My experience as a Chevening scholar
Correspondent | Friday September 16, 2016 14:58
The day of travel came and off I was to the UK. I must admit that the first thing I did when I got into the UK was to check whether there was credit in my Chevening cash passport, and lo and behold it was indeed credited. From day one and throughout my time in the UK, the financial support from Chevening was more than sufficient.
Apart from the finances, my time in the UK was full of exciting and great moments that I will forever cherish. Challenges such as missing my family, loads of school work and adjusting to the weather were present, but I chose to look on the bright side.
The beauty of studying in the UK and being a Chevening scholar is the opportunity to meet and network with people from all over the world. Chevening scholars are leaders and aspiring leaders, movers and shakers, therefore attaining a Chevening scholarship is a passport to a network of greatness. One can only look forward to continue engaging with this network of great people, as we soldier on to attain our dreams and aspirations.
While in the UK, we were also treated to some empowering programmes and activities by the Chevening Secretariat. I had the privilege of attending some of these events and listening to great speakers such as the Minister for Africa, who charged Chevening scholars from Sub Saharan Africa to stand and be the change they want to see in Africa. Living in Wales, I also got a chance to attend a Chevening event on the Welsh language and culture. Therefore, the Chevening scholarship affords one a chance to learn even outside the classroom, to travel and enjoy the beautiful scenery that the UK has to offer.
With all these experiences and learning opportunities in and outside the classroom, I can confidently say through Chevening I have been baptised with greatness. I urge all leaders, aspiring leaders, change agents and doers to seize the opportunity of being a Chevening scholar and ultimately a Chevening alumni, for “disciplining yourself to do what you know is right and important, although difficult, is the high road to pride, self-esteem, and personal satisfaction”(Margaret Thatcher).
*Mabedi Letsholo is a Botswana Chevening Alumni. He studied MSc Project Management at the University of South Wales.