We are proud to introduce our Vancouver Island valedictorians who graduated last week from our Victoria and Nanaimo campuses, marking the end of one fulfilling chapter and the start of an exciting new one. Their graduation ceremonies are the culmination of months of hard work, dedication, and growth. We are immensely proud of them and honoured to have them represent Sprott Shaw College. You can find a short excerpt from each of their inspiring valedictorian speeches below.
Congratulations Class of 2025 – you did it!
Victoria: Sophia Billanes – Health Care Assistant
Sophia Billanes, our valedictorian representing the Victoria campus, reflected on the journey to graduation and shared her gratitude for her classmates, instructors, and loved ones.
“[Graduating] isn’t just about what we’ve learned in textbooks. It’s about the transformation. It’s about the growth that happened quietly, behind the scenes. It’s about becoming more resilient, more confident, more self-aware. This journey wasn’t just about gaining skills or credentials— it was about discovering our own strength.”
Nanaimo Valedictorian: Shale Peleshytyk – Early Childhood Education
Shale Peleshytyk, our valedictorian representing the Nanaimo campus, thanked the graduating class’s support systems and the Sprott Shaw staff and instructors that encouraged and motivated them throughout their education journeys. She also reflected on the journey to graduation and shared her hopes for the graduating class’s bright futures.
“As we prepare to take our next steps, let’s remember this, the learning doesn’t stop here. The knowledge we’ve gained is just the beginning. What matters now is how we carry that knowledge forward and use it to make a difference in the world. Whether we’re supporting families, caring for others, or helping businesses thrive, the impact we make will be felt by so many. “
