Introducing tomorrow’s global science communicators

Start Talking is Swinburne’s unique video-based public speaking competition, exclusively for undergraduate students. Since 2019, it has consistently highlighted powerful stories through students’ compelling four-minute pitches. 

The Start Talking 2025 competition brought forward an inspiring collection of projects that demonstrated exceptional creativity, professionalism and a passion for driving positive social and sustainable change through science and innovation.

Magic of Moss: When Walls Come Alive 

Hui Ting Yap, a student from Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, captivated the judges with her outstanding presentation, ‘Magic of Moss: When Walls Come Alive’, earning her the Judges’ Choice Prize.

An Environmental Science student, Hui Ting explores a modern eco-friendly cityscape featuring green buildings where renewable energy systems meet architecture, showcasing both scientific insight and creative communication in her work.

“Winning this award means so much to me because it shows that even small, humble organisms like moss can inspire big ideas for greener cities. I hope this project encourages more people to see sustainability not just as a challenge, but as a creative opportunity to reshape the world we live in”, says Hui Ting Yap. 

Two Projects Crowned People’s Choice Winners

‘A Small Contribution, a Big Impact’ by Swinburne students Khanh Vu, Ayla Fyfe, Seang Chhay Te, and Bella Dwyer impressed audiences with their thoughtful message and engaging delivery, securing one of the People’s Choice Awards. This group of students are currently pursuing their Honours in Biotechnology.  

This project explores how coral probiotics can restore reef health by introducing beneficial microorganisms that naturally exist within the coral microbiome. These native bacteria strengthen coral resilience to heat stress, reduce bleaching, and support ecological recovery without disrupting the surrounding marine environment.

"Receiving this award reminds us that big change often begins with small steps. It motivates us to keep inspiring others to take simple actions that, together, can make a powerful difference,” says Khanh Vu. 

‘Student Connect: A Peer-to-Peer Rental App’, presented by Zafirah Nadeem, also earned strong support from viewers. Her innovative concept and clear communication led to the team being named the second People’s Choice Award winner. 

Zafirah is a Master of IT (Data Analytics) student at Swinburne and the creator of Student Connect, a peer-to-peer rental app that allows students to rent items such as vacuums, small appliances or tools from one another using their verified student email IDs.  

“The idea was inspired by my own experience as a student, aiming to make access to essential items safer, more affordable and more sustainable. Receiving this award motivates me to take the idea beyond the concept stage and work towards bringing it to life. It reinforces the importance of sustainable, student-led solutions,” says Zafirah Nadeem.