Why I give: Narvir Brard (BSc Business Economics with Computing, 1997)
“Looking back on my time at Surrey, I feel incredibly fortunate. When I came to university in the 1990s, higher education was tuition fee-free. If you had the grades, you were in. That access changed my life. It gave me a level playing fi eld, especially coming from a state school. Now, access to university is not just about academic merit, but also financial means. That’s why I give.”
Narvir’s professional journey took him to major investment banks – BNP Paribas, J.P. Morgan, Nomura, and Citi. But it was Surrey that first opened his eyes to the world of finance and economics. “The breadth of teaching, from macro to micro, gave me the space to discover what really interested me. I didn’t come to university with a clear path, but I left with a direction, thanks in part to a placement at the Treasury that helped steer me into the City.
“Surrey shaped my worldview. Beyond the academics, I was involved in the Economics Society, eventually serving as treasurer. It was a small role, but a formative one – it gave me a sense of responsibility, a chance to meet people from other year groups, and ultimately helped me feel more connected to the university community.”
Since 2020, Narvir has co-funded undergraduate scholarships in Economics. “I remember the first update I received from a recipient: they spoke about being able to focus more on studies, to participate in university life, to join societies. That was powerful. Education should be more than lectures and assignments – it should be about the full experience. If a bursary helps lift even a small part of that financial pressure, then it’s worth every penny.
“Giving, to me, is a kind of reset. In the busyness of professional life, it’s easy to focus solely on career and family. Philanthropy reminds me there’s a wider world out there. Supporting students who are just starting out – just as I once did – brings a quiet satisfaction.
The opportunity to co-fund the scholarship with leading Economist Lord Jim O’Neill, Baron O’Neill of Gatley came through a conversation with the University’s Advancement Team. “I hadn’t realised how many ways alumni can stay connected and give back until someone explained it. It’s not always about writing a cheque – sometimes it’s about aligning your values with a meaningful initiative.”
Narvir’s son, now studying for his A-Levels, recently joined his father on a visit to Surrey’s campus “So much has changed – new schools, world-class facilities – but the heart of the place remains the same. It’s still where young people can discover who they are and what they want to become.”
One of four O’Neill-Brard Undergraduate Scholars, Tiv recently graduated with a First-Class Honours degree in Economics and Mathematics. She says the scholarship gave her freedom to focus on her dissertation – on the impact of regional funding on NHS waiting times – while also boosting her skills in econometric analysis.
Away from study, she joined ArtSoc to relieve stress and reconnect with creativity during a busy year. Looking ahead, Tiv admits it’s daunting not to have a clear plan but is optimistic about the future.
Thank you for your support through the scholarship. I would not have been able to afford my accommodation on campus this year without this funding, which would have made my final year at university difficult.Thiviya “Tiv” Thiyagarajah, O’Neill-Brard Undergraduate Scholar and 2025 graduate
This interview was originally featured in Forever Surrey, the magazine for alumni, supporters and friends. Sign up to receive the next edition.