The Equality Equation: She Shapes History uncovers the hidden stories of women in STEM

Posted on 23 July, 2025

This National Science Week, they’re celebrating and recognising women in Australian science – because you can’t be what you can’t see.

She Shapes History’s goal is to create more respect for women today by recognising their contributions in the past. This August – in conjunction with National Science Week (Saturday 9 until Sunday 17 August) – they will be running a tour celebrating and uncovering women who shaped Australian science, including those who are behind some of our greatest scientific breakthroughs.

This two-hour walk through Canberra’s hidden science history will take you through iconic institutions including CSIRO, the Australian National University, and the Australian National Botanic Gardens. It will also introduce you to the physicists, palaeontologists, botanists, medics and researchers whose names were left behind and forgotten.

“When women’s contributions to science and innovation are left out of history books or public memory, it reinforces the idea that science has always been a male domain,” says She Shapes History Founder, Sita Sargeant.

“That kind of invisibility doesn’t just rewrite the past; it shapes how we see the present and who feels empowered to shape the future. By shining a light on the incredible women who’ve shaped science in Australia, we can start to tell a more honest version of history that encourages everyone to see themselves as part of that future.”

Sita says that recognising women’s contributions in the past helps build more respect for women today – we’re not just changing the way we see history, but also reshaping what’s possible in the present.

Each of She Shapes History’s tours celebrates the contributions of women, but Sita says this tour is special because it highlights the hidden stories of women in STEM who have shaped Canberra’s scientific landscape.

“Canberra has always been more than just the political centre of Australia; it’s also a hub of scientific discovery and innovation.”

“Women have always been at the heart of that story, breaking ground in fields like medicine, astronomy, palaeontology and environmental science.”

This tour is your opportunity to explore Canberra’s science scene, learn about pioneering women and connect with the past in a meaningful way.

“My hope for this tour is that everyone who joins us leaves with a story of an inspirational woman in STEM,” says Sita.

“I strongly encourage everyone who joins us to remember the story of someone who inspired them, and then tell it!”

For more information on how to get involved, visit sheshapeshistory.com.au

Feature image: Fernanda Pedroso.