Empowering the next generation: Jaimie and Aleksandra reflect on mentoring through UNIQ You
As the Port of Brisbane celebrates 12 months of its partnership with UNIQ You, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to empowering young women to explore and pursue careers in underrepresented industries and roles, two of its Advisors – Jaimie Roberts and Aleksandra Edwards – share their personal journeys and the impact of mentoring schoolgirls through the program.
Jaimie and Aleksandra’s stories remind us that mentorship isn’t just about guiding others – it’s about growing ourselves and creating a future where young women feel empowered to choose their own path.
From uncertainty to purpose
Neither Jaimie nor Aleksandra followed a straight path into their current roles. Their journeys reflect curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to pivot.
“I didn’t really know what I wanted to do through high school,” Aleksandra admits. “I started in biomedical science, switched to journalism, then psychology, and eventually deciding university wasn’t the right path for me.”
Her career in IT as a Business Analyst began unexpectedly through a temp job in vocational education.
“I saw a manual process which I thought could be improved, and asked, ‘can I do that?’ That curiosity led me to take on more responsibility, gain project experience, and eventually become a Business Analyst.”
Jaimie’s journey was equally winding. “I started studying engineering and mathematics, I actually made it to the end of my degree, did work experience and hated it,” she laughs. “Then I tried pre-med, fell in love with surgery, but realised the study pathway was long. I finally landed in environmental science, which I loved.”
Despite early changes and uncertainty, both women now thrive in their roles at the Port of Brisbane and are passionate about sharing their experiences with the next generation of young women considering careers in STEM and beyond.
Why UNIQ You matters
UNIQ You connects female students in Years 9–12 with women in industry through virtual career conversation sessions. For Jaimie and Aleksandra, the opportunity to guide young women is deeply personal.
“I love doing it because I can be the person my younger self needed,” says Aleksandra.
“Growing up, academic success was everything. Leaving university felt like failure. I didn’t have role models who showed that success could look different.”
Jaimie echoes this sentiment.
“University was challenging at times – I was often the only woman in my classes and didn’t have female role models – being the only woman in a lot of my classes was a challenge and I didn’t have a female in the industry or a similar position to go to. If I can help even one student feel more confident, it’s worth it.”
Real conversations, real impact
The sessions vary in format – from one-on-one chats to small groups and full-class presentations – but the impact is consistent.
“It’s been really rewarding to show students what my job actually involves, not just talking about it, but talking them through the real-world side of things,” said Jaimie.
“Whether I’m out in the field collecting environmental data or explaining how we use that information to make decisions, they get to hear from me first-hand how it all connects. It gives the young women a clearer picture of what a career in this space can look like.”
Aleksandra adds, “even if a student leaves thinking, ‘that job sounds awful,’ that’s still a win. She’s one step closer to knowing what she does want. You don’t know what you don’t know, so it’s about giving them information and options.”
Advice for young women – and their advisors
Both women agree that the sessions often spark self-reflection.
“I just want to hug my 15-year-old self and say, ‘you’re going to be OK,’” says Aleksandra.
“There’s so much pressure to have it all figured out at such a young age. But life isn’t linear.”
Jaimie’s advice is simple but powerful, “follow your passion, stay curious, don’t be afraid to change. Life isn’t straight, it’s a journey. Just say yes more.”
For those considering becoming a UNIQ You Advisor, both women couldn’t speak more highly of the experience.
“There might be moments where you feel like you’re not getting through,” Jaimie says.
“But even if one student is listening, it’s worth it. I look forward to every session.”
Aleksandra agrees, “being that role model – even if the student doesn’t ask questions – is valuable. You’re showing them that success can look different.”
Proud to represent the Port of Brisbane
Beyond their personal stories, both women are proud to represent the Port of Brisbane.
“For the first time in my life, I truly enjoy both my role and where I work,” says Aleksandra. “The Port offers flexibility, support, and opportunities for women. It’s great to be able to shine a light on that.”
Jaimie adds, “students often ask, ‘do you like your job?’ And I can honestly say I love it. I wouldn’t change what I do for anything.”
As the Port of Brisbane marks this milestone with UNIQ You, Jaimie and Aleksandra’s stories remind us that mentorship isn’t just about guiding others, it’s about growing ourselves and creating a future where every young woman feels empowered to choose their own path.