Meet Our Four Newest Gallaher Trust Scholars
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Gallagher Trust students, left to right- Noah Hought, Michael Cushenan, Jelisejs Sestakovs, and Caoimhe Layland McGroggan.
Four ambitious young people from the Ballymena area are embarking on exciting educational journeys thanks to the Supporting Communities Scholarship Scheme, delivered in partnership with Gallaher Trust.
The scholarship programme, which has been extended for another three years, provides eligible students with a £1,000 technology package in their first year, followed by £1,500 annually for each subsequent year of study. The initiative is designed to break down barriers to further education for disadvantaged young adults pursuing business or STEM-based subjects.
This year's scholarship recipients are already making their mark as they pursue degrees in software engineering, biomedical science, mathematics, and computer science.
Making Dreams a Reality
Jelisejs Sestakovs from St Louis Grammar in Ballymena is now studying Mathematics with Computer Science at Queen's University Belfast. An active volunteer with the Russian Speaking community, Jelisejs has assisted with chess and drama clubs, even lending his audio engineering skills to theatrical productions. When he's not immersed in his studies, you might find him at the board game club in Antrim (where he owns an impressive collection of over 100 games), practising his yo-yo skills, or attending weekly ping-pong and ju-jitsu sessions.
Michael Cushenan, also from St Louis Grammar, is pursuing Software Engineering at Queen's University Belfast with a placement year built into his four-year programme. Recognising the importance of preparation, Michael attended a five-day Kainos code camp before university to build his confidence in programming. The experience paid off, culminating in him developing a complete website independently. Michael balances his studies with regular visits to Ballymena Leisure Centre, where swimming, badminton, and gym sessions with friends help him maintain discipline and relieve academic pressure.
Caoimhe Leyland-McGroggan is studying Applied Biomedical Science with a Diploma in Professional Practice in Pathology at Ulster University, Coleraine. She's an accomplished artist who has sold several of her paintings, earned a Silver Medal at the Biology Olympiad, and received the University of Ulster Gold pin for completing online science courses. Her dedication to environmental issues led to her involvement in the school's Eco Council, and she's also earned the Gold Pope John Paul Award.
Noah Hought from Cambridge House Grammar School is now at Queen's University Belfast studying Computer Science with Professional Experience. Growing up in a low-income household with his disabled father has taught Noah resilience and responsibility from an early age. His diverse interests include fitness, chess, darts, and coding, and he's currently teaching himself card tricks to entertain friends and family. His determination to overcome circumstances and pursue his passion for technology exemplifies the spirit of the scholarship programme.
Building Stronger Communities
"It's very rewarding to see the impact that the scholarship scheme is having on the students," said Stephanie McKillop from Supporting Communities. "With the support of The Gallaher Trust, we're not only helping young people to access higher education and to develop technical skills, we're building a stronger, more resilient community and ensuring our local economy is prepared for the future."
The renewed three-year commitment from The Gallaher Trust means even more talented students like Jelisejs, Michael, Caoimhe, and Noah will have the opportunity to pursue their chosen career paths and make a positive impact across the region.
To date, nine students have benefited from this scholarship. The programme continues to remove financial barriers and unlock potential for young people in the Ballymena area who are pursuing business or STEM subjects at Northern Regional College or local universities.
To learn more about our scholarship programmes, contact stef@supportingcommunities.org.
