Layla Shuma

17 years old, attending Hillcrest School, Nairobi, Kenya. Layla was awarded a Beacon Scholarship in May 2024.

Layla has handled the transition to A-levels in Maths, Physics and DT reflectively and maturely, seeking guidance and extra exam practice from her teachers and connecting with fellow Beacon Scholars. She was proud to maintain the highest grade in DT over the academic year.

Layla enjoys and excels in many co-curricular activities and was proud to achieve 3rd place in the ICP Film Challenge, for a documentary on sustainable farming practices. She plays in the U19 basketball and rugby teams, and is committed to maintaining her training and fitness. She enjoys debate, competing in Battle of the Crows, and participating in MUN and HYLEC. A keen singer, Layla is part of the choir and even gave a solo performance. 

Layla is an active presence at school and has secured executive positions in the Peer Counselling and Scholars’ Societies. One of her key contributions is mentoring and supporting new students to settle into school life. She is the CSR President and also a Prefect, a role through which she contributed to organising a community run in remembrance of a fellow student. 

One of Layla’s proudest Citizenship achievements is successfully leading the Y12 community service group to a vocational centre in Kibera throughout the academic year. She is also involved with the CSR group organising initiatives such as service drives in nearby children’s homes. 

Beacon Workshop Participation

In Workshops, Layla is creative and growing in confidence. Her contributions are resourceful, and she is an engaged participant.

Beacon Summer Citizenship Project

Layla’s Summer Citizenship Project was called ’Write your story’ and focused on encouraging self-expression through creative arts.