribute to social and economic life.

With over forty years of experience working with people with disabilities and their families, Margaret's career has spanned numerous roles across Queensland, and her leadership at CRU has driven significant impact in the disability sector. From her early days in India with the L’Arche community to leading CRU's programs aimed at supporting leadership development and fostering inclusion, Margaret has seen firsthand the transformational power of empowering individuals to lead their own change.

In today’s episode, we will explore the story of CRU, its mission and vision, and the evolution of its work over the years. We’ll discuss the importance of leadership development, how CRU intentionally invests in people, and the resourcefulness required to support individuals with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives, even with limited funding.

We'll also dive into some powerful stories of change, share the challenges and successes of CRU’s work, and explore how you can get involved in making a difference.

So, whether you’re new to CRU’s work or have been following their journey, this episode is sure to inspire you. Let's get started!

• CRU Website: https://cru.org.au/
• CRU Events: https://cru.org.au/events/
• CRU Resources: https://cru.org.au/resources/
• CRU Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CommResourceUnit/
• Contact CRU: https://cru.org.au/contact/

Support the show

Love the podcast?! Leave us a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify.
.
Want to connect further, check us out on socials:
.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TowardsBetterCo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/towardsbetterco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/37535138
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCukUKGkOylJNNtUbWKMIfHQ
.
Thanks for Listening!
.
Ricky

Podcast Episode Title:
Redefining Roles: How Explore Property Munro & Co's Customized Employment Partnership is Transforming Work

Podcast Episode Description:
In this episode, we explore the innovative collaboration between Munro & Co Explore Property and Towards Better, showcasing how customized employment can redefine roles and create impactful opportunities. Join us as Jools Munro discusses their journey in crafting a tailored admin and marketing assistant role, and how this partnership is transforming the way we think about work and inclusion.

Episode Highlights:

1. Introduction to Munro & Co Explore Property and Towards Better
   • Brief overview of both organizations and their missions.
   • Introduction to the partnership and the role of customized employment.
2. The Genesis of the Customized Employment Role
   • How the idea for the casual admin and marketing assistant role came about.
   • Key factors in designing and crafting the role to meet both organizational needs and the individual's strengths.
3. Implementation and Impact
   • The process of integrating the new role into Munro & Co’s operations.
   • Initial outcomes and benefits experienced by the organization and the employee.
4. Challenges and Solutions
   • Any challenges faced during the implementation of the customized role.
   • Strategies and solutions that were employed to overcome these challenges.
5. Broader Implications and Future Outlook
   • The impact of this partnership on the broader employment landscape.
   • Future plans for continued collaboration and further development of customized employment roles.
6. Advice for Other Organizations
   • Jools Munro’s insights and advice for other businesses looking to explore customized employment.
   • Resources and strategies for successfully implementing similar initiatives.

Guest:

• Jools Munro, Munro & Co Explore Property

Links and Resources:

• Munro & Co Explore Property: https://explorepropertymunro.com.au/
• Towards Better: www.towardsbetter.com.au
• Customized Employment Resources: Contact Towards Better

Call to Action:

• Subscribe to our podcast for more insightful discussions on inclusion and innovation.
• Connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram
• Share your thoughts and feedback on this episode!

Support the show

Love the podcast?! Leave us a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify.
.
Want to connect further, check us out on socials:
.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TowardsBetterCo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/towardsbetterco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/37535138
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCukUKGkOylJNNtUbWKMIfHQ
.
Thanks for Listening!
.
Ricky

"Welcome to today's episode of the Towards Better Podcast titled 'Fostering Cultural Safety and Inclusion: A Conversation with CIC.' I'm your host, Ricky Esterquest, and today we're honored to have with us Theresa Hudson, an experienced Community Coordinator and Connector with a rich background in non-profit organization management. Theresa has a wealth of experience in community engagement, curriculum development, mentoring, team building, and leadership. She brings extensive knowledge in community and social services, coupled with a strong commitment to social support and community development.

In this episode, we'll delve into CIC's Diversity & Inclusion action plan, exploring its origins, goals, and the continuous journey towards creating a culturally safe and inclusive workplace. Theresa will share insights on the steps CIC has taken, the challenges faced, and the remarkable progress made so far. We'll also discuss the importance of cultural safety, especially for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and highlight how CIC is building cultural awareness and competence among its employees.

So, stay tuned as we embark on this inspiring conversation with Theresa Hudson, and learn how CIC is making a significant impact in fostering diversity and inclusion within their organization."

Website: https://www.cictownsville.com.au/
CIC Strategic Plan: https://www.cictownsville.com.au/strategic-plan/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CICTownsville/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/community-information-centre-townsville
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cictownsville/

Support the show

Love the podcast?! Leave us a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify.
.
Want to connect further, check us out on socials:
.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TowardsBetterCo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/towardsbetterco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/37535138
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCukUKGkOylJNNtUbWKMIfHQ
.
Thanks for Listening!
.
Ricky

OVERVIEW
 
In this three-episode series, I have the pleasure of chatting with Andrew Schubert and Michael Bromage about the fascinating world of makerspaces in North Queensland.
 
