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31 July 2023

Celebrating Your Achievements: Global Banking School's Graduation Day

Experience the GBS Graduation Day held in London, celebrating the outstanding achievements of our students with inspiring speeches and joyful energy.

“This is just the beginning.”

Yes, indeed. For all of our graduates, this is just the beginning of the journey to changing their lives for the better through education. One of the most memorable events ever held by Global Banking School (GBS) was “The Graduation Day” at the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Centre in Westminster, London, on Tuesday, 11th July 2023.

Get ready to feel the joy as we take you on an exciting journey through the unforgettable graduation day ceremony. This momentous occasion was a true celebration of our students’ exceptional achievements and the event was nothing short of extraordinary!

Imagine being part of a vibrant atmosphere with over 800 people in attendance, including fellow students, proud families, esteemed professors and distinguished guests. This year's graduation day was no ordinary occasion, as it united students from different GBS campuses across the UK.

Moreover, let's not forget the majestic setting that awaited our students in the heart of London. Westminster, pulsating with energy and history, served as the perfect backdrop for this grand occasion.  The Queen Elizabeth II Centre has hosted influential figures and groundbreaking events since 1986. It provided the perfect stage for students' remarkable achievements to shine.

On graduation day, there was an atmosphere of excitement in the air, with music playing softly in the background. Dressed in their graduation gowns and caps, the students looked proud and accomplished, filling the hall with sheer delight.

John Cruddas, the Mayor of Dagenham and Sir Graham Stuart Brady, a prominent Member of the Conservative Party and Chairman of the 1922 Committee, were among the esteemed guests who graced the graduation day ceremony. We were truly honoured to have them in attendance. They were joined by notable dignitaries, including Professor Ray Lloyd, Chief Executive Officer at GBS; Melissa Willby, Dean of Students at GBS; Jovana Perzic, Dean of Pearson and Dr Laurence Eagle, Dean for Bath Spa University. Their presence elevated the significance of our student’s accomplishments, making the ceremony even more memorable.

This special occasion brought together graduates from a variety of courses, such as the HND in Business, HNC/HND in Healthcare Practice for England (Healthcare Management) and Diploma in Education and Training (Level 5) from GBS. Additionally, the achievements of students from our esteemed partner institution, Bath Spa University, who completed the BA (Hons) Business and Management Progression Route (Level 6) course, were celebrated with immense pride.

As the atmosphere continued to build, Professor Ray Lloyd took the stage and shared heartfelt words of admiration and pride. He said, “We are immensely proud of our new graduates. They have had to overcome many challenges to complete their studies and we are immensely proud of what they have achieved. It gives us much satisfaction to celebrate their success with them — just as it has been a privilege to work with such an extraordinary group of people as they have progressed through their challenging journey with us at GBS. They grasped the opportunity that GBS provided and we are confident in their ability to achieve even more in their careers. We wish them every success for the future.”

Finally, the long-awaited moment arrived—the moment that students had been eagerly anticipating. One by one, the name of each student was called, and they proudly walked across the stage to receive their well-deserved certificates and degrees. Applause erupted in resounding recognition of their unwavering dedication, relentless hard work and pursuit of excellence.

But the excitement didn't end there. Sir Graham Stuart Brady, in his captivating commencement speech, expressed his genuine delight in sharing this wonderful day with the students. He said “highlighted the immense pride felt by students’ families, friends and supporters, with an important reminder that this graduation is not an end but a glorious beginning, igniting a flame of ambition and excitement in every student.

Last but not least, Ionelia Corneanu, the graduate speaker for the GBS class of 2023, took the stage. Originally from Romania, she sought a transformative journey in the UK to change her life and that of her loved ones. With a strong belief in education, she joined GBS's HND in Business in June 2021. Ionelia expressed gratitude for the HND in Business course, which empowered students with comprehensive skills, leading to successful entrepreneurial journeys and career advancements. She thanked the faculty, cohort leader and support staff, emphasising the significance of this milestone in their lives. Ionelia encouraged staying connected with the GBS alumni community and inspiring future generations.

And as the ceremony ended, it was time to revel in the joy and celebrate this monumental achievement. Laughter filled the room as students and their loved ones enjoyed delicious food and refreshing drinks. The air was alive with jubilant energy and the room was filled with smiles, capturing precious memories that will forever be engraved in our hearts.

To the graduates of Class 2023, we applaud you for your outstanding accomplishments and commend you for your unwavering determination. As you embark on your new adventures, always remember that your graduation day ceremony was just the beginning.