A message from the Minister of Education, Technical and Vocational Training
By GLENyS HANNA MArTIN Minister of Education and Technical and Vocational Training
Iwish to welcome all students back to school in this 2024/2025 academic year. Regardless of which grade you may be entering whether it is pre primary for the first time or junior high or senior high or continuing tertiary education, i invite you to find enjoyment in learning and in interacting with teachers, administrators and your peers.
Please see this time as one of intellectual and creative stimulation where the possibilities are limitless as you begin to discover and nurture your own incredible potentiality.
Remember to engage your parents in this learning experience and to reach out to them or your guidance counsellor or any trusted individual if you need advice and support. in this you are never alone. i look forward to tracking and monitoring your progress and successes as well as your challenges.
i believe this academic year will be the best year ever.
All the best to each and everyone of you.
MINISTER of Education and Technical and Vocational Training Glenys Hanna Martin.
HELPING YOUR CHILDREN NAVIGATE THE MODERN WORLD
By SHARLEEN HANSON Director of Boost Academy/ Boost Educational Services
I CAN’T help but marvel at thewaytoday’skidsmanoeuvre through smartphones and tablets with such ease — swiping here, tapping there, and seamlessly switching between games and social media. It’s especially fascinating for those of us who can still remember life before the Internet.
The world has changed dramatically since then, and those changes have profoundly shaped the lives of Generation Z — those born between 1997 and 2012. These young people are growing up in a world that is strikingly different from what many of us experienced, and as a result, the gap between today’s high school students and their parents feels wider than ever. Making sure your children are on the right path is aconcernofeveryparent,butit may be difficult to know where to begin - especially when what worked for your older children, or what you experienced as a child does not work on your Gen Z child.
As an educator and a parent, I’ve come to realise how crucial it is to adapt my teaching and parenting strategies to better connect with the kids in my life. Technology is here to stay, and it’s a massive part of their lives, but managing its influence is essential — not just for their sake but for ours, too. We need to focus on their mental health and help them develop the skills they need not only for school but for life in general.
I’ve heard from educators from a myriad of schools, in The Bahamas and around the world, about the challenges they face in holding students’ attention.
It’s no surprise when you think about it—kids today are used to the instant gratification that technology offers. Generation Z is the first generation to grow up entirely in the digital age, where smartphones, social media, and constant connectivity are the norms. This ever-present technology has shaped how they see the world,
how they communicate, and how they learn.
Unlike previous generations, these kids are exposed to a wider variety of ideas and cultures, but they’re also exposed to the darker corners of the web at alarmingly young ages. On the upside, they’re more aware of global events and more tolerant, too. They’re quick to learn new skills online, from languages to DIY projects. They can even find online communities that connect them with others who share their interests, no matter how remote they might be. Yet, despite their familiarity with terms like “anxiety” and “depression”, this generation is also more vulnerable to these issues, thanks to the addictive nature of social media, games, and other online activities. It’s a double-edged sword: while technology can be a powerful tool for learning and connecting,itcanalsoleadtorealharm if not managed properly.
For years, we’ve been told that technology is a revolutionary learning tool, and in many ways, it is. There’s no shortage of educational games and resources online, but I’ve seen firsthand how too much screen time can have negative effects. It’s become harder for kids to focus on tasks like reading, writing, or solving math problems for extended periods. Frankly, who can blame them when we, as adults, have also contributed to this addiction? We’ve bought into the idea that kids without devices are somehow missing out, and we’ve been bombarded with ads for educational apps and games that feed into this cycle. What’s more troubling is that the creators of these apps and websites are deliberately designing their products to be addictive. They know exactly how to hook young, developing brains on the dopamine hits delivered by these devices.
That’s why it’s more important than ever for us as parents to help our children set healthy boundaries for screen time and introduce them to real-world activities. Creating tech-free zones or times is a good start,
but it’s equally important to show our kids other ways to entertain themselves. We need to model these behaviors ourselves, too, because kids are quick to mimic what we do, not just what we say.
In guiding our children through this complex world, we need to stay informed, flexible, and compassionate. I make it a point to engage my students and kids in conversations, encouraging them to ask questions without fear of judgment. I want them to be curious, to pursue knowledge for the sake of becoming more interesting and informed individuals - not just for the sake of earning good grades or passing exams.
While artificial intelligence may soon take over many jobs, thosewhoarecreative,passionate, and skilled will never have to worry about being replaced by machines. To help our kids develop the ability to focus, we need to give them more time awayfromdevices,encouraging them to engage in creative play, sports, reading, writing, music, and art. And to safeguard their mental health, they need plenty of rest, exercise, good nutrition, time with friends and family, and time in nature. Enforcing these boundaries can be tough, but it’s absolutely essential for their development.
