Niverville graduates look to the future

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This article was published 07/07/2023 (667 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

For 75 graduating students at Niverville High School their time in secondary school was full of firsts. They were the first graduating class to get through a global pandemic and they were the first graduating class to spend all four years in the new building.

“You have quite the high school story and one that will become permanently etched in our history,” said principal Kimberley Funk. “But your story is just the beginning. Only a few short chapters have been written in your big book of life. Each class you took, every project you tackled, and every lesson you learned has shaped your story. You have filled pages with challenges, triumphs, moments of self-discovery. And each page is a testament to your growth, strength, and determination to navigate the many complexities of high school life. Cherish the friendships you forged, the knowledge you gained, and the experiences you shared here for they have laid the foundations for the chapters that lay ahead.”

And looking ahead was the theme for this year’s graduating class. Valedictorian Kylah Hiebert focused on the “boundless opportunities” that were awaiting her classmates.

“These opportunities will allow us to share who we are with the world in places where our unique talents and strengths are vital. To members of the audience, know that you are in the presence of many future innovators, creators, and leaders of our generation. I’ve been privileged to witness examples of brilliance, compassion, and depth of character in our graduating class…I have no doubt that the class of 2023 will go on to achieve remarkable things leaving a permanent mark on the world.”

And going on to leave a mark on the world is Allison Taylor. She will be studying science in university before graduating with a bachelor’s degree and moving to Ireland to study dentistry.

“Work hard for everything that you have. Don’t settle and work really hard and enjoy your life. Do what makes you happy,” she said.

Also set to leave a mark is Ryder Lewis, who will take a gap year to try skydiving and save up money to go to Steinbach Bible College.

“My biggest dream is to pursue my love of being in theater on stage. I’m not entirely sure how I’m going to do that yet. SBC has some opportunities there. They have a travelling drama team so I really want to be part of that.”

Lewis’ mother, Sabrina, is excited and overwhelmed by the graduation. Her hopes and dreams for Ryder are to follow his dreams.

“Ultimately, that he is able to follow his dreams, that he’s at peace, that he can share his love with the world. The world needs more of that type of spirit and he’s got it so I’m excited to see that happens for him.”

But Sabrina wasn’t the only parent with big hopes and dreams for their child. Mylin Jaramilla had mixed emotions, but largely happiness. It seemed like just yesterday she was bringing her daughter Alex home from the hospital and now she was graduating and moving to B.C. for university.

“(My hope and dreams for her is) she grows up kind and happy. That’s all we want for her. Stay true to herself. Be kind to everybody she meets. Hear their story. Listen to them, be compassionate. Find your niche in the world and grab it with both hands and hold on to it because that’s the way to be happy.”