As I continue this incredible journey with the ESOMAR Foundation, I wanted to take a moment to share a brief update on my progress. While we haven’t yet been cleared to begin our projects—two units are still pending—I’ve been using the time to reflect, plan, and dream boldly.

One project that’s especially close to my heart is tentatively titled “The Shadows of Motherhood.” It explores the emotional and physical challenges many women face during pregnancy, including recurrent miscarriages, postpartum depression, stillbirths, and the overwhelming lack of preparedness many mothers experience. These deeply personal and painful issues are often underrepresented—especially in African societies—where discussions around mental health are still limited and stigmas persist. In some communities, these experiences are even misunderstood or misattributed to witchcraft, rather than acknowledged as legitimate health and social concerns.

This project aims to shed light on those stories and help pave the way for greater understanding, empathy, and support.

On a deeply personal note, I recently had the chance to visit my paternal grandmother. Sitting across from her, I shared the news about the ESOMAR Foundation and my academic journey. Her reaction was something I will never forget—pure joy and overwhelming gratitude.

I am the first grandchild, and the first woman in my family to pursue a master’s degree. My grandmother, now 80, never had the opportunity to study beyond third grade. At the time, education was considered a privilege reserved for boys. Girls were expected to stay home, raise families, and conform to traditional roles.

Through tears, she asked me to share her heartfelt thanks with the ESOMAR Foundation. For her, this moment was more than personal—it was historic. She never imagined she’d live to see a woman in her family reach this milestone.

To the ESOMAR Foundation: Thank you. From me, my family, and my community. This opportunity has filled our hearts with hope and pride. I do not take it for granted. I carry your trust with deep responsibility and a pledge to give back—to make a lasting, sustainable impact in my society.

Thank you for putting smiles on our faces and for renewing the dreams of generations past.

Barbara Ayugi Odawo, a postgraduate student at the University of Nairobi, Kenya, is the recipient of the ESOMAR Foundation scholarship. Barbara is pursuing a Master of Arts in Project Planning & Management.

How You Can Support
If you are a market researcher, a national market research association, an NGO involved in research, or a university interested in offering scholarships in your country, please contact us at: info@esomarfoundation.org

Partners & Sponsors
We are always looking for new partners and sponsors. If your organization is interested in learning more about how you can support us, please find further information here or reach out to us at: info@esomarfoundation.org

What is desire? It’s the powerful yearning for something more.
What is passion? It’s the deep fire that drives us.
What is faith? It’s the unshakable belief in what we cannot yet see.
What is hopelessness? It’s the heavy cloud of despair that darkens even the brightest dreams.
What is chronic stress? It’s the constant, unrelenting pressure that makes each day feel heavier than the last.
What is anxiety? It’s the fear of the unknown, creeping in quietly, yet overwhelming.

These emotions weren’t just definitions to me—they were my reality. I lived them, day in and day out, caught on a never-ending emotional roller coaster. That was, until I discovered the ESOMAR Foundation.

After earning my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology, I felt called to make a lasting difference. I knew that to truly drive impact, I needed to continue my studies—this time in Project Planning and Management. I believed that with the right tools and knowledge, I could help develop sustainable projects that would promote gender equity, raise mental health awareness, and confront the injustices woven into our society and its harmful cultural practices.

This realization lit a fire in me. I longed for the chance to return to school—a privilege I didn’t take lightly. Fueled by my passion for mental health and my vision for a more just and equitable society, I enrolled in a Master’s program at the University of Nairobi. I didn’t know it then, but that leap of faith marked the beginning of a journey filled with both uncertainty and immense joy—thanks to the ESOMAR Foundation.

With the support of my family, the grace of God, and a few kind-hearted well-wishers, I managed to complete my first and second semesters. But then the road became uncertain. Financial obstacles loomed large, and I began to lose hope. I was on the brink of dropping out—until I came across the ESOMAR Foundation and their remarkable work supporting students like me.

Encouraged, I took a leap of faith and applied. I told myself, “The worst they can say is no.” But instead of rejection, I was met with kindness, responsiveness, and genuine care. I held onto hope and prayed.

Then came the moment that changed my life forever: Sunday, January 19, 2025. I opened my email and read the words: “We are pleased to inform you…” I had been awarded the scholarship.

I broke down in tears—tears of joy, relief, and pure gratitude. I cried for three days straight, overwhelmed by the kindness ESOMAR had shown me. At a time when I was barely holding on, they lifted me up and reignited my dream.

Without ESOMAR, I wouldn’t have been able to sit for my exams that semester. Despite showing up, attending all my classes, and completing my coursework, I was at risk of being left behind—until they stepped in.

If ESOMAR were a person, I’d call them Christlike. They made the impossible possible. They replaced my despair with hope. They believed in me when I had almost stopped believing in myself. Their generosity wasn’t just financial—it was transformational.

If I had to describe ESOMAR in one word, it would be love. Because that’s exactly what they gave me—pure, selfless love. And that love changed everything.

How You Can Support
If you are a market researcher, a national market research association, an NGO involved in research, or a university interested in offering scholarships in your country, please contact us at: info@esomarfoundation.org

Partners & Sponsors
We are always looking for new partners and sponsors. If your organization is interested in learning more about how you can support us, please find further information here or reach out to us at: info@esomarfoundation.org

26 March 2025, Amsterdam, NL – The ESOMAR Foundation is proud to announce a new scholarship aimed at supporting a deserving student entering a market research-related field of study in Kenya.

