Student Spotlight
From Student to Mentor: How TJ Hansraj Found His Future in Engineering
At 15, Teejhan “TJ” Hansraj signed up for a TechCayman Education robotics camp out of curiosity. That first hands-on experience with automation and programming set him on a path from student to mentor, community leader and now university-bound engineering student. Today, TJ is preparing to study Mechatronic and Robotic Engineering at the University of Sheffield, carrying with him both the skills and the sense of purpose shaped by Cayman’s growing tech ecosystem.
Discovering TechCayman Education’s robotics camps and STEM programmes.
Q: What first drew you to TechCayman’s education programmes?
A: I first heard about the TechCayman Education Robotics Camps through my sister, who participated in the camp before I became involved. At the time I signed up, I was exploring the possibility of studying computer science and entering the STEM field, so the programme immediately caught my interest.
I then met TechCayman’s Education Manager, Philip Liu, at a school event. He spoke to our Information Technology class about his journey from studying physics to transitioning into computer science. That really resonated with me, as I was at a similar crossroads, deciding between pursuing physics or IT. Phil’s story, paired with my own curiosity about how computers work, started a domino effect that led me to pursue studies in the STEM field.
From robotics to coding.
Q: How did joining TechCayman Education’s Robotics Camps and Hackerspace further develop your passion for technology?
A: I remember my first robotics camp as a fantastic experience. In the robotics programmes I’d done before, there was more focus on building and manual control, but TechCayman’s camp emphasised automation and programming, letting the robot “think” on its own. Later, while working on my Associate’s degree in computer science, I joined Hackerspace to pursue coding projects and support peers. Being part of a community that shared my passion for computers and coding led to great conversations on STEM topics and helped solidify the foundation I now rely on in my academic and professional journey.
From student to tech mentor.
Q: What motivated you to return as a mentor for TechCayman’s Robotics camps?
A: Becoming a mentor was a natural decision for me. My first robotics camp had such a profound impact on my career path that I felt compelled to give back. Knowing I might help spark someone else’s passion for STEM, just as mine was sparked, was my biggest motivation. I’ve also had the opportunity to participate in the Brac camp and I’ve met several students who reminded me of myself: curious, eager to learn and fascinated by how things work. It’s a special experience to mentor someone like that; it often feels like I’m interacting with a younger version of myself.
My first robotics camp had such a profound impact on my career path that I felt compelled to give back.
The impact of accessible STEM programmes in the Cayman Islands.
Q: How important are accessible programmes like TechCayman Education camps for student success?
A: Absolutely crucial. Having access to fully-sponsored programmes helps lift a burden, making it possible for students who are passionate about STEM to explore it fully, regardless of economic background.
There’s a noticeable rise in interest among both my peers and younger students. The tech literacy of the younger generation is remarkable and I believe that’s largely thanks to access to innovative tools and programmes like those offered by TechCayman. It’s creating a generation that is more tech-savvy and confident in STEM-related fields.
Advice for aspiring STEM students in the Cayman Islands.
Q: What advice would you give students in Cayman starting their STEM journey?
A: I would tell them that no matter where you are in the world, technology plays a vital role. Every country needs people to manage systems, servers, networks, robotics and more; and in Cayman, if you look for opportunities, they will find you. My biggest advice is don’t get overwhelmed. There will be times when things don’t go as planned and that’s okay. Take a break, reset, then come back to the problem. Learning how to decompress is a crucial skill in problem-solving. TechCayman’s initiatives give young people the hands-on, peer-supported environment they need, planting the seeds of curiosity and providing the space to grow their interest in STEM.
Paving the way forward.
Q: What’s next for you in your academic and career journey?
A: This fall, I’ll be attending the University of Sheffield to study Mechatronic and Robotic Engineering. I’m incredibly excited to dive deeper into this field and build the knowledge and skills I need to pursue what I’m truly passionate about. Mechatronic and Robotic Engineering isn’t yet widely established in the Cayman Islands and I hope to help change that. Once I gain enough experience, I want to contribute to the engineering sector here, not just in the workforce, but in education as well. I hope to give back and showcase the beauty and potential of STEM in the Cayman Islands.
Building Cayman’s future in tech.
TechCayman Education’s mission is to make stories like TJ’s the norm, not the exception. Through hands-on programmes offered at no cost to participants, TechCayman removes barriers to participation, building skills, confidence and community connections that prepare young people for lifelong careers in technology. These experiences give students early exposure to innovation and the tools to explore, build and problem-solve. The goal is to create clear pathways from classroom to career, so the next wave of engineers, innovators and creators can imagine a future in Cayman — and have the foundation to make it real.
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