I’ve found that setting aside time each week for family activities that don’t involve screens makes a big difference with my own kids, and I have also seen the difference in my students whose parents have adopted this strategy. It’s important to understand that kids need boundaries. While enforcing them might cause some friction at first, it’s totally worth it. By encouraging open communication, I hope my kids feel safe coming to me with any concerns they have, because I would rather have them come to me than to seek answers in online forums where you never know who they are talking to. Despite increased access to information, it seems that we still aren’t learning enough about physiology. It is easy to fall into doom-scrolling or other toxic habits when you don’tfeelparticularlyenergetic. Ensuring that our children eat nutrient-rich foods is crucial for their growing brains and bodies. As tempting as it can be to give in to those requests for fast food after a long day
of work, eating processed food should be more of a “treat” rather than an every day event. Kids are also, by and large, not spending enough time being active or being exposed to the outdoors, where they can soak up Vitamin D from the sun. You can do all the right things as a parent and still have your work come undone if your child falls into the wrong friend group, in person or online. It’s important to keep a close eye on children’s online activity. Talk about cyberbullying, what’s appropriate to post, and why it’s important not to share personal information online. Even though it is an uncomfortable topic, address “inappropriate” pictures/videos that they may accidentally stumble upon, and what they should do in that event.
If you see that your child is engaging in inappropriate conversations online, avoid overreacting and telling them that they will never be allowed on that site again or grounding them from all online activities for an absurd length of time, because this is what ends up making children hide things from their parents or sneak around them, which can lead to more dangerous situations. Maintaining an open dialogue about their feelings and wellbeing is key.
The world may be changing rapidly, but the basic needs of children remain the same. Above all, I want my kids to know that they come first — so I put down my own device and give them my full attention when we are together.
If you want to raise a successful and happy child in this era, just remember that they need lots of love and support, but they also need boundaries and to be held accountable. Help them set high expectations of themselves and work as a team to achieve them. Focus on helping them build good habits and reward consistent effort over results. Parenting may come withmanychallenges,butknow that you are not alone in your struggles. Seek a supportive community and continue showing up and doing your best!
Back to School & Beyond with our climate change youth ambassadors
THERE is no shortage of quotes regarding the value of a good education, and it is common practice for Bahamians to encourage young persons tosucceedintheirstudies.
Our culture informs us that the foundation of a good education is shaped most often while we are pupils, moving up grade levels within the school system.
It is in those environments that we receive the necessary knowledge and skills to develop aspirations for becoming contributing members of society. As the time for Bahamian students to start a new leg of their educational journeys approaches,itisimportant for educators, parents, guardians, mentors, role models, and all concerned citizens to reiterate to our students the value of a goodeducation.
In the face of mounting global challenges, particularlytheclimatecrisis,itis crucial for our students to exit the school system as well-educated and highly skilledcitizens.
The Bahamas is in dire need of professionals with theabilitytoadaptquickly andgainexpertiseinareas relevant for safeguarding ournation’sfuture.
Fortunately, the national youth ambassadors are working towards educating Bahamian students on those important topics to ensure that they are exposed to knowledge, skills and opportunities which prepare them to respond to those challenges.My advice for students is to take advantage of all the learning opportunities available, both inside and outside of the classroom. Onmyjourneytobecome a national youth ambassador, I have learned that
being interdisciplinary affords you the flexibility necessary to solve any challenges you may face
on your academic or professional path. – Jervon Sands, Climate Change YouthAmbassador
addressing climate change are more powerful than youmightrealise.
The challenges we face can seem overwhelming, butremember,everygreat movement started with individuals who cared enoughtotakeaction.
My advice to you is simple:
Stay curious and educate yourself about the environment.
Understand the issues and be informed about what’s happening both here in the Bahamas and aroundtheworld.
Butdon’tstopatknowledge – take action, even if itfeelssmall.
Startbymakingchanges in your own life, like reducing waste, conserving energy, and spreading awareness among your peers.
Getinvolvedinlocalinitiatives,whetherit’sbeach cleanups, tree planting, or advocacyefforts. Your involvement can inspire others and create a ripple effect in your community.
Most importantly, don’t be discouraged by setbacks.
Change takes time, and it often starts with small victories.
Keep pushing forward, stayconnectedwithothers who share your vision, and remember that your efforts are building a foundation for a better future.
The world needs your voice, your energy, and yourleadership.
• To the students of The Bahamas, I want you to know that your passion and commitment to
Together, we can make a lasting impact and protectourplanetforgenerationstocome.
– Waynisha Saunders, Climate Change Youth Ambassador
CLIMATE change youth ambassadors Jervon Sands with Waynisha Saunders, also shown inset top right.
Chevening: Could you be next to study a master’s in the UK?
By Katie Schwarz
EVERY year, across the world, students are selected for a once in a lifetime opportunity to undertake a fully-funded master’s programme in the UK through the Chevening Scholarship Programme which is funded by the British government’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office and its partner organisations. This summer is no different, as the British High Commission prepares to send a record number of five Bahamian students to study in 2024/2025.
Chevening Scholarships areawardedtoindividuals withdemonstrableleadership potential and a clear vision of how their field of study will enable them to contribute to society. The scholarship includes accesstosomeofthebest quality education in the world;fullyfundedtuition fees, a stipend and return air travel; exclusive networking opportunities, and the chance to explore the UK’s diverse culture. Bahamian alumni have studiedarangeofcourses including Environmental Management, Security and Intelligence Studies, Television and Film Production, and Innovation andPublicPolicy.
