Almost 100 Bermuda College students officially graduated on Thursday in a commencement ceremony that was uplifting, inspiring, humorous — and at one point incredibly moving.

The students, joined by hundreds of relatives and friends under a giant marquee on the college campus, celebrated the end of one chapter of their lives and the start of another.

Proceedings were opened by guest speaker and college alumni Tariq Lynch-Wade.

The successful airline pilot, who graduated in 1997, passed on a number of life lessons after recounted the struggles he went through in the years immediately after leaving college.

He said: “Some of you may be thinking, ‘I’ve gotten the certificate — what next?’

“Well, let me tell you something, that is the right question to ask, and if you’re feeling a little bit uncertain right now, you’re in good company.

“Because there’s no doubt that the world continues to prove itself unpredictable, ever-changing and, I’ll be honest, sometimes quite disheartening.

“But here’s the thing. Uncertainty is not the enemy. It can possibly be one of your greatest opportunities.

“You guys have all studied. You’ve written papers and passed exams. You have proven that you’re committed, capable and ready for whatever comes next, even if you don’t know what that is yet.

“So take a deep breath. Remember that the most successful people didn’t have it figured out at the start.

“Know that you don’t have to have all the answers today — in fact, you don’t have them tomorrow. All you need is the courage to take the next step, even if it feels like you are walking on sand when you would much rather be walking on solid concrete.

“There is no right path. Your journey is going to be yours and it doesn’t have to look like anybody else’s. You’ll find your way.

“As you step out into this world, remember these three things. Embrace the unknown, because it is where the magic happens. Walk your own path because there is no right or wrong way — it’s just your way.

“And stay optimistic, because when those tough times hit, believe me, there are glimmers of hope sprinkled somewhere in there.”

Crystal Caesar, the Minister of Education, was a guest at the ceremony, as was predecessor Diallo Rabain and Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security.

David Burt, the Premier, could not attend because he was overseas on government business.

However, in a congratulatory message, he said: “Today is a celebration of your commitment, perseverance and success.

“The late nights of studying, the personal sacrifices and the dedication you’ve shown to your education have all led to this moment, and you should be incredibly proud. This milestone also marks the close of one chapter and the beginning of another.

“Congratulations, Class of 2025. You are the future of our island, and I know you will make Bermuda proud.”

Before graduates were called to the stage to receive their commencement certificates, David Sam, the college president, applauded their efforts.

He said the college was excited to celebrate the graduates’ achievements, adding: “You have earned your credentials because of your hard work, passion and dedication.”

Dr Sam also thanked the support system that graduates had enjoyed, not only at the college, but also at home.

He said: “During your time at the college, guidance, support and encouragement helped you through your toughest moments.

“I know there were times when you thought this day would never come. There were times when you gave up and someone, a family member, friend, relative, pulled you out of bed or the doldrums for you to make it.”

Dr Sam, who was overseeing his first Bermuda College graduation ceremony, told the graduates that they had an advantage over those who attended other seats of learning.

He said: “You have a leg up on the competition now. Now that you’ve completed — you can compete. You’ve created opportunities for yourselves and your families.”

Dr Sam also sprinkled some humour amid the inspiring tone of his comments.

At one point he stepped away from the podium to mingle with the graduates.

Picking up a microphone as he left the stage and walked towards the audience, he said: “I feel like Oprah — without the money.“

It was one of many lighter moments that caused the audience to erupt in laughter.

There was also one touching moment. Damitri Edwards, an engineering student, and Tyeasha Haase, who was studying nursing, would have graduated today but died in tragic circumstances.

Dr Sam told the audience that two chairs adorned with commencement sashes and caps had been placed in the seating area, and that when the names of Mr Edwards and Ms Haase were called out in the graduation roll call, relatives would come forward to receive their certificates.

Dr Sam said: “They would have been here today but they left us too soon.

“We remember them because at Bermuda College we care about people. We are not numbers; we care about the individual and we mourn with their families.

“I know that they are looking down at us at this very moment and are endorsing our need to celebrate because you all have done a fantastic job. So let’s celebrate.”

Dr Sam concluded his remarks by reading the poem Anyway, written by the humanitarian and Nobel Prize winner Mother Teresa.

He said: “I hope these words will inspire you to keep learning, and achieving anyway. Congratulations, Bermuda College Class of 2025. Thank you. Go and shine.”

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