Scholarship Fundraising Events

Having a first-class degree or distinction isn’t always enough to secure a PhD scholarship — here’s how to stand out. The competition is tough, and many equally brilliant candidates are fighting for the same spots. So, how do you position yourself as the top choice for a scholarship? Here are my golden tips: 💡 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘀 Every field demands specific technical skills — programming, data analysis, lab techniques, or fieldwork. Identify what’s essential in your field and start learning. Push your code to GitHub, share data visualizations, or showcase your skills in ways that can’t be ignored. Let potential supervisors and scholarship reviewers see proof of your expertise. 🤝🏾 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘀 Your referees can make or break your application. Generic recommendations are a red flag. Identify academics who can vouch for you, and start building relationships now. Use every interaction as a chance to demonstrate the qualities you want them to highlight in their letters. Your goal is to make it effortless for them to write a glowing recommendation when the time comes. 🔬 𝗚𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 Experience matters, even if it’s unpaid. Collaborate on research projects, write papers, or assist in data collection. Start by reaching out to PhD students or postdocs — they’re often more approachable and eager to collaborate. Remember, it’s not just about having experience, it’s about showing results. Document your contributions and share your findings. 💰 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 Scholarship panels often value applicants who have a track record of securing funding. Start by applying for small grants to attend conferences or workshops — even a $200 award can make a difference. It shows initiative, it builds your credibility, and it makes the panels more confident in your potential. ✍🏾 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 A PhD is built on writing, so start honing your skills now. Contribute to papers, write blog posts, or share insights on LinkedIn. The more you write, the clearer and more persuasive your communication becomes — an invaluable skill for any researcher. 🌟 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝘄𝗰𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳 Build a strong digital presence that tells your story. Highlight your skills and share your learning journey. Opportunities often come through connections and people remember those they see consistently engaging in meaningful discussions. If you stay silent about your skills and achievements, you risk being overlooked when the right opportunity comes along. _____________________________ What steps are you taking today to stand out as a future PhD candidate or secure your next opportunity? Drop your tips, experiences, or questions in the comments — let’s share and learn together! #PhD #Academia #Growth #LearnWithSofiat 

Applying to every scholarship but still getting rejected? The issue isn’t your qualifications; it’s how you present them! Here’s a detailed guide to building a strong scholarship application:👇 📌 Have a “Hero’s Journey” in Your Essay Most applicants say they're hard-working and passionate. Instead, tell a before-and-after story. What was the challenge you faced, what did you learn, and how did you apply it? 📌 Show Depth, Not Just Breadth in Extracurriculars Scholarship committees prefer someone who has mastered one field over someone who has done 20 random activities. ✅ Example: Instead of joining 10 clubs, be the founder of one impactful project (e.g., starting a mentorship program for underprivileged students). 📌 Use Cold Emails to Secure Research Experience Professors love students who show initiative. Cold email 20+ professors in your field asking for a virtual research assistant position. If even 1 says yes, it adds massive credibility to your profile. 💡Pro Tip: In your essay, write about how you contributed to real-world research instead of just stating your interest. 📌 Choose Recommendation Writers Strategically Many students pick their favourite teacher for recommendations. Instead, choose someone who has seen you grow or who is known in your field. 📌 "Connect the Dots" in Your Essay Every experience in your essay should lead to the next. Scholarship committees love cohesion. Everything should build up to why you need this scholarship and what you’ll do with it. 📌 Apply for Leadership-Based Scholarships Most students apply for academic-based scholarships, making them highly competitive. Instead, apply for leadership-focused scholarships (like Chevening, Schwarzman Scholars) if you have leadership roles in clubs, NGOs, or startups. 📌 Make the “Why This University” Answer Specific This is where most applicants fail. Instead of generic lines like “This university has a great reputation,” say: ✅ “Professor X’s research on renewable energy aligns with my goal of implementing solar grids in rural India.” ✅ “The university’s [specific lab] will help me prototype my AI-driven mental health chatbot.” 📌 Leverage LinkedIn & Twitter for Networking Many scholarships (like Fulbright) consider networking and recommendations. Follow alumni from your dream scholarship on LinkedIn and comment on their posts, ask for advice, and get insider tips. Remember, scholarships don’t go to the ‘best’ students. They go to students who know how to sell their story! All the best! ❤️

