Rhema Mills, a remarkable and resilient young woman, has made history at Brooklyn College, New York, by becoming the first Black valedictorian in the institution’s 94-year history. This milestone has not only cemented her place in the annals of the university but also shines a light on her extraordinary journey of perseverance, triumph over adversity, and academic brilliance.
Born and raised in the Abaco Islands of the Bahamas, Rhema’s journey to this historic achievement was anything but conventional. Growing up, she attended Queen’s College, one of the most prestigious high schools in the Bahamas, where she excelled academically. Her early years were marked by a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence, earning her top scores on national exams and more than $100,000 in scholarships. However, life had many challenges in store for her.
At the age of 17, Rhema was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, a severe digestive disorder that almost derailed her academic dreams. Her health battles led to emergency surgeries and numerous hospital stays, forcing her to take time off from her studies. Yet, with the unwavering support of her family and friends, she pushed through, graduating high school with honors and setting her sights on a college education in the United States.
Rhema’s determination led her to New York University, but financial setbacks caused by the destruction of her family’s business during Hurricane Dorian, followed by the COVID-19 pandemic, forced her to reconsider her options. The unexpected loss of her father to Crohn’s disease only compounded the difficulties she faced. Despite these monumental challenges, Rhema never lost sight of her goals.
With the dream of attending a private college in New York on hold, Rhema found her new academic home at Brooklyn College, where she enrolled in the Health and Nutrition Sciences program with a concentration in Public Health. Moving to Brooklyn by herself at the age of 20, she began a journey of self-discovery and academic rigor that would ultimately lead her to unprecedented success.
At Brooklyn College, Rhema thrived. She immersed herself in extracurricular activities, including research programs and leadership roles, such as her involvement in the Women of Colour club. She also spearheaded initiatives to provide meals for food-insecure students. Her commitment to academic excellence was evident in her many accolades, including a spot on the Dean’s List, the President’s List, and various national awards.
In February 2024, Rhema was informed that she was eligible to become the valedictorian of her class. Initially unsure of her place among other top students, she gained confidence after a Zoom meeting with the college deans, where her accomplishments were recognized. In April, while getting her hair braided, she received the life-changing news—she was not only the valedictorian, but also the first Black student to hold this prestigious honor in the school’s history.
Reflecting on her journey, Rhema described the moment as “surreal,” noting the importance of this achievement not only for herself but also for Black women, immigrants, and those who have faced systemic obstacles in their lives. “I knew when I got up on that stage that this would be a big deal, not just for me, but for all those people that I was encouraging,” she said.
Rhema’s valedictory speech was a testament to her strength, courage, and belief in the power of education to transform lives. Wearing her Bahamian flag with pride, she delivered an inspiring message to her fellow graduates, urging them to live courageously and to break barriers, just as she had done.
As Rhema looks to the future, she is set to pursue a Master’s in Public Health at Columbia University, with a focus on epidemiology. Her passion for public health is deeply personal—driven by her father’s death and her own battle with Crohn’s disease, she is committed to addressing racial and gender disparities in healthcare. Currently, she conducts research on maternal mortality rates among Black women, a critical issue both in the U.S. and globally.
Rhema Mills’ journey is a powerful reminder that perseverance, determination, and community support can overcome even the greatest of challenges. Her story is one of triumph over adversity, and her historic accomplishment as Brooklyn College’s first Black valedictorian opens doors for future generations of women of color to follow in her footsteps.
As Rhema continues to make history, she leaves behind a legacy of resilience, breaking barriers, and inspiring countless others to believe that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
Jaydiran Seriki, a young Nigerian lady who faced unimaginable challenges during her academic journey, has triumphed with a first-class degree in Civil Engineering from Southern Texas University, United States. Her remarkable achievement, which came after the devastating loss of both parents, is a testament to her resilience, determination, and perseverance.
Jaydiran’s academic journey was far from conventional. Graduating from high school in Nigeria as a commercial student, she made the bold decision to switch her focus to science, despite the delays and challenges such a transition posed. Her mother, who was her greatest support system, stood by her throughout the transition, making what seemed impossible feel achievable. Unfortunately, in 2022, Jaydiran faced the greatest tragedy of her life—the loss of both her parents.
This loss was a turning point for Jaydiran, forcing her to take a break from school as she navigated the emotional toll of their absence. However, through it all, she never lost sight of her goal. Reflecting on her journey, she shared on Instagram, “If someone had told me in 2021 that I would be a 2024 graduate, I would have doubted it. Yet, here I am… I’m grateful I took the break because I might not be standing here as a first-class graduate today.” Read more about Jaydiran Seriki here.
