How a Botswanan Scholar Secured the Fully Funded Chevening Scholarship for an MSc in Applied Positive Psychology Coaching Psychology at the University of East London

My name is Bagele Moalosi, and I come from the beautiful African country of Botswana. I am currently pursuing an MSc in Applied Positive Psychology Coaching Psychology (MAPP CP) at the University of East London through the prestigious, fully funded Chevening Scholarship, awarded by the UK Government's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Before embarking on this academic journey, I worked as an Employee Wellness Specialist for a telecommunications company. My role involved developing, coordinating, and evaluating comprehensive wellness programs aimed at reducing health risks and improving employees' overall well-being. I was responsible for creating awareness about factors affecting health and wellness while encouraging employees to take an active role in their well-being.

Educational Background

I earned my Bachelor of Psychology degree from the University of Botswana in 2007. At that time, my ambition was to pursue postgraduate studies in Clinical or Counselling Psychology, as my undergraduate training was primarily focused on those fields. However, with over 17 years of professional experience in various roles, my interests evolved. At different points, I considered studying Public Health or Health Psychology, and at one stage, I even abandoned the idea of returning to school altogether.

In 2023, I felt a strong calling to apply for postgraduate studies, and during my research, I discovered the field of Positive Psychology Coaching. The more I explored it, the more I realized how closely it aligned with my personal and professional goals. This field resonated deeply with my passion for fostering workplace well-being and personal development.

Since funding my graduate studies was not financially feasible, I saw the Chevening Scholarship as an incredible opportunity. Chevening is a highly prestigious and competitive scholarship that seeks individuals with strong leadership and influencing skills who are committed to studying in the UK for a year before returning to their home countries to create a meaningful impact.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Chevening Scholarship?

Applying for the Chevening Scholarship required thorough research and careful preparation. The application process involves writing four essays that assess leadership and influence, networking abilities, motivation for studying in the UK, and career plans post-study. Many applicants underestimate the effort required, but crafting compelling essays is crucial for making an application stand out.

To make my application stand out, I told my personal and professional story. I highlighted gaps in workplace well-being in Botswana, particularly how the country’s rapidly changing work culture presents challenges to employees’ mental health and productivity. Many employees silently struggle with mental health issues due to overwhelming job demands yet fear of stigma and job insecurity prevent them from seeking support. Additionally, most workplaces lack dedicated resources for addressing employee well-being.

Drawing from my experience as an Employee Wellness Specialist, I emphasized the transformative impact of fostering psychological well-being in the workplace. I demonstrated how the MAPP CP would equip me with the skills to design and implement holistic well-being initiatives, transforming organizations into mentally healthy workplaces. My vision is to develop wellness programs that go beyond traditional approaches, fostering resilience, engagement, and a thriving work culture.

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

Had I not been selected for the scholarship, I would have sought feedback, identified areas for improvement, and reapplied. I believe persistence is key, and learning from setbacks is part of the journey. Seeking guidance from previous Chevening scholars and refining application responses based on constructive feedback can significantly enhance one’s chances.

 For anyone aspiring to apply for Chevening or similar scholarships, my advice is to:

• Do thorough research: Understand the program you wish to apply for and how it aligns with your career goals and your country's development needs.
• Be authentic in your application: Use your personal and professional experiences to highlight the impact you want to create.
• Seek mentorship: Connect with past scholars who can provide insights and feedback.
• Embrace resilience: If you are not selected the first time, analyze your application critically, make improvements, and try again.

Winning a scholarship like Chevening is a transformative opportunity, and I am grateful for this chance to further my studies and contribute meaningfully to workplace well-being in Botswana. I hope my journey inspires others to pursue their dreams with determination and confidence.