Rafmary’s story – helping others gain skills for success in today's increasingly digitised and globalised world

At Study Group we are always keen to celebrate the progress and success of our students and in particular the contributions they are making to society. So we were delighted to catch up with Rafmary Baker to learn about her educational journey and hear about her latest project.

“For me, it all began in a small coastal town called Cumana in Venezuela,” Rafmary told us. “From an early age, I dreamed of pursuing an international education. However, my main challenge was accessing the necessary information on how to achieve this goal. Despite the difficulties, my determination remained strong, and with the unwavering support of my mother, we sought out every possible avenue to understand the steps required. My journey was driven by a deep desire to broaden my horizons and gain a global perspective.”

Rafmary undertook an International Foundation Year in Social Sciences at our Royal Holloway, University of London International Study Centre. She then progressed to the university to read Politics and International Relations, where she achieved First Class Honours. Subsequently, she won a Graduate Research Award from Girton College, University of Cambridge, which enabled her to pursue postgraduate studies in Development Studies at the University of Cambridge.

Such enriching experiences as an international student in the UK nurtured Rafmary’s personal and professional development. She now holds the position of Director at Cambridge Business Online Centre, an educational enterprise that assists learners aged 16 and above in gaining skills leading to meaningful employment, enabling them to start their own business, or pursue further education to achieve their goals.

Their Skills Training programme, which recently received a national award for innovation, focuses on individuals who have faced challenges with formal education, are uncertain about their future steps, are at risk of becoming NEET (Not in Employment, Education, or Training), or are currently unemployed. In addition to skills training, the centre also offers UK innovation advice and support, university pathway courses, English language training for certifications like IELTS, and comprehensive career advice and support.

“One of the most enriching experiences I have had is the privilege of connecting with individuals from all corners of the globe. This journey has profoundly shaped my understanding of, and appreciation for, humankind - with all its diverse systems of belief, thought, language, and culture. It has shown me firsthand that embracing our differences, guided by mutual respect, can lead to a harmonious and meaningful coexistence, underscoring the immense richness that diversity brings to our lives.”