Jorja Schofield – Recipient of the Audi Foundation-CEF Community Alumni Champion Award 2026. Interviews available on request.
First-in-family student from Port Macquarie studying a Bachelor of Biomedical Science at the University of Newcastle, Jorja Schofield has been recognised as the 2026 Audi Foundation – CEF Community Alumni Champion! Jorja was recognised at an event at NSW Parliament House for her passion for the STEM industries, including encouraging local high school students to explore careers in STEM.
Jorja Schofield
Local foundation:
Hastings Education Fund
Institution:
University of Newcastle
Course:
Bachelor of Biomedical Science
Award:
2026 Audi Foundation-CEF Community Alumni Champion
Jorja was honoured at the CEF Luncheon which took place on Friday 9th October at NSW Parliament House, where the 2026 Audi Foundation – CEF Alumni Awards (the Awards) were presented. The CEF Luncheon is a signature event on the Country Education Foundation (CEF) calendar.
The Awards honour past and present CEF-supported students in five categories who demonstrate merit, commitment and dedication to their studies or training, and are making standout contributions in their communities.
The Audi Foundation – CEF Community Alumni Champion Award is presented to a current student who is towards the end of their studies, fosters further education and is sharing their knowledge in a regional area to inspire others.
Country Education Foundation CEO Wendy Mason was impressed with the initiative Jorja has shown to inspire primary school students to pursue careers in STEM.
“At the same time as pursuing a Bachelor of Biomedical Science, Jorja founded the ‘Girls in STEM Club’ which encourages girls aged between 7 and 12 to engage in STEM and learn about what careers in these industries look like,” Ms Mason said.
“This has seen Jorja volunteering her time to deliver workshops on human biology, which have been booked out with more than 16 girls in attendance, and more on a wait list!
“This positive influence will raise awareness of careers in STEM, many of which are experiencing vital skills shortages.”
Jorja is the first in her family to pursue a tertiary education which at times during her childhood felt out of reach, with her mother also suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS) which placed further restrictions on the family’s financial capacity.
She was chosen as one of the school captains in high school and is now in her third year of university completing placement at the Hunter Medical Research Institution in the Multiple Sclerosis lab with some of the researchers who have directly assisted her mother with treatment.
“I am so excited to do my Honours in the same lab and research in Multiple Sclerosis,” Jorja said. “Hopefully, I can have a career in MS research so I can positively impact people living with this disease.”
Jorja said she felt honoured to be receiving the Community Alumni Champion award and to be recognised for the work she has invested in careers in STEM outside her studies.
“I have worked really hard to get the workshops up and running, including establishing a partnership with the Port Macquarie Library to run the sessions in their function rooms,” she said.
“I was also awarded a government grant which allowed me to buy materials for the girls to use during the workshops.”
When it comes to words of wisdom for students chasing their dreams, Jorja said it was important for students to take every opportunity that comes their way.
”If you see a scholarship and think you won’t get it, apply anyway, as the worst thing that could happen is you don’t get it. You don’t have to be naturally smart to pursue higher education, you just need grit, determination and passion – and you can achieve anything.
