40 Bfec Graduates Urged To Lead
Forty students graduated from the BFEC in a ceremony at the Catholic Community Centre in Virgin Gorda. Leanfer Hernandez was named Valedictorian and Kyle Alexander Salutatorian as Education Minister Sharie B. de Castro and Premier Natalio D. Wheatley urged graduates to hold fast to their values and embrace new opportunities.
Forty students from the BFEC were celebrated at a graduation ceremony held at the Catholic Community Centre in Virgin Gorda, where Leanfer Hernandez was named Valedictorian of the Class of 2026 and Kyle Alexander received the Salutatorian award. The Honourable Sharie B. de Castro (AL), Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, addressed the graduates and urged them to remain true to themselves as they move into the next stage of life. “Don't trade your values for acceptance, and do not trade your dreams for approval, because what makes you different may be exactly what makes you necessary,” she said.
She added that while the ceremony recognises what the students have completed, it also points to what they are now called to finish: “the picture of these virgin islands is still being created and there is something beautiful the world will never see unless you take your place.” Minister de Castro encouraged the Class of 2026 to pursue their rightful places with “excellence, integrity, and courage,” stressing the role young people play in shaping the future of the Virgin Islands.
Wheatley (R7) also spoke to the graduates, calling on them to embrace the new paths and challenges that await. “Graduates, you have now completed this stage of your preparation for life and career. You have been certified, equipped, and empowered to move forward. New skills to master, new challenges to conquer, and even greater achievements to claim,” he said.
Premier Wheatley urged the students not to fear the unknown or doubt their abilities: “Do not be afraid of the unknown. You have already proven you can rise as you step into this next chapter and carry your purpose with confidence. And let your dreams inspire you to reach higher than you ever imagined.
Look toward it with optimism and courage.” The graduation in Virgin Gorda was a community milestone that highlights local investment in skills development and youth empowerment. For residents of the British Virgin Islands, the event underlines the importance of supporting graduates as they enter the labour market, further education, or entrepreneurial ventures that can contribute to the territory’s recovery and growth.
Reports of the ceremony were published by Virgin Islands News Online (VINO). The community congratulates the Class of 2026 and looks forward to seeing how these new graduates will take their place in shaping the Virgin Islands' future.
Primary source: VINO