AFRICA | Despite graduating with a Second Class Lower (2.2) from the University of Lagos (UNILAG), a young Nigerian woman named Olubulola Miriam Agemo has defied all odds to win the prestigious Chevening Scholarship to study for her Master’s degree at London University
Her story is a testament that not only good academic grades qualify you for competitive scholarships. Requirements like leadership, work experience, and skills can make you eligible for fully funded awards.
Miriam's Story and How She Did It
Miriam’s academic journey began in 2015, when she enrolled at the University of Lagos to study French Language. In 2018, she finished with a Second Class Lower, but she did not allow the grade to shape her path.
After graduation, Miriam built real-world experience, shaping a new path for herself. She worked towards building her portfolio in a way that would not only impact her but also her community.
Determined to prove her worth beyond academics, Miriam started her professional journey at the Badagry Chamber of Commerce as Deputy Communications Director.
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Through hard work and excellence, she quickly rose through the ranks and, in 2020, made history as the youngest Director for Government Affairs in Nigeria’s Chamber movement.
Over the next six years, she built an extraordinary career portfolio in economic development and trade policy analysis.
By 2025, Miriam had spoken three times at the African Union, collaborated with the European Union Parliament and the OECD, delivered 10+ international speaking engagements, published four papers in top global journals, and landed her dream job at the International Trade Centre.
Each milestone reflected her quiet determination and relentless drive, the same qualities that earned her a place among the world’s most promising young leaders.
In 2025, Miriam’s years of hard work paid off when she was selected for the UK Government’s Chevening Scholarship, one of the most competitive and globally respected scholarship programs, with an acceptance rate of less than 1%.
Out of over 102,000 applicants worldwide, only 39 Nigerians were chosen, and Miriam was among them. This is proof that even with a low grade, you can win a competitive scholarship if you apply with the right strategy.
“This is more than a dream come true, it’s a validation of the work I’ve dedicated the past seven years to — advocating for marginalized communities, economic inclusion, and trade policy reform,” she wrote on LinkedIn.
In London, Miriam will pursue a Master’s in Public Policy to amplify her impact on global development issues.
“I am incredibly grateful to the UK Government and the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office for believing in my dreams, investing in me, and giving me this platform to shine,” she added.
Miriam admits that her path was not always easy. “For a long time, because I didn’t have a direct economics or policy background, I struggled with confidence. I often downplayed my achievements,” she confessed in an Instagram post.
“But not anymore. The era of imposter syndrome is over. I have paid my dues, grown through the ranks, and I’m proud to say I am an expert in my field,” she added.
She also credited mentors and supporters who encouraged her to aim high and guided her through the demanding application process.
Reflecting on her journey, Miriam encouraged others who are in similar situations like hers to keep pushing and believe in their ability beyond grades.
“If someone like me, with a background in French Language and a 2.2, can now excel in the world of economic development and trade policy analysis, then truly, there is nothing you cannot achieve,” she said.
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