The stars aligned on Saturday, April 26, 2025, as the UWI Toronto Benefit Awards 2025 transformed the Ritz-Carlton Toronto into a beacon of brilliance, elegance, and purpose. Now in its 16th glittering year, this annual gala, hosted by The University of the West Indies (UWI), united philanthropists, public leaders, and change makers for a night that not only dazzled—but also made a difference.
Empowering Dreams: Scholarships that Change Lives
With a mission rooted in access and excellence, the event supports a vital scholarship fund for academically gifted yet financially challenged students from across the Caribbean. To date, the initiative has awarded over 1,000 scholarships, helping young scholars rise and thrive. It’s not just about funding education—it’s about fueling futures.
Bridging the Gap: Honouring Legacy, Lighting the Way
Themed “Bridging the Gap,” this year’s gala underscored UWI’s enduring commitment to connecting students with opportunity and communities with hope. The evening celebrated both new honourees and past legends—including icons like Malcolm Gladwell and Dr. Harry Belafonte—whose contributions continue to inspire the next generation.
Hosted with charm and grace by CBC News Anchor Dwight Drummond, the night sparkled with cultural pride and sonic delight. Headliner Tessanne Chin—Jamaican songstress and The Voice Season 5 winner—returned to the UWI stage, rekindling the magic she first brought as a 2014 Luminary Honouree. The musical lineup also featured Thunder Dome Sounds with Eddie, Quincy, Tré-Michael Bullen, Belinda Brady, and sensational saxophonist Jesse Ryan.
Honouring Excellence: UWI Toronto Benefit Awards 2025vAward Recipients
The awards shone a spotlight on those who lead, uplift, and build legacies:
- Luminary Award: Dr. Jason Drew Harrow (Kardinal Offishall) – Chart-topping artist, producer, and talent leader at Def Jam and Canada’s Got Talent judge.
- G. Raymond Chang Award: Mr. Myron & Mrs. Berna Garron – Visionary philanthropists devoted to advancing pediatric health across Canada.
- Chancellor’s Award: The Onyx Initiative – Founded by Wayne & Nigela Purboo to create a more inclusive future in Corporate Canada for Black graduates.
- Vice Chancellor’s Awards:
- Dr. Mark Beckles – Community investment champion and CEO, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund (Canada)
- Ms. Patricia DeGuire – Ontario Human Rights Commission Chief Commissioner & trailblazer in Black legal advocacy
- Ms. Leslie Woo – CEO of CivicAction, founder of shebuildscities.org, and a visionary for equitable urban innovation
Where Power, Philanthropy & Prestige Converge: UWI Toronto Benefit Awards 2025
The night drew a constellation of influential guests—visionaries and vanguards of culture and change—including Lieutenant-Governor Edith Dumont, U of T Chancellor Dr. Wes Hall, Dr. Michael Lee-Chin, TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey, The Honourable Dr. Jean Augustine, Olympian Donovan Bailey, and Juno-winning rapper Haviah Mighty.
A Legacy of Giving: Powered by Passionate Partners
For the 16th consecutive year, Scotiabank led as the proud title sponsor. Key sponsors included Sprott Inc., the Dottori-Attanasio Family, and BDO, all championing Caribbean education through their unwavering support.
Patrons Dr. Donette Chin-Loy Chang, Mr. Kevin Hibbert, and Mrs. Ann-Marie Hibbert—devoted advocates for higher education—continue to amplify the reach and power of the UWI Student Scholarship Fund.
Looking Ahead UWI Toronto Benefit Awards 2025
The UWI Toronto Benefit Awards 2025 was not just an event—it was a movement. A celebration of culture, community, and Caribbean brilliance. Be sure to check back for next year’s UWI Ball—where purpose meets panache, and every moment matters.
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