AFUWI Holds 27th Annual Gala in New York City
Event Highlights
The American Foundation for the University of the West Indies held its 27th Annual Gala on Thursday evening April 18, 2024, in New York City.
The event was organized to provide support for the University of the West Indies and was well attended by the stakeholders in the Caribbean diaspora and the business community; the event was a clear success.
Testimonials and Awards
There were testimonials from recipients of AFUWI Scholarships that came at critical times to help them in achieving their goal and they attested to the value of the effort of AFUWI in their career.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Legacy Award to the President of Guyana. Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, himself is an alumnus of UWI.
The presentation was made to President Ali by an award-winning actress of Guyanese descent, CCH Pounder, Vice-Chancellor of the University Sir Hilary Beckles, and Dr. Chase.
In his acceptance speech, the President made a strong commitment to collaboration with UWI in establishing a medical college, and free tertiary education for the use of Guyana with full collaboration with UWI.
President’s Address
President Ali addressed the plight of the people of Gaza and the crisis of the people of Haiti with an appeal for action and points to the charitable effort of Guyana and the people of Guyana in these two areas.
President Ali commended Sir Hilary on the fight for reparations and expressed his full support for full reparatory justice. Guyana, he said will be a full partner in this matter.
Honorees
Also honored at the Gala were:
Don Christian, Partner Price Waterhouse Cooper LLP., with the Caribbean Luminary Award, is known for his professional and philanthropic achievement in many areas; Michele Chow Tai, Managing Director of Business Development, Fairview Capital Partners, with the Vice Chancellor Achievement Award – very active in professional and philanthropic activities in the community; Darren Skinner Esq. partner Arnold & Porter, with the Pinnacle Award; Rev. Patrick G. Perrin with the Pelican Award, and Mark Hart, Capital Award for Business Excellence.
Conclusion
The event was a success, with many attendees showing their appreciation for the foundation’s work and the honorees’ achievements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the purpose of the AFUWI Gala?
A: The purpose of the gala was to provide support for the University of the West Indies and recognize the achievements of individuals who have made a positive impact in the Caribbean diaspora and the business community.
Q: Who was honored at the gala?
A: The following individuals were honored at the gala: Don Christian, Michele Chow Tai, Darren Skinner, Rev. Patrick G. Perrin, and Mark Hart.
Q: What was the highlight of the evening?
A: The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Legacy Award to the President of Guyana, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali.
Q: What was the purpose of President Ali’s speech?
A: President Ali’s speech addressed the plight of the people of Gaza and the crisis of the people of Haiti, and he also expressed his commitment to collaboration with UWI and his support for full reparatory justice.