Bravense's Daughter Chosen Class Valedictorian and Outstanding Student at Tolman High School in Pawtucket, USA

PAWTUCKET, Rhode Island - The Cape Verdean community, especially the island of Brava, is celebrating yet another success story. Naima Gonzalez, daughter of Brava native Lidia DaLomba Fortes Gamboa Gonzalez and Mexican Camilo H. Gonzalez, was honored as valedictorian of her class at Tolman High School, earning the title of valedictorian, the highest academic distinction awarded to a high school senior in the United States.

The graduation ceremony is scheduled for June 10 at Max Read Field on Pleasant Street in Pawtucket.

Naima's achievement reflects a rich cultural heritage built between Cape Verde and Mexico. Her mother, Lidia Gamboa Gonzalez, was born in Mato, on the island of Brava, and emigrated to the United States at the age of 11, in October 1988. The daughter of Maria DaLomba, from Mato, and Henrique Gamboa, from Belém, Brava, Lidia has always maintained a strong connection to her Cape Verdean roots, speaking fluent Cape Verdean Creole and passing on to her daughter the values of determination, humility and hard work.

Naima stresses that her mother played a fundamental role in her academic and personal career.

"My mother has always supported me and taught me that anything is possible. She always told me to stay strong, positive and never give up on my dreams," the student recalls.

During her four years at Tolman High School, Naima excelled both in the classroom and in extracurricular activities. She served as secretary of the National Honor Society, was a member of the Rhode Island Honor Society, participated in the school's student mentoring program and volunteered in the Child Opportunity Zone (COZ) program.

In sports, she found one of her greatest achievements when she joined the school volleyball team. Despite considering herself a shy person, she overcame personal challenges to earn a place in the first team and contribute to winning the district championships in the sport.

Her career has been recognized with several awards and distinctions, including Highest Honors, Outstanding Student Award, RI High School Coaches Association All Academic, Perfect Attendance and the Tolman L.E.A.D Award. She also received two official citations from Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien, one for her membership in the National Honor Society and the other for her participation on the 2024 Division 3 state champion girls volleyball team.

Despite her numerous achievements, Naima says that her greatest motivation has always been to repay her parents for all the support she has received.

"I wanted to make them proud. Seeing how hard they worked to support me and make my life easier made me work even harder to achieve my goals," she said.

Next academic year, Naima will begin her studies at Trinity College, where she will study Psychology. In the future, she intends to pursue a career as a forensic psychologist or lawyer.

To students who are starting their journey towards graduation, she leaves an inspiring message:

"If you have a goal, nothing can stop you if you're determined. Always do your best, stay focused and never give up on your dreams."

Naima Gonzalez's story is an example of dedication, perseverance and the positive impact that family support can have on a young person's life. The daughter of a Bravense and a Mexican, the student carries with her the pride of her two cultural heritages and demonstrates that success is achievable when you work with discipline, determination and purpose.

Naima Gonzalez's story is an example of dedication, perseverance and the positive impact family support can have on a young person's life.