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From Lewisham to Harvard: Support Monay’s Journey
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£3,104 raised of £43K
27 donations
From Lewisham to Harvard: Building the Next Generation of Leaders
My name is Monay Thomas, and I have been admitted to the Education Leadership, Organizations, and Entrepreneurship (ELOE) Master's programme at the Harvard Graduate School of Education for the 2026–2027 academic year.
I grew up in Lewisham, South East London, and attended Bonus Pastor Catholic College before earning a full bursary to study at Bromley High School. Growing up, I saw many talented young people become disengaged from education systems that failed to recognise their potential. Those experiences shaped my commitment to justice, opportunity, and leadership development.
I went on to graduate from the London School of Economics and Political Science with a degree in Law and Anthropology, where I deepened my understanding of inequality, social systems, and the power of education to transform lives.
Since then, I have dedicated my work to equipping young people and emerging leaders to thrive. Through my educational and humanitarian initiatives, I have:
- Supported more than 300 students across 10 London state schools
- Facilitated learning for over 100 young people across several countries
- Mentored more than 60 young people from disadvantaged backgrounds
- Founded a university society engaging 500+ students in faith dialogue
- Trained over 100 leaders through equipping initiatives
Harvard represents an extraordinary opportunity to develop the leadership, policy, and organisational tools needed to expand this work and help build education systems where every young person has the opportunity to belong, flourish, and lead.
The estimated cost of attending Harvard, including tuition and living expenses, is approximately £80,000. I have already secured significant funding, including partial support from Harvard, and have now raised approximately 50% of the total amount needed. I am currently working to raise the remaining £43,000.
Any contribution - large or small - will help make this opportunity possible. If you are unable to give financially, sharing this page with your network would mean just as much.
After Harvard, I plan to return to the UK to launch initiatives that train and equip young leaders across schools and communities. My long-term vision is to expand this work globally, strengthening leadership and advancing justice in education systems around the world.
Thank you for believing in my journey and in the potential of the next generation!
With love and gratitude,
Monay
Organizer
