The 15th Annual UWI Toronto Benefit Awards, held on April 20, 2024 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Toronto, raised over $400,000 Canadian to support scholarships for Caribbean students. The event was hosted by Dr. Dwight Drummond from CBC and brought together 450 attendees from various sectors, highlighting the theme “Lighting the Way Together.” The UWI Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, emphasised the university’s role in uplifting and empowering historically disenfranchised communities. Scotiabank, the lead sponsor for 14 years, committed $500,000 for the next five years, alongside other sponsors.

The annual event is also known for recognising individuals and organisations that demonstrate commitment to the betterment of communities in Canada and beyond or have achieved outstanding success and brought prominence to the Caribbean. It also recognises persons of Caribbean heritage who have made significant, outstanding contributions on an international scale in their respective fields.

The 2024 distinguished honourees included the Honourable Mr. Justice Hugh L. Fraser, O.C., FCIArb., CollArb, OLY, Mediator, Arbitrator, and Human Rights Activist who received the Luminary Award; Mr. Raj Kothari, FCPA, FCA, MBA, Business Leader, and Humanitarian who received the Raymond Chang Award; Air Canada, which earned the Chancellor’s Award and the Vice Chancellor’s Award was presented to Dr. Pamela Appelt, OD, Court of Canadian Citizenship Justice (Ret.) and Humanitarian; Mr. Stanley J. Julien, Head, Special Accounts Management Unit, Canada, BMO Bank of Montreal, Business and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Leader; Mr. Deland Kamanga, CFA, Group Head, BMO Wealth Management, Financial Specialist and Philanthropist and Dr. Claudette McGowan, Chief Executive Officer, Protexxa, Global Cybersecurity Leader, Business Leader and Philanthropist.