How a Brazilian–Cape Verdean Professional Won the Fully Funded Chevening Scholarship to Study Media and Cultural Studies at Lancaster University

My name is Ana Claudia Furtado, and I am originally from Brazil and also Cape Verde. I am a communications professional with over seven years of experience in digital content, copywriting, strategic planning, and project management, especially focused on diverse and inclusive narratives. I am currently pursuing a master’s degree in Media and Cultural Studies at Lancaster University, supported by the Chevening Scholarship. I chose this field because I strongly believe in the transformative power of media to amplify historically marginalized voices and to catalyze social and cultural change.

Chevening Scholarship Details

I was awarded the Chevening Scholarship for the academic year 2024–2025, which is a prestigious UK government scholarship funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. The full scholarship covered my tuition fees and provided a monthly stipend for living expenses. The stipend amount varies depending on the city.

Educational Background

I hold a Bachelor's degree in Social Communication from the University of Salvador, a Bachelor’s degree in Gender and Diversity from the Federal University of Bahia (UFBA). I graduated with honors. Through the combination of these two degrees, I had the opportunity to strengthen my knowledge and skills towards the construction of communication for social change. They gave me a strong theoretical and practical foundation in media analysis, social impact communication, media, politics, and democracy, all with an intersectional lens.

 How Did You Prepare to Apply to Lancaster University?

It was my first time applying, so I quickly understood how essential it is to have a support network. I began by searching for guidance, advice, anything, and mentorship from someone who had already walked this path and could guide me through the process. Fortunately, I found Representa, a mentorship group from Brazil that supports underrepresented groups through the Chevening Scholarship, helping in different ways, with the process, mock interviews, and even an emotional support group. It was through this initiative that I connected with people who not only offered guidance but also believed in my potential. That’s why I deeply admire the Chevening Alumni community, it is globally known for its kindness, generosity, and commitment to supporting others. Being surrounded by people who uplift each other made all the difference in my journey.

As a non-native English speaker who learned English on my own, preparing for standardized tests was one of the biggest challenges of the application process. Thankfully, the Representa mentorship program played a key role, offering emotional support and strategic guidance every step of the way. The process to prepare for English Exams includes understanding their structure and time management.

I took the TOEFL twice, and repeating exams it’s normal, and every try is important to learn key lessons for the next attempt. The first time was right after being selected for the Chevening interview, I treated it as a trial to understand the format and identify areas to improve. The second time, I took the test only after learning I had passed the interview. This decision was intentional: it was both a financial strategy and a way to protect my mental well-being during such an intense process.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Chevening Scholarship?

I spent several months carefully refining my Chevening essays, and I didn’t do it alone. Mentors, friends, and family played a fundamental role, reading drafts, offering feedback, and most importantly, reminding me of my own value when self-doubt appeared.

Having this support system made all the difference. It wasn’t just about grammar or structure, it was about building confidence, organising my experiences with clarity, and recognizing the strength in my story. I aligned my journey with Chevening’s key pillars: leadership, networking, and career impact. I ensured that each essay formed a coherent narrative, and the four essays were interconnected. I highlighted my work strengthening communication ecosystems in Brazil and shared my vision for a future where marginalised communities don’t just participate in conversations: they lead them.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out for its authenticity and strong commitment to social impact. As an Afro-Latin woman (Brazilian and Cape Verdean) working at the intersection of media, representation, and equity, I brought a perspective shaped by lived experiences and a clear vision for change.

My dual nationality has deeply shaped my personal, academic, and professional journey. In Cape Verde, there’s a popular saying: “Cape Verdeans travel between the ten islands, but there is still an 11th island — the rest of the world.” This expression reflects not only the diasporic nature of Cape Verdean identity but also the global mindset I’ve embraced throughout my life. It highlights that I’m not half Cape Verdean and half Brazilian, but fully both, shaped by the richness of both cultures. Understanding this complex identity helped me discover my purpose: using communication and culture as powerful tools for social development and inclusion.

In my application, I always proudly shared about my identity and how it connects with my values, academic and professional choices, my dedication, dreams, and ambition. Thus, I presented tangible examples of leadership in the Global South, especially through my work amplifying the voices of Black and LGBTQ+ communities. I also clearly demonstrated how my professional goals align with Chevening’s vision of building a community of global leaders committed to positive change.

What Would You Have Done Differently If You Were Going Through the Process Again?

To be honest, I can't think of anything major I would do differently, as everything seems to have unfolded in a way that made sense for me. Of course, I could have made different choices, but there's no guarantee they would have led to the same positive outcome. That said, if there’s one thing I might have changed, it would be to take it a bit easier on myself. I tend to put a lot of pressure on my own shoulders, applying for Chevening while balancing it with work, social life, hobbies, family, and many other factors of a normal routine. I believe we need to approach things with a bit more lightness and compassion toward ourselves. So, if anything, I would have reminded myself that I didn’t need to carry it all so heavily.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

You are not alone. There are people and communities out there genuinely willing to support you freely because they believe in collective growth and in making these opportunities more accessible.

Take care of your mental and emotional health throughout the process. Rejection is part of the journey, not the end of it. Every attempt teaches you something. Trust yourself and surround yourself with people who believe in your dreams, even when things get hard. With the right community, you'll be able to see your application through a new lens. You’ll uncover strengths and experiences you may not have noticed on your own. And most importantly, you'll remember that you’re not just applying for a scholarship: you’re expanding your world.