Twenty finalists for the 2025 Medworld Institute Scholarship have been honoured as Medical Student Impact Medallists, recognising the next generation of healthcare leaders.
The 2025 Medical Student Impact Medals are a recognition of leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of their peers. Chosen by their peers from across Australasia, these medallists embody the future of compassionate, inclusive healthcare. Of the twenty students recognised the below allowed us permission to share the work they're doing.
Lauren Fawcett – University of Adelaide
Lauren Fawcett is dedicated to improving student wellbeing through cultural competence and advocacy. As the convenor of the Adelaide Medical Students’ Society (AMSS) APY Program, Lauren led over 20 students into Indigenous communities in the APY Lands, fostering cultural understanding and promoting culturally safe care.
Her work extends internationally—serving as the Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association (AIDA) representative at Adelaide and helping organise PRIDoC, a global gathering of Indigenous medical professionals. Now, in her role as AMSA Indigenous Community Chair, she is strengthening national support networks for Indigenous medical students. Lauren’s leadership is deeply grounded in representation, inclusivity, and creating space for others to grow.
Raener Miller – University of Adelaide
A tireless advocate, Raener Miller currently serves as the Vice President External for AMSA (Australian Medical Students’ Association), representing over 18,500 students on the national stage. She has led AMSA’s Paid Placements Campaign and founded a disability entry pathway, drawing on her experience as AMSA’s 2024 Disability Advocacy Officer and her role in the Adelaide Medical Students’ Society.
Whether in Parliament House or the Department of Health and Aged Care, Raener is a fierce voice for equity and student wellbeing. She continually brings student perspectives to the fore through local initiatives, national engagement, and policy influence.
Camden Colee – University of Sydney
Camden Colee’s impact spans sustainability, community, and leadership. They’ve led innovative sustainability initiatives at their clinical school—repackaging procedural materials, helping establish a student-run garden, and mentoring others in eco-conscious healthcare.
Camden is also known for empowering others through creative and social initiatives, including their leadership in Med Revue, where they coached first-time performers and helped build a welcoming environment. Through the Concord Hospital Buddy Program, they continue to mentor junior students. Their commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive culture has left a lasting mark on the Sydney medical student community.
Daniel Lavin – University of Otago
Coming from a large family in rural New Zealand, Daniel has always been passionate about supporting others. He’s held eight executive roles across AUMSA, Grassroots, and SORHA. As AUMSA President, he focuses on student welfare, launching mentorship programs, peer events, and a housing platform for clinical years. Through Grassroots, he led wellbeing initiatives and community engagement. With SORHA, he organised rural outreach trips and championed rural health. He is dedicated to doing what he can to create a supportive, connected medical student community.
Thomas Hartono - University of Otago
Thomas is a humble, selfless leader and the current NZMSA President, dedicated to uplifting medical students nationwide—especially Māori and international students. He’s led numerous initiatives to strengthen support networks, often without recognition or compensation. Known for his kindness and ability to connect with others, Thomas balances this demanding role with his final year of med school, past academic tutoring, marathon running, and being a former national tennis player.
