STEMLOOK

Meet Darya Sachenka, the visionary founder of STEMLOOK, an education hub in Chatswood dedicated to teaching children the skills of the future. Through engaging workshops in coding, robotics, and artificial intelligence, Darya and her team are helping young people discover the joy of learning and the power of technology.

Since starting STEMLOOK, Darya has been passionate about creating hands-on experiences that not only teach practical skills like Java, Python, and robotics, but also develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and a mindset of curiosity when tackling new challenges.

Many students have found that what they learn at STEMLOOK gives them a valuable boost at school, particularly in maths and technology. And parents have seen their children become more confident, curious learners. These skills don’t just benefit individual students, they contribute to a more future-ready community, with young people better equipped to tackle the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

Why I chose Chatswood to start my business

‘Chatswood was the first place where the community showed such strong interest in STEM education,’ says Darya.

The area’s diversity and strong focus on learning made it an ideal place to introduce programs that help young people build future-ready skills.

STEMLOOK has since become a familiar presence beyond the classroom, regularly participating in local festivals such as Emerge Festivals, libraries, and museum events.

Darya was inspired to start STEMLOOK after seeing how important technology skills are for the next generation. When she moved to Sydney, she saw a real appetite for STEM education, especially in Chatswood. The local families were eager to give their kids an advantage in understanding the technologies shaping our world.

Darya also shares it’s so rewarding to see students light up when they realise they can build a robot or write their own code. That spark of discovery is what keeps them going.

How to support this business

You can support STEMLOOK by:

• Watching and sharing their Support Local video to spread the word about the importance of STEM education.
• Let friends and neighbours know STEMLOOK programs to friends, family, and schools looking for ways to develop young minds in coding, robotics, and AI.
• Joining a class or attending one of their workshops at local events and festivals in the Willoughby area, including their latest robotics competition, where young inventors showcase creative tech solutions with this year’s inspiring theme: Environmental Care.

How to get involved in Support Local

Support Local is Willoughby City Council’s campaign to spotlight exceptional local businesses that contribute to the area's economic vitality and cultural vibrancy. Through engaging storytelling, video features and interviews, the campaign celebrates the entrepreneurs behind high-quality businesses that offer something truly unique to the local community.

Businesses that meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:

• Demonstrate high quality in products or services
• Offer unique and innovative experiences
• Attract residents to local centres and draw visitors to Willoughby
• Enhance the area’s economic and cultural diversity

The campaign supports the broader goal of encouraging residents to shop locally, sustaining jobs and helping shield the community from wider economic challenges. Featuring in Support Local is an opportunity to gain valuable exposure while strengthening Willoughby’s position as a vibrant and distinctive place to live, work and visit.

Businesses that align with the local economic development strategy and contribute to increased foot traffic in the area will be prioritised.

Business nomination form