The Tribune

By Fay Simmons

jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) held its Summer 2023 Commencement ceremony last week and recognized students from various disciplines on their stellar performance.

Theodore Sealy, fashion designer and journalist, delivered the commencement address and encouraged the graduates to embrace new opportunities and reminded them that they possess the power to shape their paths.

He said: “You have the power to shape your own paths and leave a lasting impact on the world around you. Being a leader is not limited to titles or positions of authority. Leadership is about taking initiative, pushing boundaries and inspiring others to follow suit.

“I encourage you to embrace every idea of multidisciplinary growth and allow yourself to embrace new opportunities and new passions along this journey. Remember that life is full of opportunities for reinvention, you have the power to hit the restart button on your life and anytime you so desire.”

Dr Linda Davis, interim president of BTVI, noted the important role that the Bahamas Government Tuition Grant plays in ensuring all Bahamian students have access to quality tertiary education. She called the grant an investment in our future and an example of nation building.

She said: “On this anniversary of our 50th year of independence, I commend our national leaders for having the insight to ensure that BTVI education is accessible to all. A BTVI education is one of the best and most affordable pathways to learning a trade and earning a living. Thanks to the government of the Bahamas many students do not know what it is to pay to attend BTVI.

“And I’m sure you would agree the Bahamas government tuition grant has been a lifesaver for many and has transformed the lives of our students and their families. This is truly an investment in our people, and represents nation building at its best.”

Graduates on the Presidents List include Brandon Christopher Baden, certificate, electrical installation; Felicia Bien-Aime, diploma, cosmetology; Sandriqua Campbell, certificate, office assistant; Raydesha Ashley Raven Cash, certificate, office assistant; Tornell Aleasha Cooper, diploma, cosmetology; Oraleigh Dean, diploma, cosmetology; Peresha Ferguson, certificate, media technology; Sadé Destiny Aliyah Fernander, diploma, cosmetology; Trevor Garvin Forbes, AAS, information technology management; Clinton Johnson, certificate, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning; Anastasia Knowles, AAS, office administration; Logan Mackey - certificate, information technology entry level; Rashawnna McKenzie, AAS, business office technology; D’Bara Minnis - AAS, information technology management; Sierra Jasmine Nairn - diploma, cosmetology; Kerline Octave, AAS, office administration; Florence Paul, Rolle, certificate, media technology; Chante Lanell Pinder, certificate, information technology entry level; Mario Ramsey, certificate, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning; Jermaine Role, certificate, media technology; Glenville Leonardo Scavella, certificate, electrical installation; D’Ardra Nyzinga Smith, certificate, human resources management; Lethario Shakiem Stovel, certificate, information technology entry level; Charlene Thompson, AAS, information technology network engineering; Taliah Wright, certificate, fashion design production.

Photos: Austin Fernander