By Admin. Updated 7:35 p.m., Saturday, June 28, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).
In 2023, Asher Ash and her daughter Chekereece Ash embarked on a journey of faith to pursue higher education and improve their lives. Nearly two years later, they both successfully graduated from college with their respective degrees.
Asher Ash, 40, graduated from the St Vincent and the Grenadines Community College’s Division of Nursing Education after completing an 18-month nursing assistant programme, while her only child, Chekereece Ash, 18, graduated from the SVGCC’s Division of Technical and Vocational Education (DTVE) with an Associate Degree in Hospitality Studies.
The residents of Mountain Cabbage Road in Sion Hill were among more than 900 students who graduated from the St Vincent and the Grenadines Community College on Tuesday, 24 June 2025.
“It feels surreal and deeply emotional. Walking across the stage as a graduate with my daughter is something I’ll never forget. It represents resilience, growth, and the unbreakable bond we share. For our family, it’s a symbol of determination and the power of believing in each other,” Ms Asher Ash told One News SVG in an exclusive interview.
Describing the completion of her studies and graduation alongside her mother, Chekereece Ash said: “It means everything. We’ve both worked hard in our own ways, and to be able to celebrate together is a dream come true. It’s not just a win for us—it’s a win for every single mom and daughter duo out there striving to build a better future.”
Ms Asher Ash, who describes herself as a stay-at-home mom who rarely goes out (except for church) and spends her time cooking, cleaning, and washing, said the inspiration to pursue the Assistant Nursing programme “came from a very personal and painful place”.
“In 2014, I lost both my mother and grandmother within months of each other. My mom, Jennifer Ash, was 48 years old at the time and suffered from severe diabetes and kidney disease. Seeing how vulnerable my mother became and how dependent we were on others changed me. It awakened a sense of purpose. I knew I wanted to be the kind of caregiver who could provide not just clinical care, but compassion and dignity. Chekereece’s drive and passion in her field gave me the extra push to finally pursue what my heart had been calling me to do all along,” she said.
For Chekereece, witnessing the pain her mother endured was her motivation to succeed.
“Seeing my mom channel that pain into purpose has been the most inspiring part of our journey. It showed me how powerful transformation can be when it’s born from love and resilience. Her strength pushes me to aim higher.”
As is often the case with any upward movement in life, there were challenges that threatened to hinder their progress.
For Asher, “juggling school, home, and financial responsibilities was a real challenge,” while for Chekereece, “sometimes it got overwhelming, especially when assignments piled up.”
Despite these challenges, they both knew failure was never an option, particularly for Asher.
“I came from a low-income background and raised my daughter with limited resources. There were times we had to choose between groceries and school supplies…but we made it,” Asher said.
They described how they were each other’s support system.
“We kept each other going. We reminded each other why we started this journey in the first place,” Asher said, while her daughter added, “Mom was always there to help me stay grounded. We leaned on each other emotionally and practically, dividing chores, sharing encouragement, and celebrating every small win together.”
When asked to share a moment during their studies when they both felt particularly proud of each other or realised the significance of their accomplishment, Asher said: “I will never forget seeing Chekereece present her final project with confidence and passion. To be honest, I was so proud, I cried,” while Chekereece said, “For me, when my mom passed her practical exams, I screamed! I knew how hard she worked, and it felt like both of us had won.”
From their success, they crafted a message for all readers who may be considering returning to education.
Ms Asher Ash said: “I want other families to know that it is never too late. If I can do it at 40 with all the responsibilities I have, anyone can. You just need courage, a little faith, and the right support,” while Chekereece said: “I would tell others not to be afraid to chase your goals, no matter your background. Our story is proof that when families support each other, incredible things happen.”
Both graduates said they envision using their new skills and degrees to make a difference in their community and beyond.
“I want to work in healthcare facilities and eventually mentor other mature students who may be afraid to return to school. Nursing is my calling, and I plan to use it to serve my community,” said Asher Ash, while Chekereece Ash said: “I hope to manage or own a hospitality business one day. I want to create welcoming spaces for both locals and tourists and contribute to improving customer service standards in St Vincent.”
Both mother and daughter told One News SVG that they plan to continue supporting each other.
“I’ll always be her biggest cheerleader. Whether she decides to study more or start a business, I will always be there,” said Asher Ash, while Chekereece Ash, who also has skills in hair, nails, and eyelashes, said: “I want to help her continue advancing in healthcare and I plan to help her prepare for interviews, courses, whatever she needs. This is just the beginning for us.”
The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College (SVGCC) has four Divisions, namely, the Division of Teacher Education (DTE), the Division of Technical and Vocational Education (DTVE), the Division of Nursing Education (DNE), and the Division of Arts, Sciences, and General Studies (DASGS).
In January 2024, the SVGCC commenced The Centre for General and Continuing Education (CGCE). The department is responsible for four main areas, namely Community Outreach; Short Courses; the College Access Programme: Pathways to Success (CAPPS); and the Maritime Training Programme.
END
One News SVG 