KINGSTON, Jamaica — The American Foundation for The University of the West Indies (AFUWI) will pay tribute to Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness with the Legacy Award, one of the organisation’s highest honours, at its 29th Annual “The Legacy Continues” Awards Gala.

The event will take place on Friday, April 17 in New York City.

According to the university, the annual gala brings together leaders from business, academia, public service, and philanthropy to support scholarships that increase access to higher education for outstanding Caribbean students at the institution.

Proceeds from the event fund AFUWI scholarships, helping talented students from across the Caribbean transform their academic potential into university degrees and, ultimately, into productivity and development.

Prime Minister Holness is being recognised for his leadership and ongoing commitment to education, economic resilience and regional collaboration as fundamental pillars of Jamaica’s national development. His recognition reflects AFUWI’s tradition of honouring leaders whose work significantly advances the Caribbean and its global diaspora.

“The Legacy Continues Gala celebrates leaders whose vision and service help shape the future of our community and region,” said Chairman of AFUWI, Dr Cyrus McCalla. “Through their leadership, and the generosity of those who support this event, we can open doors of opportunity for talented but financially disadvantaged Caribbean students whose aspirations for higher education deserve every chance to flourish.”

The evening will also honour a distinguished group of leaders whose accomplishments and service to community and country serve as a strong example for the next generation, especially the students of The University of the West Indies (UWI), highlighting the transformative power of education and leadership.

Each honouree embodies the core principle AFUWI represents—that when talent is supported by opportunity, the impact can change communities, nations and even generations.

Anthony and Gregory Belinfanti, a father-and-son duo, will receive the Pathfinder Award for Generational Impact in Education, acknowledging their combined dedication to enhancing educational opportunities across generations. Anthony is a retired educator, while Gregory Belinfanti is the president of One Equity Partners, a middle-market private equity firm.

The Pelican Award, a UWI alumni peer award, will be presented to Dr Kevon Rhiney, whose scholarship and leadership highlight the incredible potential of Caribbean higher education to inspire meaningful change.

Two esteemed figures in academic medicine and institutional governance will also be honoured. Dr Wayne AI Frederick, president of Howard University, will receive the Caribbean Luminary Award, recognising his notable career and visionary leadership in higher education and healthcare.

Meanwhile, Dr Wayne J Riley, president of SUNY Downstate Health Science University, will be awarded the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Institutional Impact, applauding his exceptional contributions to academic medicine and institutional development.

Executive Chairman of the ANSA McAL Group of Companies in Trinidad and Tobago, Dr A Norman Sabga, will also receive the Chancellor’s Award along with the Corporate Award for Excellence in Global Business Leadership. These honours recognise his visionary leadership and the value-driven enterprise he has established.

Group Vice President at Charter Communications, Camille Joseph-Goldman, will receive the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Public Service and Community Impact, recognising her commitment to strengthening communities and expanding opportunities.

Looking toward global leadership and innovation, Jacky Wright, recipient of honorary doctorates from the University of Bath and Aston University, will receive the Phoenix Award for Global Digital Leadership in recognition of her influential work in global technology transformation.

“The Legacy Continues is more than just a theme,” noted AFUWI’s Executive Director, Ann-Marie Grant. “It’s a declaration that investing in education today helps secure the Caribbean’s leadership, innovation and resilience for future generations.”