Congratulations to Shella Dabbach (12HPE) who has been selected for The Rotary National Science and Technology Forum being held in January 2021.
Shella was one of only 168 students from across New Zealand selected for this prestigious opportunity. The Forum is for high achieving, well-rounded Year 12 science, maths and technology students who are plan to study science or technology subjects at tertiary level in New Zealand. Shella will attend the 13 day programme run by The University of Auckland, Massey University and AUT. The Forum is managed as a project by the Rotary Clubs of New Zeeland and operates as a Trust.
To be selected, high-achieving Y12 science, mathematics and technology students are recommended by their Heads of Science. Their applications are submitted to a local Rotary Club which manages the applications. The most suitable students are identified and interviewed by Rotary, and a final selection is made at Rotary District Level.
Shella said she was delighted to be named and is looking forward to the Forum. “From just hearing about the Science Rotary Forum I am already excited,” she says. “I plan to create meaningful connections with the teachers and students who are attending seeing what we can achieve together. I plan to learn more about myself but also others around me and what attracted them into the science fields. I hope to achieve great science knowledge, industry exposure, and networking skills. I want to contribute my science knowledge to inspire other females into science fields and the golden opportunities and service you receive from it.
“Renewable energy, biological engineering, and advanced robotics are only a few examples of the new science technologies arising in the world today. How do we solve climate issues? How do we create more sustainable communities? These are the type of questions I ask myself as I dive deep into problem-solving states. I am curious about nature. So is everyone else, which is what makes human beings extraordinary creatures. We have the ability to ideate and create solutions to our living world. The place of science and technology in today’s society is the highest priority. Our generation must innovate and maintain new science technologies which will sustain life on Earth so we can continue to survive.
“The wonders of biological sciences astonishes me. I am extremely passionate about biology and environmental sciences, curious about the workings of Earth. I have immersed myself in environmental groups at school such as worm farm monitors and gardening girls. I am involved in tree planting events as well as STEAM talks and courses. I see my career path revolving around science, specifically biology. I aspire to help the communities and well-being of others around me. Helping people achieve optimum health and learning how to sustainably live. I dream of living in a world where we don’t have to constantly fear if we will survive climate change and a place where all animals can live in harmony.”