Mrs. Ruby Ann Darling, centre, Deputy to the Governor General, welcomed the Class of 1973 Bahamas Teacher's College during a courtesy call Friday, 24 November, 2023 at the Office of the Governor General. 

Also pictured from left are: Albert Clarke, Betty Morely, Velma Cox, Constance Saunders, Mizpah Munroe, Jacqueline Knowles, Ella Knowles, Arementha Hanna, Shelia Seymour and Jack Knowles. 

For the third time in recent years, New Heaven New Earth (Shincheonji) Churchof Jesus held a graduation ceremony for over 100,000 theology students at one time. Shincheonji Church’s Zion ChristianMission Center offers an in-depth course that explains the entirety of the Bible, including all 22 chapters of the Book ofRevelation. Graduates of this theology school include pastors and everyday believers from around the world who havetaken the rigorous course for approximately one year.

Shincheonji Church of Jesus graduated over 100,000 students from its mission center in both 2019 and 2022. InNovember 2022, the Zion Christian Mission Center celebrated the graduation of 106,186 theology students and inNovember 2019, 103,764 students graduated. Even during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, the mission centerproduced nearly 20,000 graduates in 2020 and 2021, respectively.

Shincheonji Church has experienced explosive growth at a time when traditional churches have grappled with a significantdecline in membership. Many people testify that the church's tremendous growth, even amidst extreme persecution, is dueto its clear and concise explanation of the Book of Revelation.

Its ability to consistently produce over 100,000 graduates at a time is just one of the many impressive accomplishments ofShincheonji Church. Including the online seminar series, which has exceeded 32 million cumulative views on YouTube,Shincheonji Church has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with 9,593 churches in over 80 differentcountries, promising to work together and to teach its Bible course free of cost.

To date, 1,365 churches in over 30 countries have also changed their church name to Shincheonji Church of Jesus. Theexcellence of its Bible teachings and its ability to thoroughly explain the Bible from Genesis to Revelation have appealed topastors and leaders of their own theological seminaries, particularly those seeking to correctly understand the fulfillment ofthe events promised to take place at the end of times and to understand the will of God.

Shincheonji Church members also participate in various activities through their youth volunteer organization known as WeAre One. In Fall 2023, volunteers within 30 different countries hosted marathon events where participants ran to promote amessage of unity and peace. The goal was for the peace runners to cover a combined distance equaling the circumferenceof the whole earth (24,901 miles). We Are One volunteers in Washington, D.C. hosted their local Earth Run: WE ARE RUNevent on October 21st, 2023.

For more information about New Heaven New Earth (Shincheonji) Church of Jesus, please visit scjamericas.org.

For the third time in recent years, New Heaven New Earth (Shincheonji) Church of Jesus held a graduation ceremony for over 100,000 theology students at one time. Shincheonji Church’s Zion Christian Mission Center offers an in-depth course that explains the entirety of the Bible, including all 22 chapters of the Book of Revelation. Graduates of this theology school include pastors and everyday believers from around the world who have taken the rigorous course for approximately one year. Shincheonji Church of Jesus graduated over 100,000 students from its mission center in both 2019 and 2022. In November 2022, the Zion Christian Mission Center celebrated the graduation of 106,186 theology students and in November 2019, 103,764 students graduated. Even during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, the mission center produced nearly 20,000 graduates in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Shincheonji Church has experienced explosive growth at a time when traditional churches have grappled with a significant decline in membership. Many people testify that the church's tremendous growth, even amidst extreme persecution, is due to its clear and concise explanation of the Book of Revelation. Its ability to consistently produce over 100,000 graduates at a time is just one of the many impressive accomplishments of Shincheonji Church. Including the online seminar series, which has exceeded 32 million cumulative views on YouTube, Shincheonji Church has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with 9,593 churches in over 80 different countries, promising to work together and to teach its Bible course free of cost. To date, 1,365 churches in over 30 countries have also changed their church name to Shincheonji Church of Jesus. The excellence of its Bible teachings and its ability to thoroughly explain the Bible from Genesis to Revelation have appealed to pastors and leaders of their own theological seminaries, particularly those seeking to correctly understand the fulfillment of the events promised to take place at the end of times and to understand the will of God. Shincheonji Church members also participate in various activities through their youth volunteer organization known as We Are One. In Fall 2023, volunteers within 30 different countries hosted marathon events where participants ran to promote a message of unity and peace. The goal was for the peace runners to cover a combined distance equaling the circumference of the whole earth (24,901 miles). We Are One volunteers in Washington, D.C. hosted their local Earth Run: WE ARE RUN event on October 21st, 2023. For more information about New Heaven New Earth (Shincheonji) Church of Jesus, please visit scjamericas.org.

