What is TechGyrls?

TechGyrls is a program for cis and trans girls, non-binary, and two-spirit youth ages 9 to 13. It is rooted in the knowledge that cis and trans women and girls, non-binary, and two-spirit youth are disproportionately underrepresented in the STEM fields. “In childhood and adolescence, masculine stereotypes about STEM, parents’ expectations of daughters, peer norms, and lack of fit with personal goals make girls move away from STEM fields”. Learn more here.

Through TechGyrls, participants have the opportunity to explore, design, create, and share all things related to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math! With the goal to improve the mental well-being, community connections, essential skills, access to technology, and education outcomes, each session is tailored to youths’ interests in STEM - making it as unique as those who participate! Absolutely no skill or knowledge level needed to participate.

Contact our Youth Programs Coordinator if you have any questions or would like to know more about the program.


Program Duration: September 2022 - July 2023

“I like[d] that everyone is working together and no one is left out. Also, I love the activities that we do and we always get snacks!”
— Participant, TechGyrls 2023

How was the program delivered?

YWCA St. John’s delivered the TechGyrls program as a series of afterschool sessions held in partnership with Bishop Abraham Elementary. These sessions supported youth between ages 9 and 13 to build on their knowledge of STEM, participate in fun projects and experiments, develop interpersonal skills, and learn about the various opportunities that exist for them in STEM. Each session typically ran for 2.5 hours, in a space provided by the partnering school. All the materials and equipment needed were provided by YWCA St. John’s.

In June 2023, we also organized a STEM Day at Bishop Abraham Elementary. Program participants heard from local STEM leader, Gillian Mensah, explored colour theory, slime-making, water testing, and concepts of geology, and participated in a STEM-based scavenger hunt!

Note: YWCA St. John’s is one of six member associations delivering TechGyrls in partnership with YWCA Canada. TechGyrls was originally created by YWCA USA and YWCA Cambridge has delivered TechGyrls programming in its local communities since 2012. We appreciate YWCA Cambridge’s insightful feedback and incredible participation in helping reshape and amplify this work to a national level in Canada.

This program was made possible by funding and contribution programs for employment, training, and social development projects from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).