In 2018, a bright-eyed 7-year-old named On Beaton walked into the Sports Hall STEMGuyana club and began a journey that would shape his future in remarkable ways. Today, at 14 years old, On is charting a path toward becoming an engineer, a gamer, and a content creator; three passions that beautifully intersect in the emerging field of 21st-century Gaming Engineering.
On’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Over the years, he has competed on three IYRC national junior robotics teams, proudly bringing home silver and bronze medals. Alongside his sibling Yidel, On also showcased his creativity as a child actor in the Robin the Robot STEM series, inspiring other children through fun and educational storytelling.
Now, as a teenager, On is stepping into leadership. He is currently training to become a junior club leader, preparing to mentor younger members in robotics clubs across Guyana. His focus is on teaching them to build robots, fly drones, and program games; skills that helped him and skills that will prepare the next generation of innovators to achieve their goals.
On has also excelled academically. He was the top NGSA student at COLAACO school and today attends Guyana’s first AI-integrated school, Pathway Online Academy. Reflecting on his journey, On shared;
“I really enjoy STEMGuyana, and I love the Pathway school experience. I’m happy that I have more freedom to pursue my passions while working at my own pace to master my academic subjects.”
On Beaton credits STEMGuyana with giving him more than just skills, it gave him a community. He encourages parents to enroll their children in STEMGuyana programs, saying this is where he made friends, built confidence, and discovered his passions.
STEMGuyana Director, Karen Abrams, expressed her pride in On’s growth and achievements;
“Our young scholars are members for life. Even if we don’t see them for a few years, our values and culture stay with them. We are proud of On and his siblings, and we look forward to preparing them to be globally competitive in the 21st century.”
As STEMGuyana continues to nurture young minds, On’s story stands as a powerful reminder of what’s possible when children are given the opportunity to explore, create, and lead. He represents the future, one where passion meets purpose, and young people are prepared to thrive in a rapidly changing world.