More than 130 students who embody academic excellence walked across the stage to receive their individual honours at the University of The Bahamas’ recent Academic Honours Convocation held this week with a focus on the golden future that awaits these trailblazers.

The ceremony, laced with academic symbolism and punctuated by the pride which soared in the family members, faculty, staff, students and alumni who attended, was another ode to excellence. The theme of the ceremony, held at UB’s Performing Arts Centre, was “Golden Futures: Honouring Academic Excellence”.

“I feel super, super great,” said Aiyana Knowles, School of Business major, who earned the highest cumulative GPA. “I didn’t even know that I was in the top 10 ranking; I just knew I had the ceremony to come to today. It’s very rewarding to see that my efforts paid off, because I’m an overthinker and I stress a lot. So, you know, seeing that my efforts do actually pay off is really rewarding and reassuring.”

Students who were awarded earned GPAs of 3.51 or greater for the Fall 2022 and Spring 2023 semesters, having successfully attempted at least 12 credits per semester. With the country having celebrated its 50th year of independence, and UB preparing to commemorate 50 years of continuous operation cultivating future nation-builders is even more crucial.

“This year, as our country celebrates 50 years of independence, the time is now to shift the developmental tides of our country to ensure a golden future,” said keynote speaker and College of The Bahamas (COB) alum, Dr. Trevor Johnson. “Students, I encourage each and every one of you today to contribute to the longevity and sustainability of our country. The Bahamas needs each and every one of us. Every teacher, every lawyer, every doctor, every engineer, every sustainability practitioner, your country needs you, because all of us have a role to play.

“Each of you has the potential to make your path a golden future. All of you, through your achievements today, are on the path of excellence. And your achievements are truly worthy of commendation.”

The honours convocation is an annual celebration where undergraduate students are recognised for their outstanding academic achievements. However, such ceremonies are also celebrations of the hard work, dedication, and professionalism of university staff and faculty who remain dedicated to nurturing students.

UB Acting President Janyne Hodder, reminded the student honourees of how proud their UB family is of their brilliance. 

“All of you are equipped with knowledge, creativity, and a sense of purpose,” said President Hodder. “You’re poised to become leaders, innovators, and contributors to The Bahamas of tomorrow and to the broader world. We celebrate you within our walls today, but I know your impact will reach far beyond UB now and over time.

“We are honoured you chose to thrive and flourish in this exceptional community. We’re proud to have been a part of your journey. We’re excited to see what lies ahead for you.”

Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Maria Oriakhi agreed.

“Your achievements are nothing short of commendable,” said Dr. Oriakhi. “In the face of academic challenges, you have demonstrated resilience and determination, showcasing your ability to thrive in rigorous academic environments. At the University of The Bahamas, we take great pride in recognizing and honouring your hard work. Events like these provide a glimpse at the future leaders within our nation, and we are committed to nurturing the potential in each of you.”

A key part of Dr. Johnson’s address to the students was a charge for them to always remain humble, no matter how big they make it in life. The humility of UB’s student honourees was on vivid display as they expressed gratitude to the university for recognizing them for their hard work and all those sleepless nights they spent studying. 

Honour roll student Zoe Turner, a media journalism major, expressed her pride. 

“I’m just happy that I was able to be recognized in such a way, and I’m just happy that all of the students who worked really, really hard and got good grades are recognized for their work, because it’s not easy,” said Zoe. “A lot of your time, your effort goes into your grades and your academic achievement, and a lot of times you’re not even sure how good you’re going to do. So, I think it’s good that we are able to be celebrated in this way, and I think it’s encouraging to us, especially as the semester’s winding down, to keep maintaining our excellence and putting our best foot forward.”

Edwin Alvin Waldron Jr., who accepted his award while on crutches, said his success was not of his own strength.

