Celebrating STEM: The James Kane Foundation 2025 Scholarship Recipients

OUr 2025 James Kane Foundation Scholarship recipients

From aspiring astrophysicists to future forensic scientists, The James Kane Foundation Scholarship recipients are already making their mark. These five exceptional students are proof that when talent meets opportunity, remarkable things will happen.

Supporting Communities is delighted to present this year's scholarship recipients. Each has demonstrated not only academic excellence but also the resilience, passion, and community spirit that define the next generation of STEM leaders. Their stories, shaped by personal challenges, creative pursuits, and a genuine desire to make a difference, showcase why investing in young talent matters.

Many thanks to The James Kane Foundation for their continued generosity and belief in the power of education. Their support enables these students to overcome financial barriers, pursue ambitious academic pathways, and contribute to the long-term prosperity of our communities. We're delighted to share their stories and to celebrate the meaningful impact this funding makes each year.

Michael Wilson, Chair of The James Kane Foundation, commented, “It’s fantastic to see the positive impact of these scholarships, and we wish Henry, Emilie, Rebecca, Ethan and Sarvanz the very best of luck in their studies.”

Meet Our 2025 Recipients

Henry McAreavey

Studying: Physics with Astrophysics – Queen's University Belfast

Henry McAreavey, from St Ronan's College, Lurgan, has been awarded the scholarship in recognition of his strong commitment to physics and STEM. Henry has demonstrated consistent academic dedication and has shown a deep passion for astrophysics through personal interests such as astronomy and photography.

He has also built leadership and communication experience through his involvement in the first Northern Ireland Youth Assembly, contributing to the Rights and Equality Committee. His participation in the Queen's University Pathway Programme further showcases his motivation and preparedness for university-level study. Henry's enthusiasm for learning, combined with his civic engagement, makes him a highly deserving recipient.

Emilie Beeching

Studying: Biomedical Science – Ulster University

Emilie Beeching of Portadown College is an exceptionally committed STEM student who has shown a persistent dedication to her studies. She is also highly active beyond the classroom, performing with the KCP School of Drama and participating in her school's STEM Ambassadors programme.

Her decision to pursue biomedical science is inspired by a profound personal experience. During the Covid-19 pandemic, her mother became seriously ill due to a misdiagnosis, prompting Emilie to take on significant responsibilities at home while maintaining her academic focus. This challenging period motivated her to build a future career in improving diagnostic tools and patient outcomes.

Emilie's resilience, maturity, and determination to contribute to the biomedical sector make her an excellent scholarship recipient.

Rebecca Hamill

Studying: Biomedical Science – Ulster University

Rebecca Hamill, a former student of St Ronan's College, has demonstrated strong academic commitment in preparation for her biomedical science degree and hopes to progress to a Master's in Forensic Science.

Rebecca has a long-standing passion for musical theatre, performing in multiple productions including Frozen, Rapunzel, Sleeping Beauty, and Sunset Boulevard at the Grand Opera House. These experiences reflect her confidence, teamwork, and creativity.

She took a year out after school to work at River Island to save for university, showing financial responsibility and forward planning. Rebecca is also a long-serving volunteer at her local youth club, where she has supported young people for five years and now serves as a senior leader. Her dedication, work ethic, and contribution to her community make her a strong fit for the scholarship.

Ethan Jones

Studying: Applied Mathematics and Physics – Queen's University Belfast

Ethan Jones, from Lurgan College, has shown exceptional commitment to both his academic studies and his personal development.

His personal interests include gaming, walking, documentaries, and music with science and geography themes. Ethan has also received school recognition for his achievements in Digital Technology.

His motivation, resilience, and passion for STEM subjects strongly support his selection as a scholarship awardee.

Sarvnaz Soleimani-Noori

Studying: Biomedical Science with Placement Year – Ulster University

Sarvnaz Soleimani-Noori of Lurgan College has consistently demonstrated academic dedication, leadership, and community involvement. She has been involved in ballet and competitive swimming for over a decade, showing long-term commitment and self-discipline. As a school prefect and active member of the community service team, she has helped deliver fundraising events to support two sponsored children and contributed to raising £2,000 through charity initiatives.

Sarvnaz also works part-time at Tesco, developing teamwork and responsibility, and volunteers at a local special needs school, supporting art activities. Her scientific curiosity is reflected in participation in an Almac workshop involving laboratory techniques such as DNA extraction and gel electrophoresis. Work experience at a local dental practice further broadened her understanding of healthcare environments.

Her leadership, scientific engagement, and strong work ethic make her highly deserving of the scholarship.

About the Scholarship

The James Kane Foundation Scholarship targets students in the Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon Council area who are applying to Queen's or Ulster University to study STEM degrees. This round, five exceptional students received the prestigious £ 2,000-per-year scholarship for up to three years of their course.

Lynn Connaughton, board member for the James Kane Foundation, told us, "These scholarships enable talented students to remain in education and successfully complete their courses by helping cover tuition fees and essential costs such as equipment, materials, and travel expenses. We believe that financial barriers should never stand in the way of ambition and potential. Through these scholarships, the James Kane Foundation is investing in the future of our young people by supporting students who aspire to achieve their academic and career goals."

Stephanie McKillop, who coordinated the scholarships on behalf of Supporting Communities, remarked, "It's very rewarding to see the impact that the scholarship scheme is having on the students. With the support of the James Kane Foundation, we're not only helping young people to access higher education and to develop their skills, but we’re also building a stronger, more resilient community and ensuring our local economy is prepared for the future."

Congratulations to all five scholarship recipients! Your dedication, resilience, and passion for STEM are inspiring. We can't wait to see what you achieve.