Three of the places offered to Bahamian students this year would not have been possible without the sponsorship of BHM Company Ltd, Charles Hayward Foundation and a new sponsor -BlueActionLab(BAL).
Rupert Hayward, founder andpresidentofBALand formertrusteeoftheHayward Foundation said: “I am delighted that BAL is
fully funding a Bahamian master’s student to study in the UK. My firm belief isthateducationisthekey toourcountry’ssuccessful sustainable development
over the next 50 years of independence, so being able to support another student through Blue ActionLab,inadditionto theHaywardFoundation’s previousandongoingsupport, is another huge win forallinvolved”.
Deputy British High Commissioner Katie Schwarz said: “It’s fantastictoseeanincrease in the number of Chevening Scholars this year thankstotheongoinggenerosity of our sponsors. The talent and level of
competitionforplaceswas high – all the students we interviewed were a credit to The Bahamas and passionateabouttheirfieldof study.
As someone who was fortunate enough to study overseas myself, I look back on it as a huge privilege and a lifechanging opportunity. I wish our five brilliant scholars the very best of luck as they prepare for the year ahead.”
Applications for 2025/2026 opened on August 6, and close on November 5, 2024. Nasia Colebrooke who has just completedanMAinMagazine Journalism at City, University of London had this to say about the processandexperience:“The application process was pretty straightforward, but it was the four essay questions that took more timeandconsideration.
“My year was fantastic. I went to a few dance classes, went on trips to cities outside of London, visited lots of cool places around London, made lifelong friends, and learnedalotinmycourse. Now that I’m a Chevening alumna, I am part of a global network of leaders who are making their community, profession and world better every day.Withmystudiescomplete, I hope to do the same”.
Since the creation of Chevening in 1983, over a hundred Bahamians have been selected for a Chevening Scholarship and have subsequently gone on to become respected leaders across a rangeofsectors.Formore information on how to apply, visit www.chevening.org.
THE CURRENT cohort of students who will be returning in the next few months, pictured from left to right, Tereah Albury, AnnMarie Carroll, Nasia Colebrooke and Paige Bastian.
Profiles student
NYHLA COX
Age:12
Grade:8
School:St.John’s College
Parents: Tonika Cox and Denero Rahming (Proud Grammy DeborahMitchell)
In 2023, Nyhla distinguished herself at St. John’s College as the Salutatorian, securing the 2nd position among the school’s Top Ten Achievers. A natural leader, she served as a Prefect and has earned the prestigious Emerald Club Award for five consecutive years, highlighting her consistent dedication and outstandingachievements.
Beyond academics, Nyhla is deeply engaged in school life, actively participating in Builders Club, Eco Club and G.E.M.S. Nyhla has also excelled in literary endeavours, receiving a Silver Award placement
in the Queens Commonwealth Essay Competition2023. Her passion lies in scientific exploration, particularlytheintricacies ofthehumanbody’sfunction and form, fuelling her ambition to pursue a careerasacardiovascular surgeon.
CONGRATULATIONS
CONGRATULATIONS are in order for Talisa Lightbourne, who graduated from C.R. Walker SeniorHighSchoolonJune17.Yourproudmother iswishingyouallthebestandisaskingyoutokeep upthegreatwork.
Nyhla’s journey exemplifies a commitment to excellence, leadership, andarelentlesspursuitof
DEMERICK TAVARIS KNOWLES JR
Demerick Tavaris Knowles Jr, affectionately known as ‘Demi’ and ‘Tavar’ to his family was born November 1, 2006inNassau,Bahamas and is a 2024 graduate from Saint Augustine’s College having made the Honour Roll. While attending Saint Augustine’s, Demerick also participated in various extracurricular activities andgroupsincluding:
- The Peer Mentorship Program where he mentored seventh-grade students and guided them throughout their firstyearofhighschool
- The Interact Club which is an extension of the Rotaract Club where he served as Director and organized projects which gave back to the community
- The Student Christian Movement where he and fellow teenagers came together in
‘SKY IS THE LIMIT’ FOR BRIANCA AND BRIANNA
BRIANNA and Brianca Butterfield sat theirBGCSEsandBJCs thisyear.
knowledge in medicine. Her future aspirations promise to impact and inspireinequalmeasure.
Brianna attained 10 BGCSE passes, was elected Deputy Head Girl at QC, made honour roll, played at BAISS with her senior girl volleyball team for the playoffs and was named President for 2024-2025 of QC 5000 (A feeding/community outreach organisation at QC). She is going into her senior year at Queen’s College, where shewillfocusonherAP classes to move into her tertiary education journey upon graduation. Brianca sat eight BJCs (4 As/3 Bs/1 C), made Dean’sListentireschool year, BAISS junior girls championship winner, and learning Mandarin. Shenowgoesintosenior high school grade 10 at KingswayAcademy.
fellowship to learn and spread Christian values andworshipGodand
- The Gentlemen’s Club where he received guidance, exposure and character development as a young Bahamian man to bring value to society.
