12 August 2022

The STEM MAD (Making a Difference) Showcase returned to the Catholic Leadership Centre for the first time since 2019.

Hundreds of students and their teachers from Catholic schools across the Archdiocese of Melbourne came together last week to showcase how they are addressing some of the most pressing challenges faced by their communities and the planet. The Showcase provided an exciting opportunity for teams of primary and secondary students to share their projects with peers and judges, and demonstrate how students in Catholic schools are taking practical action to make a difference in the world.

‘The student teams are invited to design a product, service or innovation to make a difference to others or the environment’, said STEM MAD coordinator Shelley Waldon. ‘The creativity and deep thinking of our young people, along with the care they have for their fellow citizens and communities, never cease to amaze me. It gives great hope that the future is in good hands.’

Entries in the STEM MAD Showcase addressed issues ranging from local and personal challenges such as disability, wellbeing and the impact of COVID-19, to community and global challenges such as natural disasters, aviation, climate action and species loss.

Award-winning student teams will progress to the STEM MAD National event in Melbourne in September.