As the nation celebrates innovation during National Science Week, some of the most groundbreaking ideas are also the oldest.

A proud Aboriginal woman with ties to Ngadjuri Country, raised on Dharug and Gundungurra lands, Anastasia Vickers leads with culture in everything she does; walking with Elders, listening to stories, and weaving those teachings into her work as a scientist.

This year brought a significant milestone when she was awarded the Dr Ashok Kumar Shrestha Prize in Food Science for being the most outstanding second-year student in the Nutrition and Food Science program at Western Sydney University.

"Winning this award has given me a huge boost of motivation and excitement for my STEM career," she said.

"Being recognised among my peers was a big surprise, but I'm incredibly grateful. As an Aboriginal woman, it strengthens my drive to keep learning and to share my research and innovations in food science back with community, ensuring that knowledge benefits future generations."

The path to this point has been anything but linear. Since beginning a Bachelor of Advanced Science (Food Science and Nutrition) in 2020, there have been multiple scholarships, including the CSIRO Indigenous Women's STEM Academy Scholarship, recognition in the COSMOS Magazine Top 40 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander STEM Leaders for 2024, board positions, meetings with the Governor-General, and preparations to travel to the US for the International STEM Leadership Dialogue.

Beyond academic life, her work reaches deep into culture and community. She educates high school students about native ingredients and Aboriginal culture, weaves, dances with Wagana Aboriginal Dancers, and has worked professionally in research and development food science teams.

"At every step, I strive to blend scientific innovation with cultural knowledge, ensuring both thrive together for future generations," Ms Vickers said.

For Ms Vickers, innovation is about more than modern breakthroughs.

"I believe innovation is not only about creating something new, but also about reclaiming and renewing ancient knowledge systems," she explained.

"First Nations peoples were the first astronomers, scientists, healers, innovators, and engineers. Western science still has a long way to go in truly appreciating and being inspired by this. I see the future of STEM as one where Aboriginal knowledge systems are embedded, respected, and recognised as essential to solving today's challenges."

Mentorship and support have played a crucial role in her journey. Networks like Badanami, CareerTrackers, and the CSIRO Young Indigenous Women's STEM Academy have provided guidance and opened doors.

"These networks have shown me that there's no single path into a STEM career," she said.

"Whether you start in a lab or in a supporting role, there's always a way forward. They've inspired me to say 'yes' to opportunities, stay curious, and keep going no matter the challenges."

Ms Vickers' message to young girls in community is clear and inspiring.

"Never say no to an opportunity, you never know which conversation, event, or interaction might shape your future," she said.

"Sometimes you need to step out of your comfort zone, but it's always worth it. Be proud of your heritage and recognise that you bring unique strengths and perspectives simply by being Aboriginal."

Looking ahead, the upcoming overseas fellowship offers the chance to merge science, culture, and global community impact.

"I'm incredibly excited about my upcoming overseas fellowship, which is a perfect example of merging science and modern research with First Nations perspectives," she said.

"I'll be engaging with Indigenous communities across the USA, learning from Elders (including one who is over 100 years old) and exploring the role of First Nations peoples in STEM globally. I plan to bring this knowledge home and integrate it into my Masters of Research next year, ensuring cultural protocol, sovereignty, and recognition remain central to my work."

With each step, Anastasia Vickers proves that the future of science is richer, fairer, and more connected to Country when First Nations women are at the forefront; and that future is already taking shape.