Monash students awarded prestigious Westpac Future Leaders Scholarships
Two Monash postgraduate students from the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Karli Fanke and Rachael Martin, have been named among the seventeen recipients of the prestigious Westpac Future Leaders Scholarships. These scholarships, valued at $2 million distributed across all recipients, are awarded by the Westpac Scholars Trust to exceptional postgraduate students from nine Australian universities.
The scholarships are part of the Westpac Scholars Trust’s commitment to award 100 new scholarships annually, focusing on innovation and technology, sustainability, strengthening ties with Asia and social change.
In addition to funding, the scholarship includes a nine-month leadership program designed to help scholars refine their strengths and build networks to amplify their impact.
“The Westpac Future Leaders Scholarships is an outstanding program that mirrors Monash University’s own innovative spirit and dedication to social change,” said Professor Sarah McDonald, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Experience) and Senior Vice President.
“We are incredibly proud of Karli and Rachael’s accomplishments and look forward to seeing the positive changes they will bring to their respective fields."
Meet the Scholars
Karli Fanke: Innovating in clinical embryology
A Master of Clinical Embryology student, Karli (pictured left) is passionate about using technology to drive positive change in Australia. She aims to work as an embryologist, performing laboratory techniques such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF) to help people achieve their dream of having a child.
Karli is committed to increasing gender diversity in her field. "Increasing female engagement in STEM will ultimately lead to technological breakthroughs that are essential to transforming Australia," Karli said.
"Ultimately, my vision is to harness the latest innovations in assisted reproductive technologies to transform Australia, one family at a time.”
Rachael Martin: Transforming mental health care
A Clinical Psychology PhD candidate at Monash, Rachael (pictured right) is dedicated to transforming mental health care in Australia. Her research explores the overlap between ADHD, autism, and personality disorders, aiming to redefine rigid diagnostic systems for earlier and more accurate interventions.
Rachael's personal experiences navigating the mental health system have fueled her commitment to challenging stigma and driving meaningful change.
"Mental health care in Australia wasn’t designed for people like me,” she said. “Navigating the system as a young person with borderline personality disorder made that clear—delayed diagnoses, mismatched treatments, and stigma left me questioning why our system often falls short for those who need it most.”
“I aspire to reduce fear and barriers to treatment, ensuring all Australians can access the care they need."
Find out more about the Westpac Future Leaders Scholarships.