Barbara Ayugi Odawo, a postgraduate student at the University of Nairobi, Kenya, is the recipient of this scholarship. Barbara is pursuing a Master of Arts in Project Planning & Management.

It has always been Barbara’s desire to develop sustainable projects through consistent research to improve the lives of individuals in her community. Project management greatly complements her psychology and sociology background by providing the logical framework necessary for effective project implementation.

Upon hearing of her scholarship, Barbara shared, “I am eternally grateful to the ESOMAR Foundation for holding my hand throughout this journey. Thank you for your understanding, generosity, and prompt processing of my tuition fees. Your support has been truly humbling, and I have never experienced such kindness before.”

John Kearon, President of the ESOMAR Foundation, expressed his appreciation: “We are thrilled that we can offer Barbara this opportunity, and we are excited for the knowledge and experiences you will gain during this period of your life. Market research is an incredibly exciting career path, and we are confident you will find the learning process both stimulating and rewarding as you apply your knowledge in this field”.

Eligibility criteria

Eligibility Criteria Scholarship Programme _Postgraduate (master)

Eligibility Criteria Scholarship Programme _Undergraduate

Scholarship Application 

Application Form

How You Can Support
If you are a market researcher, a national market research association, an NGO involved in research, or a university interested in offering scholarships in your country, please contact us at: info@esomarfoundation.org

Partners & Sponsors
We are always looking for new partners and sponsors. If your organization is interested in learning more about how you can support us, please find further information here or reach out to us at: info@esomarfoundation.org

As I sit down to write this and reflect on my academic journey, one phrase comes to mind—Fueled by ESOMAR Foundation.  I am overwhelmed with gratitude and a deep sense of accomplishment. On February 14, 2025, I completed my final coursework exam—a moment that felt both surreal and exhilarating. It has been a long and transformative journey, one that has stretched my intellectual limits, reshaped my thinking, and reinforced my passion for research and data-driven decision-making.

The ESOMAR Foundation’s support has been more than just financial assistance; it has been a catalyst, propelling me into a transformative learning experience filled with knowledge, meaningful connections, and a clearer vision for the future. It also gave me the confidence and motivation to pursue my studies with unwavering dedication. It reaffirmed my belief in the power of education and the importance of organizations that invest in knowledge and talent.

The Courses That Ignited My Passion

Throughout my coursework, several subjects left a lasting impact on me. Project financing stood out the most—I realized how crucial it is, especially in the world of research, where securing funding can be a challenge. Understanding the financial mechanisms behind projects, the sustainability of funding models, and the strategies to navigate financial constraints has been eye-opening.

Equally inspiring were courses on environmental issues, particularly those exploring climate change and how projects impact the environment and vice versa. As someone deeply concerned about sustainability, these discussions reinforced my commitment to ensuring that research and development projects align with environmental conservation.

Then came statistics and research methods—which have always excited me. I strongly believe in the power of data to shape meaningful decisions, and my coursework only deepened this belief. One of my esteemed professors often emphasized data-driven decision-making, and that phrase has become a guiding principle for me. I do not just want to be a researcher or a project manager; I want to be one who embraces data as a cornerstone for impactful change.

The Power of Connections

One of the most rewarding aspects of my journey has been the relationships and intellectual exchanges I’ve built with my peers, lecturers, and mentors. Engaging discussions inside and outside the classroom have sharpened my perspectives, challenged my assumptions, and broadened my understanding of various subjects.

My professors, in particular, have been instrumental—not just as educators but as thought leaders who encouraged us to question, analyze, and innovate. Their guidance has given me confidence in my abilities and reinforced the importance of lifelong learning.

The friendships I’ve made with classmates will remain invaluable. These are individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, and our shared experiences have created a network of future researchers and professionals who I know will make a difference in their fields.

Looking Ahead: Research with Purpose

As I transition into the next phase—my research project—I am more than fired up. I am going into it full throttle, ready to apply everything I have learned. This research is not just an academic requirement for me; it is a chance to contribute meaningfully to my field, to produce knowledge that can inform policies, and to make a difference in real-world applications.

I know the road ahead will not be easy, but the foundation laid by my coursework, the support of the ESOMAR Foundation, and the academic network I have built give me confidence. This is just the beginning of an exciting journey in research, data, and impactful decision-making.

A Heartfelt Thank You

To the ESOMAR Foundation, I extend my deepest gratitude. Your support has not only enabled me to pursue my education but has also fueled my ambition to create change through research and data. Your investment in students like me is an investment in the future of knowledge and progress.

To my lecturers, classmates, and everyone who has been part of this journey, thank you for the knowledge, the encouragement, and the thought-provoking conversations. You have been an essential part of my growth, and I will carry these experiences with me as I move forward.

This is just the beginning. Fueled by ESOMAR, I am ready to take on the future.

Tom Joe Omollo is pursuing a Master of Arts in Project Planning & Management at University of Nairobi, Kenya. Tom Joe is the recipient of a scholarship funded by the ESOMAR Foundation.

How you can support

If you are a market researcher, a national market research association, an NGO involved in research, or a university interested in a scholarship in your country please contact us at info@esomarfoundation.org

Partners & Sponsors

We are always on the lookout for partners and sponsors. If you are an organisation looking to understand more about how you can support us, please find more information here or contact:  info@esomarfoundation.org