The future is bright for nine Leeds Beckett scholarship recipients

The Bright Futures Scholarships offer financial support to students who might otherwise be unable to afford a university education. They are awarded to first year students and are based on academic merit, with funding for the scheme generously provided by Leeds Beckett alumni.

BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing student and scholarship recipient, Rameesah Ahmed, aged 18, said as the first member of her family to attend university she was proud to set an example to her younger siblings.

“Nursing was the one course that appealed to me most, as it gives me the opportunity to provide both holistic and medical care,” commented Rameesah. “From my placements I know that every patient has their own unique case and having the knowledge to help them through their journey is of so much value.”

In addition to her studies, part-time employment and voluntary work, she is also determined to volunteer abroad in a country where there is a need for her skills.

“I’m so grateful to Leeds Beckett alumni who have donated to the scholarships,” said Rameesah. “I really want to pay it forward by using some of the money to volunteer with GAP Medics in Tanzania or Thailand, which will also boost my confidence and give me great hands on experience.”

BA (Hons) Criminology with Psychology undergraduate, Demi-Louise Woods, aged 18, chose her degree course because she has always been interested in helping people, and would like to pursue the career field of mental health. At home she cared for her disabled mother, who taught her that she could do the same for others.

Demi-Louise said: “I’ve always wanted to help those who are on the edge of society who people are scared of and turn away from, such as prisoners.

“Society tends to avoid certain people – I think this is wrong and I want to help those in need, not marginalise them. I am determined to have the career that I want, so that I can help others.”

She added that the Bright Futures Scholarship would make a real difference to her and would help take away anxieties associated with affording university.

“The scholarship means I can pay for my second year accommodation, which is such a relief, as well as starting the year on a firm financial basis so that I can concentrate on my studies,” she said.

Greg Hunter is a BSc (Hons) Sports Coaching student, who is passionate about sport – especially football, and plays semi-professionally for Ossett Albion.

The 19-year-old said he intended to use his scholarship to further his career. He attributes his passion for football and coaching to his dad, who also coached a team, and sadly passed away in February 2016.

Greg commented: “I’m going to buy my Leeds Beckett colours kit and I would like to progress on to my UEFA B Licence Course in the near future. Thank you so much to everyone who supports the scholarships – this will really change my future.”

This year, Bright Futures Scholarships have also been awarded to BA (Hons) Physical Education student Amaya Joseph; BSc (Hons) Computer Forensics and Security student Mathew Haskell; BA (Hons) Social Work student Lucy Cartwright; BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Therapy student Cyra Smith; BSc (Hons) Psychology student Jasmine Iveson and BA (Hons) Events Management student Ellie-Louise Wilkinson.

Photo caption (L-R): Jasmine Iveson, Ellie-Louise Wilkinson, Lucy Cartwright, Greg Hunter, Cyra Smith, Mathew Haskell, Amaya Joseph, Demi-Louise Woods and Rameesah Ahmed.