Ladyville Technical High School Graduation
BELIZE CITY, Fri. June 9, 2023
Ladyville Technical High School held its 21st commencement exercise on Saturday, June 9, at the Civic Centre in Belize City, where 102 students received diplomas from the institution.
This year’s graduation theme, “To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream, not only plan, but also believe,” served as an inspiring backdrop to the proceedings.
The 102 graduates consisted of students from a range of academic departments, including Agriculture (25 graduates), Business (29), Hospitality (30), Electrical studies (10), and Construction (8), and 62 of the students graduated with honors.
The ceremony, following the “Pomp and Circumstance” procession and the national anthem, commenced with an invocation delivered by Kiara Serano, who led the audience into a moment of prayer and reflection.
Class salutatorian Marelyn Longsworth then addressed her peers and the attendees, after which the graduates sang a heartwarming rendition of “The World’s Greatest”.
Chairperson Mrs. Isabel Bennett-Moody addressed the gathering before the audience heard from valedictorian Leilani Vasquez, who delivered a stirring speech during which she reflected on the challenges and triumphs of their high school years and the journey ahead.
Guest speaker Ms. Mertell Bailey and the principal of the school, Mrs. Diane Westby, also presented prepared remarks.
After Mrs. Diane Westby distributed the diplomas and assisted the graduates in the ceremonial switching of tassels, Victoria Nal, who was the third place student, delivered the vote of thanks. At the end of the ceremony, the symbolic passing of the torch took place.
Sadie Vernon Technical High School holds 2023 graduation ceremony
BELIZE CITY, Fri. June 9, 2023
On the afternoon of June 8, thirty-six students from Sadie Vernon Technical High School crossed the stage at the Bliss Institute of Performing Arts to receive their diplomas. Sixteen of the students graduated with honors, with six students achieving overall top recognition.
David Talburt, this year’s valedictorian, addressed the audience with during his heartfelt valedictory speech. Talburt paid special homage to his mother, crediting her for his success. “This taste of victory is yours, Mom,” he said, acknowledging the support and sacrifices his mother made for his education.
Another standout was Caleen Williams, who, as salutatorian, also addressed the audience. Kahlil Crawford, in the third position, was tasked with delivering the vote of thanks.
The three were part of a graduating class consisting of 15 business and 21 technical-vocational graduates, one of whom was notably offered a sporting scholarship abroad.
Talburt, in his address, noted, “We are the class of 2023, and we will leave this world better than we found it.” This sense of optimism was echoed in the words of Pastor Frederick Gordon, the guest speaker, who encouraged the graduates to persist in pursuing their dreams.
The graduation ceremony was a well-choreographed event, starting with the procession of the graduates and ending with the recessional.
The program included a prayer by Rev. Ashley Rocke and a presentation of the year in review by Principal Deborah Martin.
In the words of Albert Einstein, quoted by Talburt, “Remember today, for it is the beginning of always. Today marks the start of a brave new future filled with all your dreams can hold.”
Stann Creek Ecumenical College 49th graduation ceremony
DANGRIGA, Stann Creek District, Mon. June 12, 2023
On Saturday evening, June 10, Stann Creek Ecumenical College held its 49th annual commencement ceremony, awarding diplomas to 210 graduates — 186 from the Day Division and 24 from the Evening Division.
Of the 210 graduates, a remarkable total of 105 students graduated with honors.
The theme of this year’s event, held at the William H. Bowman O.B.E. & Ecumenical Auditorium, was “Your Mindset Determines Your Solution”.
The valedictorian and top student of the Day Division was Nmeri Grace Mgbeahuruike, followed by the salutatorian and second -place student, Alisson Anahi Vasquez. The vote of thanks was delivered by the third-place student, Emilia Theresa Zuniga.
For the Evening Division, top honors went to Jianelle Yiahaira Romero, valedictorian, followed by Ronaldo Erasmo Bul in second place, and Rakeem Darrel Smith in third place.