He engaged in competitive swimming which further developed not onlyhisbodybutalsohis social skills and trained him to remain focused anddriveninhisendeavors.Lastly,heenteredan Information and Communication Technology
ProgramatTheBahamas TechnicalandVocational Institute (BTVI) where he achieved verified badges in the introductorycoursesfor“Internet of Things (IoT)” and “Cybersecurity”. His passion for technology blossomedhere. Demerick will now be pursuing Cybersecurity academically in the fall of 2024 at Gannon UniversityinErie,Pennsylvania. He is sure to do exceedingly well in this and other pursuits he chooses to undertake as he has the love and support of his parents Demerick Knowles Sr. and Catherine Knowles, his grandparents Verlene Bullard and Henfield Bullard and Veronica “Ronnie” McKenzie and Everette “Ricky” McKenzie, his uncles Alexander L. “Alex” Knowles and Javaughn “Vaughn” Bullard and his aunts Ricci “Mally” McKenzieandGeorgette “Georgie”McKenzie.
DEMAJIO ETHAN ROMARE FORBES
FOUR-year-old Demajio will be attending Xavier’s Lower School in September. He earned certificates in Bible, math, letters and sounds, shapes and colours. Keep up the good work my boy!
Labron earns ‘A’ grade
LABRON James Minnis of the School for the Blind earned an A in health science, and B grades in mathematics, English language and social studies in the BJC examinations.
Ushering in a new generation of maritime professionals
By FAy SImmONS Tribune Education Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net
LJM Maritime recently held its graduation ceremony, ushering in a new generation of maritime professionals.
The cohort included navigation and engine graduates as well as presea navigation and engine cadets.
Minister of Energy and Transport, JoBeth Coleby-Davis said the maritime industry is an
‘exciting and dynamic’ field that can drive change.
“We need a revolution that will not only address our existing challenges, but also fuel a quest for greatness in our people,” saidMrsColeby-Davis.
“Ibelievethatthemaritime sector can play a tremendous role in driving change and providing economicopportunities.”
She highlighted the importance of the maritime industry and encouraged the graduates to make the most of their
educationandtraining.
She said: “Do not be afraid to put your knowledge to the test. Also, do not be afraid of making mistakes. In moments of doubt and challenge, please remember that a smooth sea never made a skilledsailor.
“A good sailor is the one who has witnessed all the obstacles in the sea yet managed to reach the shore.Donotallowtough situations to break you. Afterall, good leaders are born from overcoming hardship.”
NEW maritime professionals arriving for their graduation on July 25, 2024.
Photos: Nikia Charlton
LJM Maritime Academy president Brendamae C Cleare speaking at Graduation Ceremony.
Photos: Nikia Charlton
ENGINE Graduate Micayle Glinton receiving diploma.
PRE-Sea Navigation Cadet Craigdera Deveaux.
NAVIGATION Graduate Gabriel Newbold.
NAVIGATION Graduate Kenvado Knowles.
PRE-Sea Navigation Cadet Karmelo Archer.
5
THE whole university and college decision-makingprocesswasadaunting task.
Here’s five things to thinkabout:
1) Think carefully about what you want to study. Many people I know have changed subjects or regretted choices. Depending on where you study, a degree can take four years of your life, so if it is a subject you don’t feel passionately about you will most definitely lose motivation over the four years, experience
things to think about further education
ÅKE WIBERG IS A STUDENT AT DURHAM UNIVERSITY IN ENGLAND - AND OFFERS HIS ADVICE TO THOSE ABOUT TO HEAD OFF TO COLLEGE
burn out and ultimately this may get reflected on yourgrades.
Think about how the subject you will be studying is going to help your career prospects. Although the subject you studyisnotthe“bealland end all” for what career you want after university, it does certainly help and
gives you a better opportunity and competitive advantage to get into the industry you want and haveasuccessfulcareer.
2) Join a sport or society, it is the best way to integrate yourself into the university lifestyle, get more involved in what you are passionate about and also it is great for
meeting as many people as possible. Even if it is something you have never done before, there is certainly another person who is in the same boat. It is a must do when joining university. Throw yourself out there and if it gets too much you can always take a step back. Don’t be scared to socialise. Introduce yourself to as many people as possible and remember everyone else is just as new and nervous asyouare.
3) Think carefully about what university you want to attend, be it in your home country, America, or Europe. You can choose wherever you want. Whatever it be, it will most definitely impact yourlifecourse.Ifyouget homesick easily, consider being closer to home, as all university students will have a time where it can feel too much and start to become overstimulated. Being able to go back home for a couple days to unwind may be exactly what you need. Think about university environment, would you rather study in a city or be at a campus university? Both have their own strengths and weaknesses. Ensure the university offers strong programmes in your area of interest. It is important to remember a good university does not always mean your specific area of interest will be of the same standard and equally good as other departments or the rest of theuniversity.
