Help Nana raise money for her Harvard tuition fees

My story:

My name is Nana-Aba Arthur, and I am a finalist at the University of Cambridge, studying Philosophy. Over the past four years, I have been dedicated to advancing educational equity and ensuring that education serves as a powerful tool for social mobility. Now, I have received an offer from Harvard to study Education Leadership, Organisations, and Entrepreneurship: a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Growing up in a low-income area in East London/Essex, I never imagined I would one day be studying at one of the world’s best universities. As the daughter of hardworking Ghanaian-born immigrants, when I received my offer from Cambridge, it meant everything to my family and me. I wasn’t used to seeing people like me, from areas like mine, going to Cambridge.

But getting to university wasn’t easy.

School was not a place where I felt inspired or empowered. I struggled with my behavior and was suspended in secondary school. Like so many other Black girls, I was quickly labeled as “loud,” “aggressive,” and “disruptive.” I started to disengage from learning, believing school wasn’t a space for me.

Everything changed because of one teacher. Instead of writing me off, she advocated for me. She arranged anger management sessions, set up academic interventions, and, most importantly, made me feel like I was worth investing in. For the first time, I believed in my own potential.

That experience instilled in me a fundamental belief that has shaped my mission: young people have intrinsic potential, but too often, it is stunted by stereotypes, unresolved trauma, and limited access to resources. However, these barriers don’t have to dictate a student’s future. With mentorship, targeted interventions, and community-driven support, students can thrive.

My work in education:

For the past four years, I have mentored underrepresented students applying to Oxbridge, providing tailored guidance to help them navigate every step the admissions process with confidence. I want every student I work with to see that these institutions are for them too.

During my undergraduate studies, I engaged deeply with questions of identity and embodiment in political philosophy. I became fascinated by how social constructions shape what we believe is possible for ourselves and others, how they influence educational outcomes, and how we respond to structural injustices.

To broaden my understanding of global education disparities, last year, I spent two months teaching at Tarkwa Breman Girls’ School, a school in rural Ghana. I saw how strong community networks filled the gaps left by limited government support. This sparked my interest in multi-agency models that bring together schools, community groups, and government bodies to improve not just academic outcomes, but also students’ relationship with education itself.

Why I need your help:

Harvard has a 3% acceptance rate. I have a rare opportunity to study at one of the world’s leading institutions, but financial barriers could prevent me from pursuing this life-changing education.

To accept my offer, I must prove I have £80,000 to cover my tuition and living expenses. Unfortunately, I didn’t receive the scholarship I needed, so I now have to focus on fundraising. I’m determined to make this happen and turn this opportunity into reality.

This postgraduate degree at Harvard will help me develop community-driven interventions that bridge the gap between schools, families, and local organisations, ensuring students have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed - both inside and outside the classroom.

How you can help:

The goal is to raise £80,000 before the 15th of May 2025, the deadline for Fincert documentation, where international students must prove they have the necessary funds for the duration of their course.

Any contribution (no matter the amount) would be deeply appreciated. If you’re unable to donate, please share this with friends, creators, companies, or anyone who might be able to help.

Please help me get this out to as many people as possible. With your support, I’ll be able to pursue my dreams and continue my mission to make education more inclusive, empowering, and accessible for all.

Thank you so much.

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Testimonial:

“Nana has been instrumental in shaping Everything’s Education, an innovative agency focused on amplifying the voices of students and parents across Africa. Through her leadership, Everything’s Education has built impactful partnerships with the African diaspora and key stakeholders, empowering over 10 million individuals globally. Her ability to bridge gaps between diverse communities and education systems demonstrates her remarkable strategic insight and cultural competence. Nana has been at the forefront of initiatives that not only expand access to quality education but also prepare students for meaningful careers, creating lasting societal impact.”

Elaine Cunningham-Walker, Founder and CEO of Everything’s Education