SOAS alum start-up named semi finalist at Santander X UK Awards 2023

SOAS alum Vendela Werkelin has been named as a semi-finalist at the Santander X UK Awards 2023 for her work with start-up company Scholaro, which has created an app to source scholarship funding for students with the use of AI. 

The company, co-founded by Vendela with the aim of making scholarships more accessible to prospective students, was shortlisted for the Santander awards after a semi-final pitch at The Oval, London in November, with the winner to be announced in December. The nomination follows on from the recent announcement where Scholaro was selected as one of the top three companies for the Best Young Business Idea 2023 in Stockholm.

Discussing the nominations Vendela, who completed a BA International Relations at SOAS, said:

“The Scholaro team believe that everyone should have equal opportunities to pursue higher education, regardless of their background or financial constraints. Scholaro's AI-powered platform has already made a significant impact, having successfully assisted thousands of students in their quest for scholarships. 

Scholaro's AI-powered platform has already made a significant impact, having successfully assisted thousands of students in their quest for scholarships.

“By winning the Santander seed funding competition, you don’t only receive a generous amount of prize money, but you also get access to personalised mentor sessions, together with great business coaches which helps you to tap into more complex questions that you might not always consider as a first-time business owner or entrepreneur.” 

Farida Danmeri from the Centre for African Studies added:

“We are delighted to have played a role in supporting this remarkable social enterprise last year. Vendela and her colleagues have already shown incredible commitment and innovation in scaling Scholaro's social impact within such a short period.

"We wish the team continued success in the upcoming round of the Best Young Business Idea 2023 and in their future endeavours.” 

Find out more about the Santander X UK Awards 2023.