Two young Antiguans, Anetta Jackson and Latisha Browne, have completed postgraduate studies in the UK through the prestigious Chevening Scholarship programme.

Jackson earned a Master of Science in Gender, Policy and Inequalities from the London School of Economics, while Browne received an MSc in Forensic Investigation from Cranfield University.

The UK-funded Chevening Scholarship supports emerging leaders from across the globe in pursuing one-year master’s degrees at British universities.

Jackson, a Crown Counsel at the Attorney General’s Chambers, reflected on the experience as life-changing, praising her fellow scholars and support network.

“Just a year ago, I had no idea how valuable these people would be to me… I can reflect and say this year was definitely my year,” she wrote on social media. She plans to return to her role in September and continue her advocacy in gender justice, having previously worked with the Directorate of Gender Affairs and NGO Intersect Antigua.

Browne, currently a Forensics Technician with the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, described the programme as “extraordinary.” Her thesis focused on gunshot residue, and she hopes to become the country’s first female ballistics expert.

“This experience has pushed me beyond my limits, taught me perseverance, and fuelled my passion for forensic science,” she said. “I hope to transfer this knowledge to my colleagues back home.”

Browne also became the first female officer in the Force to receive a Chevening Scholarship and encouraged others to follow suit.

Both scholars expressed gratitude to the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and the Chevening Alumni community, joining a growing list of Antiguans and Barbudans who have benefitted from the programme.