We are proud to introduce out valedictorians who graduated from our Burnaby (Trades), Downtown Vancouver, East Vancouver, New Westminster, and Richmond campuses, marking the culmination of months of hard work that has now paid off! During their graduation ceremonies, they celebrated with their classmates, campus staff, family, and friends to honour the determination, passion, and resilience it took to cross the finish line. You can find a short excerpt from their valedictorian speeches below.
We are incredibly proud of all our graduates, and we can’t wait to see what they do next. Congratulations Class of 2026 — you did it!
Sima Ghahremani, our valedictorian representing the Trades campus, reflected on the challenges she overcame and the feelings of confidence and belonging that grew as she kept moving forward. She also thanked her loved ones, classmates, and instructors.
“Two years ago, I asked myself a question: Do I belong here? Today, I have my answer. Belonging is not granted by certainty. It is earned through persistence. It is built in the moments you choose to stay when it would be easier to walk away. And over time, it becomes something you no longer need to ask for—because you have already proven it to yourself.”
Downtown Vancouver Valedictorian: Dan Rey Dumalag – Health Care Assistant
Dan Rey Dumalag, our valedictorian representing the Downtown Vancouver campus, expressed his gratitude for instructors, staff, and loved ones that encouraged and supported the graduates during their educational journeys. He also expressed pride in the challenges overcome and excitement for what comes next.
“Today, we are no longer just students. We are graduates ready to step into professions that demand not only skill, but heart, creativity, and determination, no matter our field.
The road ahead may still bring challenges, but if we could navigate this journey, I am confident we can handle anything. Let us go forward with courage, confidence, and compassion, remembering that even difficult situations are opportunities to grow.”
East Vancouver Valedictorian: Bhawna Sharma – Practical Nursing
Bhawna Sharma, our valedictorian representing the East Vancouver campus, gave a heartfelt thank you to the campus staff, instructors, classmates, and loved ones that uplifted her and her classmates on their journey to become Licensed Practical Nurses. She reflected on where they started, how far they have come, and her hopes for where they’re going next.
“As we move forward to our careers, let us remember why we started. Let us lead with kindness, advocate for our patients, and never forget the strength it took to get here.”
New Westminster Valedictorian: Sharoneil Lanip – Practical Nursing
Sharoneil Lanip, our valedictorian representing the New Westminster campus, looked back on the valuable lessons and experiences that shaped his time at Sprott Shaw College. He reflected on the determination, passion, and the meaningful connections with patients that inspired him to keep going even when the journey was challenging.
“As we begin this next chapter, let’s continue learning, continue growing, and continue supporting one another. Nursing is more than a job — it is a calling.”
Richmond Valedictorian: Carla Andrea Rivera Sierra – Early Childhood Education Basic
Carla Andrea Rivera Sierra, our valedictorian representing the Richmond campus, reflected on the challenges she overcame and the community she found at Sprott Shaw. She also thanked her classmates, instructor, mother, and husband, for all playing an important role in supporting her dreams.
“As Early Childhood Educators, we are helping children discover who they are. We are building their confidence, nurturing their curiosity, and creating spaces where they feel safe, valued, and heard. Every small interaction we have with a child helps shape the future.”
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