Faced with this challenge, Chevening alumnus Wassem Alward identified an opportunity: use artificial intelligence (AI) to modernise energy operations, reduce emissions, and promote a culture of sustainable innovation.

A decade on from completing his master’s at Heriot-Watt University, Wassem is making this dream a reality. We interviewed him to find out more.

When Wassem submitted his Chevening application in 2015, he knew he wanted to help Iraq transition to a cleaner, more efficient energy system.

‘Iraq’s oilfields are among the most productive in the world, yet they also represent a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions due to gas flaring, inefficient production practices, and aging infrastructure,’ he explains.

‘As the country seeks to maintain its role as a major energy exporter, it also faces increasing global pressure to decarbonise. The challenge lies in achieving meaningful emission reductions without compromising production and economic stability.’

As an accomplished geoscientist and engineer, Wassem had the industry experience to back his ideas, but he knew he needed to develop his leadership skills and increase his technical knowledge in order to drive meaningful change.

The Chevening Scholarship allowed him to do just this.

‘It was an opportunity to learn in a world-class academic environment, develop global perspectives, and build a network of exceptional professionals… many of whom continue to be part of business/personal network today,’ he says.

Wassem was especially interested in studying in the UK because of its culture of innovation. And he chose Heriot-Watt University’s Institute of GeoEnergy Engineering (IGE) for its internationally recognised expertise in the energy sector.

Throughout his year at Heriot-Watt, Wassem took part in a multidisciplinary, industry-focused MSc programme that blended classroom learning with real-world case studies, seminars, and software training.

It was during this time that he discovered the potential of AI in energy.

Fast forward a decade and Wassem is now leading the integration of AI into upstream operations across Iraq as part of his role at SLB, a global technology company ‘driving energy innovation for a balanced planet’.

‘My day-to-day work focuses on leading projects that embed AI models into core exploration, drilling, and production processes in Iraq,’ he explains. ‘These technologies help reduce waste, improve operational efficiency, and lower the carbon footprint of energy production.’

His work isn’t just about technology though; it’s contributing to a broader cultural and strategic shift.

‘We’re aligning digital solutions with national decarbonisation goals and supporting Iraq’s path toward a more sustainable energy future.’

Alongside his technical role, Wassem is also leading workshops and training programmes in topical areas like geoscience, reservoir engineering, digital transformation, and AI in energy.

‘I’ve committed myself to training and mentoring Iraqi nationals across the country, many of whom are now contributing directly to digital projects within Iraq,’ he says. ‘These efforts not only strengthen local expertise but also ensure that the knowledge and tools we deploy become embedded in the national capability.’

Looking ahead, Wassem plans to expand his work further by scaling AI-powered solutions for emissions monitoring and flare reduction. At the same time, he remains focused on developing Iraq’s human capital through knowledge-sharing and mentorship.

‘By combining advanced AI with practical energy expertise and a strong focus on local capacity building, I believe we can turn Iraq’s environmental challenges into opportunities for leadership in the global energy transition.’

Wassem’s journey from Chevening scholar to sector leader is just one example of the long-term impact of the Chevening programme.

Through his consultancy, Jaya Strategies, Rithiya helps media companies, tech startups, and public institutions adapt to the rapidly changing digital environment. His work includes:

• Advising media outlets on digital-first content strategies
• Training communications teams on platform-specific engagement

His goal is to help organisations reach wider audiences, strengthen trust with the people they serve, and create new opportunities for local communities.

He draws a comparison with streaming platforms like Netflix:

[Netflix] doesn’t show everyone the same home screen. Instead, it looks at your data, specifically your viewing history. Netflix isn’t guessing. It uses your past behaviour (data) to predict what you’ll enjoy next.

Rithiya is helping companies to do the same, and move from ‘I think this will work’, to ‘I know this works because the data shows it’.

How Chevening has supported Rithiya

On his Chevening Scholarship, Rithiya studied media management at the University of Westminster.  In his own words, the experience allowed him to:

• Deepen his understanding of global media governance, data ethics, and audience research
• Build connections with UK-based broadcasters, tech innovators, and policy thinkers
• Exchange ideas with other Chevening scholars working at the intersection of media, technology, and public engagement.

