WEYBURN – Brinlee Klapak, valedictorian of Weyburn Comprehensive School’s (WCS) Class of 2025, delivered a heartfelt and motivational address to her fellow graduates during Friday’s commencement ceremony, encouraging them to embrace the future with courage, kindness, and authenticity.
Standing before her classmates, Klapak expressed her gratitude to the parents, guardians, and educators who supported students through their high school journey.
“Graduating takes hard work from the students, but also from their support systems,” she said. “Without support with growing up and venturing through high school, we would not be here today.”
Klapak thanked the teachers who helped students through their years of education.
“You have all left an imprint on our lives, which has shaped who we are as young adults. You have inspired us to keep trying when it seems difficult and you have helped prepare us for our lives after graduation.”
The 2025 graduating class weathered a high school experience shaped by global and local challenges. Reflecting on the challenges the Class of 2025 faced, Klapak commended her peers for their resilience.
“My fellow graduates and I have had an eventful time at WCS through a pandemic and through teacher strikes and sanctions, but we have made it. We have so much to celebrate today.”
Looking ahead, Klapak acknowledged the bittersweet transition from the familiar halls of WCS to the unknown adventures ahead.
“The world is waiting for the impact each of us will have on it. The world needs each of us, with our different talents and goals.”
Be bold, be brave, be you
Klapak urged her classmates to pursue their dreams with determination while staying kind.
“Being bold will help you and others around you to stay motivated to reach goals throughout your life. But, being bold does not mean being harsh. I encourage you to stay kind as you pursue your goals and to keep others in mind as you journey through your life.”
Acknowledging the uncertainties ahead, she reminded graduates that bravery isn’t the absence of fear but the willingness to push forward despite it.
“Taking the easy way through life will not benefit you to expand to be the person you wish to be. Taking your own path is sometimes best and will make you more resilient and prepared for the next curveball life may throw at you.”
Above all, Klapak emphasized authenticity.
“No one can tell you or show you how to be yourself other than you. Being yourself is what will get you furthest in life. Recognizing your true interests and skills is what will bring you success. We each have a different story waiting to be written. It is important to remain the focus of your story. Focus on staying true to yourself.”
With nostalgia and humour, she recalled shared memories – from junior dances to mischievous parking antics – that shaped the Class of 2025.
“Every assignment, test and adventure during or time at WCS has brought us to today. There is so much to be proud of. Thank you for being an entertaining class to grow up with.”
In closing, Klapak left her classmates with a final charge.
“Always remember to go back to your roots if you feel lost, never stray from who you are, and always work towards your goals and dreams. Now that you have graduated, nothing is too big or too small. Anything is possible. Be proud of what you have done so far in your life, and look forward to your future with excitement, hope and determination. I know each of you will do great things.”
