Reflect;

I am utterly glad that I took time off from work yesterday to attend my graduation.

Today, yesterday is a beautiful memory forever etched in my heart.

I felt joy, love and hope in ITE's auditorium during the ceremony. I witnessed faces full of motivation and hearts filled with a powerful determination to achieve greatness. Meeting my friends and lecturers were a pleasant and wonderful experience!

Throughout the graduation, there were three things which left a deep impact on me.

First, was seeing all my classmates graduate with a new sense of self assurance in each and everyone!

Secondly, was seeing my dearest friend, Habiba graduate as a top student of Early Childhood Education. I have witnessed for myself her determination and persevering will to achieve her aspirations. She is truly an inspiration in my eyes.

Finally, I was impacted when I heard the top scholar of 'Higher Nitec in Business and Services', Ivan, deliver his valedictorian speech. 

His story and journey is not an unlikely one but it is a story which most of us can definitely relate to. His sincerity, passion and burning flame to succeed was apparent.

At the age of 23, Ivan graduated as a top scholar after facing setbacks in his life. I recall him saying, "We are never too old to make a start." His words helped to put some things into perspective. His success and achievements opened my eyes to the power of a strong determination, dedication and a sense of commitment.

Life is never always smooth sailing. We all meet with different obstacles in different chapters of our lives. Some emerge strong, some emerge wiser and some people take some time to discover a silver lining hidden beneath challenges. Eventually, we all make our own choices and I am very happy that Ivan is witnessing the wonder of the choices he made.

Inspiration is everywhere. Yesterday I found inspiration in the words and determination of a young man name Ivan. Today, I may find inspiration in someone or something else. It will serve as a source of motivation for me to persevere in my long winding journey!