
By Gerald V. Paul
The G. Raymond Chang Family will be the patron of the University of the West Indies (UWI) Toronto Benefit Gala, honouring outstanding individuals and organizations who impact the Caribbean, co-patron and journalist Donette Chin-Loy Chang told The Camera.
The black tie event will be Saturday, April 2, at the Ritz Carlton, 181 Wellington St. W. under the patronage of G. Raymond Chang family members Andrew Chang and Brigette Chang-Addorisio, with Scotia Bank as lead sponsor for the seventh year in a row.
“Since the inaugural event in 2010, the university has awarded nearly 250 scholarships to students enrolled at UWI across the Caribbean region. You will be pleased to know that over 70 of these students have graduated with first-class honours,” Chin-Loy Chang said.
“I am always blown away by their determination, enthusiasm and brain power.’’
She said the 2016 honourees are: G. Raymond Chang Award – Dr. Vivienne Poy (author, entrepreneur and community leader; Luminary Award – Dr. Shirley Thompson (conductor and composer; Chancellor’s Award – Food For The Poor (not-for-profit serving the Caribbean and Latin America); Vice-Chancellor’s Award – Stephen Ames, (professional golfer); West Hall (business leader and activist); Machel Montano (soca singer, record producer and songwriter) and Dr. Paul Steinbok (paediatrician).
Dwight Drummond, co-host of CBC News Toronto, will host the gala as MC.
“It’s all about social responsibility as we celebrate the very best of the Caribbean and Canada while changing the fortunes of young people,” Chin-Loy Chang said.