Australian of the Year

Michaela Loukas is an 18-year-old medical technology innovator whose award-winning, peer-reviewed research is helping shape a future where AI can save lives. Michaela uses her platform to advocate for girls in STEM, young people from multicultural backgrounds, and educators adapting to AI.  

Michaela migrated from Greece at five years old, learning English as her second language. At 15, she co-designed a robotic melanoma-screening prototype aimed at improving access to screening in rural communities. Then at 17, she built an AI model that achieved 96.5% accuracy distinguishing malignant from healthy breast tissue, while also classifying breast cancer subtypes and identifying emerging biomarkers being studied for their role in treatment response.  

Michaela’s interest in cancer grew from seeing its impact on her own family and learning that some genomic tests used to personalise treatment can cost thousands and require samples to be sent overseas. Her goal isn’t just better technology, but technology that doesn’t leave anyone behind based on where they live or what they can afford.