A Celebration of Tradition, Triumph, and a Bright Future: Reflections on Our Breath of Heaven Academy Commencement
December 6, 2025 - The atmosphere was thick with joy, echoing through the warm afternoon air, as families, teachers, and community members gathered to witness a momentous occasion—the graduation of our young scholars. It was more than just a ceremony; it was a celebration of resilience, heritage, and the boundless opportunities that now lay ahead for our graduates.
In true Zambian fashion, the graduation was not just about caps and gowns; it was a cultural showcase of pride and identity. The rhythmic beat of the hand percussion and the mesmerizing steps of traditional dances set the tone for the day. Women in vibrant chitenge fabrics swayed gracefully, while men joined in with energetic moves that spoke of joy and unity. The air was filled with laughter, singing, and the unmistakable sound of jubilation.
At the heart of the celebration was the presence of BOHA officials and community leaders who shared words of wisdom, reminding the graduates of their roots. "You are the future of Zambia," one leader said, his voice steady with conviction. "Take our traditions with you, honor your families, and never forget where you come from."
For the graduates, this day was proof that their past struggles did not define their future. Many of them had once viewed education as an unreachable dream—some had almost given up—but today, they stood tall with certificates in hand, their faces glowing with hope.
The words of a young graduate captured the essence of the moment: “I used to think that my future was uncertain, that my dreams were too big. But today, I see that everything is possible. I will make my family proud, and I will make Zambia proud.”
As the sun set on this memorable day, the celebrations came to a close. But what remained was a key moment that I will remember forever. The Grade 12 graduates from the village huddled around a dining table in the mission house. Beyond the pomp and circumstance, there was a deeper understanding that this graduation was not just the end of a journey—it was the beginning of new possibilities. Some of these children have been with Breath of Heaven since age 5 - and now, filled with the delight of parents, we shared blessings and exhortations, eyes welled with tears of joy. Their lives -and ours- would never be the same.
With education as their foundation and the unwavering support of their families and Breath of Heaven community, these graduates step forward into a world full of opportunities. Whether they pursue further education, enter the workforce, or contribute to their communities in other ways, one thing is certain: their future is no longer a distant hope but a reality waiting to be shaped.
The path ahead will not always be easy, but today has proven that resilience, determination, and community support can overcome even the toughest challenges. This graduation is a symbol of what is possible when young minds are nurtured, traditions are honored, and dreams are given the chance to flourish.
To our sponsors: I am humbled by God’s handiwork through your response to God’s heart for these children. Once on a path of despair are now paving the way for transformative change in their lives, their communities, their nation and the world. I thank God for you.
Mwaende bwino! Go well!
Micah Orloff
VP of Development and Operations