From Robotics Club to STEM Queen: Gladenique Bennett Inspires a Generation
- Winsome M. Sherrier Witter
- Oct 20
- 3 min read
A powerful conversation with the Mr & Miss Central Jamaica 2025 First Runner-Up on youth empowerment, breaking barriers, and engineering change.
Opening Reflections
The SRC Community Corner Live Forum, held every third Thursday, continues to spotlight incredible youth and organisations doing transformative work across Jamaica. This month, the forum featured a compelling conversation with Gladenique Bennett, the First Runner-Up in the Mr & Miss Central Jamaica 2025 pageant, who has emerged as a passionate advocate for women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
Though initially planned as a multi-guest forum, unexpected technical difficulties meant Gladenique carried the full spotlight — and did so with grace, insight, and strength.
Gladenique's Journey: From Curiosity to Calling
Gladenique’s passion for engineering was sparked in Grade 7 when she joined the Robotics Club at Immaculate Conception High School.
The hands-on experience of building, coding, and problem-solving revealed a new world — one she never imagined would become her life’s path.
Today, she is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Systems Engineering at the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU).
“I didn’t even know what robotics or coding was at first. But once I tried it, I fell in love.” — Gladenique
Breaking Barriers as a Woman in STEM
In a male-dominated field, Gladenique was one of only around five women in her university cohort.
She faced impostor syndrome, feeling unseen and out of place.
She overcame this by connecting with her male peers through a shared love for engineering.
Her advice to other girls: "Believe in yourself. The outcome is worth the process."
On Confidence, Pageantry & Advocacy
Entering the Mr. & Miss Central Jamaica pageant was Gladenique’s way of stepping outside her comfort zone.
The experience helped her build confidence, develop public speaking skills, and connect with other young leaders from diverse parishes.
Her advocacy now centres around encouraging more girls to explore and lead in STEM.
"This pageant was not just about the tiara. It helped me grow into a leader."
Her Vision as a STEM Queen: Women in STEM Leadership
Gladenique’s vision is clear:
Workshops in schools to introduce girls to STEM early.
Use of robotics, coding, and hands-on projects to make STEM fun and accessible.
Promote female leadership in the tech and engineering sectors.
Collaborate with existing youth platforms and NGOs to amplify impact.
Key Takeaways for Youth Empowerment
Exposure is Everything – Clubs and extracurriculars can spark lifelong passions.
Collaboration Counts – Working together strengthens movements.
Step Outside Your Comfort Zone – Growth lies on the other side of fear.
Representation Matters – Young women need to see others like them thriving in STEM.
Pageants Can Empower – With the right focus, platforms like Mr. & Miss Central Jamaica become vehicles for service, leadership, and advocacy.
Education Pathway Insight from our STEM Queen
Gladenique did not attend Sixth Form and went directly to CMU after high school.
Entry Requirements for her programme included CSEC passes in Mathematics, Physics, and Electrical Technology.
A vital takeaway for high schoolers considering non-traditional education paths.
The Role of SRC and Youth Platforms
Platforms like Serenity Resource Connector (SRC) provide the visibility, networking, and support that youth advocates need.
SRC encourages collaboration over competition, nurturing purpose-driven initiatives through its forums and blog features.
As Gladenique noted, these digital spaces are critical for staying informed, connected, and empowered.
Missed the Forum? Watch the Replay!
Catch the full conversation and get inspired by Gladenique's journey:
📌 Upcoming Live Forums & Community Events
🗓️ Next Live Forums:
Heritage Month Highlight & Upcoming Community Event:
Flag Raising Ceremonies in all parishes - Monday, October 20, 2025
Get Involved: Follow SRC on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date and be part of Jamaica’s youth-driven change.
Final Word
Gladenique Bennett reminds us that young women belong in STEM, and that platforms — from classrooms to pageants — can become bridges to change. As she continues her journey, she carries with her a message of courage, community, and contribution.
Let’s keep amplifying voices like hers.
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