The Calabar Old Boys’ Association (COBA) will celebrate 14 distinguished awardees, including World Champion Sprinter Oblique Seville and PIOJ Director General Dr Wayne Henry, at its Annual Awards Ceremony.

The event will be held on Saturday, November 22, at the UWI Regional Headquarters in Kingston. In light of the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, a portion of the event’s proceeds will be allocated towards relief efforts for Calabar’s sister school, Westwood High in Trelawny, which suffered extensive damage during the storm.

Hosted under the patronage of Dr the Honourable Vincent Lawrence, O.J., the Cocktail Party and Awards Ceremony will unite generations of Calabar men for an evening of celebration, reflection, and service—honouring alumni achievement while extending the school’s legacy of nation-building beyond its own gates.

Major Desmon Brown, OD, President of COBA, described this year’s event as especially meaningful. “This Awards Ceremony represents the very best of what Calabar stands for—discipline, leadership, and service to others. Our alumni continue to inspire national development, whether through their professional endeavours, mentorship, or commitment to community building. In light of recent events, our commitment to supporting our extended school community through this relief effort is a powerful reminder that the Calabar spirit is one of brotherhood and compassion,” he said.

The 2025 honourees include Physician and COBA (Atlanta) President Dr David Anderson, Veteran Track and Field Coach Fitzalbert Coleman, Calabar High Guidance Counsellor Jennifer Jarrett, and PIOJ Director General Dr Wayne Henry, recognised for their outstanding professional and community contributions.

President’s Awardees, celebrated for leadership and excellence, include World Championship 110m hurdles finalist Mr Orlando Bennett, World Champion Sprinter Oblique Seville, Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr Joseph Blidgen, UWI Lecturer Mr Michael Roofe, Media Practitioner Mr Dervan Malcolm, COBA (Toronto) President Mr Eugene Chang, and COBA (Atlanta) Vice-President Mr Geddes Alexander.

In keeping with its tradition of nurturing future leaders, COBA will also recognise top-performing students for the 2024/25 academic year: Jaiden Thompson (CSEC), Tajavaughn Salkey (CAPE Unit 1), and Ronald Powell (CAPE Unit 2).

Delivering the keynote address is Mr Bruce James, OD, President and Authorised Athlete’s Representative of the MVP Track Club, whose message on mentorship and excellence is expected to resonate with both alumni and students. The evening will be guided by Master of Ceremonies and Orator Mr George Roper, known for his long-standing service to Calabar and his signature eloquence.

Adding to the night’s distinction will be appearances by World Athletics Championship stars Christopher Taylor, Fedrick Dacres, Malik James-King, and Chad Wright, who continue to embody the Calabar legacy of excellence on the global stage.

By celebrating alumni achievement and channelling proceeds to aid Westwood High, COBA ensures the event remains focused on both honouring excellence and delivering meaningful support to those affected by Hurricane Melissa—reinforcing the core mission of service and solidarity.

Honourees

President Awardees

Special Awardees