Class of 2026: Called to "Own Their Tomorrow" at Barataria North Secondary

The humid Trinidad air was thick with anticipation yesterday as the Barataria North Secondary School community gathered to celebrate a significant milestone. On Thursday, June 18, 2026, the graduating Class of 2026 took center stage, marking the end of their secondary school journey with a ceremony that was equal parts celebration and a call to action.

The theme for this year's graduation, "Own Your Tomorrow," resonated throughout the hall, urging the graduates not just to dream about the future, but to actively shape it.

As is tradition, the highlight of the evening was the feature address. This year, we were honored to have Mr. James Saunders, the familiar and respected former sports anchor at CCN TV6, deliver the keynote speech. Mr. Saunders, known for his eloquent commentary and deep understanding of Trinidadian culture, didn't just talk about sports; he spoke about life.

Using the discipline of athletics as a metaphor, Mr. Saunders encouraged the students to view the next stage of their lives as a new season. He challenged them to prepare for the "game" of adulthood with the same rigor and dedication they applied to their CSEC studies.

"Your tomorrow is not a gift," Mr. Saunders told the captivated audience. "It is a contract. The moment you leave these gates, the world will ask you what you are made of. The question is, are you ready to own it? Are you ready to take responsibility for your wins, your losses, and the legacy you choose to build?"

The ceremony was a moving affair, filled with performances from students showcasing the talent that is abound at the school, the presentation of awards, and acknowledgement of recently retired teachers of the school. The Principal, in her address, reflected on the resilience of this cohort, acknowledging the unique challenges they overcame to reach this point.

To the Class of 2026: As you step out into the world, remember the voices of your teachers, the encouragement of your parents, and the wisdom of Mr. Saunders. The stage is set, and the next play is yours to write. Go ahead, own your tomorrow.