The 17th Annual University of the West Indies (UWI) Toronto Benefit Awards Gala

Editor’s Note: We have so much to celebrate as a community, and that is why we had to bring back one of those stories to remind us that we are a strong community, filled with purpose…

The 17th Annual University of the West Indies (UWI) Toronto Benefit Awards Gala held April 25^th, 2026, at The Ritz-Carlton Toronto, delivered a polished evening of celebration, recognition, and purpose. The sold-out event drew a cross-section of civic leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, business executives, and community advocates, an audience that reflects UWI’s growing influence across the Caribbean diaspora and Canada.

Framed by this year’s theme, “Unlocking Brilliance,” the evening emphasized UWI’s long-standing commitment to education, leadership, and opportunity. Promotional materials positioned the gala as a signature event on Toronto’s social and philanthropic calendar, a claim supported by both attendance and impact. According to a May 11^th, 2026, press release from FKB Media, the gala raised $450,000 in support of student scholarships and academic programming.

Messages from institutional leaders reinforced a consistent narrative: education as both a personal pathway and a collective responsibility. In the program booklet, Dr. Donnette Chin-Loy Chang, O.Ont., underscored the intent behind the theme, writing, “Our objective has always been to ensure that the best and the brightest come to the forefront; this year’s theme ‘Unlocking Brilliance’ reiterates and reflects that promise.” Her remarks aligned with the broader tone of the evening; aspirational but grounded in tangible outcomes.

Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, Vice-Chancellor of UWI, framed the gala within the university’s academic mission. He emphasized that such events “Underscore the enduring value of intellectual inquiry, civic engagement, and the pursuit of excellence,” while also serving as a direct investment in future scholars.” His message was clear: the gala is not ceremonial alone; it is infrastructural, sustaining access to higher education for students across the Caribbean.

Committee Chair Elizabeth Buchanan-Hind struck a more personal tone, reflecting on 17 years of involvement. She credited the organizing team for another evening of magnificence, while reiterating the gala’s core purpose, affirming our shared belief in the transformative power of education. The language, while celebratory, remained anchored in continuity and long-term commitment.

That urgency was sharpened by Honorary Co-Chair Angella Bennett, who pointed to the impact of Hurricane Melissa on students across the region. Many, she noted, remain “Laser-focused on pursuing their education” despite displacement and disruption. The gala’s fundraising, in this context, takes on added weight, not just as philanthropy, but as intervention.

Two student scholarship recipients were recognized: Andre Greenidge, a Barbados graduate pursuing International Relations at UWI, and Thrion Mitchell, a double major in Banking and Finance and Economics. Their inclusion grounded the evening’s rhetoric in lived trajectories, students whose futures are directly shaped by the support being raised.

The honourees reflected a wide spectrum of achievement and service. Dr. Siyabulela Mandela received the Global Humanitarian Award for his work in human rights and conflict resolution. Actress and producer Tonya Williams, O.C., was recognized with the Luminary Award for her contributions to the arts and advocacy. Entrepreneur Sam Ibrahim, founder of Arrow Group of Companies, received the G. Raymond Chang Award, highlighting the role of business leadership in community development.

Additional recognitions included Craig Wellington of the Black Opportunity Fund and Trevor Massey of the Lifelong Leadership Institute, both acknowledged for advancing economic empowerment and youth leadership. Vice-Chancellor’s Awards were presented to The Honourable Marci Len and The Honourable Justice Donald E. McLeod, each cited for distinguished public service and community impact. Sagicor received the Patron’s Award for its leadership in financial services across multiple markets.

In a post-event statement, Dr. Chin-Loy Chang described the evening as “An extraordinary demonstration of generosity and collective commitment,” noting that funds will directly support students, particularly those affected by Hurricane Melissa. Buchanan-Hind echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the vital partnership between UWI and our Canadian friends.