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TAIPEI, TAIWAN — Two Vincentian scholars have added their names to the growing list of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines nationals achieving academic excellence in the Republic of China (Taiwan), with Shamore Charles and Nicketha Toney both graduating on June 6, 2026.

Basketballer Shamore Charles, of Bequia, graduated from Ming Chuan University International College with a Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs and Diplomacy, marking a proud moment for his family, community, and country.

In a fitting sports-inspired success story, Charles’ academic journey was made possible through what the Embassy of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in Taiwan described as a powerful “assist” from Taiwan-based Vincentian basketball coach Craiglee Sam.

Sam, also of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, helped secure a basketball scholarship for Charles at Ming Chuan University. The gesture was a meaningful example of paying it forward, as Sam himself was part of history in 2009 when he and fellow Bequia native Cregg Friday became the first international students to receive basketball scholarships from Ming Chuan University.

Both Sam and Friday later graduated with Bachelor of Arts degrees in Tourism and Travel, and Sam remained in Taiwan, where he continued his work as a basketball coach.

Charles has now converted that opportunity into a major academic victory.

Mrs. Symantha Chance, wife of His Excellency Ambassador Kenton X. Chance, represented the Ambassador at Charles’ graduation ceremony and conveyed his personal congratulations.

The Embassy congratulated Charles on his “slam dunk finish” and wished him continued success in the next chapter of his journey. The Embassy also commended Craiglee Sam for the “great assist” that helped Charles register his name among university graduates from Bequia.

Meanwhile, Vincentian graduate Nicketha Toney also celebrated a major academic achievement, completing a Master of Arts in Studies of Arts and Creative Industries from the Taipei National University of the Arts.

Toney graduated with a major in Cultural and Creative Industries and a minor in the Shared Campus Minor Program. Her achievement reflects years of dedication, scholarship, and commitment to advancing her academic and professional development.

A major component of her graduate studies was the successful defence of her research titled “Repository of Resilience: The National Nine Mornings Festival and Vincentian Identity.”

Through her research, Toney explored one of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ most cherished cultural traditions, highlighting the role of the National Nine Mornings Festival in preserving national identity, strengthening community bonds, and promoting cultural resilience.

Representing the Embassy at Toney’s graduation was Dr. Elroy Wilson, Minister Counsellor, who congratulated her on behalf of the Government and people of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Dr. Wilson commended her achievement and noted the importance of academic work that showcases and preserves Vincentian culture on the international stage.

Toney was joined by family members and friends as she marked the culmination of her graduate studies, making the milestone even more meaningful.

The Embassy of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in the Republic of China (Taiwan) extended sincere congratulations to both Charles and Toney, wishing them continued success as they move forward as proud representatives of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Their achievements stand as another powerful reminder of the talent, discipline, and global promise of Vincentian students pursuing excellence abroad.