Exposure to world-class media institutions like the BBC and Ofcom has shaped his awareness of best practices, which he now adapts for Southeast Asia.

Chevening has also helped him forge international connections with others who, like him, are ready to drive meaningful positive change in their home countries. 

Chevening’s leadership network has also helped amplify my consultancy’s vision and foster regional collaborations that bridge the digital gap in underrepresented media markets.

What’s next?

Going forward, Rithiya will continue to open doors for local talent and strengthen Southeast Asia’s role in the digital future.

He plans to:

1. Launch a Digital Transformation Fellowship for Cambodian media professionals.
2. Roll out audience intelligence dashboards to help media outlets improve how they connect with people.
3. Collaborate with universities to build a media-tech innovation curriculum that blends content creation, analytics, and platform strategy.

Rithiya’s story reflects the wider Chevening community’s commitment to creating meaningful, lasting change.

Years earlier, Elizabeth’s father had studied in London with the support of Chevening.

‘He often shared inspiring stories about his experience, and his journey left a lasting impression on me,’ she recalls.

‘When I received the Chevening award, we became the first father-daughter duo to receive the scholarship… something I’m incredibly proud of.’

Knowing only too well how transformative the Chevening experience could be, Elizabeth chose to pursue a master’s in crime science, investigation, and intelligence at the University of Portsmouth, because she wanted to help strengthen democratic institutions from the inside out.

Fast forward nine years, and she’s now making that dream a reality, working at the intersection of politics and governance back home in Nigeria.

‘Chevening was a defining moment in my personal and professional journey. It not only gave me a world-class education but also connected me to a global network of changemakers.’

Having the opportunity to get to know fellow Chevening scholars from all over the globe sharpened Elizabeth’s thinking and expanded her world view.

‘It gave me the tools to engage meaningfully with complex governance challenges back home,’ she adds.

Studying in the UK also pushed her to grow in ways she hadn’t anticipated.

‘I vividly remember sitting in my studio flat on the 14th floor of Trafalgar Hall, crying while writing a paper,’ Elizabeth explains. ‘It was one of the most challenging academic experiences I’ve had but it also pushed me to think critically, dig deeper, and step far outside my comfort zone. That module taught me not just the content, but also tenacity, perseverance, and the value of intellectual resilience.’

This resilience is something Elizabeth’s carried forward with her throughout her career.

Since returning to Nigeria, Elizabeth has remained committed to solving issues related to fragmented development programming and limited access to opportunity, particularly for young people, women, and small businesses.

For example, in her time as Special Adviser to the Minister of Tourism, she helped local communities build sustainable tourism enterprises by launching the Ecogenesis Incubator Series. The initiative focused not just on building sustainable tourism enterprises but also on empowering local communities through culture, creativity, and eco-innovation.

Later, as Special Adviser on Workforce Innovation and Global Partnerships to the Minister of Labour and Employment, she led the funding strategy for the Labour Employment and Empowerment Program (LEEP), working hard to unlock capital for small businesses and create new jobs.

In her current position as Executive Director for Strategic Investments and Global Partnerships at the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council, Elizabeth is tackling a larger national challenge. She’s now aligning Nigeria’s investment potential with global capital, all while building strategic alliances that translate growth priorities into real, fundable outcomes.

‘These efforts build on the values Chevening instilled in me: leadership, global thinking, and a commitment to the public good.’

Looking ahead, Elizabeth’s ambitions are firmly rooted in public service.

‘My long-term vision is to climb the political ladder with integrity, competence, and a deep commitment to public service.’

Elizabeth wants to be part of a new generation of Nigerian leaders ‘who engage with politics the right way: through transparency, inclusion, and evidence-based policymaking’.

She is also determined to ‘mentor young leaders, champion gender equity, and build bridges between government, civil society, and international partners’.

‘My goal is not just to rise but to pull others up with me and leave behind systems that are stronger, more just, and more people-centered.’

Elizabeth’s Chevening journey began because she was inspired by her father’s stories of a life-changing scholarship experience in the UK.

Now, her own story is inspiring the next generation; a reminder of what can happen when an opportunity is used not just to open a door, but to keep it open for others.

Where could a Chevening Scholarship take you?

