Seven outstanding Guyanese have been selected for the highly coveted Chevening Scholarship, funded by the British government, to pursue postgraduate studies at leading universities in the United Kingdom.
The scholars, whose expertise spans social work, health, economics, film, and environmental science, will join an influential international network dedicated to driving positive change in their home countries and beyond.
The 2024 Chevening Scholars from Guyana are:
- Marissa Victoria Foster – MA Peace, Resilience, and Social Justice, University of Bradford
A social worker, writer, and activist, Foster said the Chevening programme aligns perfectly with her mission to uplift marginalised communities in Guyana and the wider Caribbean. She has spearheaded national initiatives such as Shape Us Up and the Student Relief Project, and co-founded EmpoweredFem. Her vision is to fortify social safety nets and push for inclusive policy reforms. - Al Fayed Johnathan Barakat – MSc Clinical Psychology, University of Exeter
With a background in psychology, Barakat praised Chevening’s reputation and its focus on leadership. He plans to return with the expertise needed to enhance Guyana’s mental health care system, ensuring culturally relevant and accessible services. - Gabrielle McKenzie – MSc Health Psychology, King’s College London
A paraplegic and vocal advocate for disability and health rights, McKenzie said she was drawn to Chevening’s network of change-makers. She intends to improve healthcare delivery for people living with chronic conditions in Guyana. - Naomi Lall – MSc Economics and International Finance
An Economic and Financial Analyst at the Ministry of Finance, Lall views Chevening as an opportunity for transformation and impact. Her goal is to design economic policies that stimulate sustainable growth and financial inclusion. - Deborah Lambert – MSc Biomedical Engineering (Medical Physics), Imperial College London
Lambert, a researcher and physics lecturer, is passionate about applying science for social good. She will focus her studies on nuclear medicine, advanced medical imaging, and AI-powered diagnostics. - Rae Wiltshire – MA Film and Television: Research and Production, University of Birmingham
An award-winning playwright and filmmaker, Wiltshire sees Chevening as a platform to strengthen creative industries in Guyana and the Caribbean, using film as a catalyst for social change. - Maria Fraser – MSc International Relations
A marine biologist with a prior Master’s in Marine Sciences, Fraser aims to bridge environmental science with global diplomacy. She believes tackling environmental issues requires strong policy engagement at the international level.
Also recognised was Anyely Diaz Felix of Suriname, who described her selection as “an honour and a privilege.” She noted that Chevening offers the tools, collaboration, and perspectives needed to make a lasting contribution to Suriname’s digital marketing landscape.
