Beneficiaries of this year’s CIBC Caribbean Walk for the Cure—the patients, families, and communities served by the Jamaica Cancer Society—are set to experience expanded access to screening, care, and life-saving support following the official presentation of J$11 million in proceeds to the Jamaica Cancer Society from the bank’s flagship initiative.

The cheque handover ceremony, held at the Terra Nova All Suite Hotel, unfolded as a moving tribute to collective action, guided by Master of Ceremonies Jerome Griffiths, who framed the moment not simply as a financial contribution, but as “a shared purpose, a collective commitment, and a powerful show of partnership” in support of the Jamaica Cancer Society’s indispensable work.

The programme reflected both celebration and urgency. Following opening remarks, Annique Dawkins, Head of Country, CIBC Caribbean, delivered a compelling address that grounded the initiative in both legacy and impact.

“Since 2012, Walk for the Cure has never been just an event—it is a promise we have honoured to stand with those impacted by cancer, to raise awareness, and to mobilise meaningful and sustained support across our communities,” Dawkins stated. “Through its 14th staging, we are proud to contribute an outstanding eleven million Jamaican dollars—support that translates directly into access to care, early detection, education, and ultimately, hope.”

She further emphasised that the initiative’s regional success—over US$6 million raised to date—is powered by a simple but profound truth: collective action changes outcomes.

“What Walk for the Cure shows us is that when we come together, we transform the cancer journey itself—replacing fear with support, isolation with connection, and uncertainty with hope,” she added.

The official cheque presentation followed, capturing a defining moment of partnership between CIBC Caribbean and the Jamaica Cancer Society, and setting the tone for reflections that followed.

In her remarks, Roshane Reid-Koomson, Executive Director of the Jamaica Cancer Society, underscored the far-reaching implications of the donation:

“This contribution represents far more than funding. It is access, awareness through education, early detection and it is a lifeline for the many individuals and families we serve. With the continued support of CIBC Caribbean and its partners, we are able to deepen our impact, expand critical screening initiatives, and bring hope to those who need it most. Together, we are not just responding to cancer, we are changing outcomes.”

The ceremony also served as a powerful acknowledgement of the ecosystem behind the impact. Sponsors were recognised as “enablers of transformation,” with dozens of corporate and community partners standing in solidarity with the cause. Their contributions, alongside the energy of thousands of participants, ensured that Walk for the Cure 2025 once again delivered meaningful, measurable impact despite a challenging environment.

The programme culminated with a renewed call to action, as partners were invited to deepen their commitment ahead of the 2026 staging of Walk for the Cure, scheduled for October 11. The message was clear: while progress has been made, the need continues to grow—and so must the response.

As the event closed with sponsor acknowledgements and a shared moment of reflection, one sentiment remained unmistakable—Walk for the Cure is not just an event on the calendar; it is a movement driven by commitment, sustained by community, and defined by courage.

And for the many Jamaicans whose lives will be touched by today’s contribution, it is, above all, a promise of hope.