Student Spotlight
Where passion for nature meets technology.
Curiosity often starts with a simple question or a hands-on experience. For Moshika Manikandan, an early interest in building robots grew into a passion for science, technology and environmental problem solving. Through TechCayman’s Hackerspace programme and earlier robotics camps, she has explored how coding, AI and environmental science can come together to address real challenges in the Cayman Islands. Her journey shows how early exposure to STEM can turn interests into actionable ideas and a clear sense of purpose.
How did you first discover TechCayman’s programmes?
A: I first heard about TechCayman’s programmes through my mum. I was very interested in building robots, so I asked her to sign me up for a course and joined a two-day robotics camp. I found it really fun and interesting, which made me code more in my free time, especially on Scratch. Later, I joined more sessions hosted by TechCayman, including weekly Hackerspace programming workshops on Fridays. I found these sessions very interesting and started attending every week.
What interests shaped your path before joining Hackerspace?
A: When I grow up, I want to be a doctor, and I’ve always had a strong interest in biology. I love exploring new things in the environment, and I also enjoy maths, especially problem solving, which makes coding easier for me. I’ve always loved nature and started gardening at home while focusing on being more sustainable. This interest grew through my school sustainability club, where I learned a lot. Because of that, I knew exactly what project I wanted to do for the annual Rotary Science Fair.
How has TechCayman shaped your view of what’s possible in STEM?
A: Being part of TechCayman’s programmes like Hackerspace really changed how I think about STEM. Learning coding and AI showed me that technology isn’t just something you use, it’s something you can create. Writing code and learning how AI works made me feel more confident and curious, and it made difficult ideas feel more fun and possible. These courses helped me see that I could use coding and AI to solve real problems and turn my ideas into real projects. It made me excited about what I could do in the future and showed me that a career in STEM is actually achievable for me.
Learning coding and AI showed me that technology isn’t just something you use, it’s something you can create.
Looking back, how have your science fair projects evolved?
A: Looking back at my 2024 and 2025 projects, I feel proud of my successes. I think my ideas were strong and that they can actually help the Cayman Islands. One thing I’ve improved step by step is my presenting skills. By explaining my ideas more clearly and showing why they matter in everyday life, I think people are more likely to understand them and care about their surroundings, especially as the Caribbean faces serious climate challenges.
What skills have you gained beyond school projects?
A: I’ve learned a lot of useful skills from TechCayman’s programmes. Coding taught me how to think step by step and solve problems in a logical way. The AI courses showed me how technology can be creative and smart, which helped me think about new possibilities. I also learned to be patient when things don’t work the first time and to keep trying until I figure them out. One piece of advice that really helped me was learning to explain my ideas more simply, focusing on the problem and how my idea solves it. That feedback helped me see my project from other people’s perspectives and made my ideas clearer and stronger.
How do you see technology and environmental science working together in Cayman?
A: I think technology and environmental science will work together in the future to protect nature and improve life, especially when it comes to mangroves. In Cayman, we can use technology to build eco-friendly houses, solar-powered boats and systems that clean up sargassum without harming sea life. This helps the environment and boosts the economy because tourists love clean beaches and green ideas. We could also create jobs by turning waste into useful products, like furniture made from recycled materials. I’d love to learn more about how technology can help protect mangroves, because they are a major part of Cayman’s identity and help protect beaches, sea life and communities from flooding.
What advice would you give students interested in STEM?
A: Start with the tech that looks fun to you. If you’re into coding, try beginner apps like Scratch or make simple games. If you like gadgets, learn how they work. You can also explore safe websites or try building something online, like a mini website or a robot using coding kits. Don’t worry about being perfect. Just experiment and have fun. Technology is everywhere and once you start, you’ll discover so many exciting things to learn.
Creating pathways for the next generation.
TechCayman Education’s mission is to make stories like Moshika’s the norm, not the exception. Through hands-on programmes offered at no cost to participants, TechCayman empowers young people to turn curiosity into purpose-driven solutions. Students like Moshika show what becomes possible when a passion for technology is paired with genuine care for the environment and community. These experiences help young people see themselves as creators and problem solvers, building the foundation for a generation of innovators shaping Cayman’s future.
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