The announcement was this week in Barbados, following a rigorous selection process that saw nine regional finalists compete for one of the world’s most prestigious academic awards.
Nelson, 21, will pursue a Master’s in Biology by Research at the University of Oxford under the scholarship. Fighting back tears, she said she was honoured to be chosen and determined to use the opportunity to serve the region.
“I want to do amazing work. I want to do work that helps the Caribbean. I want to do work that helps people,” Nelson said. “There is need everywhere, and I know that I can fulfill the need, especially in the bios.
There’s one Rhodes Scholar at Fantigo, and I will be the second one. I want to give that representation for Afro-Caribbean people, especially in the cell world, in cell biology, and that’s what I would like to do.”
Meanwhile, Barbadian finalist Lianna Williams, the island’s sole representative, described the experience as rewarding.
She outlined her vision of applying economics to shape stronger social policy for Barbados and the wider Caribbean, citing pressing issues such as youth violence, income inequality, and rising living costs.
