Anna Nungarrayi Lloyd Vivus' inspiring journey from the red sands of the Australian Outback to the forefront of sustainable innovation reflects her passion for bridging gaps in STEM education. Growing up in the remote communities of the Tanami Desert and Alice Springs, Anna experienced firsthand the challenges of inadequate infrastructure and limited resources.
“Growing up in Central Australia, I always had a deep interest in STEM, but opportunities were scarce, and societal norms often steered girls like me toward creative fields,” she shared.
Currently pursuing dual master's degrees in electrical engineering and geospatial science at The University of Queensland and The University of Southern Queensland, Anna began her academic journey with a Bachelor of Arts in multimedia and communications from The University of Tasmania. Her transition from creative arts to STEM highlights her dedication to using science communication to promote innovation and inclusivity. She actively champions initiatives like UniSQ’s Darling Downs Science and Engineering Challenge, which engage regional high school students in innovation and inspire the next generation of rural STEM leaders.
Winning the ATSE LGBTQIA+ Scholarship
Winning the ATSE LGBTQIA+ Scholarship was a pivotal moment for Anna amplifying her aspirations in STEM. The scholarship, which supports diversity and inclusion in STEM, was presented at the prestigious ATSE Innovation and Excellence Awards Gala Dinner.
“This scholarship represents a beacon of hope for students in rural areas, encouraging them to pursue STEM. The application process itself was enriching and thought-provoking,” Anna shared.
Attending the Innovation Showcase during the gala was a transformative experience for Anna. She met professionals from diverse fields and explored potential collaborations between industry, government, policy, and science. “It was empowering to see different disciplines working together for common goals,” she said.
Reflecting on her experience, Anna added, “NCI has created a platform that not only fosters innovation but also inspires collaborative work.”
Research Focus and Broader Impact
Anna’s research focuses on sustainable technology and humanitarian engineering, particularly tackling urban challenges through innovative solutions. Her latest project, examining Sydney’s GreenWay, addresses the urban heat island effect and CO2 levels while enhancing community well-being. Drawing inspiration from Singapore’s green infrastructure, Anna aims to adapt global strategies to Australia’s unique climate and urban landscape.
A significant aspect of Anna’s work involves fostering community engagement. “Projects like this impact not just the environment but also public opinion, health, and future sustainability efforts,” she explained.
Her passion for sustainability stems from observing inequities in resource distribution and infrastructure, inspiring her to explore innovative solutions like algae farms, hydro hubs, and carbon capture technologies. Institutions like NCI and UQ’s Centre for Solar Biotechnology further fuel her drive by providing cutting-edge research opportunities.
Anna’s ultimate goal is to inspire collective action and incentivize collaboration across competing technologies and policies. “I’m exploring how to incentivize collaboration between competing technologies and policies for modern innovation,” she shared. Reflecting on the broader impact of her work, she added, “The impact of this research extends beyond immediate solutions. It’s about fostering collective action and encouraging communities to think globally while acting locally.”
Impact and Future Aspirations
The ATSE LGBTQIA+ Scholarship has been a transformative milestone in Anna’s journey, bolstering her professional growth and reinforcing the value of her work.
“It’s incredibly encouraging to have my work supported by an institution like NCI,” she shared. Her experience at ATSE’s Innovation Showcase in Melbourne deepened her belief in Australia’s innovation potential and the power of collaboration.
Looking ahead, Anna envisions her research contributing to global sustainability efforts and inspiring others to embrace interdisciplinary collaboration. “Take a chance and apply for opportunities. Even if you don’t win, the process can teach you invaluable lessons and initiate personal evolution,” she advised aspiring students and researchers.
Anna’s story highlights the power of perseverance, passion, and the opportunities provided by higher education. Through the scholarship, she has not only advanced her work but also inspired hope for rural and underserved communities. With her commitment to innovation and sustainability, Anna is helping pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future.