“This shows me giving God the glory for every aspect of your life will always have its rewards,” he said. “And I’m so glad I’m able to excel academically. Doing the law programme at UB is not an easy feat, but God is bringing me through, and it’s just amazing to be honoured in this way.”

More than 130 students who embody academic excellence walked across the stage to receive their individual honours at the University of The Bahamas’ recent Academic Honours Convocation held this week with a focus on the golden future that awaits these trailblazers. The ceremony, laced with academic symbolism and punctuated by the pride which soared in the family members, faculty, staff, students and alumni who attended, was another ode to excellence. The theme of the ceremony, held at UB’s Performing Arts Centre, was “Golden Futures: Honouring Academic Excellence”. “I feel super, super great,” said Aiyana Knowles, School of Business major, who earned the highest cumulative GPA. “I didn’t even know that I was in the top 10 ranking; I just knew I had the ceremony to come to today. It’s very rewarding to see that my efforts paid off, because I’m an overthinker and I stress a lot. So, you know, seeing that my efforts do actually pay off is really rewarding and reassuring.” Students who were awarded earned GPAs of 3.51 or greater for the Fall 2022 and Spring 2023 semesters, having successfully attempted at least 12 credits per semester. With the country having celebrated its 50th year of independence, and UB preparing to commemorate 50 years of continuous operation cultivating future nation-builders is even more crucial. “This year, as our country celebrates 50 years of independence, the time is now to shift the developmental tides of our country to ensure a golden future,” said keynote speaker and College of The Bahamas (COB) alum, Dr. Trevor Johnson. “Students, I encourage each and every one of you today to contribute to the longevity and sustainability of our country. The Bahamas needs each and every one of us. Every teacher, every lawyer, every doctor, every engineer, every sustainability practitioner, your country needs you, because all of us have a role to play. “Each of you has the potential to make your path a golden future. All of you, through your achievements today, are on the path of excellence. And your achievements are truly worthy of commendation.” The honours convocation is an annual celebration where undergraduate students are recognised for their outstanding academic achievements. However, such ceremonies are also celebrations of the hard work, dedication, and professionalism of university staff and faculty who remain dedicated to nurturing students. UB Acting President Janyne Hodder, reminded the student honourees of how proud their UB family is of their brilliance.  “All of you are equipped with knowledge, creativity, and a sense of purpose,” said President Hodder. “You’re poised to become leaders, innovators, and contributors to The Bahamas of tomorrow and to the broader world. We celebrate you within our walls today, but I know your impact will reach far beyond UB now and over time. “We are honoured you chose to thrive and flourish in this exceptional community. We’re proud to have been a part of your journey. We’re excited to see what lies ahead for you.” Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Maria Oriakhi agreed. “Your achievements are nothing short of commendable,” said Dr. Oriakhi. “In the face of academic challenges, you have demonstrated resilience and determination, showcasing your ability to thrive in rigorous academic environments. At the University of The Bahamas, we take great pride in recognizing and honouring your hard work. Events like these provide a glimpse at the future leaders within our nation, and we are committed to nurturing the potential in each of you.” A key part of Dr. Johnson’s address to the students was a charge for them to always remain humble, no matter how big they make it in life. The humility of UB’s student honourees was on vivid display as they expressed gratitude to the university for recognizing them for their hard work and all those sleepless nights they spent studying.  Honour roll student Zoe Turner, a media journalism major, expressed her pride.  “I’m just happy that I was able to be recognized in such a way, and I’m just happy that all of the students who worked really, really hard and got good grades are recognized for their work, because it’s not easy,” said Zoe. “A lot of your time, your effort goes into your grades and your academic achievement, and a lot of times you’re not even sure how good you’re going to do. So, I think it’s good that we are able to be celebrated in this way, and I think it’s encouraging to us, especially as the semester’s winding down, to keep maintaining our excellence and putting our best foot forward.” Edwin Alvin Waldron Jr., who accepted his award while on crutches, said his success was not of his own strength. “This shows me giving God the glory for every aspect of your life will always have its rewards,” he said. “And I’m so glad I’m able to excel academically. Doing the law programme at UB is not an easy feat, but God is bringing me through, and it’s just amazing to be honoured in this way.”

Last month, Lombard Odier Bahamas officially announced the top winners in its inaugural youth environmental initiative. This year’s recipients were asked to describe how a local environmental organization is contributing to a more sustainable future for The Bahamas. A green ribbon panel comprised of Lombard Odier employees and local external stakeholders selected the winners.  
 
