Chevening scholar Alfonso shares his plans to bring sustainability to the heart of Paraguay’s industrial sector through the skills he’s developing during his studies at the University of York.
When Chevening scholars arrive in the UK, they don’t just come to study; they arrive as future leaders with ideas and ambition to create positive change.
For scholars like Alfonso, the Chevening programme helps them turn that ambition into impact.
Coming from Paraguay, a country wealthy in natural resources but growing environmental challenges, I have always felt passionate about building a more sustainable future. In Paraguay, sustainability is often seen as a luxury rather than a necessity, a challenge shared by many countries around the world.
My goal is to help shift that perspective by promoting greener alternatives in industry and developing environmental policies that are both environmentally responsible and economically viable.
During my Chevening Scholarship I’ve developed the technical knowledge and critical thinking skills to work towards my goal.
Combining my background in industrial chemistry with my passion for environment protection, the MSc in Green Chemistry and Sustainable Industrial Technology at the University of York was exactly what I was looking for.
Through modules focused on green chemistry and sustainable product design, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how chemistry can be reimagined to stop being part of the problem and become the solution.
I’ve used this knowledge to think critically about the stages of industrial processes. I want to bring sustainability to the heart of the design process, and move away from the ‘cure’ mindset we often have now.
To strengthen how I communicate my vision, I’ve also been working hard to improve the way I connect with others and share ideas clearly and effectively. From writing blogs to participating in podcasts at the university, I’ve grown in confidence, and learnt how to adapt my communication style to different audiences.
Being surrounded by individuals who are also passionate about creating change is inspiring and empowering. From science to economics, the diversity within the Chevening community has exposed me to new perspectives, ideas, and opportunities that I would not have encountered otherwise.
These connections have made me realise how much change can be made in the world.
Through networking events, conferences, informal gatherings, or even just a direct message saying, ‘Hey! I’m in your city, lets grab a drink,’ I’ve been able to engage with leaders, policymakers, and fellow scholars who share a commitment to making a difference.
These interactions have helped me understand the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration when addressing global challenges. Sustainability, after all, isn’t just a scientific issue but a social, economic, and political one.
The Chevening experience has shown me that meaningful change happens when knowledge is combined with strong networks and a shared vision. Creating impact is difficult, and no single person can achieve it alone. Strength lies in numbers, and Chevening provides exactly that.
I’m determined to return to Paraguay and apply everything I’ve learned during my time here in the UK. I hope to play a key role in shaping policies that encourage environmental responsibility, while supporting economic growth and advancing Sustainable Development Goals.
Being a Chevening scholar has not only equipped me with academic and professional skills, but reinforced my belief that leadership is about action and becoming a driver of change in your community. Seeing others doing this encourages me to fight even harder for my beliefs and to support those who want to do the same.
This journey is just the beginning. The skills I’m developing, the connections I’m building, and the vision I’m refining are all part of a larger mission: to create a more sustainable future for my country and beyond.
Chevening scholar Jamila Falak is growing her global network and developing key skills at the University of Leeds, so that when she returns home she can support the wellbeing and resilience of her local community in Jamaica.
‘My peers, professors, and the wider community have created a space where I feel supported and inspired... My fellow students have challenged me, shared their experiences, and reminded me that I’m not alone in this work.'
‘As the window to act on climate change closes, all sustainability professionals are focused on rapidly shifting from ambition to implementation. The next generation of leaders must navigate complex regulation, harness new technologies and, crucially, make a compelling financial case for climate action.' - Richard Rugg, Deputy CEO