“Think carefully about what university you want to attend, be it in your home country, America, or Europe. You can choose wherever you want. Whatever it be, it will most definitely impact your life course. If you get homesick easily, consider being closer to home, as all university students will have a time where it can feel too much and start to become overstimulated.”
— Åke Wiberg
4) University may be the first time you will be completely independent, especially if you are not catered. This means you will need to pack essential items like sheets, bedding, kitchen supplies and personal things. You will also have to buy normal household things you usually are acquainted to at home.
Like doing laundry, buying toilet paper, groceries or even paying rent and electricity bills. These are the hidden killers when it comes to spendingastheybegintoaddup weekinandweekout.
Also make sure you research membership costs (if any) when joining a sport or society as many students forget to consider it. It is essential to make a spreadsheet/plan to budget your weekly spending on all the fixed costs that you know are inevitable in order to survive at university. Such as budgeting $70 to be spent
for groceries and toiletries every week, at the same time make sure to also allow yourself leeway for spending on other non-essential items or activities you enjoy doing inyourfreetimeaswell.
5) Lastly, academic preparation is extremely important. Make sure once the start of term is near you have everything set up, have the correct textbooks and familiarise yourself with the curriculum to hit the groundrunning. Make sure to try and attend as many lectures as possible as it is very easy tofallbehindandstudents are prone to the snowball effectinregardstowork. This happens when a studentmissesonelecture, then two, then three… to the point where it keeps piling up, leaving students with lots of catch-up and unnecessary stress for the rest of the year, having to cramforexamswhichmay likelyaffectfinalgrades.
Bridging the gap
FROM July 30 to August 1, students in Lyford Cay Foundations’ FOCUSprogrammehighlighted the culmination of their summer projectbasedlearningactivitiesat theannualFOCUSShowcase held at University of TheBahamas.
With the theme of “Bridging Communities: Designing Sustainable Connections,” students worked together this summer to design and construct bridges that address the needs of their communities. Through the projects, which took nearly a month to complete, participants explored the principles of structural engineering, environmental sustainability and budget management. Students in grades 5-9 collaborated in teams to develop innovative solutions, conduct research and engage in hands-on activities to bringtheirdesignstolife.
The students were guidedbytheoverarching question, “How can we design and build a bridge that effectively connects our communities while considering factors such as safety, environmental impact, and budget constraints?” The challenges that each grade was specificallygivenwere:
Grades 5 and 6 - How can we design and build a bridge that meets the needsofourcommunity?
Grades 7 and 8 - How can we design and build a roller coaster that incorporates bridges to create an exciting and safe ride experience?
Grade 9 - Students integrated the bridges theme by coding and creating video games using the Scratch programming language.
“Project-based learning helps education come alive at FOCUS,” shared
AT the close of the week, students had a special opportunity to present their projects to Ms. Kimberly Furnish, Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy, Nassau, The Bahamas.
Dr Nicola Virgill-Rolle,
Executive Director of Lyford Cay Foundations.
“It is a student-centered approach to instruction that helps students apply the knowledge they gain to national needs and global challenges. Project-based learning has been found to accelerate learning and improve the retention of content and newlyacquiredskills.”
Students were thrilled to share their projects with family and friends
at their showcase. They were especially excited to have a private audience to present their projects with Kimberly Furnish, Chargé d’Affaires of the USEmbassy,Nassau,The Bahamas.
“It was truly inspiring to see the creativity and dedication of these young students as they tackled complex issues through their bridge designs,” said Chargé Furnish.
“Their innovative solutions and teamwork not
only demonstrate their potential as future leaders but also highlight the importance of sustainable development in our communities. I am confident that the skills and knowledge they have gained through this project will serve them well in their futureendeavors.”
While the younger students were at University of The Bahamas, FOCUS students in grades 10-12, known as FOCUS On Course To College
(OCTC)alsohadanexciting summer full of hands on learning at another premier Bahamian educationalinstitution.
Forthefirsttimeduring Summer SLAM, the older students explored vocational education at Bahamas Technical and VocationalInstitute.
OCTC students immersed themselves in a variety of courses including Information Technology, Media, Construction, Fashion and Beautytrades.
Like the younger students, FOCUS OCTC participants also had a chance to present their learnings and experiences in a showcase for friends, family and BTVI instructors.
“Because of their summer experience at BTVI, each FOCUS OCTC student now has a skill that they can carry with them as well as several trades that they can exploreascareerpossibilities,”saidVirgill-Rolle.
“We thought it was important that students understand the breadth of what post-secondary education includes. They now understand that vocational and technical education are also wonderful options after completinghighschool.”
FOCUS is an out-ofschool time, tuition-free enrichment programme for youth in grades 5 through12.Guidedbythe approvedcurriculumfrom The Bahamas Ministry of Education & Technical & Vocational Training as a foundation, the programme provides college readiness and access support to public school students of demonstrated need and potential. Students begin the summer after 4th grade and make aneight-yearcommitment to continue the programme until high school graduation. The goal is forthestudentstobecome the first in their families to achieve post-secondary education.
