MSc Global Public Health Student Aisha Lareb from Pakistan Shares Her Journey of Studying at the University of Greenwich, UK, as a Chevening Scholar

My name is Aisha Lareb, and I am from Sindh, Pakistan. Growing up, I witnessed the challenges faced by women in my community, child marriage, limited health access, and gender inequities, which fueled my passion for sexual and reproductive health, menstrual equity, and youth empowerment.

I completed my MBBS in Pakistan, excelling academically while engaging deeply in community service. Driven by the desire to create sustainable change, I founded Conversation For Change (CFC), a campaign focusing on menstrual hygiene, breast cancer prevention, family planning, and nutrition.

Global UGRAD Scholarship Details

I was awarded the Global UGRAD Scholarship to study at Southeast Missouri State University, USA, a fully funded program by the U.S. Department of State and administered by IREX. This scholarship covered tuition, accommodation, travel, health insurance, and a living stipend.

The program allowed me to immerse myself in a multicultural academic environment, strengthen my leadership and advocacy skills, and gain exposure to global public health practices.

Chevening Scholarship Details

Building on this experience, I was awarded the Chevening Scholarship, enabling me to pursue an MSc in Global Public Health at the University of Greenwich, UK. This program has helped me integrate my medical knowledge with policy, research, and leadership, preparing me to scale my impact on communities in Pakistan and globally.

Educational Background

• MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) – SMBBMU, Larkana

Pakistan,

• Extensive experience in public health advocacy and community empowerment
• Founded Conversation For Change (CFC), impacting thousands of women and

children in rural Sindh

My academic and leadership experiences provided a strong foundation to pursue international scholarships and connect clinical knowledge with advocacy and public health leadership.

How Did You Find the Opportunity?

I actively explored official scholarship websites, government portals, and alumni stories, which motivated me to pursue opportunities like Global UGRAD and Chevening. Unlike many scholarship paths, I did not take standardized tests, focusing instead on developing leadership, advocacy, and public health skills, inspired by the challenges women in my community face.

Achievements and Recognitions

• UK 50 Leading Lights Awards of Kindness and Leadership
• UN Women 30 for 2030 – Young Women
• Young Emerging Leaders Award – Pakistan-US Alumni Network
• Flood Warrior Award 2022 – Pakistan-US Alumni Network
• Youth Awardee for Advocacy – PERIOD, 2025, a global organization advancing menstrual equity and hygiene

What Made My Application Stand Out

My applications highlighted authentic experiences, measurable community impact, and a clear vision for leadership. I emphasized how CFC combined medical expertise with advocacy, demonstrating my potential to effect systemic change.

Advice for Future Scholars

• Start early and research thoroughly
• Tell your authentic story – focus on impact, not just achievements
• Align your goals with the scholarship’s mission
• Believe in your ability to make a difference

Scholarships like Global UGRAD and Chevening are not just about academics; they are about leadership, resilience, and commitment to community transformation.