EmpowerTech x WiT Awards Series
The purpose of this special edition is simple, EmpowerTech continues to spotlight stories that inspire, challenge, and drive change.
In collaboration with Women in Technology (WiT), this series celebrates the winners of the 2025 WiT Awards, remarkable women who are shaping the future of technology, leadership, and innovation in Australia.
Hosted by Iyari Cevallos, an experienced business coach, speaker, and leader, each conversation explores the passion, purpose, and perseverance behind their success. Together, these stories remind us what’s possible when women lead with impact and inclusion.
EmpowerTech x WiT Ep 3: Transforming Industrial Waste Into Renewable Value
Dr Lalehvash Moghaddam: Transforming Industrial Waste Into Renewable Value
In this episode, EmpowerTech host Iyari Cevallos speaks with Dr Lalehvash Moghaddam, senior industrial chemist and winner of the 2025 WiT Excellence in Industry Leadership Award. Lalehvash shares her journey from growing up in Iran inspired by stories of pioneering scientists, to leading research that converts agricultural and industrial waste into renewable fuels, biopolymers, and other high-value materials.
She discusses the cultural challenges of finding her voice in a new country, how mentors and industry partners supported her through moments of self-doubt, and why compassionate leadership is central to her work. Lalehvash also explains how waste-to-value processes work and why creating solutions industry can easily adopt is critical for real-world impact.
EmpowerTech x WiT Ep 2: Building the World’s First Predictive Test for Postpartum Depression
In this episode, EmpowerTech host Iyari Cevallos speaks with Dr Clarissa Yates, neuroscientist, founder of Ketim Technologies, and creator of the world’s first blood-based predictive diagnostic test for postpartum depression. Clarissa shares her lived experience with PPD, the science behind Ketim’s biomarker platform, and how earlier screening can transform maternal mental health.
EmpowerTech x WiT Ep1: Modelling the Future of Our Oceans with a Mathemafishian
Alise Fox, stock assessment scientist and artist, shares how data modelling, creativity, and communication help Queensland sustainably manage its fisheries.