When Florida Atlantic University student Kawtar Elbekhty discovered social work, she immediately recognized herself in the field. 

Its holistic approach to understanding people—and its belief that healing is possible when people feel safe, supported, and seen—reflected how she already viewed the world.

Her passion for advocacy is deeply personal. Kawtar’s brother is profoundly Deaf, and she has witnessed firsthand how systemic gaps and discrimination can affect his mental health. Those experiences inspired her to pursue a career focused on helping others navigate barriers and access the support they deserve.

But pursuing a Master of Social Work while working full time and raising a family as a first-generation student came with a significant financial barrier.

“I was drowning and wasn’t sure if I should have been adding to my financial situation because it’s so incredibly difficult to survive,” Kawtar said.

The Mike McNamara Scholarship Fund at Palm Health Foundation became a lifeline, helping Kawtar stay in school without having to choose between essential expenses and the tuition needed to complete her degree.

“When you’re picked for a scholarship, it makes you feel like you’re on your right path, that you are going to succeed,” she said. “It’s so affirming when people believe in you.”

Now, Kawtar is preparing for a career in social work focused on advocacy and systemic change. She hopes to work directly with people while also helping shape policies that create more inclusive and accessible systems—particularly for youth in the juvenile justice system and incarcerated people.

Her story shows what scholarship support can make possible: giving a talented, determined student the opportunity to keep moving forward and become the kind of mental health professional her community needs.