Ronald McDonald House Charities South East Queensland (RMHC SEQ) is giving deserving young people a chance to get their education or career back on track with the annual Charlie Bell Scholarship.
The scholarship awards $5,000 grants to young people aged 15-20 who have been impacted by an illness or injury during their childhood and are leaving school to attend a tertiary or vocational institution in 2025.
The grant money can go towards university or TAFE fees, apprenticeship tools, supplies, or anything that will help them reach their tertiary goals.
At an early age 2023 Charlie Bell Scholarship recipient, Sophie Nance, was diagnosed with Maroteaux-Lamy Syndrome (MPS 6), a condition that has had a significant impact on her day-to-day life.
"My condition has come with its challenges – I was constantly playing catch up at school due to missing classes for medical appointments and weekly infusions, I wasn't able to run around with my friends as I require a wheelchair and I have undergone multiple surgeries," she said.
As a recipient of the Charlie Bell Scholarship, Sophie was able to use the money to purchase a new laptop and textbooks for university.
"I am now pursuing my dreams and studying a Bachelor of Social Work at Queensland University of Technology as well as developing my business, 'Just Be You' - a clothing brand tailored for people with Dwarfism."
"I'd like to thank RMHC SEQ for choosing me as a recipient for the Charlie Bell Scholarship, it was nice to be recognised for the struggles I have been through and for my achievements," she said.
"I highly recommend other students to apply for the scholarship, it has helped lighten my financial burden and allowed me to focus on my studies."
RMHC SEQ Chief Executive Officer, Emma Thompson said the organisation feels privileged to be able to give young people a chance to succeed in their tertiary education.
"An illness or injury can make life stand still, making any progress – whether it be in your education or career, feel almost impossible. That's why our scholarship exists," she said.
"The Charlie Bell Scholarship is such a special program of our organisation, and every year we are amazed by the young adults who apply and are inspired by their dedication to not let their diagnosis stop them from reaching their goals."
Applications for the RMHC Charlie Bell Scholarship for 2024 are open now until 30 November 2024. Applicants do not need to have stayed at a Ronald McDonald House to be eligible to apply.
