Every great science fair project starts with a simple question: ‘why?’, which sparks a pursuit of curiosity to ultimately discover the ‘how.’ Join Youth Science Canada’s Stuart McKelvie as he interviews science fair alumni to take a deep dive into their passion for STEM. If you’re wanting to start a science fair project, interested in STEM or just want to hear some great career & life advice, this is the podcast for you.
In this episode of the Why to How podcast, CWSF 2016 alum Sarah Simionescu discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of overcoming analysis paralysis and learning through experience. She highlights the necessity of collaboration and seeking advice from those who have navigated similar paths, as well as the importance of customer feedback in the development process.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to STEM Journeys
01:22 Sarah's Science Fair Experience
05:50 The Impact of STEM Fairs
08:06 Transitioning to Coding and Education
09:18 Navigating University Challenges
10:41 Research and Growth in Computer Science
17:51 Finding Co-op Opportunities
23:04 Building a Startup: SalesBop
27:33 Acquisition and Current Work at MongoDB
34:16 The Importance of Mentorship
36:43 Learning Through Experience
37:38 Building Confidence Through Presentation Skills
42:49 Navigating Feedback and Iteration
43:06 Working at a Dream Company
45:47 Advice for Aspiring Software Developers
52:36 Creating Impact Through Community
57:45 The Value of Sharing Your Work
01:05:46 Thanks for Watching Outro Video.mp4
8 Dec 2025
Claire Sehn
In this episode of the Why to How podcast, we interview Claire Sehn, a young innovator who won the Junior Discovery Platinum Award at the Canada-Wide Science Fair for her project 'Beat the Blaze: Preventing Wildfires and Drought With a Novel, Biodegradable Treatment.' Claire discusses her biodegradable treatment designed to prevent wildfires and drought, the inspiration behind her project, her research and development process, and her experiences in the lab. She shares insights on balancing her interests, the support she received from family and friends, and her aspirations for the future. She also emphasizes the importance of curiosity and determination in tackling environmental challenges and encourages other young scientists to explore their passions.See Claire's project here: https://partner.projectboard.world/ysc/project/beat-the-blaze-preventing-wildfires-and-drought-with-a-novel-biodegradable-treatment*Chapters*00:00 Introduction to Claire and Her Project03:48 The Inspiration Behind Beat The Blaze06:35 The Science of the Hydrogel09:44 Research and Development Process13:00 Experiences at Science Fairs15:48 Advice for Young Scientists18:57 Future Aspirations and Interests21:48 Balancing School and Science Projects24:44 The Importance of Curiosity in Science27:35 Final Thoughts and Encouragement46:28 Thanks for Watching Outro Video.mp4
30 Oct 2025
Sara Waqas
In this episode of the Why The How Podcast, host Stuart McKelvie interviews Sara Waqas, a young scientist who has made significant strides in mental health research, particularly focusing on schizophrenia. Sara discusses her award-winning project that aims to develop personalized treatments based on neurobiological profiles. She shares her journey of inspiration, the research process, and the importance of community engagement in mental health. Throughout the conversation, Sara emphasizes the need for flexibility in research, the impact of mentorship, and the significance of pursuing interests in STEM. She also addresses misconceptions about schizophrenia and the challenges faced during her project, while encouraging others to explore their passions in science.
See Sara's project here: https://partner.projectboard.world/ysc/project/neurobiologically-informed-targeted-schizophrenia-treatment-a-multi-omic-fmri-approach
*Chapters*
00:00 Introduction to Sarah Waqas and Her Achievements
01:02 Understanding the Project: Targeted Schizophrenia Treatment
03:01 Inspiration and Research Journey
06:02 Project Development and Flexibility
09:00 Timeline and Research Process
11:59 Mental Health Research Approach
17:01 Challenges in Mental Health Research
20:05 Impact of Research on the Community
24:00 Misconceptions and Surprises in Research
27:05 Overcoming Challenges and Mental Blocks
33:42 Exploring Chemistry and Learning Resources
35:20 Finding Mentors and Building Connections
39:10 Support from Friends and Family
41:49 Balancing Multiple Commitments
47:16 Protecting Mental Health in Research
50:04 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
54:38 The Importance of STEM Projects
57:11 Developing Communication Skills
59:57 Future Aspirations and Research Goals
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