Prepare for opportunity, graduands told

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN your past and your future, is now – and “now” is really an acronym for no opportunity wasted.

As such, said principal of The Alexandra School Orson Alleyne, individuals should always seek to prepare themselves so they could grasp any opportunities presented.

Alleyne made the remarks in his address at the Speightstown, St Peter institution’s annual graduation ceremony on Saturday, held in the school hall.

Placing the graduation theme, Reflecting on The Past While Embracing The Future, into perspective, Alleyne told the 100-plus graduands from the six fifth forms that they cannot change their past but can learn from it – whether that experience was good or bad.

He stated that for every action there was a reaction, and for the individuals involved, there were consequences. And he hoped they learnt a lesson from that entire process.

Alleyne urged the graduands to reflect on their experiences at the school – the good and not so good – and how these had influenced them. However, he stressed while the past informs and influences, it does not have to determine their future.

He advised the graduands, all attired in blue gowns with matching colour mortar boards and scarfs saying “Graduating Class 2015”, to always seek to prepare themselves so they could grasp any opportunities presented.

“Success is when opportunity meets preparation,” said Alleyne.

That apart, he stated what was also needed was a positive attitude – as a winning attitude makes the world of difference.

Featured speaker was alumnus Kaymar Jordan, the chief executive officer of the online publication, Barbados Today. She said that who she is today was shaped by her experiences at Alexandra.

She pleaded with the graduands to stay away from bad company and avoid people who make everything seem impossible.

“Yours is indeed a possible dream. But you must be able to work out what is your purpose for being here and be prepared to work hard to achieve it. (Then) practice, practice, practice every day the skills you need to achieve your dream,” said Jordan.

The near four-hour long event also featured stirring musical renditions by staff and students. It culminated with a dynamic performance from the Alexandra Dance Group. (SP)