Celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science with…
Shaina Alize Sequeira
BSc Food, Nutrition and Health 2026 | Major: Food Science
When did you realize science was for you?
Ever since I can remember, food has always fascinated me. As a 5-year-old, my favourite pastime was conducting bizarre kitchen experiments and concocting barely-edible ‘snacks’ from things like oatmeal and apple juice. This passion only grew as I got older; my creations went from unappetising to something that my friends and family would always look forward to trying. I didn’t just stop at finding a recipe; my curiosity wasn’t satisfied until I discovered why every ingredient I used worked the way it did. I spent hours watching recipe tests and sifting through websites. Since middle school, I’d always been drawn towards science—something about the empirical explanations it demanded just clicked with my inquisitive mind. It wasn’t until I reached the 12th grade and started applying to university that I realised these two worlds of knowledge that I was so passionate about actually had more in common than I thought — and were combined into a discipline called Food Science! Nothing has felt more like my true calling.
Who is your role model?
It’s hard to choose just one role model because I’m blessed to have grown up surrounded by so many determined, caring and talented women. My mom graduated with a STEM degree herself but pursued a career in advertising, proving to me that the world is my oyster! She’s my pillar and the definition of strength, and her constant encouragement to do what makes me happy is the reason I’m where I am today. My older sister never fails to surprise me with her tenacity and inspires me to work hard towards my goals but remain kind to myself in the process. Together, their unwavering belief in me is a gift I will always be grateful for, and one I aspire to pass on to those around me (especially little girls who dream of being in STEM one day too!).
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I’m not sure where I see myself in 10 years because life can be so unpredictable! I definitely know I’ll be somewhere in the ever-evolving food industry — whether it’s at a large conglomerate, a small business or even my own company. Right now, I’m interested in exploring business-related aspects of the food industry alongside my training and background in science, and I’m excited to see where that takes me!
Tagged with: 2025, Equity Diversity Inclusion and Indigeneity, Food Nutrition and Health, Food Science, Undergraduate, Women and Girls in Science