Nevaeh Kerr of Kingsway Academy and Pedronique Newbold, a student at T.A. Thompson Junior High School tied for first place in the 7-9th grade category with Samuel Fowler of H. O. Nash Junior High School as runner up. In her submission, Kerr focused on the overall preservation work being done by the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) while Newbold highlighted BNT’s recent “50 for 50” independence tree planting campaign. Top winners received a tablet and a plaque and all three students will have a chance to participate in an environmentally focused program next summer.  
 
Journey Higgs and Maya Lindeman, students at Windsor School Albany took top honors in the 10-12th grade category. Danielle Heastie of Windsor School Albany was the runner up. In her submission, Higgs outlined local environmental non-profit Friends of the Environment and their focus on conservation, restoration and preservation of Abaco’s environment and natural resources. In her essay, Lindeman explored the groundbreaking work being done by the Bahamas Plastic Movement to reduce plastic pollution in the country through research, youth education and policy changes.  Lindeman, Higgs and Heastie will participate in internships with local environmental organizations next summer.  
 
During a presentation at the private bank’s office in Lyford Cay House, students met with Edward Zouein, Lombard Odier Bahamas CEO and Kasynthi Bodie, CFO and Deputy CEO to learn more about the organization’s global push for a more sustainable future.  
 
“As an organization, Lombard Odier is committed to supporting young Bahamians. This project allowed us to hear their views on sustainability issues that directly impact their future. Through this inaugural youth environmental initiative, students were able to shed light on specific causes and the tremendous work being done by local environmental organizations.” said Edward Zouein. 
 
“We look forward to continuing to connect young Bahamians to causes that promote sustainability both now and in the future.” 
 
In addition to presenting the winners with their awards, Lombard Odier Bahamas also made presentations to three local environmental organizations (Bahamas Protected Areas Fund, Friends of The Environment and Bahamas Plastic Movement) who were directly involved in the youth environmental initiative or were mentioned by the students in their submissions.   

Last month, Lombard Odier Bahamas officially announced the top winners in its inaugural youth environmental initiative. This year’s recipients were asked to describe how a local environmental organization is contributing to a more sustainable future for The Bahamas. A green ribbon panel comprised of Lombard Odier employees and local external stakeholders selected the winners.     Nevaeh Kerr of Kingsway Academy and Pedronique Newbold, a student at T.A. Thompson Junior High School tied for first place in the 7-9th grade category with Samuel Fowler of H. O. Nash Junior High School as runner up. In her submission, Kerr focused on the overall preservation work being done by the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) while Newbold highlighted BNT’s recent “50 for 50” independence tree planting campaign. Top winners received a tablet and a plaque and all three students will have a chance to participate in an environmentally focused program next summer.     Journey Higgs and Maya Lindeman, students at Windsor School Albany took top honors in the 10-12th grade category. Danielle Heastie of Windsor School Albany was the runner up. In her submission, Higgs outlined local environmental non-profit Friends of the Environment and their focus on conservation, restoration and preservation of Abaco’s environment and natural resources. In her essay, Lindeman explored the groundbreaking work being done by the Bahamas Plastic Movement to reduce plastic pollution in the country through research, youth education and policy changes.  Lindeman, Higgs and Heastie will participate in internships with local environmental organizations next summer.     During a presentation at the private bank’s office in Lyford Cay House, students met with Edward Zouein, Lombard Odier Bahamas CEO and Kasynthi Bodie, CFO and Deputy CEO to learn more about the organization’s global push for a more sustainable future.     “As an organization, Lombard Odier is committed to supporting young Bahamians. This project allowed us to hear their views on sustainability issues that directly impact their future. Through this inaugural youth environmental initiative, students were able to shed light on specific causes and the tremendous work being done by local environmental organizations.” said Edward Zouein.    “We look forward to continuing to connect young Bahamians to causes that promote sustainability both now and in the future.”    In addition to presenting the winners with their awards, Lombard Odier Bahamas also made presentations to three local environmental organizations (Bahamas Protected Areas Fund, Friends of The Environment and Bahamas Plastic Movement) who were directly involved in the youth environmental initiative or were mentioned by the students in their submissions.