How I Secured a Fully Funded Scholarship to Study in France 🇫🇷 A few people have reached out to ask how I secured the Mastercard Foundation (MCF) Program scholarship for my Master's degree. I decided to share my experience here to guide those hoping to apply this year. Here’s a breakdown of my strategy:  1. Focused on MCF-Partner Universities: I streamlined my energy and applications only toward universities partnered with the MCF. Since I was focused on finding a fully-funded scholarship, this was the most direct path. You can find the list of partner universities on their website: https://lnkd.in/dgzrVuSZ  2. Started Researching Early: Once I identified my target schools, I began researching them and their programs before applications opened (typically between August and September). This gave me ample time to understand each university's specific criteria and prepare strong applications well in advance.  3. Spoke with Current Students and Alumni: I reached out for 1-on-1 conversations with students at my target universities. Understanding their experiences and getting tips was incredibly valuable. A special shoutout to Hadidja Ndahimana for all her support during my application phase!  4. Attended University and MCF Webinars: I made sure to attend webinars hosted by both the universities and the MCF. These sessions are crucial for understanding what they look for in an ideal applicant. You can find them on the universities' websites; just register and attend. They shared loads of resources that helped me immensely.  5. Tailored My Applications to MCF's Criteria: The MCF scholarship has specific criteria, such as having faced educational barriers (e.g., financial challenges), a demonstrated passion for the African continent, leadership potential, and more. I made sure my application highlighted these aspects clearly. You can find detailed information on their website and during the application process. I hope this helps anyone going through the process! If you have questions, feel free to leave them in the comments below, and I'll do my best to respond.

The connection between donors and the mission is crucial for fundraising campaigns. Imagine your donor, with a morning coffee in hand, sitting at the kitchen table, not just reading about your cause but becoming an active part of it. Here's how to transform your donors from passive contributors to active participants: 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐲𝐬 & 𝐐𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐬: Include a survey in your mailings to gather their opinions and preferences. This simple step shows donors that their input is valuable, making them feel heard and respected. 𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬: Encourage them to sign a petition related to your cause. It’s more than just adding their name; it’s taking a stand. This shared action binds them more closely to your mission. 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 & 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬: Give them the opportunity to send a personal message to someone benefiting from their support. This direct interaction creates meaningful connections, making the impact of their donation deeply personal. These strategies are more than just fundraising techniques; they are powerful engagement tools that transform the act of giving into a participatory experience. When donors are actively involved, they not only contribute more, but also become long-term advocates for your cause.

📌Advice for Students Seeking School Fee Assistance in Papua New Guinea📌 If you are a Grade 12 student, university attendee, or college student in Papua New Guinea (PNG) seeking financial assistance for school fees, it is important not to rely solely on your parents. Numerous organizations, companies, and government bodies in PNG offer scholarships and financial support to students. Below are some potential avenues for assistance: 1.Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) MRDC provides subsidies and scholarships for students pursuing studies within PNG. 2.New Porgera Limited This company offers scholarships for students to study both domestically and internationally. 3.National Gaming Control Board (NGCB) A government body that supports students by offering financial aid for studies locally and overseas, as part of its community service initiatives. 4.Santos Santos provides comprehensive scholarship packages, including full benefits for students studying in PNG and abroad. 5.Ok Tedi Mining This organization grants scholarships specifically to students from Western Province for studies within PNG. 6.Members of Parliament (MPs) Parliamentarians from PNG’s 22 provinces frequently run school fee assistance programs. You can inquire directly at your local MP’s office to explore this option. 7.PNGLNG Country Women’s Scholarship This scholarship is exclusively available to female students from Hela Province. 8.Other Opportunities Additional assistance may come from business houses or individuals who have the financial means to support their local communities. Networking and building connections within your community may uncover further opportunities. Eligibility Requirements Before applying for any scholarship or financial assistance program, it is essential to ensure you meet the necessary eligibility criteria. The specific requirements vary by organization, but common conditions include: 1.Offer Letter: You must have an offer letter from a recognized institution accredited by PNG’s Department of Education. Grade Point Average (GPA): A minimum GPA of 2.5 is often required to qualify for scholarships. 2.Landowner Status: Preference may be given to students who are landowners or belong to landowner groups from areas affected by resource development projects. Steps to Take To maximize your chances of receiving financial assistance, take the initiative to visit these organizations, companies, or government offices. Inquire about their specific scholarship programs, application processes, and deadlines. It is crucial to stay organized, prepare the required documentation, and submit your application on time. These opportunities can significantly reduce your financial burden, allowing you to focus on your education and achieve your academic goals. With persistence and preparation, securing school fee assistance is within reach. Best of luck on your educational journey!

