ECNETNews, TORONTO, CANADA, January 29, 2025: The University of West Indies (UWI) Toronto Benefit Awards is set to honor its distinguished recipients during the 16th annual celebration aimed at supporting scholarships for Caribbean students. This prestigious event will occur on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 181 Wellington Street, Toronto, starting at 5:30 PM EST.
Themed Bridging the Gap, this year’s gala emphasizes UWI’s commitment to Caribbean students and their communities. “This is a proud night for the Caribbean diaspora. It does more than just bridge gaps; it fosters community, education, and recognition of those who lead and mentor us,” states a UWI Toronto Benefit Awards Co-Patron.
Marking a highlight in Toronto’s social calendar, this event draws a high-profile guest list of corporate executives, public figures, and community leaders dedicated to uplifting the Caribbean.
The 2025 Honourees include:
- Luminary Award: Dr. Jason Drew Harrow – Renowned multi-platinum rapper and producer, known for his impactful contributions to the music industry.
- G. Raymond Chang Award: Mr. Myron Garron and Mrs. Berna Garron – Canadian philanthropists recognized for their substantial contributions to pediatric health and Canadian healthcare.
- Chancellor’s Award: Onyx Initiative – A non-profit dedicated to enhancing recruitment opportunities for Black college students in Canadian corporate sectors.
- Vice Chancellor’s Award: Mr. Mark Beckles, President & CEO of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund (Canada), with Ms. Patricia DeGuire, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commission, and Ms. Leslie Woo, CEO at CivicAction, highlighting their impactful community efforts.
The night’s entertainment features The Voice (season 5) winner, Tessanne Chin, a previous UWI Toronto Benefit Luminary Honouree. The event will also showcase Thunder Dome Sounds and saxophonist Jesse Ryan.
Over the years, the UWI Toronto Benefit Awards has successfully provided more than 1,000 scholarships to Caribbean students. Scotiabank continues its tradition as the lead chair and sponsor, joined by notable sponsors supporting this year’s initiative.
The esteemed patrons supporting the UWI Toronto Benefit Awards emphasize their commitment to education and the UWI Student Scholarship Fund.
Media Availability: 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM – 4th Floor (Honourees, Patrons and select VIPs)
Red Carpet Cocktail Hour – 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM – 2nd Floor
Dinner, Awards Program, Entertainment – 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM – 2nd Floor
Air Canada Lyme (After Party) – 10:00 PM – Midnight
About The UWI:
As a leading institution, The University of the West Indies has played a crucial role in the development of the Caribbean for 75 years, producing influential leaders across multiple sectors. With nearly 50,000 students and five campuses, it offers an array of over 800 academic programs. The UWI is consistently recognized among the world’s top universities, demonstrating commitment to addressing global challenges as outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
