Meet Kesiah:

Tell us a bit about yourself

My personality can be a little all over the place to be honest, I don’t think there’s one way to describe me. I can be very reserved and shy, but I can also be so bubbly and outgoing, always having something to say. People describe me as generous, and I find happiness in making other people happy as well. One of my worse traits is that I can be a bit of a perfectionist, and ultimately makes me a bit of a nag, but it’s something I acknowledge and is something I’m trying to work on. Reading used to be my favourite hobby and is something I really want to get back into.

Why did you choose your course?

Choosing a course was difficult for me and was one of the reasons that I chose to take a gap year. I chose Journalism because there’s so many different directions it can take you. There aren’t many people who look like me (Black women) in the media, and I have a lot to say. Eventually I would like to become someone that can inspire young Black girls and be someone they can look up to in the media. I would love to be an influence in an industry dominated by middle class white men, whether it be a news broadcaster, a writer, or a presenter.

What has impressed you with Cowrie?

I love the fact that Cowrie acknowledges the disparities that Black/mixed people face in society and are taking steps to help bridge the gap and remove factors that prevent us from being our true, authentic selves. By greatly removing the financial burden, you’re allowing me to focus on ourselves and my education, which was something that couldn’t always come first. You’re also finding ways to help me elevate, through mentoring and other opportunities, which is something that I can’t thank you enough for.

How did you feel being offered the scholarship?

Honestly, I’ve always had self-worth and self-esteem issues, and I can easily say being awarded the scholarship was the best day of my life. I’ve never really felt appreciated or acknowledged, and being offered the scholarship made me feel seen, and I haven’t experienced a moment of joy that can compare to it. Sometimes I randomly remember that I was offered it and feel so much happiness and pride in myself. My parents were so proud of me, and I didn’t even feel that pride when getting my GCSE and A-Level results. My dad in particular – who I didn’t tell about the scholarship until I got it for fear of disappointing him lol – was so happy; I’ve never heard so much surprise before. It was an amazing feeling.

What difference will the scholarship and mentoring make?

The scholarship takes away the pressures of debt and really needing to work in order to live away from home. I plan on doing a study abroad, and it’s allowing me to save for that, as well as send some money home to my family. I’m really excited for the mentorship programme, and I hope I really connect with my mentor because it’s going to be an opportunity to network and make connections, as well as getting advice whenever I feel lost.

What would you say to others considering giving to Cowrie?

Firstly, I would like to thank everyone who has already donated to Cowrie, because I can’t even begin to explain the difference you’ve made in my life, I’m so grateful.
To those considering giving to Cowrie, I ask you to think about the change you’re making in our lives, and the fact that you’re contributing to our futures. Because of you, the journey that we’re making for our futures and our careers is that much easier because of your generosity.