The quiet halls of the Lethem Library have become a lively hub of innovation, curiosity, and learning, thanks to the Lethem Library STEM Club, a transformative initiative powered by STEMGuyana and generously funded by the U.S. Embassy Georgetown. The club is part of a broader mission to expose young people across Guyana to 21st-century skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), while also empowering local educators and building stronger communities through education.
Two remarkable young women, Raquel Phillips and Anessa Francis, have played pivotal roles in coaching and inspiring students in the Lethem Library STEM Club. Their personal journeys are a testament to the program’s mission of building confidence, fostering leadership, and driving national development through STEM education.
At just 21 years old, Raquel juggles multiple roles, finance clerk, babysitter, STEM educator, and robotics coach. Before joining the Lethem STEM Club, she had little exposure to the world of robotics and digital technology. However, her involvement in the club has been nothing short of transformational.
“Since I joined this club, it has had a great impact on me. I now have a greater understanding of its significance in education. It’s helping me grow in areas where I once lacked confidence,” Raquel shares.
Through hands-on experience in robotics and coding, Raquel has not only enhanced her technical skills but also developed a deeper passion for teaching. She finds immense joy in seeing the children in her community excited about learning, working together, and building simple robots that bring their imaginations to life. “My favorite part about this program is that I get to see kids enjoy learning in a fun way. It’s deepened my passion for education in the STEM field.”
Anessa Francis, 22, works with the Lethem Town Council’s Finance Department and was familiar with STEMGuyana before she became a coach. Her participation in the Lethem Library STEM Club has deepened her appreciation for how STEM can change lives, both hers and those of the children she mentors.
“The program has truly impacted us. It’s developing critical thinking, opening doors to STEM careers, and introducing us to new technologies,” Anessa explains. Her favorite part? Watching the children build their first robots and celebrating the results. “Seeing their sense of accomplishment is so rewarding. It gives them confidence and a belief that they can do anything.”
The Lethem Library STEM Club is one of many across Guyana, operating under the guidance of STEMGuyana, a local NGO that aims to empower youth through technology education and innovation. Supported by local and international partners, including the IDBLab, Scotiabank, MODEC and the U.S. Embassy, STEMGuyana’s programs are equipping students with the skills they need to thrive in a digital future.
Through coding, robotics, environmental science, and more, these clubs are not just creating young tech enthusiasts, they’re building problem-solvers, critical thinkers, and leaders for tomorrow.
“Our mission is to ensure every child, regardless of where they live, has access to the tools, skills, and opportunities that will allow them to participate in the global digital economy,” says STEMGuyana Operations Manager, Alisha Koulen.
With the unwavering dedication of coaches like Raquel and Anessa, and the support of the U.S. Embassy, the Lethem Library STEM Club is becoming a beacon of hope and progress for Region 9. It is not only sparking curiosity and confidence in young learners but also showing what’s possible when community, education, and innovation come together.
