From Sierra Leone to the United Kingdom: Building Resilience in my  Educational Journey

I am Ramadan B. Kamara, a proud Sierra Leonean with a deep passion for global affairs and a strong dedication to personal growth. My journey to the UK, particularly to the University of Westminster in pursuit of academic excellence, has been defined by unwavering resilience and determination. I will share the transformative experiences shaping my path in the following paragraphs.

Embarking from Sierra Leone to the United Kingdom to pursue a master’s degree in international relations and Democratic Politics at the University of Westminster has been an exciting and transformative experience. One I can ascribe to a journey of resilience and determination. This decision marks a significant milestone in my personal and academic life, driven by my passion for understanding global politics and contributing to the democratic growth of my home country.

Hailing from Sierra Leone, a nation in West Africa with a population of seven million, I have developed a profound interest in understanding how politics influences societies and international relations. My undergraduate studies in political science and my MSc. in International Relations and Diplomacy in Sierra Leone acquainted me with the complexities of governance, democracy, and international diplomacy. However, I felt the need to expand my understanding, and the University of Westminster, renowned for its global perspective and academic excellence in political studies, emerged as the perfect institution to advance my educational journey.

The transition from Sierra Leone to the UK has been challenging and enlightening. The diversity of London, where the University of Westminster is located, exposed me to various cultures, ideas, and perspectives. This exposure allowed me to engage in debates and discussions that sharpened my worldview. Adjusting to the academic system in the UK, with its emphasis on independent research, critical analysis, and theoretical application, has dramatically enhanced my intellectual growth. It also challenged me to think critically about how democratic principles can be applied to developing nations like Sierra Leone.

Through my studies in International Relations and Democratic Politics, I have gained valuable insights into international diplomacy, conflict resolution, and the role of global institutions in promoting peace and democracy. This was exemplified during my visits to Brussels and Kosovo as part of the student team pursuing an MA in International Relations. The academic environment at the University of Westminster has provided me with access to ample resources, diverse perspectives, and the opportunity to collaborate with scholars from around the world. I have gleaned knowledge from textbooks and engaging discussions with professors and fellow students, each offering unique perspectives from various parts of the world.

Studying abroad has put my resilience and adaptability to the test. Being away from home, family, and familiar surroundings has demanded strength and perseverance. However, this experience has equipped me with skills beyond academic knowledge. I have grown more independent, confident, and determined to contribute meaningfully to my community and the world.

Ultimately, my journey from Sierra Leone to the University of Westminster reflects my dedication to personal growth and my aspiration to influence the future of democratic politics in Africa. I aim to bring the knowledge and experience from this program back to my home country, applying the lessons learned to help fortify democratic institutions and cultivate a culture of political accountability in Sierra Leone.

I am deeply inspired to pursue my MA in International Relations and Democratic Politics at the University of Westminster. My motivation stems from a strong desire to contribute to democratic governance, development, and international diplomacy, particularly within the context of Africa, my home country, Sierra Leone, and on a global scale. Additionally, I aim to equip myself for a future career in international relations and inspire young Africans and others to advocate for democratic principles.

In conclusion, this journey has not only been about academic accomplishments but also about personal development. The University of Westminster, in collaboration with DEN, has provided me with the platform to explore, learn, and evolve, arming me with the tools to effect positive change in Sierra Leone and the broader international community.

Ramadan B Kamara