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The University of the West Indies (UWI) Toronto Benefit Awards is set to take centre stage in a sold-out celebration at the 17th annual gala on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 181 Wellington Street West, Toronto, beginning at 5:30 p.m. EST.

Dr Siyabulela Mandela is the first recipient of the prestigious Global Humanitarian Award. A world advocate for youth empowerment, social justice, and African and diaspora development, Mandela is being recognised for his impactful humanitarian work and leadership that continues to inspire change worldwide. 

A specialist in conflict resolution and international relations, he is the great-grandson of Nobel Peace Prize winner and the first Black South African president, Nelson Mandela.

Consistently ranked among the world’s top universities, this year’s theme, Unlocking Brilliance, reflects UWI’s enduring commitment to advancing education, leadership, and opportunity across the Caribbean and its global diaspora.

“This is a powerful night of purpose and pride for the Caribbean community,” says Dr Donette Chin-Loy Chang, patron of the UWI Toronto Benefit Awards.

“As we celebrate Dr Mandela and this year’s distinguished honourees, we are reminded of the transformative power of education, leadership, and collective action in shaping a better future.

”A signature event on Toronto’s social and philanthropic calendar, the UWI Toronto Benefit Awards brings together corporate leaders, cultural influencers, philanthropists, and community champions united by a shared commitment to giving back.

2026 UWI Toronto Benefit Awards Honorees

• Global Humanitarian Award: Dr Siyabulela Mandela – International humanitarian, author, and advocate advancing youth empowerment and global social impact.
• Luminary Award: Tonya Williams – Award-winning actress, producer, advocate, and Officer of the Order of Canada, recognised for her groundbreaking contributions to film, television, and diversity in the screen industries.
• G. Raymond Chang Award: Sam Ibrahim – Esteemed business leader and philanthropist recognised for his dedication to community advancement and social impact initiatives.
• Chancellor’s Award: Black Opportunity Fund – A transformative organisation investing in economic, educational, and leadership opportunities for Black communities.
• Lifelong Leadership Institute – A pioneering institution committed to leadership development and lifelong learning.
• Vice-Chancellor’s Award: Marci Ien – former Member of Parliament and former broadcaster, recognised for her advocacy, public service, and community leadership.
• Justice Donald F. McLeod – Distinguished jurist recognised for decades of service to justice, equity, and civic leadership.
• Patron’s Award: Sagicor – Honoured for its longstanding commitment to education, community investment, and scholarship support.

Hurricane Melissa relief efforts, assisting in recovery and rebuilding initiatives. In addition to its core mission of funding scholarships for Caribbean students, a portion of the proceeds from the 2026 UWI Toronto Benefit Awards will support across affected Caribbean communities.“The impact of Hurricane Melissa has been deeply felt across the Caribbean, particularly among students whose educational journeys have been disrupted,” says Elizabeth Buchanan-Hind, chair of the UWI Toronto Benefit Awards.

“This year’s benefit awards is not only a celebration of excellence, but a meaningful opportunity to support those students – helping them rebuild, continue their studies, and realise their full potential.”

Entertainment line-up

The evening will feature a dynamic and culturally rich entertainment programme, including:

• Yosvani Castañeda – Internationally acclaimed Cuban pianist and composer known for blending classical, jazz, and Afro-Caribbean musical traditions.
• Hemant Patel – Virtuosic tabla player celebrated for his mastery of Indian classical rhythms and cross-cultural collaborations.
• SwizzleStick Theatre – A vibrant performance ensemble bringing Caribbean storytelling to life through theatrical expression and movement.
• The Men of Soul – A powerhouse vocal group delivering timeless soul, R&B, and Motown classics with rich harmonies and energy.
• Quisha Wint – A captivating vocalist whose performances fuse reggae, soul, and contemporary Caribbean sounds.
• Shakura S’Aida – Award-winning blues and jazz singer renowned for her commanding stage presence and dynamic vocal range.
• Earl LaPierre – Celebrated steelpan artist showcasing the rhythmic brilliance and cultural heritage of Caribbean music.

The UWI Toronto Benefit Awards has awarded more than 1,000 scholarships to Caribbean students to date and continues to play a vital role in advancing access to higher education.