𝗚𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗨𝗽 𝗼𝗻 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗗𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗜𝘀 𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝗮𝗻 𝗢𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻. Before my first offer, I received over 15 rejections (love letters). Here are some tips that helped me secure fully funded scholarships amidst these rejections without giving up. 1. 𝘉𝘶𝘪𝘭𝘥 𝘢 𝘚𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬: I created a WhatsApp group with a few friends, and we started the journey together. We shared our progress, supported each other through rejections, and encouraged each other to keep going. In the end, we all received fully funded offers. Surround yourself with people who share similar goals. 2. 𝘉𝘦 𝘐𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭: I built a webpage to showcase my achievements, certifications, internships, and experiences. You don’t need coding skills—use online tools to create yours. Check out my site for ideas https://lnkd.in/dRnhcwm9 3. 𝘐𝘯𝘷𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘔𝘖𝘖𝘊𝘴: This helps expand your reasoning and refresh key concepts in your field of study. For me, I took over 20 professional and online certification courses, especially from Coursera and LinkedIn Learning in areas I am interested in. Some of my friends took over 40 courses on Coursera during the pandemic; yes, that’s how motivated we were. To see how I arranged my certifications, visit https://lnkd.in/de2BTvJc 4. 𝘌𝘯𝘨𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘝𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘓𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱 𝘌𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦: I participated in several volunteering activities and community services and took on leadership roles in areas that mattered to me. I documented these experiences here https://lnkd.in/du_PDHFm 5. 𝘙𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘌𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦: This could be research or work experience. I did internships in places related to my interest and field of study and documented my work at https://lnkd.in/dMzCdCdv 6. 𝘙𝘦𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘦 𝘠𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘊𝘝 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘌𝘴𝘴𝘢𝘺𝘴: I continually improved my CV and essays as I developed my skills. For the template I used and for CV review tips, check out https://lnkd.in/d3eE-dAx 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗸𝗲𝘆 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆: Success is intentional. Every rejection is an opportunity for redirection. Reflect on each application, stay organized, and always showcase your achievements. Don’t doubt yourself; you only need one “YES” to turn things around in your favour. Remember to stay motivated, keep pushing forward, and know that I am rooting for everyone. Best of luck with your applications! 🌟 NB: These are practical tips based on what worked for me—there’s no single way to succeed on this journey. #ScholarshipTips #FullyFunded #PhDJourney #CVTips #StudyAbroad #HigherEducation #Mentorship #AcademicSuccess

I helped 316 students secure €15M Erasmus Mundus Scholarships (Even students with a 7.0 GPA succeeded! But after reviewing 3000+ applications from 20+ countries, I’ve learned the real secret. My 8-step formula that achieved a 92% success rate 1. Program Match → Find your perfect fit among 200+ Erasmus Mundus programs. 2. Mobility Strategy → Choose universities that align with your strengths and boost your profile. 3. Impact Story → Craft a personal story that stands out from thousands of global applicants. 4. Research Alignment → Show how your goals connect with cutting-edge faculty research. 5. Cultural Vision → Prove you can thrive across European universities and diverse cultures. 6. Career Roadmap → Present a clear 5-year impact plan that aligns with global challenges. 7. Unique Edge → Highlight why YOU deserve €50K over others. 8. Proof Package → Secure references that sell your story and boost credibility. The Results? -- A 7.0 GPA student won €50K. -- A first-gen learner made it to their dream program. -- And 316 students turned their aspirations into reality. Want my Erasmus mundus scholarship playbook + Guide? Comment "GUIDE", and I’ll share: #Erasmusmundus #scholarshipsuccess #studyabroad

