How an Access Edinburgh Scholarship helped Yafet thrive

When Yafet first stepped into his local IntoUniversity Centre in Little London, university wasn’t yet on his radar. But that space quickly became more than just a homework club , it was the beginning of a journey that would eventually lead him to the University of Edinburgh.

The centre offered vital support to Yafet and his friends: structured homework help, information sessions about university life, and advice on subjects they might enjoy. But one experience changed everything, a residential trip to Edinburgh. That visit opened Yafet’s eyes to what was possible. He was captivated by the city, the University, and the idea that he could belong there.

“I knew after that trip that Edinburgh was where I wanted to study. I fell in love with the city,” Yafet recalls.

Back home, his interests began to sharpen. Inspired by conversations with his dad , who shared that many of his clients recommended data science as a field with huge potential, Yafet decided to explore computing. He enrolled in a computer science course at school and was instantly hooked.

That early passion grew into a clear goal. The University of Edinburgh’s global reputation for Artificial Intelligence, particularly its role as a leader in ethical and accessible AI development, made it the ideal place to study. For students like Yafet, from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds, being part of the future of AI is not just exciting — it’s essential.

Thanks to the support of alumni donors through the Access Edinburgh Scholarship, Yafet was able to turn his ambition into reality. Now in his third year studying Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science, he reflects on just how far he’s come.

“Edinburgh has been everything I wanted from a university experience.”

Yafet in the School of Informatics computer lab

But it’s more than just the academics. The scholarship has made it possible for Yafet to fully immerse himself in student life. He’s joined the Formula Student Engineering Society, plays for Informatics Rugby, and attended his first ever ball with the Irish Society. These experiences have helped him build friendships, grow in confidence, and make the most of every opportunity.

“The scholarship allows me to say ‘yes’ to things,” he explains. “I can go for a coffee with course friends to talk through our presentation, instead of rushing off to a shift. I can be part of a community here.”

The practical benefits are also profound. The scholarship helped Yafet purchase a laptop essential for his course. It’s meant he doesn’t need to take on multiple part-time jobs, giving him more time to focus on his studies and extracurriculars. For Yafet, it’s clear: the scholarship has helped level the playing field.

“There’s nothing that separates me anymore. It helps academically on a day-to-day basis and gives me the freedom to pursue what I love.”

Yafet is now paying it forward by mentoring school pupils in a deprived area of Edinburgh, full-circle moment inspired by his own experience at IntoUniversity.

Many students like Yafet still face barriers to accessing higher education. Around 50% of school leavers don’t go into tertiary education. Within that group are thousands of talented young people who simply can’t see a route forward, due to financial constraints, lack of support, or uncertainty about what’s possible.

Yafet at the School of Informatics

That’s where support from alumni and friends come in.

By donating to scholarships, you are helping remove those barriers. You are investing in students like Yafet, in their potential, their ambition, and their future impact.

Thank you to our alumni and friends for supporting scholarships. You’ve helped create lasting change. In Yafet’s own words:

“Alumni donors have made me a better person. You’ve given me the freedom to pursue my passions and hobbies at the University of Edinburgh, such as being a mentor to school-age children in a deprived area of the city.”

Your gift doesn’t just support a student, it supports a story, a future, a ripple effect of opportunity. And together, we can continue to make that difference. Thank you.

Watch a message of appreciation from Yafet by clicking on the below video link (please note by clicking on this link you will be provided with the option of watching on our YouTube Channel which includes subtitles)