Lady Allen, wife of Governor General Sir Patrick Allen, has challenged young students to believe in themselves and focus on achieving, as they prepare to become "leaders of tomorrow".

She was speaking during a recently held graduation ceremony for Obistan Kindergarten and Preparatory School students, held under the theme 'Tomorrow's Leaders'. It took place on the grounds of the institution, 12 Washington Boulevard, St Andrew.

In a speech delivered on her behalf by Gloria Davis-Roberts, vice-president of student development at Northern Caribbean University (NCU), Lady Allen, a former teacher herself, took time out to give special recognition to the parents of students leaving Obistan.

Encouragement

"I am charging you with the task to continue to give your children the same support and encouragement you provided while they were at Obistan Kinder-Prep. This step is only the beginning. They have higher mountains to conquer," she said.

Speaking directly to the students, Lady Allen encouraged them to at all times believe in themselves, use their talent wisely and let it carry them on their journey to a brighter and successful future.

"If you believe in yourself you would have overcome the first obstacle to achieving success," she said. "People who believe in themselves perform better, they are not afraid to ask questions and to do well in all their endeavours, especially their schoolwork."

She added: "There will be many distractions but there will also be opportunities for you to grow and excel. I urge you to set your goals and stay focused."

Lady Allen in her speech stressed that focus does not come easily but is essential if one wants to make the most out of life. "Choose your friends wisely and ask God for the wisdom and courage to make the right choices and decisions."

She informed the gathering that many people do not realise that most of the trouble in which they find themselves can be traced to friendships with the wrong people. Joys, on the other hand, usually reflect the friendships they have formed with the right people.

Lady Allen told the students that high school is exciting but if they choose wisely they will not get caught up in the "hype and the bling" that can be so distracting for young people today.

"Carry with you the values of respect, honesty, discipline and hard work that have been inculcated in you here at Obistan Kinder-Prep," she said.

"As you aspire to be leaders of tomorrow, let me challenge you to look to the future. You too can achieve all your dreams and more. Remember the future is as bright as the promises of God."