Please tell us a little about yourself and your project.
My name is Aaliyah Heeze. I'm a TY student and I had the privilege taking part in the BT Young Scientists& Technology Exhibition this year 2025. My project was entitled "An investigation into feminine hygiene products - are they hygienic, or even safe?" and I wanted to do this project because I believe that everyone has a right to know what they use on their body, if there are any consequences and also provide a safe alternative. I did this project with my science teacher Ms Megan Byrne. She helped me through the process - from writing up my report, to sampling the products on nutrient agar plates and making my poster.

How does it feel to participate in the BTYS?
I am so grateful that I was one of the 500 projects that got accepted this year and that I was able to represent our school. At the RDS I saw so many inspiring leaders such as Taoiseach Simon Harris, Minister of Education Norma Foley, Ruth Coppinger and had the honour of meeting Michael D. Higgins - his last year attending the BT young scientist competition.

What were the highlights for you?
My favourite part of the BT Young Scientist (apart from the food trucks) was being to meet so many students from all over the country. They were all so kind, and it was also nice being able to meet people who had the same interests as me. We really enjoyed learning about each other's projects. Having our TY and first year students, along with some staff, visit me on the last day was also a highlight. I enjoyed educating them about my project and will hopefully inspire some first years to enter the BT Young scientist in the future!
Huge congratulations to you, Aaliyah, and to Ms Byrne on an excellent project and representing Mount Sackville! We are all very proud.