NEW YORK | University of the West Indies UWI Annual Fundraising Gala set for April 18, 2024

NEW YORK, NY, March 19, 2024 - In an evening that promises to fuse elegance with education, the American Foundation for The University of the West Indies (AFUWI) will hold its 27th annual gala on April 18, at the iconic 583 Park Avenue in New York City. 

This landmark event celebrates the University of the West Indies' unwavering commitment to funding scholarships, opening doors, and transforming the lives of countless students, setting a new standard for philanthropy and academic excellence.

Themed "The Legacy Continues," this gala is more than an evening of elegance; it's a tribute to the transformative power of education, and a celebration of those who have significantly contributed to this cause. 

This gala isn't just an event; it's a beacon of possibility for students who have dared to dream beyond their circumstances. 

Thanks to the generosity of countless donors, the AFUWI scholarship program has been a pivotal ladder for talented, ambitious Caribbean nationals, opening doors to higher education that once seemed firmly shut. 

Ann-Marie Grant, the executive director of AFUWI, captures the essence of this mission, expressing gratitude towards the donors who help craft legacies of impact by enabling young minds to pursue their college dreams

The night will also honour distinguished personalities who have made their mark in various fields, from governance and technology to law, business development, and community service. Each honouree's story reflects a dedication to not only their professional success but also their commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders in the Caribbean. These include, from left:

• His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali: As the ninth President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the current chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), President Ali's leadership extends beyond political borders, advocating for educational advancement within the region. His role as commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces underscores his commitment to security and development, pillars that support educational growth.
• Mr. Don Christian: A partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP with a remarkable 35-year career in technology, aerospace, and defense, Mr. Christian also serves as a trustee at Howard University and the McDonogh School. He founded the Jamaica Howard University Affinity Network (J-1 or JHUAN), raising over $250,000 for Jamaican students, exemplifying his belief in the power of education to unlock potential.
• Attorney Mr. Darren Skinner: Representing the legal field with distinction, Mr. Skinner's work as a Partner at the Washington, D.C. office of Arnold & Porter underscores the crucial role of legal expertise in advocacy and community development. His efforts extend the law's reach to serve as a foundation for educational and societal growth.
• Mr. Antony Mark Desnoes Hart: As the executive chairman of Caribbean Producers Jamaica Ltd., Mr. Hart's leadership has not only propelled the company to its listing on the Jamaica Stock Exchange but also embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship that inspires young Caribbean minds. His journey from CEO to a founding shareholder demonstrates the virtues of vision, hard work, and the importance of giving back.
• Ms. Michele Chow-Tai: As the managing director of Business Development at Fairview Capital Partners, Ms. Chow-Tai leads with innovation in strategic planning and client strategies. Her involvement on several boards, including the National Association of Securities Professionals - New York Chapter, reflects her commitment to leveraging business acumen for societal benefit, particularly in education and empowerment.
• The Reverend Mr. Patrick Perrin: From Jamaica to New York, The Rev. Mr. Perrin has dedicated his life to guiding youth and his congregation toward brighter futures. His recent retirement as a United Methodist Elder, after serving St. John’s United Methodist Church of Elmont, marks over three decades of commitment to faith-based community service and education.

This roster of honourees symbolizes the diverse ways through which leadership and dedication to community can manifest, each contributing uniquely to the fabric of Caribbean education and beyond. Their collective efforts, celebrated at the AFUWI gala, not only honor their achievements but also underscore the critical role of education in shaping futures.

The AFUWI gala is not merely a celebration; it's a catalyst for change, where the contributions of each attendee, donor, and honoree converge to create a brighter future for Caribbean students. 

As we honour these distinguished individuals, we also shine a light on the profound impact of education and the collective effort required to nurture the potential within underprivileged communities. 

This event epitomizes the spirit of philanthropy, uniting us in the mission to dismantle barriers to education and pave the way for the next generation of leaders.

Empowering Future Leaders through Education

The American Foundation for The University of the West Indies (AFUWI) stands at the forefront of this noble cause, tirelessly working to provide scholarships to talented young individuals across the Caribbean. 

These scholarships represent more than financial assistance; they are lifelines that enable dreams, transform futures, and break the cycle of generational poverty. Through the dedication of AFUWI and the generosity of its supporters, approximately 600 scholarships have been awarded, fostering a legacy of education, empowerment, and economic development.

The University of the West Indies (UWI) serves as the academic foundation for this transformative journey, offering a wide range of programs across its campuses. 

The UWI's commitment to excellence in arts, sciences, business, and politics not only enhances the region's academic landscape but also propels its graduates to global recognition. 

This enduring partnership between AFUWI and UWI underscores the pivotal role of education in achieving sustainable development and regional independence.

A Call to Action: Join Us in Shaping the Future

As the 27th annual AFUWI gala approaches, we extend a heartfelt invitation to you to be part of this monumental event. 

Each ticket purchase, table booking, sponsorship, and donation goes directly towards funding scholarships, opening doors, and changing lives. 

Your support enables us to continue this legacy of empowerment, creating a ripple effect that will be felt across the Caribbean and beyond.

In the spirit of the gala's theme, "The Legacy Continues," let us come together to celebrate the achievements of our honourees and to contribute to a cause that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. 

Join us on April 18th at 583 Park Avenue, New York City, for an evening of inspiration, celebration, and commitment to education. For tickets and more information, please visit AFUWI's official website.

Together, we can create a legacy of education, opportunity, and hope. Be a part of this transformative journey and help us light the path for the Caribbean's future leaders.

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