Applications now open for 2021/2022 Chevening Scholarship |30 September 2020

Sophie Bonnelame

Do you have leadership qualities? A strong academic background? Wish to pursue your Masters and want to change your life? Applications for the 2021/2022 Chevening Scholarship is now open! For the next few weeks, we’ll be sharing stories from past Cheveners who took the leap, applied for the scholarship and broadened their horizons. Our First Chevener in this series of inspiring stories is Sophie Bonnelame.

“My childhood was spent with mostly creative interests. I found my passions in dancing, painting and really enjoyed English Literature, Art and Geography classes at school. I initially struggled to find my calling by way of a career. Through trial, error and life experiences, I eventually found a passion for diplomacy and great interest in the topic of international relations and its impact on global environmental decision making, while working at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Seychelles. 

“In 2015, I applied for a Chevening scholarship, with the aim to study for a MSc in Climate Change and Environmental Policy at the University of Leeds in Yorkshire. I was thankfully a lucky one of six successful Seychellois candidates chosen for the 2016-2017 cohort.  

“The University of Leeds prides itself with innovative programmes for learning that are not just limited to books and lectures. At the School of Earth and Environment, I benefitted from a learning experience rich in hard science, policy and field work modules. The highlight of my academic experience with Uni. Leeds was a month-long research trip to the Amani Nature Reserve in Tanzania, a pristine carbon sink mostly untouched by human interference. I carried out my research through community-based learning, focusing on human-environmental interaction and natural resource governance. The module thoroughly prepared me for thesis writing at the end of the Masters year.  

“I chose Chevening as besides a focus on academic abilities, the scholarship takes many other aspects of a person’s qualities into consideration, such as work experience, competencies in dealing with diverse cultural groups, networking skills and the ability to remain dynamic under all possible professional circumstances. This was evident at the many Chevening events I attended throughout the year, where I met Cheveners from all over the world from different cultural and professional backgrounds. I learnt about so many global issues and drew from passionate discussions on unique solutions to world challenges. Such connections really opened my mind and worldview. The Chevening network also ensures some of these life changing bonds in the UK and all over the world remain strong, with conferences, webinars and projects carried out throughout the year for alumni.  

“The Chevening experience helped me further understand my professional abilities and interests, while learning from leaders in my field both at university and through Chevening events. It broadened my knowledge intellectually and socially, and encouraged me to be more solution oriented in my professional life.  

“I would encourage Seychellois who wish to apply for this scholarship to go for it – and block out any discouraging energies that may have you second guessing yourself, be it during the application process, once you are successful and get the chance to study your chosen course and especially during exams and thesis writing. Most importantly enjoy every moment of the experience if successful, stay open minded and socialise, as it really does go by in a heartbeat. Best of luck! 

Sofie Bonnelame (Ms.) 

MSc Climate Change and Environmental Policy (2016-2017) 

University of Leeds 

(Funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and partner organisations, Chevening offers two types of award – Chevening Scholarships and Chevening Fellowships.

Chevening offers a unique opportunity for future leaders, influencers, and decision-makers from all over the world to develop professionally and academically, network extensively, experience UK culture, and build lasting positive relationships with the UK. Visit https://www.chevening.org/scholarships/who-can-apply/ to apply today!)