UWI Toronto Benefit Awards Announces 2025 Honourees, Celebrity Headliner, and Celebrates 16 Years of Supporting Caribbean Education

The University of the West Indies (UWI) Toronto Benefit Awards is gearing up for its 16th annual celebration, slated for Saturday, April 26th, 2025, at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Toronto. Under the theme “Bridging the Gap,” this year’s event focuses on the UWI’s continued dedication to providing educational opportunities for Caribbean students and strengthening the connection between the Caribbean and its diaspora. The event serves as a significant fundraising initiative, with proceeds directly supporting scholarships for Caribbean students pursuing higher education at the UWI. It promises to be a glamorous affair, attracting a distinguished guest list of corporate leaders, prominent figures, and community members committed to supporting Caribbean development through education. The evening is not only a celebration of Caribbean excellence but also a testament to the power of philanthropy and community engagement.

The 2025 UWI Toronto Benefit Awards will honor a diverse group of individuals and organizations for their exceptional contributions. Dr. Jason Drew Harrow, internationally known as Kardinal Offishall, will receive the Luminary Award, recognizing his achievements as a multi-platinum rapper, producer, and influential figure in the music industry. Canadian philanthropists Myron and Berna Garron will be presented with the G. Raymond Chang Award for their extensive contributions to pediatric health and Canadian healthcare institutions. The Chancellor’s Award will be bestowed upon the Onyx Initiative, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion in corporate Canada by supporting Black university students and recent graduates.

The Vice Chancellor’s Award will recognize three remarkable individuals: Mark Beckles, for his community investment initiatives with RBC Royal Bank and leadership at the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund (Canada); Patricia DeGuire, for her impactful work as Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commission and her role in founding the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers and the Black Law Students’ Association of Canada; and Leslie Woo, CEO of CivicAction and founder of shebuildscities.org, for her contributions to urban development and community building. These honorees represent a broad spectrum of fields, reflecting the diverse impact of Caribbean talent and leadership.

Entertainment for the evening promises to be a captivating blend of Caribbean rhythms and soulful melodies. Headlining the event is Tessanne Chin, the Jamaican singer-songwriter who won Season 5 of The Voice and a previous UWI Toronto Benefit Awards Luminary Honoree. Adding to the musical vibrancy will be Thunder Dome Sounds, featuring Eddie Bullen, Quincy Bullen, Tré-Michael Bullen, and Belinda Brady, alongside the smooth saxophone sounds of Jesse Ryan. The musical performances will undoubtedly create a memorable and celebratory atmosphere, adding to the evening’s allure.

The UWI Toronto Benefit Awards has a proud history of supporting Caribbean students, having provided over 1,000 scholarships to date. This impactful initiative is made possible through the generous support of sponsors and patrons who share a commitment to fostering educational opportunities. Scotiabank returns for the 16th consecutive year as the lead chair and sponsor, demonstrating their unwavering dedication to the cause. Other primary sponsors include Dr. Donette Chin-Loy Chang, Sprott Inc., the Hibbert Family Foundation, BDO, and the Raymond Chang Foundation, all playing a vital role in ensuring the event’s success. Dr. Donette Chin-Loy Chang, Mr. Kevin Hibbert, and Mrs. Ann-Marie Hibbert serve as the event’s patrons, their passionate support underscoring the importance of investing in higher education and the UWI Student Scholarship Fund.

The UWI Toronto Benefit Awards is more than just a fundraising gala; it symbolizes the enduring bond between the Caribbean and its diaspora. It represents a collective effort to empower the next generation of Caribbean leaders by providing them with access to quality education. The event highlights the significant contributions of individuals and organizations who are dedicated to bridging the gap and creating a brighter future for the Caribbean region. It serves as a platform to celebrate excellence, inspire giving, and strengthen the ties that bind the Caribbean community together. The “Bridging the Gap” theme underscores the event’s focus on connecting resources, talent, and opportunities to create a lasting impact on the lives of Caribbean students and the future of the region.