THE University of the West Indies (The UWI) Toronto Benefit Awards is set to take centre stage in a sold-out celebration at the 17th annual gala today, at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Toronto.

Dr Siyabulela Mandela has been announced as the first recipient of the prestigious Global Humanitarian Award.

A world advocate for youth empowerment, social justice, and African and Diaspora development, Dr Mandela will be 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 The 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,” said 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,” added Dr Chin-Loy Chang.

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.

The UWI Toronto Benefit Awards honorees for 2026 are:

• Global Humanitarian Award: Dr Siyabulela Mandela — international humanitarian, author, and advocate advancing youth empowerment and global social impact.

• Luminary Award: Tonya Williams, OC — 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 long-standing commitment to education, community investment, and scholarship support.

In addition to its core mission of funding scholarships for Caribbean students, a portion of the proceeds from The UWI Toronto Benefit Awards 2026 will support Hurricane Melissa relief efforts, assisting in recovery and rebuilding initiatives 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,” said 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.”

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

Dr Donette Chin-Loy Chang, patron of The UWI Toronto Benefit Awards.