Jasmin Diab – Special Operations Engineer and Nuclear Scientist, Mother of 2, Parenting a Child with Achondroplasia (Dwarfism)

Episode Sub Title: ““STEM Mum, Big Heart: Jaz Diab’s Lessons in Resilience”

In this inspiring and open-hearted episode, host Tim Curtis speaks with Jasmin (Jaz) Diab, nuclear scientist, STEM nerd (self confessed!), and mum of a remarkable five-year-old with achondroplasia, Zoe and little baby boy Remy. Jaz shares her experiences parenting a child with achondroplasia (a form of dwarfism), the lessons she’s learned about resilience, and how curiosity, honesty, and community have helped her navigate challenges.

 

Key themes and takeaways:

• How Jaz uses curiosity and science to advocate for Zoe and break down barriers
• The importance of building community, both locally and through the short-statured network
• Jaz’s parenting style: honest, open communication and letting go of perfection
• Helping kids develop self-awareness, confidence, and problem-solving skills
• Why self-kindness and reframing have been crucial for Jaz’s own resilience as a parent
• The power of role-modelling language, patience, and co-regulation in tough moments
• This episode shines a light on embracing difference, building strong villages around kids, and supporting them to thrive on their own terms.

👉 Learn more at: resilienceshield.com/kids

(Even) More About Jaz:  Jasmin draws upon 22 years of service as an Australian Army engineer officer with a focus on security and safety in high risk environments. Jasmin is a nuclear engineer with an extensive knowledge and experience in the Australian nuclear and national security landscape and loves a good complex challenge

 

Resources:

Women in Nuclear (WiN) Australia — A network supporting women in nuclear science and technology; Jasmin is likely engaged with groups like this.

Special Operations Engineer Regiment (SOER) — Australian Army’s dedicated combat engineer unit supporting Special Operations Command.

Little People of Australia — National support network for people of short stature and their families.

Growing Stronger: Achondroplasia Resource (Johns Hopkins Medicine) — Detailed medical overview of achondroplasia.

Short Statured People of Australia Facebook Group — Community space (private group; request to join).

Welcome to Holland – by Emily Perl Kingsley — Full text of the poem.