April 29, 2025

Six exceptional students awarded prestigious Westpac Scholarships

Rising stars in technology, international relations gain financial support, leadership programs, international exchanges and industry connections

Six exceptional University of Wollongong (UOW) students have been awarded prestigious Westpac Scholarships for 2025, recognising their potential to become future leaders in technology and international relations.

Five students have received the Young Technologists Scholarship while one student will participate in the Asian Exchange Scholarship program, offering them unparalleled opportunities to expand their knowledge, develop leadership skills, and build valuable professional networks.

The 2025 Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship recipients from UOW are Kalea Ford, Amelie Hutchins, William Ilic, Joshua Moran, and Sophie Weppler. These scholars will receive $15,000 over three years to support their undergraduate studies in technology-related fields, plus an additional $5,000 to participate in the Disruptive Leaders Program in Singapore.

Sophie Weppler, a double degree of Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and Bachelor of Business student, encouraged students to apply for the scholarship as it provides invaluable opportunities.

“I applied on a whim, a last-minute application and now the opportunities and connections I have made are invaluable. My biggest piece of advice is to just apply!” Sophie said.

“This scholarship has enabled me to broaden my horizons and dream of the possibilities available. I aspire to make groundbreaking changes in the field of biomedical engineering to predict the decline and reverse the effects of detrimental neurological diseases like dementia. With Westpac's support and that of the W100 I believe there is an opportunity to make my aspirations into achievements.”

William Ilic who is currently studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) said: “Receiving the Westpac Scholarships means that I am extremely fortunate and will be gifted with ample opportunities to transform my aspirations and dreams into a reality. I will also be able to speak to and connect with amazing people who are currently working on making positive impactful changes.

Kalea Ford who is a first year Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil Engineering) student said: “Westpac Scholarship has solidified my belief in my ability to achieve my goal of developing sustainable infrastructure that will positively impact future generations.”

Zoe Barden has been awarded a prestigious Westpac Asian Exchange Scholarship, valued at $12,700, which will fund her studies at a leading Asian university for up to two semesters.

UOW Interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Student Life) Professor Sue Bennett said the scholarships showcase Westpac's commitment to supporting innovation and global perspectives among Australia's future leaders.

"These Westpac Scholarships provide our students with much more than financial support – they offer access to unique experiences, industry connections, and leadership development that will shape their futures," Professor Bennett said.

"We are immensely proud of our six scholars and are confident they will make significant contributions to their fields and in their communities.”

UOW-Westpac Scholarships

The scholarships are part of UOW's ongoing partnership with the Westpac Scholars Trust, which began in 2014 and has supported 77 Young Technologists Scholars and four Asian Exchange Scholars to date.

The scholars program connects talented individuals with opportunities to create positive change.

Westpac scholarships are designed to support bright minds who demonstrate the potential to shape Australia's future in technology and strengthen ties with Asia.

The 2025 scholars were welcomed into the W100 Network at the Westpac Scholars Celebration Event earlier this month. As part of the W100 Network, scholars gain access to professional development opportunities, mentoring from industry experts, and potential internships with Westpac and partner