Meet the UniSC students and staff who are inspiring STEM aspirations across the UniSC regions.
Our Presenters are current UniSC students, graduates, school leaders, or STEM leaders, who are passionate about sharing their STEM skills with students, teachers and parents/carers in the community.
MindSET-do provides employment and networking opportunities with schools, business and industry across our campus regions, and in rural and remote locations. This opportunity helps to develop their confidence to talk about STEM, helping to bring about systemic change in STEM career uptake.
Lana Jeffs
Lana went to school in the Moreton Bay region and is our School Engagement Officer. She has now graduated from her Master of Teaching (Secondary) at UniSC and is an experienced presenter with teaching experience across both primary and secondary school settings. Lana loves seeing students develop knowledge and skills and being part of their learning journey. In recognition of her commitment to education and community connection, Lana received the 2025 School of Education (SETA) Award for Excellence in Engagement, and in 2023 she was shortlisted for the UniSC Outstanding Alumni Awards for Regional Engagement.
Kate Hiskins
Kate Hiskins graduated with a Diploma of Primary Education in 2025 is an experienced Presenter and dedicated Administration & Events Support Officer with MindSET-do. Having completed her schooling outside of Australia, Kate understands what it’s like to feel unsure about confidence in learning, particularly in maths and science. This experience inspired her passion for mindset and helping students realise they are capable of more than they think. Kate loves supporting young people to try new things, build confidence, and explore future opportunities.
Courtney Lewis
Courtney grew up on the Sunshine Coast and in Moreton Bay, with a passion for animals, space, and science. Now pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy, she loves showing students that science is exciting and hands-on. Courtney encourages students to embrace their passions, reminding them, “It’s okay to be really passionate about your interests and to always follow them.”
Asha Cooper
Asha went to school in Quilpie and is currently studying a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) at UniSC on the Sunshine Coast. Asha is fascinated with psychology and STEM and loves sharing her knowledge and passion for these subjects with students, inspiring the next generation.
Jade Kirk
Jade went to school in Gympie and is currently studying a Bachelor of Primary Education at the UniSC Fraser Coast campus. Jade has a passion for all things STEM, and enjoys bringing a different approach to learning into classrooms and delivering lessons that are fun and hands on.
Duncan Sayers
Duncan has graduated from the Master of Teaching (Secondary) at UniSC and is now working at a Gympie high school in the Agriculture Department, where he brings his STEM expertise to students across the region. He has always loved hands-on learning and, as a child, was a quiet and curious science enthusiast who spent his free time biking and exploring. Duncan now channels that same curiosity into the classroom, making STEM engaging and interactive. He will continue to support MindSET-do by helping deliver professional development, workshops, and clubs alongside his school role. His advice to students: “Be yourself, stay curious, and explore what excites you!”
Jordan Harris
Jordan attended school in Burpengary, QLD, and is currently studying a Bachelor of Primary Education at UniSC while working with MindSET-do as a Presenter. He brings creativity and enthusiasm to every session, drawing on his strong involvement in the arts throughout high school. Jordan joined MindSET-do to further develop his STEM knowledge and classroom practice, and he loves inspiring students to take opportunities, try new things, and explore their interests with confidence..
Jasmine Birks
Jasmine went to school in the Fraser Coast region and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Primary Education at UniSC. With a passion for technology, Jasmine is eager to share her enthusiasm with students, helping them develop essential skills that will pave the way for lifelong success. She is dedicated to inspiring the next generation through innovative teaching and a commitment to fostering a love for learning
Kimberly Purcell
Kimberley went to school on the Sunshine Coast and graduated from her Master of Teaching (Primary) at UniSC last year. She has been working in a school and will be returning to presenting with MindSET-do in 2026. A student-focused teacher and one of our lead Primary-trained presenters, Kimberley loves seeing the confidence and satisfaction that MindSET-do lessons provide and values hands-on learning for developing skills that are highly relevant to students’ futures in STEM.
Sam Whale
Sam went to school in Brisbane and is an experienced Game Developer who is very tech-savvy. He is one of our lead Primary-trained presenters across the Moreton Bay and Sunshine Coast regions and also supports MindSET-do with equipment and technical setup for sessions. Sam has gained incredible confidence delivering lessons across a wide range of schools, regions, and year levels. He loves STEM and inspiring students who share that passion to explore and pursue their interests.