
Meet our scholars
Get to know the everyday Aussies bringing big ideas to life.

Nandini Thirwani
Young Technologists
2025
Murdoch University
Western Australia
Focus are
Sustainable futures
About me
Growing up in Perth, surrounded by some of the world’s finest beaches, I developed a deep appreciation for the ocean. This connection inspired me to pursue marine biology and environmental science. My passion lies in using technology within aquaculture to tackle food scarcity and poverty. Having witnessed poverty worldwide, it deeply affects me to see people struggle for basic necessities, motivating my commitment to using technology to bridge the gap in food security. I hope to contribute to advancements that balance marine conservation with global food security. Outside of my studies, I enjoy scuba diving, snorkelling, hiking, camping, reading, and playing volleyball — hobbies that keep me active and constantly learning. Teaching swimming has also been rewarding, allowing me to share my love for water while helping others gain life-saving skills. These experiences fuel my drive to utilise technology to create innovative solutions for sustainability and food security.
"My goal is to use technology to create sustainable solutions that tackle food scarcity and protect our oceans. Through my studies in marine biology and environmental science, I aim to balance marine conservation with global food security. The Westpac Scholarship provides me with opportunities to connect with a network of like-minded individuals, allowing me to advance in a journey to drive meaningful change in aquaculture and sustainability."
My passions
- Marine Protected Area Management
- Environmental Conservation and Rehabilitation
- Sustainable Food Solutions
- Inclusivity
- Scuba Diving