Westpac Scholars Trust recognises 17 outstanding individuals determined to solve some of Australia’s biggest problems

Today Westpac Scholars Trust announced its 2019 Westpac Future Leaders Scholars, awarding over $2 million to 17 outstanding postgraduate students who are investigating solutions to some of Australia’s most complex issues.

Amongst this year’s recipients is South Australian Harry Carpenter, a former professional cyclist and advocate for innovation. After suffering a heart attack at just 24 years of age, and determined to help prevent this from happening to others, Harry made a decision to pursue further academic study with a PhD in Engineering at the University of Adelaide.

“My PhD will work between engineering, medicine and entrepreneurship to analyse the heart and develop a model capable of accurately predicting the onset of heart attacks.”

Each scholarship recipient will receive up to $120,000 to cover their postgraduate studies, a nine-month bespoke leadership development program and the opportunity to study abroad.

Nicole Ee will use her scholarship to explore the relationship between social engagement and dementia risk. Through a PhD in Psychology at UNSW, Nicole hopes to investigate if early intervention and increased social engagement may mitigate the onset or progression of dementia.

“I’m delighted to be a part of the Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship program,” says Nicole. “The scholarship will provide me with exciting collaborative networks, global opportunities for learning, mentorship and a platform to advocate for and disseminate my research.”

According to Westpac Scholars Trust CEO, Susan Bannigan, “This is a prestigious scholarship program attracting some of Australia’s brightest and most innovative young leaders. Amongst our 2019 recipients we have doctors, teachers, engineers and an aspiring neuroscientist - all working on research projects that have the potential to shape our future.”

Mechanical engineering student Adrienne Koor grew up in South Africa and witnessed the positive impact social development can have on communities. Through a Master of Mechanical Engineering with Business at the University of Melbourne she hopes to harness the power of technology for good.  

“I’m passionate about the wider applications of drone, autonomous systems and robotic integration technologies to improve wider living standards for all Australians,” says Adrienne. “The scholarship will help me open doors and explore ways to use new technologies to make a difference.” 

Beyond the financial investment of the scholarship, every Westpac Future Leaders Scholar gains lifelong access to the Westpac 100 Scholars Network. Growing by 100 scholars a year across the Westpac Scholars Trust’s five scholarship programs, the network connects a community of people from all walks of life with the ideas and drive to help shape a better future for all Australians.

“The Westpac 100 Scholars Network is proving to be a powerful differentiator for our Scholarship Program. With lifelong access to professional development and unlimited networking opportunities, scholars have the power to transform big ideas into real solutions,” continues Susan.

The Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship is offered in partnership with The University of Adelaide, The Australian National University, The University of Melbourne, Monash University, The University of Queensland, The University of Sydney, University of Tasmania, University of New South Wales and University of Western Australia. It is one of five scholarships offered through the Westpac Scholars Trust, which awards 100 scholarships every year, forever.

For a full list of 2019 Westpac Future Leaders Scholars and to learn more about their studies, visit the Westpac Scholars Directory.