As a child growing up in Delhi, I was denied admission to almost every school. I was born with a rare genetic condition called Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita, which affects the muscles and joints across the body, and I use a wheelchair for mobility. For a long time, society saw only my disability, not my potential, not my dreams.

Among the many lessons I’ve carried with me through life, one stands taller than the rest: never stop dreaming. Back in Grade 12, I dreamt of studying in the UK. I didn’t know how or when it would happen or even if it could. But I held onto that dream quietly, fiercely.

Years later, I found myself outside Westminster station, gazing at Big Ben with a mix of awe and disbelief. I was living that very dream – pursuing a master’s degree in the UK at one of the world’s leading universities.

Kavya in front of Big Ben in London.

A transformational experience

Coming to the UK has been one of the most transformational chapters of my life, not only academically, but personally and politically. I am finally studying a course that aligns perfectly with my advocacy work back home, helping me deepen my understanding of inclusive design and disability justice.

More than anything, my time here has helped me experience what accessibility can truly look like when it is embedded in the system, not just treated as an afterthought.

At UCL East, my classrooms were equipped with height-adjustable desks. I had access to a support worker who assisted me in navigating campus and taking notes. When I couldn’t attend class due to flare-ups in my health, I didn’t fall behind; remote access to recordings and digital materials kept me going. My professors were incredibly understanding and flexible, which made a huge difference in how supported I felt as a disabled student.

Access and independence

That said, while physical accessibility is more common across UK institutions than in many parts of the world, it’s always advisable to check accessibility details in advance. Reaching out to the designated disability support staff or student services before arriving on campus can ensure that your individual access needs are met smoothly. In my case, having a Statement of Reasonable Adjustments (SoRA) in place right at the start of term made my learning journey significantly easier.

London’s public transport has also been a game-changer. While not all stations are step-free, Transport for London’s ‘Plan My Journey’ feature and the Passenger Assist app helped me navigate routes. I used wheelchair-accessible cabs for spontaneous outings and reached out to the helpful staff at railway stations. These small elements gave me the freedom to move on my own terms.

Kavya using an accessible train in the UK.

Moving forward with pride

Of course, it wasn’t always rosy. The harsh UK winters, with their biting winds and endless grey skies, were challenging. I had to learn the art of layering (and unlayering!), always carry an umbrella, and never leave my wheelchair raincoat behind.

Looking back on my journey, I feel an overwhelming sense of pride not just for what I’ve achieved, but for the barriers I’ve broken and the community I’ve found along the way. To anyone reading this who’s been told their dreams are too big, or their bodies too different – don’t stop dreaming. You never know when you’ll find yourself on the other side of the world, living a dream you once whispered to yourself, and watching Big Ben sparkle under the London sky.

]]> https://www.chevening.org/news/five-application-tips-from-a-chevening-scholar/ Thu, 17 Jul 2025 11:12:38 +0000 https://www.chevening.org/?post_type=news&p=24830 My name is Nora. I’m a Chevening Scholar from Cambodia, currently pursuing a master’s degree in Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Bristol for 2024-25.

One thing that the Chevening Scholarship and the University of Bristol have in common is that they actively seek to identify some of the most promising leaders and changemakers, providing them with world-class education and opportunities to set them up for success. They look for individuals who can contribute, challenge, and change the game.

In this blog, I’m excited to share five key tips that guided me through the application process, which might help you too!

Tip #1: Write like a leader, not a student

Great applicants write about their future more than their past. Focus on where you’re going and how Chevening and Bristol, or whichever university you would like to study at, fit into your bigger vision. Think about the legacy you want to build and the impact you wish to make over the next 10, 50, or 100 years. You can use the ‘three horizons’ approach to describe your immediate, medium-term, and long-term contributions.

Tip #2: Tailor for the university factor

In your personal statement, go beyond rankings. Highlight what makes your chosen university your first choice.

In my case, I emphasised the University of Bristol’s business innovation programme’s real-world projects, the city’s growing tech ecosystem, and the university’s strong teaching team.

Tip #3: Think of Chevening as a boardroom interview

Communicate how much further and faster you could go if you were awarded the Chevening Scholarship. It can be powerful to approach this exercise like a CEO pitching to investors.

