Gabriel Gekonge

19 years old, from Kenya, attending the University of Bristol, UK. Gabriel was awarded a Beacon Scholarship in June 2022.

Gabriel is studying towards an MEng in Aerospace Engineering. He is a very successful student – his targeted and proactive approach to his studies has led to him achieving very well in all his first-year modules. His involvement in the Rocketry Team has led him to consider a career in spacecraft design.

Gabriel enjoys a wide range of sports and fitness activities at Bristol: he plays football for the Bristol Engineering Society in two separate divisions and participates in a basketball league, all underpinned by sessions at the gym which help to improve his strength. Gabriel has also been improving his guitar playing through practice and performing in various jam sessions.

Gabriel is an active figure amongst his peers: he was instrumental in starting an Engineering Study Group which meets weekly for support, understanding and reinforcing lecture material, as well as to collaborate on coursework assignments and revision. His membership of both the Afro-Caribbean and Aerospace Societies have developed his communication skills and provide networking opportunities.

Gabriel takes a leading role in a range of Citizenship activities and he should be applauded for his ability to mobilise his friends to support various Bristol charities. As a STEM Ambassador with Engineers without Borders, he has taken part in delivering practical workshops on water pollution to a local primary school.

Beacon Workshop Participation

Gabriel's 2023 Summer Beacon Citizenship Project focused on nurturing environmental conservation and encouraging environmental stewardship through tree planting within the Kahawa Sukari community in Kiambu County, Kenya.

In Beacon Leadership Workshops, Gabriel always participates actively, involving others and working well in a team. He shows attention to detail, while also keeping the bigger picture in mind. He reflects on workshop learning, using new skills in his roles of responsibility.