I’ve helped dozens of students win scholarships. Here’s what you should never do in your application ( Don’t repeat these mistakes) Your scholarship journey should be intentional, not accidental. ⸻ 🔹 Waiting until the last minute → Many mentees missed out on opportunities simply because they started too late. 📌 Fix it: Start months in advance. Set calendar reminders for every major deadline. ⸻ 🔹 Only applying to big, well-known programs → Too often, people overlook less-known scholarships that can be easier to win. 📌 Fix it: Cast a wide net. Target smaller, community-based, minority, and non-academic scholarships. → The less obvious awards are sometimes the most accessible. ⸻ 🔹 No system for tracking applications → Juggling sticky notes, scattered emails, and countless browser tabs creates chaos and missed deadlines. 📌 Fix it: Create a simple spreadsheet to track scholarships, deadlines, requirements, and outcomes. → Stay organized and always ahead. ⸻ 🔹 Recycling the same essay for every application → Reviewers can spot generic essays from a mile away. 📌 Fix it: Personalize each essay. Reference the mission or values of each organization. → Show them exactly why you’re a great fit. ⸻ 🔹 Assuming you’re not eligible → Too many students disqualify themselves before even trying. 📌 Fix it: Apply anyway. Don’t count yourself out; let the committee make that decision. ⸻ 🔹 Not preparing recommenders in advance → Some wait too long and end up with rushed, generic recommendation letters. 📌 Fix it: Ask early. Provide your recommenders with context and plenty of time to help you shine. ⸻ 🔹 Letting rejection stop you → Giving up after a few “no’s” can mean missing out on future opportunities. 📌 Fix it: Persistence pays off. Every application increases your chances and builds your skills. ⸻ ➤ A smart scholarship search is proactive, organized, and personal. ➤ The more effort and strategy you invest, the better your results will be. ♻️ Share this with someone who needs it. #Scholarships #StudentSuccess #HigherEd #AcademicMentoring

In the midst of federal research funding cuts and grant freezes, we need alternative ways to fund science. Here are some opportunities that caught my attention: ▫️ Astera Institute - founded by Jed McCaleb and Seemay Chou, Astera incubates high-leverage science and technology projects at their earliest stages through their residency and open science programs. They back creative, high-agency scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs who are passionate about pursuing open first, high impact and future focused projects, especially innovators whose work isn’t a match for other institutions. https://lnkd.in/g45bPNgP ▫️ Schmidt Sciences - part of Eric and Wendy Schmidt's philanthropic initiatives. Their Polymaths program backs professors and interdisciplinary misfits with $2.5M+ to explore wild, risky ideas, whereas their Fellows program places the world’s best emerging scientists in new research domains. https://lnkd.in/gwNC7Fda ▫️ Simons Foundation - founded by Jim and Marilyn Simons to champion basic science through grant funding. There is currently an open call for high-risk theoretical mathematics, physics and computer science projects of exceptional promise and scientific importance. https://lnkd.in/g5CX-Gmk ▫️ Lux Capital - Lux just committed $100 million to back academic research that also has commercial potential, such as biotech and artificial intelligence. They offer both counsel and capital to pathbreaking scientists and help push their research and careers forward. https://lnkd.in/gt5vKe_m ▫️ Decentralized Science (DeSci) - science-focused decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) are communities and platforms that use blockchain technology and decentralization to reform funding and collaboration in science. e.g. 🔹 ValleyDAO - funds and provides translational support for synthetic biology research 🔹 VitaDAO - funds aging research and democratizes ownership of intellectual property 🔹 Molecule AG - funding and tokenization platform for biopharma intellectual property What other funding models or programs are you excited about?

Want More CSR Funding? Say Thank You the Right Way! Fundraisers spend months chasing donors—writing proposals, pitching impact, and building relationships. But after securing funding, many organizations make a critical mistake: they forget the power of a simple “Thank You.” And no, I don’t mean just a generic email or a logo on a report. Here’s the truth: Donors don’t just fund projects; they fund relationships. And the best way to nurture those relationships. A well-crafted, thoughtful Thank You. Why a Thank You Can Unlock More Funding- 🔹 Donors remember organizations that make them feel valued. 🔹 It strengthens long-term partnerships. A personalized note is more meaningful than a funding request. 🔹 It turns funders into ambassadors. A great donor experience makes them more likely to introduce you to other funders. How to Write a Thank You That Stands Out- ✔ Make it personal. Don’t just say “Thanks for your support.” Mention their impact: “Because of your funding, 500 children now have access to education.” ✔ Go beyond email. A handwritten note, a short video message, or a call from your founder makes a huge difference. ✔ Celebrate them publicly. With permission, share their support on social media or in your newsletter. ✔ Follow up with stories. Show them the impact they helped create—don’t just thank them once and disappear until the next funding cycle. Let’s Build a Thank You Culture! Have you ever received a heartfelt Thank You from a funder or donor? Or do you have a unique way of appreciating your supporters? Share your thoughts in the comments! 👇 #Fundraising #DonorEngagement #ThankYouNotes #NGOFunding #SocialImpact #NonprofitLeadership #GratitudeMatters