Tag: Graduation

Human Interest

“It’s Never Too Late” — 90-Year-Old Maryette McFarland Graduates Seven Decades After Beginning Her Studies

allycaralgoa

For Maryette McFarland from Londonderry, Northern Ireland, the dream of earning a university degree may have taken seventy years — but she’s finally done it.

Now 90, Maryette has graduated with a degree in English Literature, completing a journey that began in the 1960s. Back then, she had joined university in Dublin but left her studies to get married and raise a family.

Decades later, encouraged by her family and driven by her love for learning, she decided to return to education — this time, online.

“I can hardly believe it, and it’s taken me quite a long time,” Maryette said after graduating. Though studying online was challenging, she said her family — including her four children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren — were “wonderful” in supporting her.

“I’m very bad online but I had a lot of help from the family,” she laughed, sharing that her daughter-in-law even taught her how to type.

Her eldest daughter, Shauna Gailey, said proudly, “I am just so proud of her.”

Maryette’s achievement is not just a personal milestone — it’s a shining example of perseverance, passion, and the timeless power of education. Her story reminds us that dreams may rest, but they never truly fade away.

— Reported by Allycaral | Connecting Global

Entertainment

A Moment of Pride: Manisha Koirala Conferred Honorary Doctorate by University of Bradford

Tanisha Cardozo

Bollywood icon Manisha Koirala has added a new feather to her illustrious cap. The celebrated actress has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University of Bradford, United Kingdom — a recognition she describes as a moment filled with deep emotion and gratitude.

Sharing the news on Instagram, Manisha wrote,

“It’s a huge honor to receive an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Bradford, especially in the year it’s been named the UK City of Culture 2025. Even more meaningful to share this recognition alongside the talented Daniel Lee, Creative Director of Burberry.”

Manisha proudly posted a photograph from the ceremony, donning her academic robes and cap, her face glowing with pride. A few days prior, she also posted a video clip from the graduation ceremony, giving her followers a glimpse into the meaningful celebration.

In a heartfelt reflection, she stated,

“Today, I received an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Bradford. I stand here not as someone who came through the traditional path of education, but as someone who learned through life—through hard work, failure, resilience, and service.”

Her message struck a powerful chord — especially among aspiring artists, women, and anyone who has walked an unconventional path to success.

She continued,

“This honor means more than I can put into words. It’s proof that no matter where you start, your journey matters.”

The timing of the award makes it all the more special, coinciding with Bradford’s selection as the UK City of Culture for 2025, a celebration of cultural diversity, creativity, and inclusivity.

Manisha Koirala, who made a powerful return to the screen as Mallikajaan in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, is admired not only for her cinematic contributions but also her candidness about surviving cancer, her advocacy for health, and her work toward empowering women.

This honorary doctorate marks yet another chapter in her inspirational journey — one that continues to touch lives across generations and geographies.