As time gently flows and light filters through the leaves, we arrived at a radiant and moving moment — the Class of 2025 Graduation Ceremony at YCIS Shanghai: a celebration of growth, transformation, and new beginnings.

The ceremony officially commenced with welcome addresses from the four Secondary Chinese and Western Vice Principals. 

Dr Betty Chan, CEO and School Supervisor of Yew Chung Yew Wah Education Network recorded a sincere message to send her congratulations and blessings to the graduates.  

In her address, she underscored the enduring bond between the school and its alumni, emphasizing that the values nurtured at YCYW will remain a steadfast compass for navigating life’s journey. 

Her final message was delivered with deep affection: "YCYW will always stand by you. We will be rooting for you."

Three student representatives — Augustine, Daphne, and Leo — each took to the stage to deliver their graduation speeches. 

Augustine, who joined YCIS Shanghai Puxi in K4, delivered a speech that was as witty as it was moving, bringing his thirteen-year journey to a meaningful close.

He recalled the nervous excitement of his early days and shared how academic challenges, sports, co-curriculars, and friendships all helped shape his growth. 

With deep sincerity, he thanked every person who had offered support along the way — and most of all, his parents, whose unconditional love and trust sustained him. 

Daphne, representing the Pudong graduates, offered a warm and thoughtful reflection on the Class of 2025. 

She said that their year consisted of talented authors, gifted musicians, human calculators, obsessive bodybuilders, aspiring voice actors and more — they were nothing if not unique.

At the close of her speech, she extended heartfelt thanks to those who shaped this journey — understanding teachers, supportive families, and ever-reliable peers — and ended with a simple yet powerful farewell: "Wishing everyone a future filled with success and blossoms." 

Fellow Pudong student Leo approached his speech with humour and self-awareness. 

He spoke lightly about the odd, chaotic, and irreplaceable memories his class had made together, noting that these, more than grades, offers, or wins, were what truly endured.

As the ceremony drew to a close, Co-Principals of both Puxi and Pudong offered their final messages. 

They praised the graduates for their adaptability and perseverance, and thanked families, teachers, and students for walking this journey together.

More importantly, they reminded the Class of 2025 that true education extends beyond academics — it is grounded in character, empathy, and a sense of global responsibility. 

As international graduates, they now carry the unique capacity to bridge cultures and build understanding, and are called upon to act, lead, and serve with integrity in a complex and ever-changing world. 

In gratitude and celebration, the YCIS Shanghai Class of 2025 Graduation Ceremony came to a close. 

May each graduate move forward with courage and clarity, and shine brightly wherever life takes them.