Among the graduates in the Day Division, 43 students received diplomas in the Arts, 60 in Business, 48 in Science, 20 in Technical studies, and 15 in Tourism. In the Evening Division, 24 students received diplomas in General Studies.
The ceremony started with the salutatory address by Alisson Vasquez of 4 Science I.
Principal Ray A. Lawrence, Sr., then delivered a report on the school’s academic achievements, highlighting the low student attrition, with academic performance scores at an all-time high.
After a heartfelt song titled “Grateful” by the graduates, Nmeri Mgbeahuruike, valedictorian of the Day Division, delivered her address.
“My mindset was that hard work and determination would allow me to reach my goals, and I am here as a testament to this statement,” Mgbeahuruike said. Jianelle Romero, top student of the Evening Division, spoke candidly about her journey as a student, a single mother, and a grieving daughter who had just lost her father at the commencement of her studies. She credited her resilience and achievements to the unwavering support of her family and friends.
“It took a toll on us emotionally and physically; many of us had jobs and would rush to school no matter how tired we were. I had days where I wanted to stay home, but my daughter would remind me that I had school,” she reflected.
Other key speakers at the ceremony included guest speaker, Mrs. Sheena Kuylen-Simpson, Manager of Systems Planning & Engineering at Belize Electricity Limited, who spoke about the resilience required as the graduates step out to face new challenges. “God never gives you more than you can handle,” she said.
The ceremony ended with the presentation of diplomas and awards, after which Emilia Zuniga from 4 Science II concluded the ceremony with a vote of thanks before the recessional.
Independence High School holds 31st commencement exercise
INDEPENDENCE, Stann Creek District, Mon. June 12, 2023
Independence High School held its 31st graduation ceremony on June 10, 2023 at the Omar Longsworth Auditorium, where a total of 185 graduates received diplomas.
This year’s theme for the ceremony was: “Don’t be afraid. Be focused. Be determined. Be hopeful. Be empowered.”
Of the 166 regular high school students (under 18) and 19 adult high school students (part of the Adult and Continuing Education (A.C.E.) program who graduated, 46 students graduated with honors.
Valedictorians of the ceremony included Zhen Tan for Independence High School and Maritza Mejia from the A.C.E. program. Samira Cardinez was named the salutatorian (2nd place), while Lacey Westby gave the vote of thanks (3rd place).
The guest speaker at the ceremony was Mr. Kevin Cadle, Director of Youth and Services. Being an advocate for the youth, Cadle aimed at empowering the class as they venture into the world, and he focused on encouraging them to be fearless about what they are capable of.
Toledo Community College celebrates 40th graduation ceremony
PUNTA GORDA, Toledo District, Mon. June 12, 2023
Toledo Community College celebrated its 40th commencement exercise on June 10, 2023, at the college auditorium in Punta Gorda Town, marking a significant milestone with style and grace.
The excitement in the auditorium was evident as 127 bright-eyed graduates, 24 of them with honors, proceeded into the auditorium under this year’s vibrant theme: “Embrace the journey, celebrate the achievement, and step boldly into a future filled with endless possibilities.”
Jasmine Faber, the valedictorian and recipient of the prestigious Gifford Scholarship to St. John’s College Junior College, led the line of proud graduates. Faber, who will pursue Biology and Chemistry, also received a scholarship offer from the University of Belize. Following her were the beaming salutatorian, Mariam Adebara, and the gracious Jaden Villafranco, who was to give the vote of thanks.
The graduation ceremony opened with the Salutatory Address by Adebara. Her eloquent speech struck a chord with the audience as she reflected on their academic journey, fondly reminiscing about their shared experiences and warmly welcoming guests.
Principal Mrs. Shaunna Sanchez addressed the audience next, acknowledging the determination and resilience of the graduating class amidst challenging times. Her words emphasized the accomplishments of the students, inspiring them to hold their heads high and be proud of their achievements.
