On Wednesday, June 25, 2025, 37 students graduated from the Bregado Flax Educational Centre- Secondary Division, under the theme: ‘In the Footsteps of Giants: Class of 2025 Aimed for Greatness Beyond Limits.' Photo: Office of the Deputy Governor/Facebook

Minister for Education, Youth Affairs, and Sports Honourable Sharie B. de Castro (AL) encouraged the graduates to dream big. Photo: Facebook

Shania Kanhai, a student in business and accounts, earned the title of Valedictorian for the class of 2025. Photo: BFEC/Facebook

The Keynote Speaker was Jehree D. Clarke, a public service officer and entrepreneur. Photo: Facebook

Val & Sal

Shania Kanhai, a student in business and accounts, earned the title of Valedictorian for the class of 2025. In recognition of her outstanding achievement, she received a scholarship of $7,500 to support her ongoing educational journey.

Shania ranked 2nd in the territory.

Jasmin Brito Heredia, who placed 7th overall in the territory, was awarded the title of Salutatorian and received $5,000 for her continued education.

Rounding out the top 5 graduates from the Bregado Flax Educational Centre were Sherideen Mannings, Jayah Hodge, and Sensia Stevens.

‘Believe that you are a giant’- Hon Sharie B. de Castro (AL)

Minister for Education, Youth Affairs, and Sports Honourable Sharie B. de Castro (AL), in her remarks at the event held at A. Jeffrey Caines Arena, elaborated on the theme, stating, “Giants are not just towering in size; they also tower in courage, resilience, and vision. They are those who dared to dream, who stepped forward when others stood still, and who left footprints not just in the sand, but in history."

She reminded the Class of 2025 that they are now walking in the footsteps of great principles and teachers who shaped them, as well as the parents who sacrificed for them—leaders, thinkers, and trailblazers, all giants in their own right. Their footsteps have carved a path that may not always be easy or smooth, but it always leads forward.

The Minister added, “Today isn’t just about walking in anyone else's footsteps; it’s about making your own. Don’t just follow greatness; become it. However, before you can be a giant in the world, you must first believe that you are a giant when you look in the mirror. There’s no limit to how far you can go. Whether you attend university, enter the workforce, or start a new journey, I encourage you: don’t wait for someone to call you great. Look at yourself. Walk like a giant, think like a giant, speak like a giant, lead like a giant, and dream like a giant.”

‘Claim your space’- Jehree D. Clarke 

Keynote Speaker Jehree D. Clarke, a public service officer and entrepreneur, reminded the graduates, “Don’t take for granted the opportunities that have been afforded to you. Some of you will stay in the Virgin Islands, some will go abroad to further your education and return home, and others may move away to pursue education, find partners, buy homes, and have children—perhaps returning for festivals. That’s okay. However, I must warn you against letting others convince you that there’s no place for you in the Virgin Islands or that you cannot achieve greatness here. I encourage you to claim your space, where applicable, of course.”

The guest speaker also urged graduates to forge their own paths while honouring the legacy of giants and shaping a future that reflects your time, your voice, and your vision.

Meanwhile, Valedictorian Shania Kanhai encouraged the Class of 2025 to carry a suitcase filled with resilience, kindness, and authenticity as they embark on this new journey.

Minister for Health and Social Development and Ninth District Representative Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) also delivered remarks.

Also in attendance was Deputy Governor David D. Archer Jr.