The British High Commission in Ottawa has proudly announced the three Canadian recipients of the prestigious Chevening Scholarship for 2024, a global programme that supports future leaders in their academic and professional development. This year’s cohort is particularly notable as it includes Canada’s first-ever Indigenous Chevening Scholar, a historic achievement that highlights the increasing diversity of this esteemed scholarship.
What is the Chevening Scholarship?
The Chevening Scholarship, backed by the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), offers a fully-funded opportunity for outstanding individuals to pursue a one-year master’s degree at a UK university. It is a transformative global programme designed to foster future leaders, decision-makers, and influential figures. Scholars receive full financial support, including tuition, living expenses, and travel, alongside exclusive access to networking, professional development, and cultural experiences.
Since its inception in 1983, the programme has helped shape the careers of more than 57,000 individuals worldwide. Notable alumni include Canadian leaders such as Minister of Foreign Affairs Mélanie Joly and Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee.
This year, one of the scholarships was sponsored by ATCO, an energy company based in Calgary, underscoring the growing involvement of corporate partners in educational opportunities.
Meet the Canadian Scholars for 2024
The three Canadians chosen for the 2024 Chevening Scholarship each bring unique talents, backgrounds, and aspirations to the table.
- Victoria McMahon – Victoria, from Barrie, Ontario, is a member of Deninu Kųę́ First Nation. A graduate of the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Kinesiology, Victoria has always had a strong passion for healthcare. Her time studying at Loughborough University in the UK inspired her to pursue a master’s degree in Creative Health at University College London. Victoria aims to become an Indigenous Family Physician and is dedicated to creating culturally sensitive and trauma-informed spaces for Indigenous patients. Her scholarship, funded by the Chevening-ATCO partnership, is a groundbreaking achievement as she becomes the first Indigenous Chevening Scholar from Canada.
- Mark Iyengar – A lawyer based in Vancouver, Mark has made significant contributions to criminal law and constitutional rights, having argued cases at the Supreme Court of Canada and other top legal bodies. He graduated summa cum laude from York University and the University of British Columbia’s Peter A. Allard School of Law, and is a current adjunct professor at UBC. Mark will pursue a Master of Laws at the University of Cambridge, furthering his expertise in public law. His long-term goal is to return to Canada and continue his work in law and leadership.
- Conor Finan – Conor, a Royal Canadian Navy Reserve officer from Halifax, has combined his passion for military service with a strong academic background. After earning a degree in Criminology and Sociolegal Studies from the University of Toronto, Conor served in the Canadian Pacific Fleet and later became a commander in the Naval Tactical Operations Group. Conor will now pursue a Master of Philosophy in Criminology at the University of Cambridge, with a focus on counterterrorism policy. His aim is to apply his studies to enhance Canada’s security efforts through continued military service.
Looking to the Future: The 2025 Chevening Scholarships
The 2024 Canadian Chevening Scholars are already making their mark, but there’s more to come. Aspiring leaders in Canada can now apply for the 2025 Chevening Scholarships, with applications open until 5 November 2024. This globally competitive programme continues to nurture talented individuals who will shape the future of their countries and the world.
For more details on the application process, eligibility criteria, and further information about the Chevening Scholarships, book your free consultation with our UK University Specialists today!
