The Faculty of Science and Technology (FST), The University of the West Indies, Mona, proudly celebrates three of our alumni who have been named 2025 Chevening Scholars. Their achievements are a powerful reminder of how a degree in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) equips graduates to lead change locally and globally.
Marine conservationist Khianna Lee is safeguarding Jamaica’s marine heritage. At the UWI Discovery Bay Marine Lab, she manages the island’s first Queen Conch Mobile Laboratory, developing innovative restocking methods to protect this critical species. Her work strengthens fisheries, supports marine biodiversity, and ensures sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities. With her Chevening Scholarship, Khianna will pursue an MSc in Marine Conservation at the University of Plymouth. She plans to return with advanced expertise to expand Jamaica’s marine protection programmes through partnerships with local agencies and communities.
Development strategist and communications professional Zara Harris is addressing one of Jamaica’s pressing challenges—transportation. Passionate about modernising the country’s public transport system, Zara envisions a Jamaica where efficient, sustainable, and affordable mobility connects communities and fuels national growth. She will pursue an MBA at the University of Westminster, focusing on strategic management and policy. Zara’s long-term goal is to transform Jamaica’s infrastructure using global best practices, ensuring transport becomes a bridge to opportunity for all citizens.
Research Analyst Daneel Nichol is charting a new path at the intersection of finance and climate resilience. At VM Wealth Management, she uses data-driven analysis to guide investment decisions and develop strategies that support sustainable economic growth. With climate change posing increasing risks to the financial sector, Daneel’s work ensures Jamaica is prepared for the future. Her MSc in Applied Data Science and Modelling at the University of Exeter will allow her to integrate climate analytics into investment frameworks. She hopes to position Jamaica as a regional leader in climate-resilient finance, where sustainability and profitability move hand in hand.
Together, these outstanding alumni embody the spirit of FST—using science and technology as tools for innovation, resilience, and national development. Their journeys show how the solid foundation gained through an FST degree can open doors to global opportunities and equip graduates to solve real-world challenges.
As we celebrate their Chevening success, we are reminded that investing in STEM education is investing in Jamaica’s future.
