PM Andrew Holness honored with Legacy Award at AFUWI Gala in New York

Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness was honored Friday night with the Legacy Award at the 29th Annual “The Legacy Continues” Awards Gala hosted by the American Foundation for The University of the West Indies in New York City.

The Legacy Award, one of AFUWI’s highest honors, recognized Holness for his leadership and commitment to education, economic resilience, and regional collaboration — key pillars of Jamaica’s national development.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness later reflected on the recognition in a social media post, emphasizing humility and continued service following the honor.

“I am honoured to accept the Legacy Award from the American Foundation for The University of the West Indies at its 29th Annual Gala,” Holness wrote. “The journeys and stories we celebrated last night were truly deserving of recognition. They are defined not only by personal achievement, but by the lives you have touched, the doors you have opened, the opportunities you have created, and the paths you have helped to shape.”

Holness added that recognition should not signal the end of service, particularly for public officials.

“At the same time, I remain mindful that recognition, particularly for those of us in public service, must always be approached with humility. Awards can sometimes give the impression that the mission is complete or that the journey is nearing its end. But for me, and I believe for many of us, this moment is not a conclusion; it is a call to continue, to do more, and to serve with even greater purpose,” he said.

The annual gala brought together leaders from business, academia, public service, and philanthropy to raise funds for scholarships that increase access to higher education for Caribbean students attending The University of the West Indies. Proceeds from the event support talented students across the region, helping them pursue university degrees and contribute to Caribbean development. Chairman of AFUWI, Dr. Cyrus McCalla, said previously that the event celebrated leaders whose service shapes the future of the Caribbean. “The Legacy Continues Gala celebrates leaders whose vision and service help shape the future of our community and region,” McCalla said. “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.” Several other distinguished leaders were also recognized at the event. Anthony Belinfanti and Gregory Belinfanti received the Pathfinder Award for Generational Impact in Education, acknowledging their dedication to expanding educational opportunities across generations. Dr. Kevon Rhiney received the Pelican Award, a peer recognition honor for alumni of The University of the West Indies. Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick received the Caribbean Luminary Award for leadership in higher education and healthcare, while Dr. Wayne J. Riley was awarded the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Institutional Impact. Also receiving the Chancellor’s Award, along with the Corporate Award for Excellence in Global Business Leadership, was Dr. A. Norman Sabga, recognized for his leadership in business and enterprise development. Camille Joseph-Goldman received the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Public Service and Community Impact, while Jacky Wright received the Phoenix Award for Global Digital Leadership. The annual gala continues to serve as one of AFUWI’s flagship fundraising events, supporting scholarships that help Caribbean students access higher education and contribute to regional growth and development.