Sasha Fraser and Alicia Ward: Breaking Barriers for Women in STEM

For years, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) has been a male-dominated field, often discouraging young women from pursuing careers in technology and engineering. But at the Mahaicony Technical and Vocational Training Institute, two young women—Sasha Fraser and Alicia Ward—are challenging these outdated stereotypes and proving that gender does not define capability.

Fraser and Ward are carving their own paths in STEM, each driven by curiosity and passion. From data operations to electrical installation, their journeys reflect resilience, determination, and a desire to inspire other young women to follow their dreams.

For Sasha Fraser, her passion for technology started early.

“I was always curious about technology,” she recalled. “I loved to experiment.”

Despite her interest in IT, Fraser’s secondary school lacked the necessary resources to help her pursue it further.

“The reason I chose data operations is because I wanted to further my studies in IT,” she explained. “In my secondary school years, we didn’t really have the facilities. And coming to TI, here we have it.”

Understanding the increasing reliance on technology in today’s society, Fraser saw IT as a career that would open countless opportunities.Meanwhile, Alicia Ward took an unconventional route defying expectations by enrolling in electrical installation, a trade where women are often underrepresented.

“I want to learn more about voltage and current,” Ward said. “And also, I’m a curious person.”

As the only female in her class, she expected challenges.

Instead, she found unexpected support.

“They were very respectful, kind, and encouraging as well,” she said, referring to her male classmates.

That encouragement helped her push through her biggest challenge—mastering electrical circuits.

“The most rewarding experience was pushing myself to focus on the circuit, which was very difficult for me at first,” she admitted.

“But after constantly practising and going over it, I kind of got good at it.”

When it comes to encouraging more women in STEM, Fraser and Ward believe that more needs to be done to encourage young women to enter STEM fields.

“Motivating them, encouraging them to be open-minded and more independent,” Fraser emphasised.

Ward echoed this sentiment, urging young women to be fearless in their pursuit of careers traditionally dominated by men.

“Follow your dreams, don’t give up,” she said. “The path is clear. You can do anything you want. Don’t ever let a man tell you that a woman can’t do a man’s job.”

As they continue their journey in STEM, both young women have bold aspirations.

“In the next five or ten years, I see myself as a teacher or a big analyst,” Fraser shared.

Ward, on the other hand, aims to become “the best female electrician in Guyana” and use her platform to uplift other young women.

By defying stereotypes and embracing their passions, Sasha Fraser and Alicia Ward are not just students—they are trailblazers.

Their determination is paving the way for more young women in Guyana to step into STEM fields with confidence, proving that no dream is out of reach. (Italy Ton-Chung)