The Tribune

By JADE RUSSELL

Tribune Staff Reporter

jrussell@tribunemedia.net

FIVE Bahamians with a vision to improve the country have been awarded Chevening scholarships to pursue master’s degrees in the United Kingdom.

Chevening is the UK government’s international scholarship programme. Each recipient receives a grant of $50,000, which covers accommodation, course fees, flights, pocket money, and ensures their financial well-being during their 12-month stay in the UK. The scholarship seeks individuals with at least two years of work experience who are committed to returning to The Bahamas to make a positive impact after their studies.

During an afternoon tea event yesterday, British High Commissioner Tom Hartley praised the recipients for their outstanding achievements.

He said these scholars have demonstrated they are the future leaders of The Bahamas and will make a significant difference upon their return.

This year’s event was particularly special as it marked the fifth anniversary of the reopening of the High Commission.

The Chevening scholarship is sponsored by the Hayward Foundation, Blue Action Lab, and BHM.

Rupert Hayward, director of the Grand Bahama Port Authority, is the founder and president of Blue Action Lab and also part of the Hayward Foundation.

Mr Hayward said it was a privilege to assist with the scholarship funding, emphasising that education is essential to youth development and life experience. He added that the scholarship provides financial security for students studying abroad.

Malachi Rackley, 37, a Royal Bahamas Police officer with 12 years of forensic science experience, will be studying toxicology at the University of Birmingham. Mr Rackley, who works in the toxicology unit analysing bodily fluids for drugs, applied for the scholarship in 2019 but was unsuccessful. Now a recipient, he aims to deepen his knowledge in the scientific field.

“My goal is to return and to positively contribute back in that environment to help with an aspiration of ours, the scientific support service, which is becoming an accredited institution. Subsequent to that, I’d like to get into sort of helping the next generation of scientists to understand that a degree in science doesn’t only mean becoming a physician or a teacher,” he said.

Gabrielle Sullivan, 26, will study biotechnology at the University of Greenwich. She said the scholarship is a golden opportunity to support her goals of improving food security in The Bahamas. She also expressed excitement about experiencing UK culture.

Dr Lauren Brown will study trauma science at the University of Birmingham. Currently an A&E doctor at Princess Margaret Hospital, Dr Brown aims to provide medical care during natural disasters. She mentioned the idea of equipping boats with necessary medical equipment as an example of her goals.