A future in medicine: Daniella’s story
Daniella Nakazzi’s journey shows the power of determination, opportunity and support. With the help of the Brian Rees Fund, she is taking her first steps into medical school – and we’ll be sharing updates on her progress in the months ahead.
When Daniella moved to Cardiff from Uganda in 2019, after a short stay in Kenya, she brought with her a determination shaped by experience. Time in a refugee camp in Kenya had shown her the importance of healthcare, while watching her mother manage diabetes deepened her resolve to one day become a doctor.
Through resilience, focus and countless hours of study, Daniella thrived at Willows High School in Cardiff and then St David’s College. This summer, she secured her place to study medicine at the University of Southampton.
Recognition of potential
To support this important next step, Daniella has been awarded the Brian Rees Fund – a one-off scholarship created in memory of Mr Brian Rees OBE, who during his lifetime was a Wales rugby international, surgeon and former High Sheriff of South Glamorgan. Brian had been impressed by Willows High School and his family wanted the scholarship to support one of its pupil with ambitions to study medicine – and Daniella embodies that vision. Managed by Community Foundation Wales, the fund will now support her as she begins medical school, easing financial pressures and enabling her to concentrate fully on her studies.
Daniella said: “Without this bursary, studying medicine would have been very difficult for me, but this fund has spurred me to remain fully engaged in my studies. I feel very blessed to have these opportunities, and I am very thankful to Community Foundation Wales for their role in supporting me on this journey. This support has made a life-changing difference, and I feel very fortunate to have benefited from such generosity and encouragement.”
Overcoming barriers
Coming from a low-income, single-parent household, Daniella faced barriers along the way, but with encouragement from her mentors at St David’s College, and her own determination, she pushed forward. She took part in opportunities such as Access to Bristol, gained valuable experience through placements, and benefitted from specialist guidance for aspiring medics.
Olivia McLaren, Director of Learner Journey at St David’s College, said:
“We are incredibly proud of Daniella and all that she has achieved. Her determination, resilience, and academic talent have shone since her initial application to the College. The opportunities that Daniella has had to attend Community Foundation Wales events and meet with supporters have made a transformative difference, and her success is a shining example of what can be achieved when potential is nurtured and supported.”
A legacy of encouragement
The Brian Rees Fund was created to honour the life and values of Dr Brian Rees OBE – a man dedicated to education, community, and service. His legacy lives on through this scholarship, which has given Daniella the opportunity to pursue her dream of studying medicine.
It’s a powerful example of what giving can achieve. Not every donor will be able to establish a scholarship of this size – but every gift, no matter its scale, can remove barriers and open opportunities. Through Community Foundation Wales, donors can shape the change they want to see, whether through a legacy, a fund, or a one-off gift.
Looking ahead
As Daniella begins her studies at Southampton University, she does so through her own determination, supported by those who believe in her potential. And this is just the beginning. We’ll be checking in with her throughout her time at university to share updates on her progress and the difference this support continues to make along the way. Llongyfarchiadau – Congratulations, Daniella, on this exciting next step!