Chevening invests in leaders, so it can be wise to demonstrate a potential return on investment.

Tip #4: Choose referees who know you well

Your referee should be someone who could answer without hesitation and with pure conviction that, no matter how competitive the pool is, you deserve a seat at the table.

It can be tempting to go for the most senior person you know – someone with an impressive title. But this is only valuable if the high ranking referee in question knows you well and is able to make a particularly convincing case for why you are an excellent candidate.

Tip #5: Build a ‘global board of advisors’

The strongest applications aren’t written in isolation. Surround yourself with a personal advisory board of mentors, former Chevening scholars, professors, and even people from industries you admire.

I recommend seeking three kinds of feedback:

• Visionary feedback (Is my ambition big enough?)
• Practical feedback (Is this realistic and well-structured?)
• Language feedback (Does this sound sharp and persuasive?)

I hope you find these insights helpful. More than anything, remember that Chevening aren’t just selecting candidates; they’re investing in future leaders. Make it impossible for them to say no!

My name is Fatou Jeng. I’ve been working in the climate and environmental sector for over ten years. In 2015, I founded Clean Earth Gambia, a youth-led NGO that started with no resources or funding. Today, it’s one of the largest youth environmental organisations in the country.

Clean Earth Gambia is focused on promoting climate justice through climate education, awareness and advocacy, nature-based solutions, and highlighting the intersection of gender and climate change. We empower and support small-scale farmers, children, young people, and women across communities.

To date, we’ve trained over 10,000 people, impacted more than 40,000 lives, and planted over 35,000 trees. We work closely with national and international partners including the Gambian government, Banjul City Council, UNICEF, UNDP, and UNFPA to reach vulnerable groups and promote climate education.

From national impact to global leadership

In 2024, Clean Earth Gambia hosted the first National Children and Youth Conference on Climate Change, in partnership with UNICEF and the Government of The Gambia. The event brought together young people to engage directly with policymakers on the climate issues affecting their lives.

Internationally, I serve as a gender negotiator for The Gambia to the UNFCCC, advocating for stronger gender inclusion in climate policy. I was appointed one of the UN Secretary-General’s Youth Climate Advisors (2023–2025), providing policy advice at the highest level. I also sit on the UN Early Warning for All Panel, working to ensure that everyone is protected from hazardous weather and climate events by 2027.

As International Empowerment Manager at the Plant-for-the-Planet Foundation, I help lead global youth mobilisation and ecosystem restoration. The foundation has empowered over 100,000 ambassadors, planted more than 31 million trees, and monitors over 1.3 billion hectares of land using FireAlert.

How Chevening shaped my journey

In 2020, I was awarded the Chevening Scholarship to study Environment, Development, and Policy at the University of Sussex. This opportunity expanded my skills and knowledge in sustainable development and introduced me to an inspiring network of global leaders.

Chevening also changed my life personally. I met my husband, Adama Njie, through the programme – he was a fellow Chevening scholar from The Gambia, studying at Cardiff University. We got married in April 2021 and now have a two-year-old son.

In 2025, Fatou was recognised as one of Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 for her climate advocacy work.

My vision for the future

Looking ahead, I plan to continue expanding my work with Clean Earth Gambia and Plant-for-the-Planet, reaching more communities affected by climate change. I also hope to pursue a PhD in Climate Education to better understand how knowledge drives action and to design inclusive learning strategies that support global climate justice.

For me, Chevening was not just an academic opportunity; it was the foundation for lasting impact and meaningful connection.

‘Coming from Switzerland, where the university life is not organised around campuses, I discovered the vibrant student life on the British campuses… People from all the five continents were there.’

‘We had no mobile telephone at that time, and there was only one public phone located in the staircase in the hall,’ Anne remembers. ‘Phoning to parents was a luxury.’

But despite its challenges, studying in the UK with Chevening proved to be a life changing experience.

‘It was my longest exposure of living abroad and of being surrounded by international life. I enjoyed every single moment.’

‘The Chevening scholarship programme… upon completion of a very competitive application process, allowed me to contemplate studying in the UK,’ she says. ‘The United Kingdom was and still is a leading country in research and education, and this is why I had a strong will to study there.’

Anne was particularly drawn to the University of Nottingham for its unique master’s offering in economic development and policy analysis.