StudentsattendFOCUS for 15 Saturdays during the school year. Summer brings an even more intense concentration on academic enrichment withstudentsattending30 days of sessions known as SummerSLAM.
The success of FOCUS is evident with 100% of students participating in project-based learning and 94% of graduating students applying to postsecondaryinstitutions.
To learn more about FOCUS, please visit our website: www.lyfordcayfoundations.org.
GRADE 5 FOCUS students.
FOCUS STUDENTS - Dr. Nicola Virgill-Rolle, executive director of Lyford Cay Foundations and Ms. Kendra Moss, director of programmes with Ms. Kimberly Furnish, Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy.
Photos: Cay Focus Photography
GRADE 9 FOCUS students.
Nurse Power: UB graduates soak up the spotlight
CONGRATS to three amazing graduates of the University of The Bahamas who are recipients of their Bachelor of Science inNursingdegree.
These three friends have high hopes for the future,withplanstomake a meaningful impact in their respective roles in healthcare in The Bahamas.
Nursingrequiresadeep level of commitment and care to healing othersand these three ladies are settoproveit!
Pictured, from left to right, are Deandrea Russell, BSc Nursing, who is also a certified phlebotomist and an entrepreneur, Malia Delancy, BSc Nursing (Honours) and is a certified Doula,
phlebotomist and entrepreneur and Nadja Armbrister BSc Nursing (Distinction - second highest GPA in her cohort) now has a double degree, the first being in accounting. Their families offer loadsofloveandsupport, wishingthemGodspeedin theirfutureendeavours!
VALEDICTORIAN CACHE KELLY
ORISE’ WOODSIDE KEILIA WILLIAMS
GRADUATE FROM NURSES TRAINING INSTITUTE WITH AN ‘EDGE’
NURSES Edge Training Institute (NETI) has trained over 300 healthcare professionals since opening 10 years ago. Participants have been trained using
best international practice standards in preparation for international certification. Available programmes include pharmacy technician, phlebotomy technician,
emergency medical technician, patient care technician, electrocardiography technician and coding and billing.
HEIDI CAVAJAL
ANASTACIA PETIT
STEVE ST FLEUR
SENDY FRADIN
Lyford Cay Scholars inspired
SINCE the 1980s, Lyford Cay Foundations has been providing partial scholarships for undergraduate, graduate and technical and vocational studies outside of The Bahamas in fields that will directly impact the country.
Here is a snapshot of a few Lyford Cay Scholars and the impact they are making through education.
AMBER TURNER
LCF Graduate Scholarship2022
A native of Grand Bahama, Amber obtained herBachelorofSciencein small island sustainability from University of The Bahamas. Since attending UWI, Amber was appointed as the Grand Bahama representative on the Youth Climate and Environmental Committee and nominated to participate in the Climate Young Negotiators programme.
Inherownwords...
Enrique Pyfrom Jr. EstelleSiebens ExcellenceScholarship 2023Spring2024
graduate University: Duke Degree:Masters FieldofStudy: Quantitative Management: BusinessAnalytics
Fall2024graduate University: TheUniversityofthe WestIndies Degree: MasterofScience FieldofStudy: Natural Resources and Environmental Management/ClimateChange
Highlightsoflastschool year included delving deeper into my research on climate change and its impact on water resource managementinTheBahamas. Navigating complex data and analysing it in a meaningful way required a tremendous amount of perseverance. Overcoming this challenge made
the achievement even more rewarding, and I emerged from the experience with a newfound sense of confidence in my abilitiesasaresearcher.
NOAH ALBURY
CLCFGraduate Scholarship2023 University: McGill Degree:Bachelorof Science FieldofStudy:Physics
New Providence in 2023. He is an avid chess player who represented The Bahamas in the 2022 Chess Olympiad in Chennai, India and he is youngest Bahamian to ever qualify for The BahamasChessOlympiad OpenTeam.
a higher level. My ultimate goal is to get a PhD in physics specialising in quantumoptics.
I would like to set up workshops for young Bahamians and teach them useful physics and mathskills.
Enriquegraduatedfrom St. Anne’s School in New Providence in 2018 and wentontoobtainhisbachelor’s in economics with a minor in mathematics from Morehouse College intheUnitedStates.
Inhisownwords...
Noah graduated from St. Augustine’s College,
Inhisownwords... Studying physics has allowedmetolearnabout the universe we live in, inspiring me to study at
I believe you should always be the hardest working person in the room, even if you are not the best at whatever you aredoing.
It has always been my goaltoimpactmycommunity.Iwanttobeacatalyst for further development ofthetechandinvestment banking industries in The
AMBER TURNERNOAH ALBURY ENRIQUE PYFROM JR
for change
Bahamas.Toeffectively improve The Bahamas, we need more individuals skilled with strategic approaches to real-world challengestodriveresults and implement tangible solutions.
I believe that the educational and professional experienceIhavethusfar, coupled with this additional degree will mold me into the informed and transformational leader I aspiretobecome.
andcriticalwritinginThe Bahamas and to eventuallyobtainmyPhD.
