A grade student Sonny Smart returns from her action-packed adventure to Brazil as one of 100 to be selected on to the PM’s prestigious Fellowship Scheme.

Sonny spent six weeks in Brazil this summer after leaving Palmer’s College with 4 As in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Maths. She spent 2 weeks in Rio de Janerio and her remaining 4 weeks in Sao Paulo where she lived with a host family in a small town, south of Brazil.

Sonny spent her time learning Portuguese, helping at local school, visiting community projects etc. Part of the scheme is to learn about globalisation and how multi-national organisations operate within developing countries. Sonny spent two weeks at Cadburys, looking at how they operated in Brazil as well as visiting many Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects the company were involved in.

Sonny Smart, 18 from Little Thurrock said: “Being part of the fellowship was absolutely fantastic, even though it was hard work and tiring, it was totally worth it as I have gained so much out of it. Going to Brazil has really opened my eyes and I have returned with a wealth of information as well as making some great friends and contacts.”

Mark Vinall, Principal of Palmer’s College said: “Sonny is an exceptional student and both a credit and inspiration to the College and Thurrock. Her achievements reflect an outstanding level of commitment towards her study and clear determination in attaining her goals."

Sonny will soon be starting Warwick University to study Bio-Medical Science and is all excited about meeting the Prime Minister and her fellows during a special presentation next month.