‘It combined strong econometrical classes and policy courses,’ she explains.

But it was more than just a master’s degree that Anne graduated with. Studying in the UK shaped her world view, laying the foundations for an inspiring career in international diplomacy.

‘This is why, upon completion of my master’s degree, I quickly joined an international NGO, Transparency International, in Switzerland. And later on, the UN World Food Programme in Rwanda.’

Most recently, as Ambassador, Anne has helped negotiate migration agreements, presided over multilateral trade talks, and accompanied Swiss Presidents, Ministers, and Parliamentarians on official visits across Africa.

One of her proudest achievements was the ‘opening of a direct flight from Geneva to Addis Abeba… two important cities for multilateral diplomacy, in a context of scarce direct lines between Switzerland and the African continent’.

Another career highlight was during the pandemic, when Anne helped to organise a repatriation flight for Swiss citizens stranded abroad.

‘The embassy team was managing the check-in procedure, there was no air-conditioning in the empty airport, because it had remained closed for days…’ she says. ‘This is certainly a very striking memory.’

But perhaps her proudest moment was helping to organise war crime trial sessions in Liberia, ensuring that victims could testify remotely to the Swiss Federal Criminal Court.

A lot’s changed since Anne completed her Chevening year, but as her inspiring career illustrates, her commitment to making a positive global impact has never wavered.

One scholarship; a lifetime of impact.

Where could Chevening take you?

These shorter courses are designed to provide mid-career professionals, who have already reached a position of influence, with the opportunity to increase their knowledge, networks, and potential.

One such programme is the Chevening South Asia Journalism Fellowship (SAJP), which takes place at the University of Westminster.

Open to mid-career journalists from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, this eight-week fellowship focuses on the role the media plays in holding democratic processes to account.

It’s for people who are passionate about developing the leadership skills required to tackle issues such as:

• the media’s role in promoting good governance and democratic accountability in South Asia’s changing political landscapes

• the challenges of misinformation, media freedom, and press independence in complex social and political environments

• the impact of digital transformation on journalism, including ethical reporting, social media influence, and audience engagement

Find out how current SAJP fellow Mahjabeen Abid is planning to use her fellowship experience to uplift the voices of marginalised groups in Pakistan.

‘My name is Mahjabeen Abid, and I have been working in the media industry in Pakistan for over seven years.

Coming from a region where traditional gender roles continue to dominate, I’ve witnessed the significant challenges female journalists face in asserting their voices. While media representation has improved in some areas, deep-rooted cultural and societal barriers still restrict women’s participation in journalism and decision-making roles. The lack of gender-inclusive policies and inadequate support systems make it even harder for women to shape narratives and promote good governance.

After years of hard work, I was proud to be selected as a Chevening South Asia Journalism Programme (SAJP) Fellow for 2025. Being the only woman from my region to achieve this milestone fills me with a deep sense of pride and responsibility.

Strengthening my voice with Chevening

In 2024, I was recognised for my climate reporting in Pakistan by Deutsche Welle Urdu. That recognition affirmed my belief in the power of inclusive journalism to create awareness and change. I want to build on that momentum by offering mentorship, workshops, and community storytelling initiatives that empower women, especially from rural and underserved areas, to share their stories and challenge harmful stereotypes.

Through the SAJP Fellowship, I hope to develop a deeper understanding of good governance and the media’s crucial role in democratic societies. The opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives and learning environments is already helping me grow more confident and resilient in my advocacy for female journalists’ rights and representation in Pakistan.

A vision for inclusive storytelling

I aspire to travel across Pakistan with a camera to document lives and stories often ignored by mainstream media. These films will spotlight the strength, culture, and challenges of marginalised communities while promoting empathy and understanding.

I also look forward to collaborating with journalists from across South Asia. Despite different national contexts, marginalised communities across the region face similar obstacles. Together, we can explore how cultural, social, and political dynamics shape access to rights and opportunities, and work toward solutions that cross borders.

Advice for future Cheveners

If you want to make a difference, Chevening will give you the tools and confidence to lead that change. Use your voice to uplift others. Learn, connect, and come back ready to support your community.

For me, this is just the beginning. I hope to continue using storytelling to open doors for others – just as Chevening has opened doors for me.’

