GIRLS CHANGING THE GAME

Meet your 25 under 25

Here at Girlfriend, we believe being young doesn’t mean you can’t make big things happen. Bold and badass girls have the power to change the world – and they’re not letting anything stand in their way. That’s why we’ve hand-picked some of Australia’s most incredible young women across activism, entertainment, arts, science, sport, business and more. These are the 25 inspiring game changers, girl bosses and creatives who should be on your radar.

Kirsten Banks, 22

Astrophysicist and science communicator

@astrokirsten

Soon to be Dr Kirsten, this proud Wiradjuri woman is challenging stereotypes of what it means to be a scientist.

Where does your love of space come from?

The first time I remember being inspired by space and astronomy was when I was in Year 9. My science teachers took my year group on an excursion to see the Hubble documentary on a giant movie screen. As soon as I saw the amazing photos taken by this phenomenal telescope, I knew that’s what I needed to study.

If you ever got to name a planet, what would it be?

George – Uranus was going to be named after King George III back when it was discovered by William Herschel in 1781, so we should bring a George planet back!

What’s one surprising thing people may not know about you?

Despite being an astrophysicist, who does their best work at night, I’m afraid of the dark!

What’s the cause you’re most passionate about?

I am really passionate about getting young girls interested in STEM subjects. Science is awesome but for a long time girls were encouraged to take “softer” subjects at school, and we need to change that. I strive to show young people how awesome working in science is by speaking at schools and trying to show that you can do anything if you put your mind to it.

Alli Simpson, 21

Singer, model, actress and host

@allisimpson

From hosting her own radio show to penning hits and modelling, this all-rounder brings her immense talent and positive vibes to everything she does.

Did you always know you were going to work in the entertainment industry?

I for sure did not always want to be in this industry. In fact, I had no idea about it all until I was knee-deep in it! At school I was a competitive swimmer. I wanted to go to the Olympics for swimming breastroke. I was obsessed and trained day and night. It wasn’t until I moved to the States for my brother Cody’s music career that I was exposed to the entertainment world, stopped swimming, then became addicted to this world ever since.

How would you describe your personal style in one word?

ME!!

What are you most looking forward to about summer?

Socialising in the Sydney sun with my friends and fam, swimming at the beach and cute summer fashion.

You’re a big advocate for mental health – where did that come from?

I am passionate about mental health awareness as I have had experience in my life along the way with some family members that have battled things like depression, addiction and bipolar disorder. So I am educated and aware of the seriousness behind it all and where it stems from. I always like to ask someone if they’re OK… if they’re REALLY OK.

Madeline Stuart, 23

Model and disability advocate

@madelinesmodelling_

As the world’s first supermodel