Branksome students’ hard work was rewarded at the annual Green Carpet celebration—an event where we roll out the “green carpet” and honour our Grade 7 to 11 students with awards in many different categories.
From sports to languages to leadership, Branksome recognized the talent, passion and dedication it has within its Senior and Middle Schools during the June 14 event. The audience was also treated to performances by some of the school’s talented musicians.
Keynote speaker and Branksome alumna Evany ROSEN’05 delivered a funny yet touching speech about her years at Branksome Hall, as well as her life after graduation. Ms Rosen is a founding member of the Canadian sketch comedy troupe Picnicface, as well as a stand-up comedian and actress based in Halifax.
During her time at Branksome, she was known for her academic and artistic talents, winning awards in Dramatic Arts and Creative Writing, as well as an English scholarship.
During her speech to students, Ms Rosen spoke fondly of her time at Branksome Hall, sharing humorous anecdotes, such as the time she played Alfred Doolittle in the school’s production of My Fair Lady, and sat on Principal Murton’s lap! Citing her transition from “class clown” to her career as a professional comedian, Ms Rosen joked that she’s now paid to be funny.
“People keep giving me money to act like an idiot,” she said. “I’m now a professional class clown!”
While she amused the audience with her quick wit and off-the-cuff humour, she also shared an inspiring message with students—one that encouraged them to find their true passion. She gave an example of her own post-secondary experiences at King’s College that led her to discover her true passion.
“I was the editor of the school newspaper and majoring in Early Modern Philosophy,” she said. “One day, I realized that I was terrible at it.”
Going on to explain her breakthrough into comedy, she told the audience that finding her passion has allowed her to have a successful career.
“I discovered the thing that brings me joy, and that I can work hard enough at it to be successful,” she said.
In closing, she urged students to explore their options and use their own interests as a guide.
“Whatever your passion is, it has the power to bring meaning to your life,” she said. “It’s actually valuable to have no idea what you should be doing right out of school…or 300 days after you finish school. Explore all the things you’re passionate about!”