Katya is in her fourth year of a Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) in Science at the Australian National University in Canberra. She is majoring in Earth Science, and is currently completing an Honours project in the ARC Training Centre in Critical Resources for the Future looking at mineral geochemistry as a novel exploration tool for economic REE and Nb carbonatite deposits. Katya has been graciously named a recipient of the AusIMM Education Endowment Fund Scholarship and has received several other academic awards, including the Ian McDougall Scholarship, the SWEDG Geoscience Honours Student Scholarship as well as support from the AIG Education Foundation Bursary. She is passionate about leveraging the interdisciplinary nature of earth science to address real-world challenges, translating scientific knowledge into industry applications, sustainable practices and innovative solutions. Katya has a particular interest in mineral exploration and mining, having completed multiple vacation placements and currently serving as president of the AusIMM Canberra Student Chapter. She is confident that a future career as a geologist in the resources sector will provide rewarding and exciting opportunities to make a meaningful impact on both the planet and emerging technologies essential for the energy transition.

Janay is a passionate emerging geologist with particular interests in geochemical characterisation of complex orebodies and repurposing legacy mines to support the green energy transition. Upon completing her Bachelor of Science (Advanced) - Geology & Palaeontology at the University of Adelaide in 2025, she has decided to pursue a Master of Research in Geology focusing on the Hillside Deposit on South Australia's Yorke Peninsula. Alongside her studies at the Adelaide University she is actively involved with industry organisations including the AusIMM, of which she is the Sponsorship Officer for the Adelaide Student Chapter. Her strong work ethic and enthusiasm have led her to exposure working in operations in both South Australia and Tasmania, across exploration, development, and operations. This has inspired her passion for incorporating an interdisciplinary approach to her work. Janay also is also passionate about encouraging students to get involved in the resources industry and to consider a career in mining & exploration through her involvement in programs like the Energy, Mining & Resources School Outreach program (EMRSO) and working as a teaching assistant in a second Mineral Resources.