Story

My name is Iqbal Wali, and I am writing to humbly request financial assistance to support my pursuit of an distance Master’s degree in Psychology at the University of Derby. I am an Afghan national, and my journey toward this dream has been fraught with challenges, yet I remain resolute in my commitment to make a positive impact both in my community and beyond.

I graduated from university in 2012. Since then, I have been tirelessly seeking scholarships and financial aid to enable me to pursue a Master’s program, but despite my best efforts, my quest has been largely in vain. I have invested significant time and resources in search of opportunities, driven by a passion for understanding the human mind and helping those in need.

In 2019, I believed I was on the brink of realizing this dream. I worked diligently to save enough money to fund my Master’s studies abroad. However, the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic thwarted my plans, and the travel ban imposed during that time left me stranded, both physically and metaphorically. When I thought hope was on the horizon again, the political landscape in Afghanistan shifted drastically with the Taliban’s takeover, making it impossible for me to pursue my education there or obtain necessary documentation to study abroad.

As a result of these developments, I have depleted almost all my savings. The opportunity to study at the University of Derby represents not just personal ambition, but an avenue to bring about change in a society that is in dire need of psychological awareness and support. Mental health is often stigmatized in Afghanistan, and I envision my education contributing to breaking down these barriers, providing support to those suffering in silence.

The tuition fees for the Master’s program amount to £9,450. This figure is a substantial hurdle, one that feels insurmountable given my current financial circumstances. While I am committed to finding a way to fund this dream, I recognize that without external assistance, my goal may remain out of reach. I am reaching out for support, not only to obtain an education but to fulfill a promise to my community — a promise that I will return equipped with knowledge and skills to better lives.

I genuinely believe that my success in this academic endeavor can ripple through my community, empowering others and inspiring change. I envision establishing mental health initiatives tailored for the unique cultural landscape of Afghanistan, where understanding mental health is paramount for building a healthier society.

In light of my circumstances and aspirations, I appeal to your compassion and generosity for support in funding my tuition fees. Your assistance could truly transform my life and enable me to contribute positively to those who need it most.

Thank you for considering my request. I am hopeful that, together, we can make a meaningful difference.

Sincerely,

Iqbal Wali