Faber, a former primary school valedictorian, took to the stage to deliver her Valedictory Address. Drawing upon the old saying, “It takes a village to raise a child,” she urged her peers to cherish their journey rather than merely striving for the destination.
“As you embark on this new chapter,” she began, “I want to remind you of the importance of enjoying the journey and not just living for the reward. While we strive for greatness, remember it is the journey and the experiences that provide us with the foundation we need; it is the journey that holds all our tears, all our little victories, and all the laughs with our friends; it is that journey that is the most important.”
She went on to thank her “village” – her mother, grandparents, siblings, uncles, friends, teachers, and classmates – for her success. “Find your village, find solace and rejoice in the time you have, make the most out of the moments with your friends and family,” she stated, striking a chord with the attendees.
Guest speaker, Mr. Jaleel Lino, a star athlete and youth advocate, drove home the message of youth empowerment in education and sports. “Don’t try to remember my name, just remember my message,” he left the graduating class with a lasting impression.
Following the awarding of diplomas to the graduates, Jaden Villafranco concluded the ceremony with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks, acknowledging the mentors and inspirations who helped shape their journey.
The event was a vivid demonstration of achievement, marked by speeches that reflected on the past and looked toward a promising future. It was an afternoon not just of celebration, but also a tribute to perseverance and academic excellence, appropriately encapsulated by the day’s theme.
Amandala spoke with valedictorian Jasmine Faber following the ceremony and invited her to impart her vision for the future: “As of now, my ultimate goal is to become a conservationist with a focus on sustainable development; someone who constantly works for the betterment of our people, our environment, and the organisms that exist within it. My goal is to create positive changes in my community, country, and the world at large, for my pursuit is not only a national or regional one, but an international one as well,” she shared.
San Pedro High School graduates 133 students
SAN PEDRO, Ambergris Caye, Mon. June 12, 2023
San Pedro High School held its graduation ceremony on Saturday, June 10, at the Angel Nunez Auditorium in San Pedro Town. Of the 113 students who received diplomas at the ceremony, 75 students graduated with honors. The top students were recognized, with Crista Mazin in 3rd place delivering the vote of thanks, Nia Lisbey in 2nd place delivering the salutatory speech, and AnnElyse Fleser-Perdue leading the way as this year’s valedictorian. Perdue aims to complete her Bachelor’s degree in computer science, focusing on health data studies. Interestingly, she plans to stay in Belize and pursue her degree online.
Of the graduating students, 29 majored in the Academic Arts, 55 were business program graduates, and 43 were general program graduates.
During her address, the salutatorian, Nia Lisbey, warmly acknowledged the individuals who played key roles in her high school journey, particularly her parents and siblings. Lisbey stated, “Of all the achievements and titles I have or ever will have, being your daughter is the best one of all.”
Dr. Lucio Nunez, medical officer at Dr. Otto Rodriguez Polyclinic II, was the guest speaker for the occasion. His address highlighted the importance of hard work, commitment, and resilience.
Following this, valedictorian AnnElyse Fleser-Perdue took to the stage, immediately requesting a moment of silence for Sheila Ramirez, a classmate who passed away in 2022.
“Failure isn’t the end of the world. Everyone has failed at something at some point in their lives. But I’m sure that each and every one of us has succeeded in something as well,” she emphasized to her graduating class, reviewing the trials faced throughout the years, especially the pandemic years.
But perhaps one of her greater points was that of love; self-love and emitting love into the world.
“… no matter what profession we choose, we learn to love ourselves and others along the way. The current state of the world that we live in right now is a place of anger and turmoil. It is important that we, the class of 2023, can become the leaders of the world in morals, kindness, self-care and love. Yes, the world needs more doctors, it needs more nurses, educators, engineers, but above all, it needs more compassion, care and true humanity,” she said.
As the ceremony drew to a close, both the school’s principal, Emil Vasquez and Crista Mazin (3rd place student—vote of thanks) addressed the graduates, expressing their pride in their achievements and certainty that they are equipped for the future, regardless of what path they choose.