How a Kenyan Gender Advocate Secured the Fully Funded Chevening Scholarship to Study a Master’s in Public Health at the University of Glasgow

My name is Faith Opiyo, a Kenyan citizen born in Kenya. For the past 11 years, I have been implementing gender and Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights programs. Growing up in one of the informal settlements in Kenya, I had first-hand experience of how women and girls were disproportionately affected by issues surrounding sexual violence and Intimate Partner Violence. As a young person living in this community, I witnessed firsthand how the factors of production, including capital and land ownership, were heavily dominated by men who held positions as fathers, partners, or policymakers. This imbalance of power and control over resources motivated me to pursue a career focused on women and girls' empowerment.

After more than 10 years in the gender field, I was compelled to pursue a second Master's in Public Health to better understand the inequalities in the health sector that disproportionately affected women and girls.

Chevening Scholarship Details

I received the Chevening scholarship for the 2023/2024 cohort to study Public Health at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Chevening Scholarships enable outstanding emerging leaders from around the world to pursue one-year master's degrees in the UK. These fully-funded scholarships cover flights, accommodation, and course fees, and they seek individuals with the passion, ideas, and influence to provide the solutions and leadership needed to create a better future. Once the scholars complete their education, they use their knowledge and networks to impact policies and make changes in their home countries. Given the prestigious nature of the Chevening Scholarship, I was solely focused on this opportunity and did not apply for any other scholarships.

Educational Background

I completed a double major in Political Science and Sociology during my undergraduate studies at the University of Nairobi. After graduating and working in gender-focused roles, I decided to further develop my skills in this domain and enrolled in a Master's program in Gender and Development Studies at the University of Nairobi. As I was conducting interventions related to Sexual and Reproductive Health, and with the knowledge gained from my development studies Master's, I recognized that women and girls were impacted by a myriad of health challenges. This prompted me to pursue a Master's in Public Health at the University of Glasgow, which complemented the gender-focused expertise I had acquired.

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

I conducted research on the best public health schools in Scotland. Having always wanted to study outside of London, I chose the University of Glasgow, which proved to be an excellent decision due to the support I received during my studies while I was pregnant. My supervisors provided the necessary encouragement that enabled me to graduate despite the pregnancy and coursework. As Kenya's official language is English, I was not required to take exams such as TOEFL or IELTS for admission.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Chevening Scholarship?

Before applying, I spent a lot of time watching YouTube videos on past Chevening scholars and what made them successful in securing the scholarship. Based on their recommendations, I put those practices into action.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I drew on my lived experiences, which have shaped my career trajectories. These stories are what I used to write my essays and conduct the interview. I believe that people relate to stories, and this is what I leveraged throughout the application process.

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

I would not change anything!

Not the prayers!

Not the hope!

Not the research!

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

Believe in yourself and have Faith that you deserve a YES!