Canadian artist and producer Kardinal Offishall, born Jason Harrow, will be among seven distinguished honorees at the 2025 University of the West Indies (UWI) Toronto Benefit Awards. Organizers have announced that the 16th annual event, which raises funds for scholarships benefiting Caribbean students, will take place on April 26, 2025, at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Toronto.
The 2025 theme, Bridging the Gap, underscores the UWI’s dedication to supporting Caribbean students and strengthening community ties. According to event co-patron Dr. Donette Chin-Loy Chang, the occasion celebrates the achievements of individuals who have made significant contributions while fostering unity through education and leadership. She emphasized that the awards not only bridge gaps but also build communities by recognizing leaders and mentors who pave the way forward.
Harrow, a Toronto native with Jamaican heritage, has left a significant mark on the global music scene. Known for his multi-platinum hits, he has used his platform to elevate Caribbean culture and influence the Canadian music industry. He will be presented with the Luminary Award, an honor given to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in their respective fields.
Other honorees include Myron and Berna Garron, Canadian philanthropists who will receive the G. Raymond Chang Award for their significant financial contributions to pediatric healthcare and Canadian medical institutions. The Chancellor’s Award will be given to the Onyx Initiative, a non-profit organization founded by Wayne and Nigela Purboo, which focuses on closing the employment gap for Black college and university graduates in corporate Canada.
The Vice Chancellor’s Award will be presented to three distinguished individuals: Dr. Mark Beckles, President and CEO of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund (Canada) and a leader in community investment at RBC Royal Bank; Patricia DeGuire, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commission, who co-founded the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers and the Black Law Students’ Association of Canada; and Leslie Woo, CEO of CivicAction and founder of SheBuildsCities.org.
A highlight of the evening will be the entertainment lineup, headlined by Jamaican singer-songwriter Tessanne Chin, winner of Season 5 of The Voice. Chin, who was previously honored as a UWI Luminary Award recipient in 2014, will take the stage alongside Thunder Dome Sounds, a group featuring Eddie Bullen, Quincy Bullen, Tré-Michael Bullen, and Belinda Brady. Saxophonist Jesse Ryan will also perform, adding to the night’s celebration of Caribbean excellence in the arts.
The UWI Toronto Benefit Awards has provided more than 1,000 scholarships to Caribbean students since its inception. The event serves as a significant fundraiser to ensure continued financial support for academic success. For the 16th consecutive year, Scotiabank remains the lead chair and sponsor. Other primary sponsors include Dr. Donette Chin-Loy Chang, Sprott Inc., the Hibbert Family Foundation, BDO, and the Raymond Chang Foundation.
The awards also highlight the diversity and professional excellence of their recipients, a defining feature of the event since its launch. Each year, the gala attracts a high-profile audience of corporate executives, public figures, and community leaders committed to supporting higher education for Caribbean students.
The patrons of the UWI Toronto Benefit Awards include Dr. Donette Chin-Loy Chang, Kevin Hibbert, and Ann-Marie Hibbert, who have been longstanding advocates for higher education and supporters of the UWI Student Scholarship Fund. Their contributions ensure that talented Caribbean students have access to educational opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.
Harrow, who has previously received accolades such as the Allan Slaight Music Impact Honours, continues to use his influence to inspire positive change in the music industry and beyond. His recognition at the UWI gala highlights his impact not only as an artist but also as a leader in cultural representation and advocacy.
As the 2025 UWI Toronto Benefit Awards approach, excitement builds around the honorees and their contributions. The event stands as a testament to the power of education, mentorship, and community support in shaping future generations.
