Chevening Networking Essay
Over the past two years, I have managed to develop and maintain a regular contact of professional analytical chemists which form an integral part of my professional network. My current status as a graduate quality analyst and an associate member of the Institute of Public Analyst of Nigeria (IPAN) has afforded me the opportunity to participate in a two-day training workshop organized and conducted by fellows of the institute, researchers, academicians, and stakeholders in the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Quality Control (QC) sector of Nigeria. At the end of the training workshop, I was opportune to meet and exchange contacts with the fellows and participants who were public quality analyst, researchers, food and drug scientist, pharmacist, consultants, chemist, and academicians.
Not only did I develop a network of professional contacts, I currently maintain these contacts using three strategies; first, by trading direct calls and messages and reposting articles or content they create or ought to promote on food and drug safety, either on Twitter or LinkedIn. Second, offering my assistance in the best possible way in order to help them accomplish their project. Third, offering to introduce them to potential clients and individuals who I think they will benefit from. An example was during my previous employment at Rite-foods Nig. Ltd. At a particular time we were facing challenges in complying with the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) quality standard in producing Yam fries because we lacked alternatives to premodern manufacturing practices. Thus, I contacted a food consultant whom I met during the workshop, who then offered to develop our production process and as a result we were able comply with SON set quality standard.
Developing and maintaining a network of professionals is not only an enriching experience, rather, it gives me a platform to make a positive impact in my community by helping people to grow and develop professionally. Hence if awarded the Chevening scholarship, my plan is to develop and maintain a network that includes Chevening scholars and alumni, global leaders, professional chemist, researchers, and academicians whilst participating in conferences and seminars organized by the Chevening communal, and upon return to Nigeria, I plan to connect with Nigeria Chevening alumni network and assist in providing mentorship to scholars who are starting their Chevening experience by sharing my knowledge and experience during my study in the UK, and also assist in providing mentorship for new alumni of the Chevening scholarship in order to help them maximize their academic and professional experience.
Similarly, I plan to develop a communal by integrating my Chevening network with my existing professional network. The objective of the communal will be to provide mentorship to food industries with an aim to improve food quality in my region. Extending this network will not only benefit the food system in my region, however, it will have a lasting impact on my network of quality analyst and thus, raising Chevening's profile and attracting potential partnerships that will support the Chevening scheme.
