Stormzy comes to College to meet students on scholarship scheme

Legendary musician Stormzy visited Jesus College to catch up with many of the Cambridge University students being supported through the Stormzy Scholarship scheme.

The six-foot four rapper appeared in good spirits as he pulled up outside the Master’s Lodge in the spring sunshine wearing shorts, a matching tracksuit top and trainers.

He stopped to greet staff before heading inside to spend time with the group of Stormzy Scholars, chatting with them at length about their studies and offering encouragement.

Since launching in 2018, the scholarships have helped alleviate the financial worries and transform the university experience of 44 students from less advantaged socio-economic backgrounds.

The scheme is credited with helping Cambridge to attract more applications from a traditionally under-represented group.

Master of the College, Sonita Alleyne, who was the first black Master of any Oxbridge College when she took up the post in 2019, said: “We were delighted to be able to host this private event. It was a pleasure to meet Stormzy and the students being supported through this scheme which is having a significant impact in encouraging applications from Black students.

“It’s great to see how passionate he is about using his platform to give back and make a real difference.”

It’s anticipated that about 80 students will have received a Stormzy Scholarship by 2026.

In July last year, banking group HSBC UK came on board and pledged an additional £2 million to fund a further 30 student places over three years.

Meanwhile the #Merky Foundation, the UK charity founded by Stormzy, will continue to fund a further two students per year.