CONSUL General (ag) Grace Joseph and businessman Anthony Whyte were the toasts of the One Guyana Forum (OGF) Canada when the entity held its second annual dinner, dance and Christmas party at the Windies Restaurant & Bar, Scarborough, Canada last Saturday night.

The spectacular event, which was held in collaboration with Windies Restaurant, KNG Entertainment and El Dorado Rum, brought together the Toronto Guyanese Diaspora for a night of celebration and recognition.

Among those in attendance were Osman Ali and Bibi Shariman Ali, the parents of Guyana’s President, Dr Irfaan Ali, who joined in presenting the prestigious awards to the recipients. Whyte was however unavoidably absent since he was reportedly in Guyana.

Described as the One Guyana Forum Founders Award, the plaques read: “In recognition of your valued support in uplifting the Guyanese Community in Canada. May your leadership be an inspiration for everyone.”

In her acceptance remarks, the Consul General reminisced on her humble beginnings, growing up in the Amerindian Village or Orealla Region Six, pointing out that that the little girls in her community will be very proud to see her receive the award.

Joseph commended the team of the OGF who have been working tirelessly to bring the diaspora together. “All of us that are present here this evening is a testimony to what is possible when big hearts come together to speak to make a difference.”

According to the Consul General, as Guyanese living in Toronto, “we can realize and maximise our full potential if we continue to work with each other across our diversity.”

Joseph said that the kindness the diaspora has extended to her and family and by extension the Guyana Consulate in Toronto is unmatched. “I am forever grateful for your kindness and generosity.”

The Consul General praised the OGF for its hard work in bringing the community together in organising the event.

Joseph thanked the OGF, on behalf of the staff of the Consulate who she said continues to work tirelessly in serving the diaspora in Toronto.

According to the OGF organising committee, the event was a resounding success, with the Toronto Guyanese Diaspora coming together in full force while showcasing the community’s spirit and resilience.

OFG (Canada) expressed sincere thanks to everyone who contributed in making the event a spectacular one. (Frederick Halley)