Grads urged to work hard, stay curious

Vincent Massey High School 2026 graduates were encouraged to be courageous, kind and make a positive impact on others as they pursue careers in areas they’re passionate about.

Principal Kurt Hunter addressed the graduating class of 295 students during a ceremony held at Assiniboine Credit Union Place in the Keystone Centre on Thursday afternoon.

“The world needs people who are willing to work hard, treat others with respect and lead with integrity,” he said.

Hunter reminded the graduates that no one expects them to have their entire future figured out today and that most worthwhile journeys begin with feelings of excitement and uncertainty.

“Life isn’t a straight path — it’s full of twists and turns, and often surprises us in ways we never would have imagined,” he said.

“Be curious enough to keep learning, even when there’s no tests, no grades or no one telling you what comes next.”

Some of Vincent Massey’s graduates said they feel drawn to pursue careers focused on helping others as a way to give back to their community.

Michael Angelkovski said he plans to start at Brandon University in the fall with the goal of completing a four-year Bachelor of Science, followed by med school to become a doctor.

“Ever since I was younger, I’ve loved helping people,” he said.

“I am aware of the shortage of doctors, especially in this area … Wherever I can help, I think would be the main idea.”

Angelkovski said Vincent Massey is a “perfect depiction” of diversity with people from different backgrounds and a variety of worldviews.

“I think it helps you grow so much as a person. So I’m very thankful for every experience and every person I’ve ever met throughout high school, and I’m just, like, very excited for the future,” Angelkovski said.

Huma Abidullah reflected on the connections she created with her classmates and the lasting impact her teachers have made on her life.

Her biggest takeaway from the year is about the importance of enjoying the moment.

“Don’t worry too much about the future, and everything will end up good in the end,” Abidullah said.

She plans to attend Brandon University to pursue a bachelor’s in chemistry and then proceed with schooling in medicine or dentistry.

“Just something to help, like, the community a lot because I’ve been helped by the community quite a bit too, so I feel I should be giving back as well,” she said.

Valentina Amador-Argueta said she’s also interested in working toward a career in health care to help others as a physician assistant.

“I think having older sisters as an example set the stage for me to, like, dream big and do good,” she said, adding that she will go to Ontario’s McMaster University for a double major in biology and philosophy.

Amador-Argueta said she has been through a lot of ups and downs in the past four years of high school.

“But I think throughout it all, like, you learn a lot, you reflect, you grow, and I think it’s good to take these experiences and look back on them and be grateful and happy that they happen,” she said.

“I’m feeling super nervous, super scared, but I’m super excited for what’s next.”

Novah Anseeuw said graduating high school is a big moment for her.

“I worked by butt off to get here so I feel proud and happy that all my family and friends can come out and, you know, see me graduate and all that. So, it means a lot,” she said.

Graduating on the honour roll, playing on the girls’ soccer team and the kindness of students and staff are things about Vincent Massey she won’t forget, Anseeuw said.

She said she looks forward to continuing her undergraduate studies in science at Brandon University and is interested in careers related to epidemiology, psychiatry and neuroscience.

Brandon School Division Supt. Matthew Gustafson told graduates to be grateful for those who have helped them succeed and to carry that kindness forward.

“In a world increasingly focused on what can be done for them, I hope that moving forward you can focus on the gifts for how and what you do for others,” he said.

“I also hope that when someone’s actions have a positive impact on you, you share the gift of gratitude with them.”

» tadamski@brandonsun.com