Brazilian Social Worker from the Amazon Wins Chevening Scholarship to Study Development at University of Sussex

My name is Gabriel Cavalcante, and I’m originally from Manaus, in the Brazilian Amazon. I come from a region marked by deep social inequalities and environmental injustices, which has shaped my lifelong commitment to the struggle for social justice. I hold a degree in Social Work from the Federal University of Amazonas and a specialization in Project Management from the University of São Paulo (ESALQ/USP). Currently, I am pursuing a Master’s degree in Environment, Development and Policy at the University of Sussex in the UK. I chose this program because it offers critical tools to analyse global structures of inequality and power, which are essential for advancing more just and inclusive policies in regions like the Amazon.

Scholarship Details

I was awarded the Chevening Scholarship, a prestigious global award funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). The scholarship covers full tuition, travel, and living expenses, amounting to approximately £30,000. I was also shortlisted for a partial scholarship from the University of Sussex, but I did not pursue it after accepting Chevening’s full funding. Chevening has provided me not only with financial support but also access to a powerful international network of leaders and changemakers.

Educational Background

I completed my undergraduate studies in Social Work, graduating with a GPA equivalent to 8/10. Later, I pursued a postgraduate certificate in Project Management at ESALQ/USP, where I deepened my skills in planning, monitoring, and evaluating public and socio-environmental programs. Beyond academia, my professional experience has been equally formative. I’ve worked with leading organizations such as SITAWI Finance for Good and the Foundation for Amazon Sustainability, managing impact-driven portfolios focused on biodiversity, local economies, and climate resilience. This combination of academic training and hands-on experience equipped me with the practical knowledge and critical thinking necessary to pursue a Master’s degree that addresses the complex intersections between environment, development, and social justice.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to UK Institutions?

I chose the University of Sussex because it is globally recognized as one of the best institutions for development studies, consistently ranked at the top in this field. Its critical and interdisciplinary approach resonated with my academic goals and professional background. One of the most valuable pieces of advice I received—also recommended by the Chevening programme itself—was to explore the scholarship’s official website thoroughly. It contains a wealth of information that goes beyond eligibility criteria, including tips for preparing a strong application and insights that are incredibly useful during the interview stage.

Did You Need To Take Any Standardized Tests? How Did You Prepare for the IELTS Exam?

Regarding the English language requirement, I took the IELTS Academic exam. I prepared using resources directly from the official IELTS website, including multiple practice tests that helped me get familiar with the format and improve my performance under time pressure. I sat for the test twice and achieved the required score on my second attempt. The preparation process helped me build not only language proficiency but also confidence in academic writing and comprehension, both of which are essential for succeeding in a UK master's program.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Chevening Scholarships?

To apply for the Chevening Scholarship, I adopted a structured and evidence-based approach. One of the key strategies I used was the STAR method—Situation, Task, Action, and Result—to frame my experiences clearly and effectively. This method was particularly useful in writing the four required essays on Leadership, Career Plan, Studying in the UK, and Networking.

In each essay, I selected relevant moments from my academic and professional journey and used STAR to highlight not only what I did, but how and why I did it, and what the outcomes were. I made a point of including concrete indicators and measurable results, such as the amount of funding mobilized, the number of people impacted, and the scale of the projects I led or contributed to. This helped reinforce the depth and credibility of my experience.

Once shortlisted for the interview, I used my own essays as a primary preparation tool. I revisited them carefully, identified key themes, and anticipated follow-up questions based on the examples I had shared. This preparation helped me present a consistent and confident narrative that aligned with Chevening’s values and expectations.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe what made my application stand out was the combination of a strong, purpose-driven narrative and concrete evidence of impact. Throughout my essays, I demonstrated a clear alignment between my personal journey, professional achievements, and long-term commitment to social justice in the Amazon. I didn’t just describe what I had done. I showed how I did it and what results I achieved, using indicators such as funding mobilized, partnerships built, and communities reached.

I also highlighted my ability to work across sectors and cultures, and my plans to apply the knowledge gained in the UK to strengthen local initiatives in Brazil. This mix of clarity, impact, and purpose likely made my application resonate with the selection committee.

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

This was the first time I had ever applied for a scholarship like Chevening, and the entire process was completely new to me. Because of that, I faced a lot of uncertainty, and anxiety played a significant role throughout. If I were to go through it again, I would definitely pay more attention to my mental and physical well-being during the application period. While I was fully committed to producing strong essays and preparing for the interview, I often neglected rest, healthy routines, and emotional balance. Managing stress more intentionally would have helped me navigate the process with more clarity and confidence. Taking care of yourself is just as important as submitting a great application.

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

Start by understanding the values and goals of the scholarship—what kind of candidates they are looking for—and reflect on how your story aligns with that vision. Use structured methods like STAR to communicate your experiences clearly, and don’t underestimate the power of evidence: include real numbers, roles, and outcomes to demonstrate your impact.

Take your time with the essays—they are not just a formality but the heart of your application. And finally, be authentic. Don’t try to fit into a mold; instead, show how your unique background, values, and vision can contribute to the goals of the scholarship and to your country’s future. Also, remember to look after your mental health during the process. It's an intense journey, and staying balanced—emotionally and physically—can make a big difference in both the quality of your application and your overall experience.