For the past five years, the “Meet the Stars” series—an initiative of the Character Development Programme (CDP)—has been opening doors and hearts by connecting our current St. François students with the women who once walked these same halls. Through candid conversations this beloved series continues to bridge generations and fuel ambition.
In June, the program welcomed three remarkable alumnae: Nicole Cadogan-Lewis ‘86, Lisa-Faye Sarjeant ‘85, and former SFGCA President, Valisha Sylvester-Simeon '99. Each delivered unique and uplifting messages of growth, and purpose—leaving our Form 2 students feeling seen, empowered, and inspired to dream boldly.
Here are their personal reflections on the experience, as shared with the programme coordinators.
Nicole Cadogan-Lewis
CLASS OF '86 : FORM 2F
Our beautiful, energetic little sisters of Form 2F were very interested in my experience when I was a student at St. Francois. They even got me to sing after I shared that choir was my lifeline. They acknowledged that times have drastically changed, and that when we were at school, we were more engaging on a personal level and did not have the distractions of technology.
The young ladies seemed quite preoccupied with relaxing, as the climate of the school screamed “end of term,” so I kept our conversation relaxed, informal, and engaging. We very quickly connected, and the questions they posed demonstrated their interest not only in the information I provided but also in finding out more about me.
While none of the students in 2F specifically expressed an interest in social work or mental health as a career, our conversation centered around recognizing their potential, finding their passion, maximizing their time at SFGC, and ensuring that they achieve their individual goals.
Generally, I was well received, and I thoroughly enjoyed interacting with these bright and beautiful young ladies. I would certainly enjoy engaging with them again.
Special thanks to the CDP Team for facilitating this fruitful engagement.
Lisa-Faye Sarjeant
CLASS OF '85 : FORM 2G
On June 11, 2025, I had the distinct pleasure of communicating and sharing with the students of 2G about my career as a textile designer, as well as my wonderful memories of being a student at St. Francois Girls’ College. I must say that this dynamic group of students was very engaging, showed a lot of interest, and asked some very intelligent questions about my time at St. Francois and the career path I took. There was even one student who approached me after the session to show me her artwork.
I must applaud the school for how much it has grown and developed over the years, and specifically commend the school administration for its dedication to uplifting the students. I must also applaud the CDP Team for mobilizing alums as guest speakers and providing this forum for us to engage so meaningfully with the Form 2 students and give back to our alma mater.
Again, it was an absolute pleasure, and I do look forward to the opportunity to share again.
Valisha Sylvester-Simeon
CLASS OF '99 : FORM 2S
My meet-up with our little sisters in Form 2S was exhilarating. I felt alive, at home, and very much welcomed by the students, who were all so chatty and engaging.
They mentioned very early in our session, though, that they have been labeled as bad. I reassured them that even though at times they may be inattentive, restless, and distracted, they are definitely not bad. I urged them to stop accepting the label “bad.” I also assured them that they are beautiful young ladies, and we as their big sisters care about them, believe in them, and only want successful outcomes and futures for them.
It is my view that our girls need more persons to be sensitive to their needs and kind to them so that they will be able to model and reflect those behaviours.
The students were very pleasant and responsive to me — really nice young ladies. They asked intelligent questions and shared brilliant perspectives.
I really appreciated being there with them. CDP Meet the Stars was indeed an epic experience. Honestly, I would do it again in a heartbeat. Thank you, Dr. Knights and the CDP Team, for inviting us to interact with these lovely Form 2 students.
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Many thanks to these dedicated alums who continue to nurture the values, vision, and voices of our Little Sisters as they grow into the confident, compassionate leaders of tomorrow.