Hi, my name is Hiya! I am a first year attending Yale University, to hopefully major in Economics and Applied Mathematics. I am passionate about the potential of development economics to transform lives, having conducted research on microfinance and welfare economics throughout my time in sixth form. Beyond the classroom, I am in the National Youth Orchestra, play chess internationally, and am a keen debater. I endeavour to give back to the community through educational outreach in debate, music and charity work, for example by running a half marathon for Ty-Hafan.

This year, I had the honour of winning EMWWAA’s national Young Achiever Award, and its impact on me has been profound. As a girl of minority descent, I have never witnessed a celebration of minority, female talent like that of EMWWAA. It was inspiring. Every corner of the room was brimming with stories of resilience, overcoming adversity and, most importantly, a desire to foster meaningful, societal change. 

The national platform this award has given me has been invaluable. Thanks to the kindness and recognition of the Welsh Assembly, I conducted work experience for a week in Cardiff Council. I had the opportunity to attend Cabinet, attend cross-city meetings to discuss legislation, and understand the statistical methods to drive fair data collection to foster holistic policy. I am determined to take this experience further, to pursue research in economic empowerment and social justice.