A bursary isn’t just financial assistance—it’s a gateway to possibility. I know this first hand. Coming from a less privileged background, receiving a bursary meant I could fully engage in school life without the weight of financial worries. It allowed me to take part in sports, discover my passion for art, and build the confidence that shaped my future.
At school, I wasn’t the star pupil. I struggled in some subjects and often questioned my path. But the support I received—from teachers who saw potential in me to experiences that broadened my horizons—gave me the resilience to pursue what I truly loved. Art became my language, and with encouragement from an inspiring teacher, I turned that passion into a career.
The impact of that support didn’t end at graduation. When I felt lost, unsure of my next steps, it was a former teacher who reached out, encouraged me to apply to university, and helped with my application. That small but meaningful gesture reinforced what the bursary had already given me—a sense of belonging, of being valued, and of having a future worth striving for.
Today, I’ve built a career that I love, becoming one of Ubisoft’s youngest Directors before launching my own successful business. Alongside that, my passion for photography has flourished into an award-winning pursuit. None of this would have been possible without the helping hand I received at school.
For those considering supporting bursaries, know that your contribution is more than just financial aid—it’s an investment in potential. It’s giving a young person the chance to discover their strengths, build confidence, and access opportunities they might never have imagined. It’s the reason I am where I am today, and it’s why I will always be grateful for those who made it possible.
Bursaries don’t just change school experiences—they change lives.
Liam Wong, SMC 2005
