Nanyang MBA

The Sellappah Scholarship Empowering Nanyang MBA Scholars to Pay It Forward and Drive Sustainable Change

The Sellappah Scholarship from Nanyang Business School (NBS) has empowered Nanyang MBA scholars to advance their careers while creating meaningful change in their communities. By removing financial barriers, the scholarship has enabled recipients to pursue a world-class education, equipping them with the knowledge, leadership skills, and global exposure to make a lasting impact. 

Established by Mr Pravin Raj in honour of his grandfather, Mr K. N. Sellappah, the scholarship is rooted in the belief that education and generosity can create a powerful ripple effect. It champions the spirit of paying it forward, fostering a culture of responsibility, inclusion, and long-term sustainability.

Recent recipients, Ngamkae Amatyakul (Claire) from Thailand and Sajana Chandrawansa from Sri Lanka, exemplify how the scholarship is more than a financial award—it is a catalyst for transformation and purpose.

Claire currently serves as Head of Marketing and Customer Experience at Cavallino Motors, the official Ferrari dealer in Thailand. A strong advocate for inclusion and empowerment, she balances her professional responsibilities with caring for her autistic brother. In November 2024, she led a meaningful initiative during Universo Ferrari, an immersive exhibition hosted by her company. The launch gala featured a charity auction that raised funds for Save the Children, supporting education for underprivileged children in Northern and Southern Thailand.

Reflecting on her MBA journey, Claire shared, “The lessons I learned—especially around leadership, innovation, and sustainability—continue to shape my professional path. I’ve made a commitment to lifelong learning and strive to grow into a better version of myself.”

Sajana, from the MBA Class of 2024, aspires to elevate Sri Lanka’s pharmaceutical industry and improve access to treatment for rare and complex diseases. He sees the Nanyang MBA as a bridge between Sri Lanka and the global pharmaceutical landscape, especially Singapore’s advanced healthcare ecosystem. Through cross-cultural collaboration and his internship in the life sciences sector, Sajana has gained critical international exposure, which he hopes to bring back home.

“The fact that Pravin took the initiative to help other students access education inspires us to reach similar heights in our own lives,” he said.

Claire’s advice to future scholars: “Network, collaborate, and engage with your cohort, professors, and stakeholders. It’s an empowering experience that broadens your perspective and strengthens your support network.”

Sajana added, “The goal of the MBA is to transform how you think and act. It’s up to us to fully leverage the experience to shape our careers and our impact.”

The Sellappah Scholarship exemplifies how targeted support can unlock human potential and spark a cycle of empowerment. Through the Nanyang MBA, Sellappah scholars gain not only academic and professional excellence but also a renewed sense of purpose—driving community engagement, inclusive leadership, and a more sustainable future.

The Nanyang MBA is a flexible 12-month or 18-month programme designed to fuel your growth into a future-ready leader equipped with the skills needed to excel in a global, digital environment. The programme aims to develop impactful, culturally adept leaders who embrace the connection between business, technology, and innovation to excel in global environments and adapt to each new wave of digital change.