First Cohort to Graduate Under the CWIT Name and the First to Pursue Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (CVQs)
Project ELEVATE proudly extends heartfelt congratulations to Miss Monique Johnson, who has successfully graduated with a Diploma in General Cosmetology from the newly renamed Christopher-Wilkin Institute of Technology (CWIT), formerly the Advanced Vocational Education Centre (AVEC).
Miss Johnson is part of the first graduating class in the institution’s history to earn their diplomas under the CWIT name, and notably, the first cohort in St. Kitts and Nevis to pursue Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (CVQs) in their respective disciplines. This is a monumental achievement not only for the graduates, but for the Federation’s ongoing transformation of technical and vocational education.
This historic shift aligns with the Ministry of Education’s bold and needed step to further professionalize and uplift the creative and technical industries, ensuring talented individuals like Miss Johnson receive qualifications that give them a strong competitive edge in business, entrepreneurship, and the wider workforce regionally and internationally.
A Journey of Passion, Elevation, and Unshakable Determination
Project Coordinator of ELEVATE, Miss Alicia Collins, expressed how deeply inspired she has been by Monique’s “passion for elevation and self-mastery.”
“When I met Monique a little over a year ago, I encountered a young lady overflowing with potential, someone with passion, vision, and a quiet fire who just needed support and a voice to advocate for her,” Collins shared.
“I did my part, but Monique did the rest. She sacrificed, she persevered, she committed, and she worked tirelessly to reach this point. This moment isn’t about me, it’s about a young woman who is bravely adding new, powerful chapters to her story. And trust me, she will continue to win.”
Government Applauds the Achievement
Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister, Ms. Naeemah Hazelle, also praised Monique’s accomplishment, stating:
“Today marks not just a personal milestone for Monique, but a national one. She stands among the first cohort of graduates from CWIT and the first in the Federation to pursue CVQs. Her achievement represents possibility, progress, and the future of our skilled workforce. We celebrate her, and we commend CWIT for its unwavering commitment to transforming lives and expanding opportunities for all.”
Monique Johnson: A Heart Full of Gratitude and a Future Full of Purpose
Miss Johnson, emotional yet poised, shared that she can hardly find the words to describe how she truly feels. She thanked:
- Her son, “whose understanding, patience, and love gave me the strength to keep going.”
- Her mother and support circle, “who have stood by me, encouraged me, and pushed me to keep rising.”
- The dedicated staff and instructors of CWIT, “whose passion for seeing their students succeed is unmatched.”
- Miss Alicia Collins, whom she described as “more like a sister than a Coordinator.”
“Alicia held my hand at the beginning of this journey, something many professionals won’t do because they may say, ‘you’re an adult.’ But she walked with me, checked in with me and my son, and made sure I stayed the course. Today she sat in my graduation with my son, my sisters, and my loved ones, cheering loudly and celebrating me. I will never forget that.”
The Road Ahead: Building Her Business and Living Her Dream
Monique now moves forward with courage, confidence, and a clear vision: to fully live out her dream of entrepreneurship. She expressed certainty that ELEVATE will continue to support her goals as she rises to new heights.
She also extended sincere thanks to Permanent Secretary Hazelle and her team “for their steadfast encouragement, guidance, and dedication to empowering young people and uplifting skilled creatives and professionals across the Federation.”
About CWIT
The Christopher-Wilkin Institute of Technology (CWIT) represents a renewed vision for technical and vocational excellence in St. Kitts and Nevis, positioning learners to excel through recognized regional standards such as the Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ).
About ELEVATE
ELEVATE, operating under the Office of the Prime Minister, is a transformative second-chance, empowerment, and vocational advancement program. It supports individuals through mentorship, education, skills training, psychosocial support, and entrepreneurship development, ensuring citizens rise, rebuild, and redefine their future.
For Media Inquiries:
Project ELEVATE Office
Irish Town Bay Road, Basseterre
Tel: (869) 465 2521 ext: 1207/ 1043
