This September, The UWI Development and Endowment Fund (UWIDEF) hosted two high-profile events to raise funds for student bursaries and scholarships, blending culture with community sport.
On Saturday, September 12, UWIDEF held Soprano En Récital at the Residence of Guillaume Pierre, Ambassador of the French Republic. The sold-out second instalment of the Vocal Recital Series featured acclaimed soprano Ms Natalia Dopwell accompanied by collaborative pianist and Senior Lecturer at UWI St Augustine’s Department of Creative and Festival Arts (DCFA) Mr Jessel Murray. Culinary offerings were prepared by Chef John Aboud and Aioli Trinidad. Soprano En Récital was made possible by Exclusive Sponsor JLeW Signature Events Limited.
Continuing the momentum, on Friday, September 25, UWIDEF hosted its annual Golf Challenge at the St Andrew’s Golf Club, bringing together approximately 40 teams. The tournament provided approximately 40 bursaries valued at a total of TT$200,000, contributing to the roughly TT$1.15 million the fund distributes annually to prevent financial hardship from barring students from a UWI education. Speaking at the event, UWIDEF Manager Kory Mendez expressed appreciation to participants, noting that event proceeds directly create opportunities for students in need.
The tournament was fiercely contested, with Navarro’s Travel Service Limited—featuring Mr Russell Latapy and Mr Ravi Deonarine—taking first place. Laparkan Trinidad Limited secured second place represented by Mr Peter Jacob and Mr Gerard Darlington, while London Consulting Group finished third represented by Mr Ryan Ali and Mr Kevesh Ramnath. UWIDEF acknowledged the backing of its Silver Sponsors, team sponsors, and product contributors who ensured the day's success.
The UWIDEF Vocal Recital Series will conclude on Saturday, November 21, 2026, with soprano LeAndra. Persons interested in supporting these initiatives can visit uwidef-sta.org, email sta-uwide@sta.uwi.edu, or call 730-6489.
