From Hackney to Harvard: I Just Need One Last Push

Hi, I’m Aaliyah. I’m 17, in Year 12, and I’ve just been accepted into the Harvard Undergraduate Ventures TECH Summer Program (HUVTSP)

This is a dream I never thought would be possible for someone like me. And now that I’ve made it this far, the only thing standing in my way is money

HUVTSP is a highly competitive, programme run by @Harvard Ventures, focused on entrepreneurship, innovation and building real-world solutions. It brings together students from across the globe — and somehow, I was chosen. But I can’t afford to go without help

As a proud student on the Amos Bursary, I’ve worked hard to push past the limits of my environment. I’m currently an intern at PwC UK, a mentee at UBS, and an ambassador with Young Professionals UK. I dream of studying at an Ivy League university, and one day building ventures that create real change for people who aspire to exceed beyond their circumstances.

But right now, I’m scared.

Harvard has awarded me a $2,000 scholarship, but I still need to raise $2,750 (around £2,070) by May 7th

That’s less than a week away

I have poured everything into chasing this opportunity — but I can’t do this alone- I’m scared

If you’re in a position to help, your support could change the course of my life. Truly.

If you can donate, sponsor or even just share, it would mean more than I can ever put into words. No act is too small — every bit brings me one step closer

To the organisations and people I admire @The Sutton Trust SEO London The Brokerage Rare Recruitment Social Mobility Foundation Worshipful Company of Information Technologists Worshipful Company of Educators — I hope you’ll consider helping a student who’s trying to do something bigger than her circumstances

This isn’t just about Harvard. It’s about elevating students from underrepresented communities to be able to gain a seat at the table too

Thank you for reading, sharing, and believing in me

#HarvardTECH #AmosBursary #SocialMobility #DiversityInTech #YouthEmpowerment #EducationalEquity #FutureLeader #ChangeMakers #LinkedInForStudents #UrgentAppeal