The University of the West Indies Alumni Association (UWIAA) made significant strides in alumni engagement, recognition, and development during the reporting year. The Association’s efforts were underscored by a series of initiatives and milestones that collectively reinforced the organisation’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant and impactful alumni community worldwide.

A highlight of the year was the recognition of Cedric Gayle, Esq., at the AFUWI Gala 2025. Mr Gayle was honoured with the prestigious Pelican Award, acknowledging his outstanding contributions to the legal profession and community service. As a founding member of the UWI New York alumni chapter, he notably strengthened alumni connections and visibility in the New York region.

UWIAA also prioritised expanding its reach by establishing four new alumni chapters: the Faculty of Science and Technology (Mona), Physics (St. Augustine), ROYTEC (UWI School of Business and Applied Studies Ltd.), and the Faculty of Social Sciences (St. Augustine). These new chapters aimed to foster deeper engagement among graduates from diverse disciplines and regions, ensuring that the alumni network remains dynamic and inclusive.

Digital engagement was another focal point, with the UWI Alumni LinkedIn page reaching nearly 98,000 followers. Robust content and active participation generated over 52,000 impressions in a single month, demonstrating strong visibility and continued interest among alumni and supporters.

The Association’s philanthropic efforts were reimagined by rebranding its annual giving campaign from ‘Every Dollar Makes a Difference’ to ‘Empowering Future Alumni (EFA).’ This shift emphasised the tangible benefits of tuition and research scholarships, underscoring the Association’s ongoing commitment to supporting students’ academic journeys and future success.

The Pelican Perks Advantage Programme (PPAP) further enriched the alumni experience by offering a range of engagement opportunities. These included sessions focused on soft and life skills, mentorship, and professional development. Notably, all five UWI campuses collected PPAP funds, enabling the full rollout of engagement initiatives and enhancing support for alumni chapters across the region.

Conclusion

The UWIAA’s initiatives in chapter expansion, alumni recognition, digital outreach, philanthropy, and the PPAP programme have collectively strengthened UWI alumni’s global presence and impact. These efforts not only celebrated individual achievements but also fostered a spirit of giving, professional growth, and connection that extends across the Caribbean and beyond. The Association remains committed to building on these successes in the years to come, ensuring that UWI alumni continue to make meaningful contributions both regionally and internationally.