Where Purpose Meets Learning: My Chevening Story

My name is Diksha Dinde, and I am from Pune, Maharashtra, India. For over a decade, I have been working in the field of disability rights, a journey that began with lived experiences and grew into a lifelong commitment to advocacy and social justice. Over the years, I have engaged with diverse communities, worked on accessibility and inclusion, and developed a strong voice for disability justice both in India and internationally.

In 2022, I became a Chevening Scholar and pursued my Master’s in Governance, Development, and Public Policy at the Institute of Development Studies (IDS), University of Sussex. That experience refined my approach and gave me the tools to create a larger impact.

Currently, I am the Founder of Equibridge Foundation, an organization dedicated to amplifying the rights and opportunities of people with disabilities in India, with a focus on accessibility, education, and policy advocacy. My journey has been shaped by persistence, learning, and the belief that equal opportunities must be a reality for everyone.

Chevening Scholarship Details

I first learned about the Chevening Scholarship through one of its alumni. Chevening is a fully funded program offered by the UK government, and it covers all the costs of my studies in the UK, including tuition fees, living expenses, and other associated costs.

As a disabled person, I was also supported with the cost of an assistive device, which made the program truly inclusive and accessible for me.

What made Chevening stand out was its global network of changemakers, its strong leadership focus, and its alignment with my long-term vision of creating impact in India.

Educational Background

In India, pursuing education as a disabled person was never easy. I had to constantly struggle to access education in an environment that was often inaccessible, whether it was physical spaces or basic support systems. These barriers shaped my journey as a student and my determination to push through and continue learning.

Because of these lived experiences, I always aspired to pursue an international degree in a setting where accessibility and inclusion were taken seriously. The challenges I faced in India also drew me into grassroots disability advocacy, where I worked closely with communities, policymakers, and organizations to bridge gaps and demand change.

This blend of personal struggle and professional advocacy gave me insights beyond textbooks. It completed my educational foundation and prepared me to apply confidently for international programs and scholarships like Chevening.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Sussex?

When I decided to pursue my master’s, I knew I wanted to study in one of three areas: education, disability, or public policy. These fields were closest to my work and vision. To begin, I started researching programs that aligned with my interests in development, governance, and inclusion.

Since I was completely new to the process of applying abroad, I took the help of Fateh Education, an organization that guided me through university applications. After thorough research, I shortlisted a few QS-ranked universities. Out of these, I ultimately chose the Institute of Development Studies (IDS), University of Sussex, as it has consistently ranked number one in the world for development studies. Having worked extensively in the development sector myself, it felt like the right fit.

I also connected with several alumni from Sussex, who gave me valuable insights into the academic and social environment of the university. This helped me feel more confident in my choice.

Another important step in my preparation was meeting the English language requirement. Since I had completed my education in my vernacular language, Marathi, I had to prove my English proficiency. Initially, I considered IELTS, but then I learned about the Duolingo English Test, which was more convenient and cost-effective. I could take it from home, and it helped me demonstrate my writing and communication skills. Fortunately, Duolingo later became one of Chevening’s co-sponsors, which made the journey even more meaningful.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Chevening Scholarship?

For Chevening, the most important part of the application was writing strong and authentic essays. I spent a lot of time reflecting on my journey, highlighting my leadership experiences, the networks I had built, my work in disability rights, and my vision for creating meaningful impact in India.

To strengthen my application, I actively sought feedback from mentors to refine my essays and improve clarity. I also connected with Chevening alumni, whose guidance helped me polish my essays further. Preparing for the interview was equally crucial. I gave multiple mock interviews, which improved my confidence and helped me anticipate potential questions. The feedback I received was invaluable.

In addition, I carefully studied the Chevening website, reviewed available resources, and watched YouTube videos by past scholars. These gave me practical insights and a clearer understanding of what the committee looks for in successful candidates.

How Was Your Experience at the University of Sussex?

My experience at IDS, University of Sussex, was truly enriching. Initially, I was hesitant about adjusting to the culture and environment, especially since it was my first time living in a setting where English was spoken so extensively. It felt intimidating, but over time, I overcame those fears and learned a great deal.

The academic environment was challenging yet inclusive. My professors and peers encouraged critical thinking, and the exposure to diverse perspectives enriched my understanding of the intersections between policy, governance, and social change. The university also offered sessions on academic English and critical writing, which helped me significantly improve my writing skills.

Beyond academics, I was elected to the student committee as an Accessibility Officer, where I could bring my advocacy experience to campus life. This role allowed me to represent issues around inclusion and accessibility, which was personally fulfilling. Overall, my time at Sussex was a journey of learning, unlearning, and growing, shaped by new cultures, friendships, and opportunities.

How Do You Rate the University of Sussex Academically and Why?

IDS is one of the world’s leading institutes for development studies, and I would rate it very highly. The quality of teaching, strong research orientation, and emphasis on real-world application made the program both intellectually stimulating and practical.

How Does the University of Sussex Support International Students?

The University of Sussex provides excellent support systems for international students, which made my transition much smoother. The teachers were supportive and empathetic, and there were career guidance services, academic language support, and mentoring sessions that helped me adapt.

Equally important, the university ensured access to mental health services and accessibility resources for students with disabilities. These services created a safe and inclusive environment where I always felt supported.

Overall, I found the institution extremely welcoming, student-friendly, and committed to helping international students thrive.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

The authenticity of my story is what made my application stand out. I was not applying only for personal growth; I was applying with a clear purpose of contributing to wider social change. My long-standing work in disability rights, my leadership roles, and my clear vision for how I would use my degree to create impact in India all made my application strong.

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

If I were to go through the process again, I would have taken more time to explore institutions with deeper expertise in disability rights and connected earlier with organizations working in this space.

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

My advice would be to start early and give yourself enough time to prepare. Be authentic and share real-life stories rather than trying to impress with fabricated ones. Seek feedback from alumni and mentors, as their guidance is invaluable. Most importantly, remember that your background does not limit you. If you have a clear purpose and passion, you truly deserve these opportunities. So go for it with confidence.