Student Iwona Wrobel has been named the latest recipient of the prestigious Adam Smith 300 Enterprise Scholarship, recognising her entrepreneurial ambition, creativity and commitment to making a positive impact.
Originally from Poland, Iwona moved to Scotland twelve years ago and has since embarked on an inspiring journey of personal and professional growth; she began her studies at Fife College with ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Level 5, before going on to graduate with an HND in Visual Communication last year. She is now continuing her creative development by studying Graphic Design at the University of Dundee.
Iwona’s passion for design and community engagement through her work and volunteer efforts impressed scholarship judges. She has worked as a Communication Assistant, contributed to the Polish Association in Kirkcaldy, and recently launched her own creative venture, IW Design Studio, offering branding and design services to individuals and organisations.
Created by Adam Smith Scholarships, part of Fife College, in partnership with Fife Council Economic Development, OnFife, and Business Gateway Fife, the Adam Smith 300 Enterprise Scholarship supports aspiring student entrepreneurs through funding, mentoring and access to specialist facilities.
First awarded in 2023 to mark the 300th anniversary of Adam Smith, the scholarship provides recipients with £1,000, tailored business mentoring from Business Gateway Fife, and access to the Design Suite at the Adam Smith Theatre in Kirkcaldy, provided by OnFife. As part of her award, Iwona has also been named Designer in Residence, providing her with a professional creative space to meet clients, develop projects, and grow her business.
The scholarship will provide Iwona with vital support as she continues to grow IW Design Studio, develop her artistic skills, and strengthen connections within the local design and wider Polish community while pursuing her entrepreneurial ambitions.
Iwona was presented with her scholarship certificate during a special event attended by all scholarship partners, including Heather Stuart, Chief Executive of OnFife. The feel-good event celebrated student entrepreneurship and innovation, with Iwona delivering a confident and engaging PowerPoint presentation outlining her background, business ambitions and plans for the future.
Iwona said:
“Throughout my journey with Fife College, I was lucky to meet inspiring lecturers who believed in me and showed me that anything is possible. This scholarship means a lot to me – it’s a chance to keep growing and help others achieve their potential.”
Adam Fairweather, Head of School – Business, Digital and Creative at Fife College, said:
“Iwona is a truly inspirational student. Her journey highlights the transformational impact education can have when talent, determination and opportunity come together. She has demonstrated not only creative excellence but also a strong desire to use her skills to support others and contribute to her community.
“The Adam Smith 300 Enterprise Scholarship continues to showcase the exceptional talent we have at Fife College, and we are proud to support students like Iwona as they turn their ideas into successful businesses.”
Pamela Stevenson, Service Manager, Fife Council Economic Development, said:
“We're proud to support the Adam Smith 300 Enterprise Scholarship, a collaboration between Fife College, On Fife, Business Gateway Fife, and Fife Council. This partnership draws upon combined expertise and resources to create a robust support system for aspiring entrepreneurs.
“The partnership exemplifies how diverse organisations can unite for a common goal, making a significant impact in the community. Congratulations to Iwona on winning this year's scholarship. We wish her success on her entrepreneurial journey and remain committed to fostering economic growth and a thriving business community in Fife."
Heather Stuart, Chief Executive of OnFife, said:
“We're thrilled to have Iwona as our first Designer in Residence at the Design Suite in Adam Smith Theatre. She impressed us from the get-go, and her enthusiasm has been nothing but contagious for what she wants to do with her time here. Watch this space."
Fraser McKee, Senior Business Adviser, Business Gateway Fife, said:
“We’re delighted to see Iwona recognised for her entrepreneurial drive and creativity. Through the Adam Smith 300 Enterprise Scholarship, Business Gateway Fife will provide tailored one-to-one mentoring, practical business advice, and access to resources that will help her build strong foundations for success.
“Our goal is to ensure that Iwona has the tools, confidence, and guidance she needs to turn her creative vision into a sustainable business. Her journey is an inspiring example of what can be achieved with determination, and we look forward to supporting her.”
For further details about scholarships at Fife College, visit the Adam Smith Scholarships page or email scholarships@fife.ac.uk.