To be successful, scholarship applicants have to show how they give back to the local community, as well as having excellent grades.
Among the new scholars was Dreaon McDonald Simms, 19, previously deputy leader and then leader of Southwark Youth Parliament. He is studying Politics and International Relations at the Bath Spa University. He has ambitions to go into political and community work after his degree, while remaining heavily involved in his church community, the Redeemed Pillar of Fire Europe, based in Camberwell.
He says: “I applied for a Southwark Scholarship because paying off tuition fees by my own strength was nothing short of a dream to me. When I was told about the opportunity by Mayor Michael Situ, I knew I had to apply. Without it, university life would have been extremely difficult.
“When I found out I had been successful I was overjoyed, thanking Jesus and everyone who had helped me to get this far. I could not have done it without my parents, my extended family, and my church community.
“This scholarship allows me to use my degree and the experiences I will gain to feed back into the communities that have really helped to order my steps into the positive path I am on now. I am a firm believer that my success cannot be merely for myself, but as I am lifted up, my community must be lifted up with me. This is what the scholarship is mobilising me to do.”
Most recently, Dreaon has spent time working in the youth ministry with up to 200 young people. He was able to help young people in the community with a range of issues, from UCAS applications to more personal matters.
Since the scheme began in 2011, the council has helped 143 young people (under 25 years) to pursue higher education through the scholarship award.
Sue-Marie Majeed, 23, is in her fifth year of studying Medicine at Kings College London. She has plans to start an outreach programme in local schools, inspiring young people from disadvantaged backgrounds into medical careers.
She says: “Working-class people face significant barriers in pursuing careers in medicine, as well as in other professions like law and journalism, where only 4% of junior doctors, 6% of lawyers, and 11% of journalists come from similar backgrounds. There is a real disconnect in a field that should reflect the diversity of the communities it serves.
“A diverse medical school environment has been shown to positively shape students' attitudes toward diversity-related issues, potentially improving future care for minority groups. When doctors can understand the struggles of their patients, it bridges a crucial gap in understanding, leading to stronger patient relationships and better outcomes. Doctors from working-class backgrounds are not only more likely to serve lower socioeconomic areas.
“Widening participation programs and outreach initiatives are helping to bridge the gap, and scholarships have been crucial in easing the financial burden of medical school for many, including myself. I am passionate about contributing to these efforts, because increasing representation is essential for building a healthcare system that truly understands and serves its diverse population, leading to stronger patient connections and improved outcomes for all.”
Cllr Jasmine Ali, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Education & Refugees, said: “I am always inspired by the ambition, dedication and community-mindedness of our scholars. They do Southwark proud as they use their scholarships to unlock such bright futures, while always thinking about the ways they can give back. It is a privilege to celebrate their many successes.
“Southwark Scholarships can make all the difference for would-be university students who might be put off going due to the tuition fees. If you, your business or charity could help sponsor a young person through university, please contact eba@southwark.gov.uk”
Young people who are thinking about their next steps in education, training or work can join Southwark Council’s mailing list to receive news on job vacancies and career information in and around Southwark.
Visit www.southwark.gov.uk/nextstepmailinglist for more information.