Faces of ANU: Empowering change - Zahra's Journey in Energy and STEM

For Indira Zahra Zafira, pursuing a Master of Energy Change at The Australian National University (ANU) is more than an academic pursuit - it’s a step toward shaping the future of energy and championing women in STEM. As an Australia Awards student from Indonesia, Zahra’s journey has been defined by resilience, learning, and a commitment to both the global energy transition and her community.

The first in her family to pursue higher education, Zahra recalls the initial challenges of adapting to a new academic system. "The education systems in Indonesia and Australia are quite different, but ANU offers a wealth of resources," she shares. "During orientation week, I discovered student support services that became essential to my success. Booking appointments, exploring the library’s online catalogue, and engaging with Academic Skills services all helped me find my footing."

Zahra’s program is deeply interdisciplinary, integrating engineering, policy, economics, and environmental science. As a student spanning three ANU Colleges - Engineering, Crawford, and Fenner, she values the holistic approach to energy studies. “Energy change is essentially climate change viewed through the lens of energy,” she explains. “Our coursework covers everything from engineering to economics and finance, preparing us to lead the global energy transition.”

Her professional background in Indonesia’s renewable energy sector has given her firsthand experience across geothermal, solar, oil, and gas projects. Navigating a male-dominated industry has strengthened her resolve to advocate for women’s leadership in energy and climate solutions. In Indonesia, she was an active member of Women in Energy, a community dedicated to empowering women in the field.

Zahra frequently receives LinkedIn messages from prospective students curious about her program. “Many assume it’s heavily engineering-focused, but it’s accessible even without a physics background,” she says. “There’s an introductory physics course to build foundational knowledge, and from there, you can tailor your specialisation.”

Balancing postgraduate studies with motherhood has been an adventure of its own. Raising her inquisitive three-year-old while pursuing a rigorous degree has been made easier by ANU’s supportive student community. “I’ve connected with other young mothers, and we share advice on childcare, time management, and adjusting to life in a new country,” she says.

Beyond academics, Zahra cherishes ANU’s location. “It’s close to Lake Burley Griffin and Black Mountain and I love jogging there in the mornings or afternoons. Sometimes, I even spot kangaroos near the CSIRO area!” This tranquil setting offers a refreshing contrast to the bustling energy of Jakarta.

For Zahra, climate change is more than an environmental challenge - it’s a social issue that disproportionately affects vulnerable communities in Indonesia. By sharing her story through Faces of ANU, she hopes to inspire others who relate to her experiences and demonstrate that, with the right opportunities, women can lead and shape the future of energy and climate solutions.