Excitement and pride filled the air in Eleuthera as graduates of the second and third cohorts of the Leading Light Programme celebrated their achievements during a vibrant ceremony held recently at the Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce in Rock Sound.

The fifty-six men and women of the most recent cohorts, all residents of Eleuthera, have now gained the tools to deliver hospitality and tourism excellence, further supporting the island’s growing industry and bringing the total number of Leading Light graduates to over 120. The programme, a transformative partnership between University of The Bahamas (UB) and Disney Cruise Line (DCL), is facilitated through UB’s Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning (CeLEARN).

Graduates received certificates after completing the Introduction to Tourism & Hospitality and Hospitality Leadership programmes, equipping them with skills and competencies to thrive as leaders in the dynamic tourism sector. Many credited the programme for its life-changing impact on their confidence, knowledge, and professional prospects.

Speaking on behalf of her peers, Remika Knowles, who earned a certificate in Introduction to Tourism & Hospitality, described how the programme had transformed her mindset and abilities.

“This programme isn’t just about gaining knowledge; it was about applying it,” she said. “The skills we’ve learnt aren’t meant to stay in a classroom – they are tools for the real world. To my fellow graduates, I encourage you to take advantage of all the knowledge you’ve gained and apply it to both your personal and professional lives.”

The ceremony, attended by proud family members, friends, and community leaders, was a joyous occasion filled with cheers and heartfelt appreciation for the programme’s lecturers and administrators.

UB’s Vice President of Enrollment Management and University Athletics, Dr. Marcella Elliott-Ferguson, praised the graduates for their dedication and highlighted the significance of lifelong learning.

“The knowledge and experience gained during your time in the Leading Light Programme have prepared you to be proactive contributors to Eleuthera’s vibrant tourism and hospitality sector,” noted Dr. Elliott-Ferguson. “Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence will not only benefit your personal growth but also propel the growth of our community and economy as a whole.”

The Leading Light Programme, launched a year ago, reflects UB’s mission to support national development by partnering with public and private sector organizations for lasting impact. Regional Director of Public Affairs for Disney Cruise Line, Joseph Gaskins Jr., reaffirmed DCL’s commitment to nurturing talent and expanding opportunities for Eleutherans.

“Our graduates have gone on to achieve remarkable things,” said Mr. Gaskins. “They have secured meaningful employment in some instances. They have earned well- deserved promotions and some of them have gone on to continue advancing their education. We want to unleash the potential and nurture the talent that I know Eleutherans have.”

Industry veteran Brendan Foulkes, who delivered the Charge to the graduating class, emphasized the importance of applying the lessons learned.

“Now, you possess the tools that will prepare you for full-time employment in the hospitality industry. We have done our part as educators, as lecturers and facilitators; the rest is up to you. The ball is in your court,” said Mr. Foulkes. “Upon leaving, remember that you will be representing each faculty member from the Leading Light Programme, University of The Bahamas and Disney Cruise Line. As your leading and guiding light, we are confident that you will do just that.”

The Hon. Clay Sweeting, Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera, was among the enthusiastic supporters at the ceremony. He expressed his pride in the graduates and encouraged South Eleutherans to embrace lifelong learning opportunities.

In just one year, the Leading Light Programme has equipped over 100 students with skills to excel in tourism and hospitality, underscoring its vital role in driving Eleuthera’s growth and fostering community pride.

For these graduates, the journey ahead is bright, and the tools they’ve gained will make them trailblazers in the industry.