Applications for SAJP, and several other Chevening Fellowships, are open until 7 October 2025. Find out more and apply.

My name is Sarah, a Chevening scholar from Thailand and a transgender activist with a passion for using media to drive social change. 

Being selected as a Chevener is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Studying in the UK has always been one of my ultimate goals – one I’ve pursued since I was 12 years old. Chevening has made that dream a reality. 

Coming from a lower-middle-income family in the northeastern region of Thailand, with no one in my family ever having studied abroad, this opportunity is deeply meaningful.  

In the interview room, I told the judges: ‘If I’m selected, I will be a light of hope for every LGBTQ+ person in Thailand – as a living example that everything is possible.’

My victory matters – especially for the trans community around the world – as proof that anything is possible, regardless of gender identity or background. 

Using media for activism 

As a transgender activist who has used media to pave the way for gender activism in Thailand, studying for my master’s in the UK strengthens my future online advocacy. My wish is to pave the way for trans rights and inclusivity in Thailand – through the legalisation of gender recognition laws, access to free healthcare and surgery for trans individuals, and more gender education in schools. 

Alongside my work as an educator, I volunteer as a trans activist mentor at Young Trans Club in Chiang Mai. I hope to pass on the knowledge I’ve gained in the UK to the next generation of activists so they can continue advancing rights for the community. For me, this journey isn’t just about personal growth – it’s about being part of something bigger: the development of gender activism and media education in Thailand. 

As a media personality, I’ve used my platform to advocate for equal rights, inspire others, and help people believe in themselves and live with purpose. This Chevening opportunity empowers me to do that on an even greater scale – nationally and internationally. 

Finding home in Brighton 

For me, Pride Month is full of hope, opportunity, and inclusivity for queer people. It’s not only a time for celebration, but also a time to protest for equal rights and dignity. 

Living in Brighton truly means experiencing inclusion and diversity. As the UK’s well-known ‘gay capital,’ Brighton feels like a second home to me. 

My role places me at the heart of innovation and continuous improvement across the organisation, where I contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7 (affordable and clean energy), 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure), 12 (responsible consumption and production), and 13 (climate action). 

Engineering change through sustainability 

My journey in the energy sector has always been purpose-driven. At work, I lead projects that target energy efficiency, safety improvements, and the circular economy. By implementing data-driven solutions, my team has significantly reduced our organisation’s network inefficiencies and carbon footprint.  

My proudest achievements include: 

• Cutting CO₂ emissions by 22 tonnes each year through process optimisation. 

• Delivering a digital sustainability project that introduced an automated Document Management System, reducing paper usage by 30% and anticipating cost savings of $0.4 million.  

These innovations not only improve our operations but also drive real progress toward a more sustainable energy landscape in Pakistan. 

How Chevening transformed my perspective 

Studying in the UK through the Chevening Scholarship allowed me to step back, learn, and return with renewed purpose. Pursuing an MSc in Electrical Engineering for Sustainable and Renewable Energy at the University of Nottingham gave me access to cutting-edge research and tools in energy systems, resource assessment, and Power-to-Hydrogen (P2H2) technologies. 

Chevening was more than just an academic experience to me. It connected me to a global network of change-makers, expanded my worldview, and gave me the leadership foundation to drive systemic change in my home country. 

Empowering the next generation of climate leaders 

Today, I am proud to mentor young innovators through the UNDP’s Youth4Climate initiative, guiding them in designing impactful solutions for the climate crisis. I’m also developing educational outreach programs aimed at empowering citizens to adopt energy-efficient practices and understand the power of responsible consumption. 

Looking ahead, I aim to take on greater leadership within Pakistan’s energy sector, where I can shape climate policy, support decarbonisation strategies, and advocate for a just, inclusive energy transition.  

My vision is for communities to thrive using renewable energy, where sustainability is woven into the fabric of everyday life. 

Advice for future Cheveners 

If you’re passionate about making a difference, Chevening will help you turn that passion into purpose.  

My advice? Be bold in your vision, clear in your goals, and committed to the greater good. Use your time in the UK to learn, connect, and reflect. And when you return, bring that knowledge home, not just to your workplace, but to your community.