Before Chevening, I was a clinician with a career in medicine spanning more than ten years. Practising medicine is an incredibly rewarding job, not only for the privilege of caring for people at their most vulnerable but also for its practical and intellectual challenges that reaffirm competence. By that same definition, it is also the most frustrating! The approach to patient care in the variety of clinical settings I have worked in, including Seychelles, centres on tackling the immediate health issues in isolation from wider socio-economic determinants of health. As a clinician, I struggled to accept the idea that my core role was to treat the patient, only to send them back to the same conditions or social environment that contributed to their health problems.

Moreover, as with all professions with a hierarchical culture, I felt constrained by existing institutional structures that hindered my ability to contribute to processes and implement interventions to improve patient care.

The journey in wanting to address these challenges and reconcile my role as a doctor with my desire to help shape health system structures and functions led me to the Chevening Scholarship.

To challenge the status quo, question existing norms, drive positive change and solve complex problems through collaborative efforts embodies what it is to be a Chevening Scholar. This is reflected by the many Chevening alumni in Seychelles occupying leadership positions and driving change in their respective fields.

My time at the University of Oxford and as a Chevening scholar was and continues to be marked by transformative experiences. Chevening opened up a network of academic and professional opportunities that have helped grow my confidence to take on new responsibilities and projects that promote a more holistic approach to health.

In my new role in supporting evidence-based practices, research and quality of care initiatives, I have been able to forge new collaborations between academics and local stakeholders to build local capacity. This speaks to the power of the Chevening network in advancing sustainable capacity development locally.

Reflecting on the staggering wealth of experiences in the UK, there have been many inspiring and exhilarating moments, but meeting like-minded people and building lasting friendships is what I will cherish the most.

My advice to applicants – Don’t be afraid to apply! The application process may seem daunting, but there are plenty of resources out there to support and guide you through the process. As Chevening alumni, we are also available to help.

Chevening is a life-changing opportunity and, personally, a journey of self-discovery and personal and professional growth. I would encourage anyone passionate and committed to making a positive and enduring change in society to take a chance. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by applying.

Source: Seychelles Nation