I plan to aid in the development of genrespecific courses to inspire more creative writers to workontheircraft.
KENTASHIA NEWRY
measures more accessible and a part of the social normformycommunity.
DONIQUE WHYLLY
RogersFamily Scholarship2022 University:Toronto Degree:Honours BachelorofArts
ALEXIA TOLAS
Harry C. Moore Memorial Scholarship in TheArts2023
Spring2024graduate University:EastAnglia
Degree:MasterofArts
FieldofStudy:Creative Writing:ProseFiction
Alexia was born on New Providence and raised on Long Island. She was valedictorian of N.G.M Major High School, Long Island, and went on to obtain her Bachelor of Arts in English at the University of TheBahamas.
Inherownwords...
I want to promote Bahamian literature, for one of the hallmarks of a progressive society is the proliferation of its culture, beliefs and history in the written word. I want to help engender the love of intellectualism and creativity here in The Bahamas. One of my goals is to teach creative
Bahamas Resilience andExcellenceAward Fall2024graduate University: Toronto College of DentalHygiene Degree:Diploma FieldofStudy:Dental Hygiene Kentashia is from New Providence and graduated from Temple Christian High School in 2016. She has always been interested in the healthcare industry and formerly worked at a medicaldiagnosticcenter. Her love for healthcare motivated her to pursue a diploma and certificationasaregistereddental hygienist.
Inherownwords...
I believe the saying “there is no place like home.”
FieldofStudy: Economics & Environmental Geography (doublemajor)
Donique is a graduate of Lucaya International School, Grand Bahama. On campus she is an academic writer and serves as the financial director on the executive board of her university’s West Indian Students’ Association.
Inherownwords...
I am passionate about promoting social, economic and environmental changeinTheBahamas.
That is why I plan to return to The Bahamas once my studies are completed. I plan to spread knowledgeandawareness oftheimportanceofgood oral health practices with myfellowBahamians. Too often in The Bahamas, it is left for consideration only when aproblemisdiscovered. My goal is to aid in making preventative
I intend to return to TheBahamasandusethe experience that I have gained from both fields of study to help address a wide variety of issues such as poverty reduction, international trade and skill development for womenandyouth.
I believe we should try to do everything to the best of our abilities. The extra amount of effort, diligence and time spent determines the distance between us and our dreams.
ALEXIA TOLASKENTASHIA NEWRYDONIQUE WHYLLY
Aaliyah’s journey exemplifies the power of youth leadership and academic excellence
AALIYAH Rolle is now a 2024 graduate of the prestigious St. Anne’s School and has excelledincountlessways.
Selected to represent her schoolasheadgirl,Aaliyahhas proven herself to be a respectableleaderofexcellence.
As an honour roll student, she has received numerous accolades, including a national youth award. Graduating with distinction, Aaliyah earned the highest awards in chemistry
and food and nutrition and was honoured with the principal’s award for overall best graduate. Notably, she also achieved an impressive 7 As on the Bahamas General CertificateofSecondaryEducation (BGCSE)exams.
Aaliyah’s dedication to environmental sustainability is reflected in her leadership of the “Plant a Tree with Ki” initiative, which has planted numerous trees across the
island, promoting environmental stewardship and addressing food insecurity. Her commitmenttohercommunityextends beyond her environmental efforts,assheaimstocontinue making a positive impact on healthcareintheBahamas.
Aaliyah has been awarded the prestigious United World College (UWC) scholarship to attend Pearson College UWC in Victoria, Canada, where she will further develop her
leadership skills and academic prowess. As she prepares for this new chapter, Aaliyah is focused on her lifelong ambition to become a medical doctor.
Aaliyah Rolle’s journey exemplifiesthepowerofyouth leadershipandacademicexcellence. The Bahamas can take greatprideinthisyoungleader, who is poised to make significant contributions both at homeandabroad.
It’s back to school for adults, too!
PARENTS are busy getting their children prepared for back-to-school in pre, primary, elementary and high schools - but they shouldn’t count themselvesout!
Educationisimperative atanyage.
Taking a short course can boost your professional level and improve yourvalue.
It is also personally rewarding and positively impactsthepeopleinyour lives.
Keino Ebanks is a testament to this kind of success. He enrolled in theUniversityoftheWest Indies Global Campus
Bahamas(UWIGCB)and successfully completed the project management course.
He spent 10 weeks committed to learning everythinghecouldabout project management, attending online classes twoeveningsperweek.
UWIGCB’s project management course helpedKeinotobeableto applyprojectmanagement processes, knowledge areas, concepts, tools and techniques in meaningful ways. These skills were important for him, as he serves as the product lead manager for Infincol
(Bahamas) Ltd, which operatesMoneyMaxx.
Sponsored by his company, Keino is now better able to execute projects successfully for his company.
Several other MoneyMaxx employees also completed Continuing and Professional Education (CPE) xourses at UWIGCB.
