The International Baccalaureate is a highly prestigious, advanced educational program for kids aged 3 to 19. The non-profit organisation offers around 1,495 in the United States offering an IB program, while, with 3,700 schools in 147 countries, there are more than 1 million students currently enrolled in the scheme.

Lupita Nyong'oLupita Nyong'o proudly weilding her Oscar for Best Supporting Actor

One of the program’s most distinguished graduates is Lupita Nyong’o, who recently picked up the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in 12 Years a Slave, playing Patsy – a black woman in a country ruled by white men. She is the object of Edwin Epps’ (Michael Fassbender) twisted affection, and will be remembered in particular for two scenes: one in which she attempts to justify going AWOL to steal soap; and the other, a result of that ‘disobedience’ in a harrowing lashing scene.

“Lupita Nyong’o demonstrates where an IB education can take students,” said Adrian Kearney, IB Director for Africa, Europe and the Middle East. “Lupita is representative of the hundreds of thousands of IB graduates who make significant contributions worldwide, in an array of industries, occupations and professions. IB graduates reflect the attributes of the IB learner profile, often exhibiting a blend of empathy, compassion and respect for others, along with a sense of balance, a collaborative spirit, an ability for reflection, personal knowledge and integrity.”

Nyong’o mentioned in her memorable acceptance speech that she had been educated in the theatre arts at Yale University, which she attended as a graduate student after earning a bachelor’s at Hampshire College. IB marketers now want to use the golden statuette as a marketing tool to raise awareness and interest in the the education program. Kearney adds, “We are proud that Lupita is an IB alumnus. Her focus and accomplished performance are completely in tune with her success as an IB student.

Watch Nyong'o's acceptance speech here