UQ Ventures’ foundational program, Curiosity, is the starting point for many students who are curious about entrepreneurship, or simply curious about what else might be possible during their time at university.
Each semester, students who join Curiosity are rewarded with something powerful: new skills, new pathways, and a new community.
One of those students was Candida Amal, who took a chance and signed up for the Curiosity program in 2023. At the time, she didn’t know that this single decision would transform her university experience and open doors well beyond it.
While Curiosity introduces students to entrepreneurship and intrapreneurship, it’s really about something deeper: building confidence, developing transferable skills, and stepping outside your comfort zone.
When Candida started the program, public speaking was one of her biggest challenges. But through learning how to pitch and practising in a supportive environment, she gradually built confidence. With her increased confidence and skills in public speaking, Candida went on to win pitching competitions and represent UQ Ventures as a Student Ambassador.
Curiosity also introduced Candida to something she didn’t have when she arrived in Australia to pursue her Masters in Food Innovation: a sense of belonging. Having moved countries, she arrived in Queensland without a network, but through Curiosity she found a community of like minded students at UQ. That community led to opportunities she never expected, including 2 overseas trips to visit startups in the USA and China.
By embracing the opportunities available to her as a student, Candida graduated with 2 job offers and a bright future ahead.
Curiosity didn’t just enrich Candida’s UQ experience: It expanded what she thought was possible, and it can do the same for you.
Curiosity is that small, shiny door you’re allowed to open. You decide how far you walk through it — no judgement, no pressure.
What You’ll Experience in 6 Weeks
In just 6 weeks, you’ll learn how to:
- identify real problems worth solving
- think deeply about users and their needs
- explore ideas using design thinking
- prototype and test without fear
- pitch your idea in a friendly, supportive, high energy environment
You’ll be supported every step of the way by our program lead, student ambassadors, and a community that genuinely wants to see you grow.
Candida didn’t just “build a resume" at university; She built stories. Chapters. Experiences.
Stories she now shares with friends, family, and recruiters; stories that opened doors.
And it all started with curiosity.
Join UQ Ventures Curiosity in 2026 and shape your own story.