Other CPE Course offeringsfortheFall2024 season include: Business and Commercial Law; Law for Human Resource Professionals; Supervisory Management I & II; Quality Control Management; and
Monitoring and Evaluation.Visitwww.global.uwi. edu/bahamasandclickthe “programmes” toggle for moreinformation.
UWIGCB wishes to thank the following corporate partners who invested in their employees and sponsored them in CPE courses last season - the Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas (ZNS); Bahamasair; Central Bank of The Bahamas; Doctor’s Hospital; Tourism Development Corporation; The Bahamas Department of Customs; Sysco; Paradise Games; Baker’s Bay; and MoneyMaxx.
UWI Course graduate Keino Ebanks.
AALIYAH Rolle has been awarded the prestigious United World College (UWC) scholarship to attend Pearson College UWC in Victoria, Canada.
AALIYAH ROLLE
student
Profiles
St Andrew‘s International School
VIVAN NAGRATH
GoalsandAspirations
Pursue a B.S. and a Master’s in mechanical engineering. Maybe pursueaPhD.
Prizeswon
Valedictorian, Principal’s award, CIS International Understanding Award, Subject Distinctions in: IB HL Physics, IB HL Chemistry, IB HL AA Maths, IB SL Business Management (all awards were granted for the academic year 2022-2023)
HonoursAwarded
HeadBoy(2022-2023)
Extra-Curricular Activities
Swimming, St Andrew’s School Band (playing electric guitar), Study Buddies Tutoring, The BahamasRedCrossClub, BAISS Swimming, Backstage Crew for School Plays, Lets Swim Bahamas Swim Coach, World Scholar’s Cup, Business Olympics for Secondary Schools, BETA Camp Volunteer
MATHIAS BUTLER
GoalsandAspirations
My goal is to obtain a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in the field of Chemical Engineering. During this time, I plan to obtain a Co-op work position to gain practical experience and hands-on learning. Once I achieve my goals, I plan to return to The Bahamas to contributeinapositivewayto provide engineering solutionsformycountry.
Prizeswon
My team and I placed second overall and won a trophy in the Senior DivisionintheWorldScholar’s Cup Bahamas National Round 2023. Additionally, I achieved 9 gold and 2 silver individual medals during the competition. Also, I achieved the Subject Award for Music (Grade 10) and was awarded a “Merit” grade for my Trinity College London Music Exams (Grade6).
HonoursAwarded
I graduated Grade 11 with honours and was on the Principal’s List from Grade 9 to 12. Further,
I achieved 7 As and 1 B in the IGCSE Program and an A for BGCSE Music. I was proud to graduate from Grade 12 and achieve my International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. Furthermore, I received recognition for participating in a summer virtual Engineering Program (2023) at a Canadian University.
Extra-Curricular Activities
Ienjoyplayingthepiano, participating in the BahamasNationalArtsFestival, andplayingatmanyschool functions,suchasfordignitaries and special guests at theStAndrew’s75thAnniversary. In addition, I am involved in sports such as Track and Field, debating intheWorldScholar’sCup (eight years), and debating at Model United Nations (MUN) in 2023 at Harvard University in Boston, USA. Finally, I was also involvedintheStAndrew’s Red Cross Society and the StAndrew’sBand.
Profiles student
St Andrew‘s International School
SHANON WILSON
Goals and Aspirations
I am to be successful in completing my Bachelor’s degree at the University of Miami.
Prizes won
Muriel Eneas Community Service Award presented by The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority [The Bahamas Chapter], The Judy Maura Memorial Prize, Top Performance Subject Prize in Visual Arts
Honours Awarded
Certificates of Excellence in IB Visual Arts and IB Business Management, Certificate of Recognition in IB Spanish
Extra-Curricular Activities
Marathon Bahamas Volunteer, Primary School Art Club Teacher’s Assistant, Secondary School EcoClub Executive, Freedom Farm
Baseball League Volunteer Photographer, Yearbook Club Designer, and SeniorGirlsVolleyballTeammember
Leadership Positions
Head Girl for St. Andrews International School (2022-2023)
University Attendance
I will be attending the University of Miami in Fall 2024
This form was created inside of St Andrew’s International School.
where I will open my own dermatological clinic and provide world-class care to my community. I am committed to enhancing confidence in others’ lives through advanced dermatological treatments. My journey is only possible through God’s will and my desire to give back to the place that has always been my home.
Prizes won
IB Theatre Arts Subject Prize Awardee
Honours Awarded
Graduated with Honours Principal’s List, IGCSE Drama Subject Prize
Principal’s List
Extra-Curricular Activities
Hurricanes Media News Group (Host, Presenter, Journalist), CAS Project: Ranfurly Home for Children Fun
Goals and Aspirations
After completing my undergraduate education at Emory University, I aspire to become a cosmetic dermatologist. My ultimate goal is to return to Nassau,
Sports Day Initiative at SAIS, Oliver Jr. Stage Manager (play) | Doctors Hospital Bridge to the Future STEM Student Program Graduate, HMUN delegate, Eco Club Executive, Annie Jr. Stage Manager (play).
KENYA REIGN MARIE TURNQUEST