As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the Goldsboro High School graduation ceremony, emotions ran high in the air. Families gathered, their hearts swelling with pride as they prepared to celebrate the achievements of their graduates. The atmosphere was electric, filled with cheers and applause, but a gentle reminder echoed through the crowd: “Please respect each child that is out here,” urged a voice from the stage, emphasizing the importance of allowing each graduate their moment in the spotlight.

Among the graduates was Jamia Nobles, who took the stage for her senior class address. With heartfelt gratitude, she thanked her family, especially her sister, Jalaysia, who had been her steadfast supporter through the ups and downs of high school. Jamia shared her journey of overcoming loneliness and self-doubt, recalling her first days at Goldsboro when she felt isolated and disconnected. “I rode the bus by myself. I ate by myself,” she reflected, highlighting the challenges of making new friends after a year and a half of online schooling.

Her story took a turn during her sophomore year, a time marked by personal and academic struggles. Jamia became the first female wrestler at Goldsboro High, achieving remarkable feats in a sport traditionally dominated by boys. Yet, she balanced this with basketball and her studies, all while coping with her grandmother’s cancer diagnosis and caring for her younger brother. “I was stretched as thin as possible,” she admitted, revealing the weight of her responsibilities and the mental toll it took on her.

Despite these challenges, Jamia emerged stronger, finishing her high school career with honors and delivering a message of resilience to her classmates. “We walked into Goldsboro as one person, and we are leaving as someone completely different,” she declared, urging her peers to harness their potential to create change in the world.

As the ceremony continued, the principal and assistant principal recognized the honor graduates, celebrating academic excellence among the students. Jamia, who graduated magna cum laude, was among those honored, a testament to her hard work and determination.

The event concluded with a powerful commencement address from Eudaly Bastian, who shared her own journey from Haiti to the United States. Her story of adaptation and community-building resonated with the audience, reinforcing the theme of growth and connection that defined the day.

As the graduates tossed their caps into the air, the future seemed bright for the Class of 2025. With their shared experiences and newfound strength, they stood ready to face the world, leaving behind the halls of Goldsboro High School but carrying its lessons with them into the next chapter of their lives.