17-year-old Shanessa soars to the top - Driven by resilience and determination, teen excels against all odds

A special platform stood tall at Cedar Grove Academy yesterday, serving as a powerful symbol of resilience, as Shanessa Williams, a young woman who lost her mother in 2019, collected the award for Most Outstanding Performer. And that was just one of several accolades bestowed on the brilliant young lady.

At just 17 years old, Shanessa's journey to the top of her school has been marked by determination, overcoming the loss of her mom and transitioning through the challenges of a pandemic along the way.

"Vanessa Williams, Shanessa's mother, passed away in 2019 when she was nine months pregnant. It was a critical time, as Shanessa was preparing for her CSEC exams," recounted her father, Horace Williams.

"Her mother was excellent, and Shanessa made a vow to succeed, which she has fulfilled."

The proud father beamed, "I am immensely proud of her accomplishments and I don't even know how to reward her."

Married to Vanessa for 20 years, Horace also faced profound grief when she died but found strength in family unity.

"We stuck together, and that has helped us to cope," he shared with THE STAR.

The graduation ceremony buzzed with support and admiration for Shanessa, as peers, other parents and educators alike cheered her on.

As the top academic achiever, she was entrusted with passing the torch to Matthew Gallimore, symbolising a legacy of academic excellence at Cedar Grove Academy.

Principal of the Portmore, St Catherine institution, Otis Brown, praised Shanessa's unwavering focus amid adversity, stating, "Determination is the soil in which success grows. Instead of allowing grief to hinder her, she channeled her energies into excelling."

SEVERAL ACCOLADES

"I am feeling ecstatic. I did not expect to do so well, but I stayed strong and did what I had to do," Shanessa expressed to THE STAR, reflecting on her achievements.

"With the support of my parents, Horace Williams and Niesha Lowe Williams (stepmother), my teachers, and siblings, I overcame every challenge."

Among the accolades Shanessa received were the Principal's Trophy for Grade 11 students; highest overall average; and top student in Economics, Spanish, Biology, Principles of Business, and Principles of Accounts. Additionally, she was honoured with the Award of Excellence in Business and the Principal's Award.

Looking ahead, the ambitious 17-year-old plans to continue her education at Cedar Grove Academy in sixth form before pursuing studies abroad in accounting and finance.

Encouraging her onward journey, Horace Williams Jr, Shanessa's older brother, conveyed heartfelt sentiments.

"Continue to make mommy proud, even though she's not here. Keep shining and surpassing all boundaries," he proudly told his baby sister.