For the Ambuk family from Bunabun village in Sumkar District of Madang Province, the 44th graduation ceremony at Divine Word University in Madang was more than just a formal event, it was a moment of pride and fulfillment.
Among the 794 students who graduated during the ceremony, siblings Vanessa Ambuk and Bradley Ambuk stood proudly together, marking a double achievement for their family.
Vanessa graduated with a Bachelor in Health Management, while her brother Bradley received a Diploma in Management, making the occasion a double blessing for the Ambuk family.
For Vanessa, the moment represented the fulfillment of a long-awaited dream.
She said the journey to achieving her degree was not easy, as she faced several challenges along the way, including spending years away from school while watching her classmates move ahead.
“It has taken me so long to get this degree. I faced many challenges and even stayed home for a few years while my classmates continued their studies,” she said.
“Seeing them move ahead was painful, but today I have finally achieved what I have been praying and waiting for.”
Vanessa encouraged others facing similar challenges in their education journey to remain focused and determined.
“Know who you are and know your priority,” she said.
She also expressed heartfelt gratitude to her parents for their unwavering support throughout her academic journey.
Vanessa thanked her mother for always pushing her forward and her father for being her greatest supporter.
Graduating alongside her brother Bradley made the achievement even more meaningful.
“This is a double blessing for the Ambuk family and a bonus achievement for all of us,” she said.
She described the moment as one that reflected the strong bond they share as siblings.
“Side by side through life, side by side as graduates,” she said.
Bradley shared similar sentiments, saying graduating together made the moment even more memorable.
“Graduating with a Diploma in Management and alongside my sister is not only an academic achievement, but a very special moment filled with joy, pride and a sense of accomplishment,” he said.
“It reflects the strong bond within our family and will remain a lifetime memory. This milestone reminds us that with support, determination and faith, we can achieve our dreams together.”
Family members turned up in numbers to witness the milestone, sharing in the joy and pride of seeing two of their own reach an important moment in their educational journey.
For the Ambuk family, the graduation was not just about receiving certificates, but a celebration of perseverance, faith and family support.
