The global fundraising campaign for Mission ShakthiSAT, led by the AIMERS Foundation, was officially launched by the State Member for Hornsby, James Wallace MP, marking a significant milestone in Australia’s contribution to global space education.
On Saturday, 28 March 2026, the Hornsby Library hosted a vibrant community Meet & Greet event featuring a live satellite showcase, bringing together students, families, and local businesses for an engaging exploration of space technology.
Founded in Hornsby by Sukruti Narayanan, the AIMERS Foundation is a technology-driven not-for-profit with a bold vision – to position Australia as a global innovation hub by 2050. The Foundation serves as the Australian home for Mission ShakthiSAT, the world’s first all-female-led lunar space education initiative.
Mission ShakthiSAT aims to empower 12,000 girls from 108 countries by providing 120 hours of free, hands-on training in satellite development. As part of this global mission, AIMERS Foundation has also been entrusted with leading the international fundraising campaign to support one student and one ambassador from each participating country to travel to India on 23 August 2026 for an immersive satellite-building experience.
The Hornsby event attracted a diverse and enthusiastic audience – including school and university students, parents, grandparents, and community members – who gathered to understand the critical role satellites play in everyday life, from communication to navigation and emergency services.
Speaking at the event, James Wallace MP reaffirmed his support for the Foundation’s vision:
“I share and strongly believe in AIMERS’ central objective of making Australia a global innovation hub by 2050. Achieving this vision requires a collective effort from government, businesses, and the community.
Young people in Hornsby will have greater opportunities if they harness the power of emerging technologies such as AI and space science. The principle that ‘talent is universal, but opportunities are not’ truly resonates. I encourage more young people and community members to engage with AIMERS Foundation’s initiatives and contribute to building a stronger future for our society and nation.”
A standout highlight of the event was the opportunity for attendees – particularly young students and senior citizens – to witness the Waratah Seed satellite, an Australian-built satellite that has been orbiting Earth for over 18 months, continuously transmitting data.
The satellite was developed under the leadership of Professor Iver Cairns and his team. Professor Cairns also serves as an advisor to the Space Technology pillar of AIMERS Foundation, strengthening the organisation’s commitment to real-world scientific engagement.
In a symbolic gesture of support, Mr Wallace officially inaugurated the global fundraising campaign by becoming the first contributor to Mission ShakthiSAT’s international fundraising effort.
The event marked not just the launch of a campaign, but the beginning of a global movement – one that places Australia at the forefront of empowering the next generation of women in space technology.
If you would like to contribute to this global mission, you can make your donation here: https://www.givenow.com.au/kickstart-aimers
Whether you are a student, parent, local business, or a supporter of meaningful change – your contribution can help shape the future. Every donation, no matter the size, creates a real and lasting impact.
Desi Australia proudly supports this initiative and extends its best wishes for its continued success.
