Chi Ching Ching marks son Jaheem’s Miami high school graduation

"Dad, next time you come to my graduation, it will be from university."

That was the promise Jaheem made while embracing his father after a recent high school graduation, a moment dancehall artiste Chi Ching Ching says left him filled with pride.

Chi Ching Ching, whose given name is Radion Beckford, watched as his son crossed the stage at Slam North Campus in Miami to receive his diploma before relatives, friends, supporters and other members of the graduating class.

Jaheem’s mother, grandmother and aunt were also part of the celebration, sharing in the excitement as he tossed his cap with classmates to mark the close of his secondary school years.

Speaking with THE STAR, the Turning Tables artiste reflected on seeing his 18-year-old son reach what he described as a major early achievement, and on the hopes he has for Jaheem’s next chapter.

Chi Ching Ching said he made sure to honour the occasion because, in his view, both a father’s presence and his presents matter.

"It was everything – not just for me, but for him as well. My gift for his success was money so he could purchase the car he wanted, but not even that was as important as him seeing me there. Being there physically was more important than any material thing. Because of my schedule, I often miss important days, but I always try my best to be there," he said.

Jaheem is set to attend Doral College in Florida. He has already logged more than 500 hours of community service.

"Knowing where he's coming from to where he has reached is the real victory for me. Seeing him graduate made me extra proud. I just can’t tell you how happy I am," Chi Ching Ching said.

The entertainer, who is father to three boys, said parenthood reshaped how he sees life. He explained that having children changes a father’s priorities, purpose and motivation because another person becomes central to his decisions and ambitions.

"Children change your outlook on life. I finally understand the sacrifice my father made because here I am doing the same for my kids," he said.

Chi Ching Ching is also preparing to put out several new tracks, including one collaboration he described as being with one of the strongest female artistes, though he has not yet shared further details.

"And I am just preparing for a busy summer, as I will be all over the US and Europe."