The American Foundation for the University of the West Indies (AFUWI) hosted its 29th Annual “The Legacy Continues” Awards Gala in New York, raising critical funds to support Caribbean students impacted by recent disasters while honoring global leaders in education, public service, and innovation.
The April 17 event, held at 583 Park Avenue, brought together distinguished leaders, philanthropists, and members of the Caribbean diaspora to support expanded access to higher education across the region. Proceeds from the evening will provide scholarships and financial assistance to academically talented students attending The University of the West Indies (UWI), particularly those affected by Hurricane Melissa.
Organizers said many students across the region have faced severe economic hardship following the storm, which affected an estimated 1.6 million people across Jamaica, damaging homes, livelihoods, and critical infrastructure. AFUWI has since prioritized emergency financial assistance alongside its core scholarship program to help students remain enrolled and complete their studies.
The gala also honored a distinguished group of global leaders. Andrew Holness received AFUWI’s prestigious Legacy Award — the foundation’s highest honor — in recognition of his leadership and commitment to national development and education.
Other honorees included Wayne A. I. Frederick; Wayne J. Riley; Camille Joseph‑Goldman; global technology executive Jacky Wright; and Anthony Belinfanti and Gregory Belinfanti, recognized for their generational commitment to educational philanthropy.
Kevon Rhiney received the UWI Alumni Associations – New York Chapter Pelican Award as a distinguished alumnus in geography research. The Class of 2026 cohort also included Norman Sabga, chairman of ANSA McAL, recognized for leadership across finance, media, and commerce.
Ann‑Marie Grant underscored the urgency of the foundation’s mission, particularly in the wake of climate-related devastation across the Caribbean.
“At a time when thousands of students face uncertainty due to circumstances beyond their control, our collective responsibility is clear. Education remains the most powerful and enduring pathway to recovery, resilience, and national development. This support ensures that the promise is not lost,” Grant said.
For nearly three decades, AFUWI has played a key role in mobilizing philanthropic investment in higher education across the Caribbean. Over the past 10 years alone, the foundation has awarded more than 700 scholarships and facilitated more than US$8 million in in-kind donations, including books, medical supplies, and technology resources.
Organizers said the evening also highlighted strong diaspora engagement, with leaders from corporate, academic, diplomatic, and community sectors coming together to invest in the region’s future. Supporting Caribbean education, they noted, represents not just philanthropy, but a strategic investment in shared global prosperity.
AFUWI is inviting individuals, corporations, and partners to continue supporting its mission to expand access to higher education and strengthen communities across the Caribbean.
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