There is no one secret to success at school and in life according to Hamilton teenager, Khalid Gilbert. For the deputy head boy at Hamilton Boys’ High School, a happy and productive life comes from a combination of strong personal values, having good people around you, and plenty of hard work.
“I have received so much support from my family and friends,” he says. “My family has sacrificed so much time and money in order for me to progress at school, in my sporting activities, and also at church. I recognize the love my family has for me and I am truly grateful for them.”
“Being deputy head boy is an absolute honour and privilege,” he says. “In my leadership role I have experienced many opportunities working with executive staff and fellow students. There’s a high level of expectation from everyone at the school and in the community.”
“I have loved my time at Hamilton Boys’ High because of the many opportunities I have been given. Getting a good education has always been a priority in my life so that I can further grow and develop in the world.”
Like hundreds of thousands of Mormon youth around the world, Khalid attends an early morning scripture class, called Seminary. This helps him start each of his jam-packed days on a positive note, he says.
“The love I have for the gospel of Jesus Christ and the happiness it brings me helps me to always try to be a good role-model for others. I keep my body clean from harmful substances and do not use crude or irreverent language. It is important to me to set a good example for others in respecting my teachers and trying to be courteous and polite to everyone I associate with.”
One of Khalid’s passions is sport. Despite frequent opportunities to do so, he has chosen to not play on Sundays so he can attend worship services as well as respect the holiness of the day.