The latest recipient of the Millennium Point Scholarship is aiming to help solve the UK’s housing crisis - starting with the West Midlands - after impressing judges and a live final audience to win the prize.
Shennice Talburt, currently working as a paralegal, will now study Real Estate at Birmingham City University’s Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment, with her degree paid for by the Millennium Point Charitable Trust.
More than 160 applications were received from across the West Midlands for this year's scholarship programme, which is in its sixth year, representing a new record.
A group of five business leaders from across Birmingham’s business community were selected to assess the finalists, who presented their ideas for the future to a live crowd.
Winner Shennice, from Birmingham, said: “I am so proud to have been selected as the winner of this year’s Millennium Point Scholarship.
“All five finalists were incredible, with great ideas and the drive and determination to carry them out.
“This is something I have kept quiet and focused on by myself, so it will be some surprise for my family when I tell them.
“I think the housing crisis is a major issue that needs creative thinking and I want to bring new ideas to the table and help the millions of people who are suffering as a result of this situation.”
More than £5 million in profits from the commercial activity of the multi-award winning Birmingham venue Millennium Point is invested by its Charitable Trust into projects, events and initiatives which support the growth and development of STEM initiatives in the West Midlands region.
The scholarship programme is a key part of this charitable calendar.
While the winner will enrol on an undergraduate course at Birmingham City University, the other four finalists will receive ongoing support towards their careers including coaching, mentoring and industry work experience provided through Millennium Point.
Abigail Vlahakis, CEO at Millennium Point, said: “The quality of our finalists has blown me away, they are all so inspiring.
“I would like to congratulate them all, but especially Shennice, whose ideas really shone a light on possible solutions to one of the biggest issues in the region.”
Hanifah Shah, a judge in the final and Executive Dean of Birmingham City’s University’s Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment, said: “The drive, determination and desire to change society for the better through the application of engineering and technology is incredibly strong in all five finalists.
“We’re delighted that Shennice will be joining the Faculty of Computing Engineering and the Built Environment later this year with the Millennium Point Scholarship and look forward to working with the runners up as well.
“Birmingham City University extends its thanks to all involved in this exciting, valuable and impactful initiative and event.”
PR by Reeves Public Relations agency in Birmingham and Newcastle