For Chevening scholar Sibabalwe ‘Bea’ Mama, a South African physiotherapist studying for an MSc in Global Health Policy, the Chevening experience, was a turning point in her journey to becoming a better advocate for patients in rehabilitative care.
Bea chose to study in the UK on a Chevening Scholarship, co-funded by the Anglo American Foundation, to better understand how economic issues shape public health policy. At the London School of Economics and Political Sciences (LSE), she found the balance she needed: rigorous training in both economics and public policy, alongside a specific focus on the challenges facing low and middle-income nations.
‘I had to really think critically… I’m a better writer and researcher after going to university in the UK.’
Beyond the classroom, Chevening scholars are also encouraged to connect and learn from each other. Bea lived in halls at Goodenough College, alongside Chevening scholars and postgraduate students from around the world. They exchanged perspectives not just on food and music, but also on public health, infrastructure, and governance.
‘Chevening makes it really easy to make friends.’
This exchange of ideas helped Bea see her own country’s challenges in a new light. From comparing power cuts with peers from across Africa, to discussing health systems in South America, to experiencing London’s public transport and safety firsthand, she realised how different futures are possible, and how policy choices shape them.
Returning to South Africa, Bea quickly earned a promotion at Genesis Analytics, a development consulting firm where she has participated in health policy research focused on health economics and financing. Bea applies the leadership standards and advanced research skills she honed at LSE.
She also tapped into the Chevening alumni community at home, securing a mentor through her network to help her maximise her impact.
She believes that she wouldn’t be as far along in her career without support from Chevening and the Anglo American Foundation.
‘People always say ‘you can’t change the world’, but you can with these degrees.’
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