Neelin celebrates ‘resilient’ Class of 2025

École secondaire Neelin High School celebrated the graduation of more than 100 students on Tuesday at Westoba Place.

The Class of 2025 has its unique features — including five sets of twins among the grads, and one student, Felipe Trespalacios Castro, attending virtually from a hospital bed in Winnipeg.

Principal Bas Nundu, who started at Neelin the same year this class entered high school, delivered a heartfelt speech that reflected on their shared journey. He recalled their mutual feelings of nervousness and excitement as they began high school together four years ago and emphasized the growth and resilience he witnessed in his students and himself.

“I saw you guys grow, and you saw me grow — not in height, but you saw me grow,” Nundu said. “What I’ve learned is the true meaning of resilience … the ability to bounce back when faced with challenges.”

He encouraged the graduates to seek out people who help them persevere and urged them to pursue their passions wholeheartedly.

“Once a Spartan, always a Spartan,” he concluded warmly, a phrase echoed by many throughout the day.

Valedictorian Laura Ellis captivated the audience with a speech that mixed humour, honesty and inspiration. She reflected on the trials her class had overcome — from the turbulence of adolescence and academic pressure to deeply personal struggles and loss.

“A common misconception is that teenagers have it easy,” Ellis said. “But every one of us faced the cruelty of the world while still being expected to give 110 per cent … and yet, here we are.”

Ellis celebrated the class’s vibrant contributions — from theatre productions to sports championships — and reminded her peers of the importance of living in the moment. “At some point, we will all fail. But failure doesn’t mean the end of the road — just a chance to redirect and try again.”

Among the many memorable moments of the ceremony was the participation of Castro, president of the Student Representative Council, who joined virtually from a Winnipeg hospital after undergoing surgery for appendicitis. Despite his absence in person, he was all smiles on screen.

“I’m feeling pretty good. A little nervous for the future, but happy I could graduate with my peers,” he told the Sun from his hospital bed. Castro plans to study power engineering at Assiniboine College once he recovers.

The spirit of community and dedication was also recognized through awards. Sarah Martin, the 2025 recipient of the Neelin Shield of Involvement, was deeply moved as she received the honour for her tireless volunteering, tutoring younger students and supporting school activities.

“I never thought I’d get this,” she told the Sun. “Just being able to connect with teachers and help others has meant so much. And now I’m going to BU to study physics and math — I want to be a high school teacher and give back.”

Another highlight was the awarding of the Governor General’s Medal for Academic Excellence to Sam Manko, who humbly accepted the recognition.

“I’m pretty surprised,” he admitted. “But it feels great to have something tangible that represents all the hard work over the years. I’m grateful to my family and excited to head to BU to study economics.”

Ellis put it in her parting words, quoting John Lennon: “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.”

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