Erika Fortunati
Research and Evaluation Manager, Starlight Children’s Foundation Australia, Sydney
Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) in Biomedical Science
She is proud to be advocating for seriously ill children, young people, and their families, says Erika Fortunati, who now works for a leading not-for-profit organisation in Australia.
“I’m deeply passionate about working with vulnerable and disadvantaged groups, so it’s very fulfilling to know that my current work makes a genuine difference in their lives. In my job, I advocate for and promote the rights of seriously ill children and young people, ensuring their voices are heard in areas where they’re often overlooked. I’m proud to be working towards change that can enhance their rights and access to care that extends beyond simple physiological measures to be more holistic, encompassing social and mental wellbeing.”
Her role as a research and evaluation manager offers her a lot of variety.
“I lead research projects, programme data collection, reporting and analysis, and programme evaluations both internally and externally; collaborating with research organisations, hospitals and universities to ensure our programmes are high-quality, evidence-based and meet the needs of the children, young people and families involved.
“I also manage thought leadership activities by publishing academic research, presenting at conferences and disseminating research via other thought leadership avenues. This field is constantly innovating with new research and evaluation methods and ways of approaching young people’s health and wellbeing, so I appreciate the opportunities for continuous learning and growth.”
Passionate about improving people’s wellbeing
As someone who has always been passionate about helping people and fascinated by the complexities of the human body, Erika says choosing to study biomedical science was exciting.
“Through biomedical science, I could combine these two interests to directly improve people’s health and wellbeing. Having witnessed the impact of serious illness on loved ones, I’m driven to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Through AUT’s programme, I was exposed to a wide range of useful topics related to biomedical science, like healthcare ethics, organic chemistry, pharmaceutical development, genetics and psychology, which broadened my understanding of the interconnectedness of these fields and helped me successfully navigate the pivots in my career after graduation.
“Being accepted into AUT’s advanced science programme also allowed me to explore advanced research and scientific topics not typically available to undergraduates, catalysing the development of strong research and critical thinking skills. In my final two years at AUT, I was also offered two separate summer studentships through the Summer Research Scholarship programme, where I could conduct cutting-edge research with experts in biomedical science and social science. AUT’s recognition of me and investment in my education financially facilitated my studies and boosted my confidence to achieve my first class-honours degree and academic publications as a student there.”
She says she couldn’t have achieved her accomplishments without the incredible support from her lecturers at AUT, especially Associate Professor Yan Li and Dr Jack Chen.
“Their dedication goes far beyond standard university teaching; they actively encourage curiosity and passion for research, creating an environment where students feel supported and empowered. What sets lecturers like them apart is their genuine passion for their work and helping students succeed; they were more like mentors to me than just lecturers! Their doors were always open for guidance and encouragement, and it was their investment in me that made such a difference.”
Advice for other students
Erika, whose studies were supported by various nationally-contested AUT scholarships, including the AUT Vice-Chancellor’s Significant Student Scholarship, has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their university journey.
“My advice for future AUT students is to not stress too much about picking the ‘perfect’ major or minor. Go with your gut, and if you change your mind, that’s okay too.
“AUT does a great job cultivating essential skills and competencies that are transferable across different fields, so you’ll be well-equipped even if you don’t end up working in the exact same field you studied. Lots of students, including myself, have successfully pivoted in their careers.”
