Significant disparities in educational attainment persist despite increasing primary and secondary enrollment rates for female students worldwide. According to UNICEF, approximately 129 million school-aged girls are currently out of school. Barriers to girls’ education are often systemic and ingrained within communities, with financial and transportation insecurity, a risk of violence and limiting gender stereotypes noted as common obstacles that hinder girls’ full potential.
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After being exposed to the different educational experiences in Canada and Guyana, 18-year-old Bhumika Ashwar established G.E.M. for Guyana (Girls’ Education Matters), a non-profit aimed at combating the challenges Guyanese women face to access post-secondary education. As she readies herself for the fall academic year, Ashwar is adamant about hoisting other Guyanese women to reach educational achievements they previously thought unreachable through her charity’s scholarships.
Growing up in Canada with parental roots in Berbice, Guyana, Ashwar was heavily involved in the Indo Caribbean diasporic experience at her family’s temple, Bhavani Shankar Mandir. She actively engaged in community service from a young age and participated in singing, dancing, chanting and cleaning. With her father as the temple’s religious leader, she often looked to her parents as role models when finding enjoyment in helping others. This interest was further propelled, during her college application process, upon hearing that her mother could not pursue a degree at the University of Guyana due to financial and transportation/lodging constraints when living in Berbice.
After visiting Guyana multiple times, Ashwar realized that many young women were in similar circumstances lacking resources and support. The desire to obtain post-secondary education to establish an independent career was also not as normalized as in Canada.
“Many people believe that it is the women’s duty to only stay at home, have children, and not have the choice to work for themselves or their family. Even if they can work, it is often domestic jobs such as selling at a market or retail. I realized that many women may not see the need to continue their education, as they are not exposed to other higher ranking ambitious jobs,” Ashwar said.
Ashwar’s charity G.E.M. For Guyana was created in May 2023 after she wanted to take a stand in changing the narrative surrounding educated and working women in Guyana. By awarding scholarships and financial funds, she hopes that recipients are empowered to pursue personal ambitions and diversified careers. She states, “If girls are exposed to the benefits that a degree will get them, such as good quality jobs and their own income, then their advancement may be more plausible.” Ultimately, Ashwar wants a more educated and employed female population to drive change and create greater leadership opportunities for women throughout various industries that contribute to Guyana’s economy.
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To spread awareness about G.E.M. and spearhead donation efforts, Ashwar traveled to Guyana in March to speak to graduating high school classes, particularly to girls who are interested in attending post-secondary school. Ashwar also credits social media and word of mouth for people to learn more and donate to G.E.M. Specifically, she is encouraged by the response and willingness of Canadians to give back to Guyana through charitable donations. When looking to the future, Ashwar’s one-year plan for G.E.M. includes continuing funding of several scholarship recipients and expanding endowments to cover transportation, textbooks and additional expenses associated with post-secondary schooling.
Applicants to G.E.M. For Guyana must demonstrate selflessness and a sense of community service, a passion for learning and a commitment to further their educational aspirations. Despite living in Canada, Ashwar understands the importance of being visible to her applicants as a woman with specific educational and career goals. This upcoming fall, she plans to attend The University of Guelph for Biomedical Science in Guelph, Ontario and pursue a career in healthcare while overseeing the collection and distribution of G.E.M.. for Guyana’s scholarships.
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Ashwar is thankful for the funds G.E.M. For Guyana has awarded so far through her fundraising and awareness efforts. Managing her academics with G.E.M For Guyana has not been difficult, as she has developed perseverance and time management since her early days in the temple. She encourages women who are also interested in community service or education to cultivate the discipline and commitment needed to succeed and not waiver despite hardship. Overall, Ashwar believes the positivity and fulfillment felt in supporting communities, making genuine connections with others and expanding on self-growth capabilities outweighs the stress and nerves that naturally come with new endeavors.
The use of direct funds and scholarships through G.E.M. For Guyana is a means to challenge the societal pressures that make it harder for Guyanese women to seek higher education and employment. While Ashwar understands that these obstacles must be dismantled through governmental and social change, she is fervent in supporting the advancement of women in any way she can. She knows that women have the innate potential to uplift themselves and their communities. When given access and opportunity, women ultimately are granted the agency to lead a more healthy and productive life and contribute to more stable and equal societies.
To follow G.E.M. For Guyana, visit their Instagram and website.
