Class of 2026's Valedictorian Speech
I want to say thank you to everyone who is here today to celebrate us. It is truly an honour to stand here as the valedictorian of this graduating class.
Looking back, I think many of us know that this journey was not always easy. Everyone here has their own story, their own challenges, and their own reasons for continuing forward.
For me, being part of SIS has been more than just completing school. It has been a place where I felt supported, encouraged, and reminded that my circumstances do not define my future.
There were many moments when things felt uncertain.
When I stepped into a totally different country from where I used to live, I remember making new friends, regaining my English ability, and trying to find my place. It was hard, but I kept moving forward.
Looking back, I realize how far I have come, and I am proud of the person I have become. I learned that success is not only about achievements or grades. It is also about resilience, growth, and continuing to believe in yourself even when the path is no longer easy.
I want to say thank you to the SIS staff for their patience, kindness, and support. Thank you for believing in us, celebrating our achievements, and helping us reach this moment.
To my fellow graduates, today is not only about what we have accomplished, but also about what we are capable of becoming. Wherever life takes us next, I hope we remember that we have already overcome challenges and proven that we can keep moving forward.
Congratulations everyone! And thank you.
Message from our Stay in School Program Manager, Wendy Curnew
To the graduates of 2026,
Watching you reach this milestone has been a privilege. Each of you has faced your own challenges, obstacles, and moments of doubt, yet you continued moving forward. Graduation is not only a celebration of academic achievement, but it is a testament to your resilience, determination, and belief in yourself, even when the path was difficult.
As you take your next steps, remember that success is not measured by how quickly you reach your goals, but by your willingness to keep learning, growing, and showing up for yourself and others. Be proud of how far you have come and excited for the opportunities that lie ahead.
Thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey. We believe in you, we are proud of you, and we cannot wait to see what you accomplish next.
Congratulations, Class of 2026 you’ve earned this moment. Keep moving forward, dream boldly, and never underestimate the impact you can have on the world!
– Wendy Curnew, Program Manager, Stay In School Program
I have put the hurt and stigma that people placed upon me behind me because I knew I had a goal, and that goal was finishing high school. I knew that I was going to achieve that goal regardless of what obstacles I face in my life and despite the odds and everything else… I am forever grateful…”
