In a powerful testament to resilience and the pursuit of purpose, Senator Lamin Newton graduated yesterday from the University of the West Indies with a Bachelor of Arts degree, turning a personal tragedy into a national inspiration. His academic achievement is not just a personal milestone but a foundational part of his preparation to serve the people of All Saints East and St. Luke’s.
Senator Newton’s journey to this moment is paved with the values instilled in him by his parents, Eustace and Lorna Newton. It is a journey deeply influenced by the wisdom of his late father, Eustace, who often told his son, “We are all born good and we should never allow hate and jealousy to destroy who God created us to be.”
This graduation is the culmination of an educational path that began at JT Ambrose Primary School, advanced through All Saints Secondary School and Antigua State College and has now borne fruit at the prestigious University of the West Indies. However, this path was marked by a profound and painful loss.
For Senator Newton, this degree is a sacred honor to his father. “My father never had the opportunity to attend university, so he wanted to ensure that I did,” he shared. The bittersweet nature of this achievement was palpable as he received his diploma. “As I sat through the ceremony, I fought hard to hold back the tears, because dad was not there to celebrate this moment with me.”
In a cruel twist of fate, his father, Eustace Newton, passed away on the very first day Senator Newton was due to begin his studies at UWI. “I had to miss my very first class because of his passing,” he recounted. Yet, from the depths of grief, a fierce determination was born. “Nonetheless, I was determined to finish, and thank God I did.”
This unwavering resolve is at the heart of how Senator Newton plans to use his degree to benefit humanity. He aims to be a living example to every young person in Antigua and Barbuda that circumstance does not define destiny.
“I will use this degree to benefit humanity by demonstrating to others that nothing is beyond your reach,” he stated. “I will continue to be an inspiration for those who may think that they cannot do it, for those who may not have that self motivation. I want you to use me as an example.”
His message to the youth is one of focused perseverance: “No matter what they say, you remain focused. When people throw bricks at you, don’t throw them back. Use them to build your empire…. You got this.”
Senator Newton’s own ‘empire building’ continues. His educational journey is far from over as driven by a newly developed passion for global affairs he is presently pursuing a Master’s degree in International Relations, a strategic move fueled by his keen interest in Foreign Affairs and Diplomatic Relations.
As the Antigua Barbuda Labour Party’s named candidate for the All Saints East and St. Luke’s seat in the upcoming 2028 general elections, this academic achievement solidifies his commitment to equipping himself with the knowledge and fortitude necessary for national service.
The management and staff of WTP Media extend our warmest congratulations to Senator Lamin Newton on his well earned accomplishment. His story is more than a personal success; it is a beacon of hope and a powerful reminder that with determination, every ending can be a strong one.