Andrew, a Technical Project Manager and founder of Urban Maker in Townsville, is dedicated to bridging the gap in STEM experiences for kids and young adults with Autism through the Innovation for ASD Initiative. With his background in electronics and experience in both civilian and military environments, Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for innovation.

Michael, a PhD Candidate and award-winning content producer, is the creator of the Collaborative Citymaking Ecosystem, designed to help cities adapt to our rapidly changing world. As a creative thinker and service designer, Michael excels in helping people and industries create, collaborate, innovate, and implement new ideas.

Together, we explore the value propositions of makerspaces—also known as MakerSpaces, FabLabs, or Creative Hubs—for individuals, local communities, and businesses. Join us for an inspiring conversation about the impact of these creative spaces and the incredible work being done by our guests. Let's dive in!

 GENERAL LINKS

• Urban Maker Website: https://urbanmaker.com.au/
• Urban Maker Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/URBAN-MAKER/61554331667564/
• Michael Bromage QUT Bio: https://research.qut.edu.au/designlab/team/michael-bromage/
• DakTech Maker Space Website: https://daktech.com.au/maker-space-bookings/
• MixHaus MakerSpace Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mixhaus/ 
• Umbrella Studio Makerspace: Makerspace - Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts
• Townsville City Libraries Booking Website: https://townsville.spydus.com/cgi-bin/spydus.exe/MSGTRN/WPAC/EVENTS?HOMEPRMS=EVSESPARAMS
• Townsville CityLibraries Creative Spaces: https://www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities-and-recreation/libraries/creative-spaces

DESIGN THINKING LINKS

• Harvard Business 'What is Design Thinking': https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/what-is-design-thinking
• IDEO Design Thinking: https://designthinking.ideo.com/
• What is Human Centred Design (Video): https://youtu.be/musmgKEPY2o?si=o8gFSgR6F2dfBlZE
• Design Thinking (Video): https://youtu.be/NTmXw40wmjU?si=rEi_cSWDF-zNakfc
• Desig

Support the show

Love the podcast?! Leave us a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify.
.
Want to connect further, check us out on socials:
.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TowardsBetterCo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/towardsbetterco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/37535138
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCukUKGkOylJNNtUbWKMIfHQ
.
Thanks for Listening!
.
Ricky

OVERVIEW

In this three-episode series, I have the pleasure of chatting with Andrew Schubert and Michael Bromage about the fascinating world of makerspaces in North Queensland.
 
Andrew, a Technical Project Manager and founder of Urban Maker in Townsville, is dedicated to bridging the gap in STEM experiences for kids and young adults with Autism through the Innovation for ASD Initiative. With his background in electronics and experience in both civilian and military environments, Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for innovation.

Michael, a PhD Candidate and award-winning content producer, is the creator of the Collaborative Citymaking Ecosystem, designed to help cities adapt to our rapidly changing world. As a creative thinker and service designer, Michael excels in helping people and industries create, collaborate, innovate, and implement new ideas.

Together, we explore the value propositions of makerspaces—also known as MakerSpaces, FabLabs, or Creative Hubs—for individuals, local communities, and businesses. Join us for an inspiring conversation about the impact of these creative spaces and the incredible work being done by our guests. Let's dive in!

GENERAL LINKS

• Urban Maker Website: https://urbanmaker.com.au/
• Urban Maker Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/URBAN-MAKER/61554331667564/
• Michael Bromage QUT Bio: https://research.qut.edu.au/designlab/team/michael-bromage/
• DakTech Maker Space Website: https://daktech.com.au/maker-space-bookings/
• MixHaus MakerSpace Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mixhaus/ 
• Umbrella Studio Makerspace: Makerspace - Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts
• Townsville City Libraries Booking Website: https://townsville.spydus.com/cgi-bin/spydus.exe/MSGTRN/WPAC/EVENTS?HOMEPRMS=EVSESPARAMS
• Townsville CityLibraries Creative Spaces: https://www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities-and-recreation/libraries/creative-spaces

DESIGN THINKING LINKS

• Harvard Business 'What is Design Thinking': https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/what-is-design-thinking
• IDEO Design Thinking: https://designthinking.ideo.com/
• What is Human Centred Design (Video): https://youtu.be/musmgKEPY2o?si=o8gFSgR6F2dfBlZE
• Design Thinking (Video): https://youtu.be/NTmXw40wmjU?si=rEi_cSWDF-zNakfc
• Design

Support the show

Love the podcast?! Leave us a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify.
.
Want to connect further, check us out on socials:
.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TowardsBetterCo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/towardsbetterco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/37535138
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCukUKGkOylJNNtUbWKMIfHQ
.
Thanks for Listening!
.
Ricky