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Special Edition: 18 Years of Science Communication with Zorana Kurbalija Novicic
From Curiosity to Change: A Journey of Listening, Learning, and Leading
Curiosity sparks...
Tiny particles of wonder. A child’s question. A parent’s puzzled look. A classroom filled with wide eyes.
...Science creates knowledge.
Through words, hands-on experiments, and edible ingredients, science becomes a language everyone can speak.
Knowledge empowers change.
And when shared with compassion, it transforms homes, communities, and futures.
Celebrating 18 Years of Impact
This year, I celebrate an incredible 18-year journey in science communication—from my first Science Festival appearance in Belgrade in 2007 to building a knowledge island in Sweden that inspires families, educators, and young scientists.
My path began with a simple but powerful instinct: to listen.
I listened to children’s questions, parents’ concerns, and the curiosity of the general public. I translated complex scientific concepts into everyday language, making science not just understandable—but relatable.

From Words to Experiments
As my journey evolved, so did my methods. I moved from lectures to hands-on science, using affordable, edible materials to explore biology, chemistry, and environmental science. My work bridges natural and social sciences, touching on sustainability, recycling, and circular economy—especially meaningful once I became a mother herself.
My kitchen became a lab. My home, a classroom.
And my vision? That every home can be a small island of knowledge.
A Scientific Cookbook for Curious Families
Entering her “adulthood” in science communication, I published a scientific cookbook—a playful, educational tool for families to experiment together. The book was honored with the BELMA2025 prize- The Best Educational Learning Material Award and got a potential to be now used in preschools and elementary schools across Europe. Cannot wait to see Scientific Cookbook translated to number of languages.
It’s more than a cookbook. It’s a manifesto for learning through doing, for bonding through curiosity, and for growing together.
A Global Village of Opportunity
My mission is deeply rooted in equality and inclusion. I advocate for opportunities for minority and underrepresented groups, believing that science should be accessible to all. My work aim to empower young people to pursue scientific careers and see knowledge as a tool for building a better society.
Inspired by Jane Goodall
I often reflect on the wisdom of Jane Goodall, whose quiet strength and deep curiosity transformed how we connect with nature and each other. And every individual counts, every, even small step, counts.
“What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” – Jane Goodall
My work echoes this ethos. I asks:
- How can we make science more accessible?
- How do we nurture curiosity in a world of instant answers?
- How do we combine knowledge with empathy to create lasting impact?
Over Half a Million Young Minds Reached
Through festivals, lectures, workshops, school programs, and family events, collaborations and partnerships I have met over 500,000 children and counting. Kids are my greatest teachers—each question a spark, each interaction a step forward.
My Serbian roots and education and Swedish continued education and experiences blend into a unique approach that celebrates emotional intelligence, active listening, and informal education at home.
Science Market Uppsala: A Home for Ideas
Today, Science Market Uppsala is more than a company. It’s a gathering site for visionaries, a place where families experiment with chocolate and other tasty concepts, learn together, and discover that the true value in life is knowledge expansion.
Homes are the best places for informal education.
They are the foundation for a more sustainable, compassionate, and curious society.
Looking Ahead
The journey isn’t over it is far from it. I truly believe the true discoveries in science communication are still ahead. With every new project, every new question, and every new collaboration, I continue to listen, learn, and lead.
Here’s to the next chapter.
Here’s to curiosity.
Here’s to change.
