Anikka Swaby

Anikka was the recipient of the 2022 Let's Talk Science National Volunteer Award and led the development of a new activity at her site called Good Gut Bacteria.

Time volunteering with Let’s Talk Science: Four years.

Area of study: McGill Medical Student; recently completed an MSc in Human Nutrition that focused on the health of gut bacteria.

Inspirational Moment: Getting the awe reactions from participants (Grade 6) during the Q & A section of a career day panel after I confirmed that it is possible to be both a medical doctor and a research scientist. This reminded me of how much sharing about my path and goals can potentially inspire others.

Favourite Let’s Talk Science volunteering activity: Last year I led the development of a new activity called "Good Gut Bacteria" that was piloted on its own and modified to fit a dinosaur workshop series. I enjoyed the process of kit building and seeing it all come together as an engaging activity was rewarding.

Why do you volunteer with Let’s Talk Science? I volunteer with LTS because I strongly believe in the transformative effect that science outreach has on youth and their inclination to explore STEM. As an outreach volunteer I get a unique opportunity to share my enthusiasm for science during the different activities that LTS offers.

Fun fact: I am expanding my collection of indoor plants and my latest addition is a species of the Phalaenopsis orchids.