MSc Public Health and Health Promotion Student Samuel Nduwayezu from Rwanda Shares His Journey of Studying at Swansea University, United Kingdom

My name is Samuel Nduwayezu, and I am from Rwanda. I am a nurse by training and a public health practitioner passionate about improving maternal and child nutrition and community health systems. I am the Founder of Heza Initiative www.hezain.org , a youth-led organization working to improve maternal and child health through nutrition interventions, particularly promoting egg consumption to fight malnutrition and stunting among children.

Currently, I am pursuing a Master’s of science in Public Health and health promotion at Swansea University in the United Kingdom. I decided to pursue further education in public health because, through my work with communities in Rwanda, I realized that many health challenges, especially malnutrition, maternal health issues, and preventable diseases, require strong public health systems, policy interventions, and community-based solutions.

My goal is to strengthen my knowledge in public health leadership and research so that I can design sustainable and scalable health interventions that improve the lives of vulnerable communities in Rwanda and across Africa.

Chevening Scholarship Details

I received the Chevening Scholarship, funded by the UK Government, to study at Swansea University.

The Chevening Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship, which covers:

• Tuition fees
• Monthly stipend for living expenses
• Travel costs to and from the UK
• Visa fees
• Arrival allowance and other academic-related costs

Educational Background

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Rwanda, which I completed in 2024.

During my studies, I gained clinical and community health experience through internships at University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK) and King Faisal Hospital Rwanda, one of the leading hospitals in the country. These experiences helped me understand both clinical care and the broader social determinants of health.

In addition to my academic training, I worked on several community health initiatives, including nutrition programs and outbreak responses such as COVID-19 vaccination campaigns and the Marburg outbreak response.

My academic and professional experiences helped me develop a strong interest in public health, nutrition, and health promotion, which prepared me to apply for graduate studies in public health.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Swansea University?

I started preparing early by researching universities that offer strong programs in public health, nutrition sciences, and health promotion.

I focused on institutions that align with my interests in community health, health policy, and global health equity. I carefully reviewed program modules, faculty expertise, and research opportunities.

I eventually applied to programs at:

• Swansea University
• University of Nottingham
• Aston University

I also prepared a strong personal statement, highlighting my leadership experience, my work with Heza Initiative, and my commitment to improving public health in Rwanda.

How Did You Find Information About Chevening Scholarship and Swansea University?

• Scholarship websites and online platforms
• LinkedIn and professional networks
• University websites
• Former scholars sharing their experiences
• Mentorship and peer recommendations

I also followed updates from organizations and networks that share international scholarship opportunities for African students.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

Overall of 6.5 and no less than 6 band in all components.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Chevening Scholarship?

Preparing for the Chevening Scholarship required significant effort, particularly in writing strong essays.

I focused on clearly explaining:

• My leadership experience
• My networking ability
• My career goals
• My commitment to contributing to Rwanda after my studies

I used examples from my work leading the Heza Initiative, including projects that support teenage mothers, malnourished children, and smallholder farmers through nutrition and poultry initiatives.

I also practiced for the Chevening interview, preparing to discuss my leadership journey, impact, and long-term vision for public health in Rwanda.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

1. Leadership and impact – Founding and leading Heza Initiative, which works on maternal and child nutrition.
2. Clear career vision – My commitment to reducing malnutrition and strengthening community health systems in Rwanda.
3. Practical experience – Working on public health responses such as COVID-19 vaccination and the Marburg outbreak.
4. Social innovation – Initiatives such as promoting egg consumption for child nutrition and supporting teenage mothers through poultry farming.

Chevening looks for individuals who are leaders, influencers, and committed to creating positive change, and I believe my work demonstrated that.

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

If I were going through the process again, I would start preparing my application even earlier, especially for refining scholarship essays and gathering feedback.

I would also connect earlier with Chevening alumni and mentors, who can provide valuable guidance during the application process.

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

1. Start early.
   Give yourself enough time to research universities, prepare documents, and write strong essays.
2. Tell your authentic story.
   Scholarship committees want to understand your real journey, challenges, and motivations.
3. Show impact and leadership.
   Highlight the initiatives you have led or contributed to in your community.
4. Have a clear vision.
   Explain how your studies will contribute to solving problems in your home country.
5. Believe in yourself.
   Many applicants underestimate their experiences. If you are passionate about creating change, your story matters.