By: Yog Rahi Gupta
Celebrating a Decade of Heartfelt Impact
The Canad Inns Destination Centre Polo Park shimmered with purpose and unity on April 19, 2025, as Caribbean Canada Heart Health Education (CCHHE) hosted its 7th Annual Gala Fundraising Dinner , marking a milestone,10th anniversary of the organization’s tireless dedication to cardiovascular health advocacy. Under the theme “For the Promotion of Cardiovascular Health in the Caribbean,”the evening blended inspiration, celebration, and a shared commitment to saving lives across borders.
The event commenced with a heartfelt Land Acknowledgement, honouring Indigenous communities, followed by a stirring rendition of Canada’s National Anthem. Attendees were welcomed by CCHHE President Kamta Roy Singh, whose dynamic address traced the organization’s journey from a 2015 grassroots initiative to a transnational force in heart health education. “From humble beginnings around coffee and donuts, we’ve grown into a movement that bridges continents,” Singh remarked, acknowledging co-founders Dr. Naranjan Dhalla, Dr. Bram Ramjiawan, Dr. Pram Tappia, Derek Dabee, and his own role in shaping CCHHE’s legacy.
The gala drew esteemed voices from government and community leadership. Honourable Minister Terry Duguid lauded CCHHE’s “extraordinary humanitarian contributions,” emphasizing its role in uniting Caribbean and Canadian communities through health advocacy. MLA Jennifer Chan (Fort Richmond) delivered a message of solidarity from the Manitoba government, applauding the organization’s decade of “educating, empowering, and healing.” Deputy Mayor Markus Chambers, proudly highlighting his Caribbean roots, celebrated Winnipeg’s multicultural fabric and CCHHE’s work in uplifting immigrant contributions. MLA Obby Khan joined dignitaries in a unified call for continued support.
The evening’s highlight was keynote speaker Dr. Gavin Y. Oudit, Professor of Medicine at the University of Alberta, whose emotional address traced his extraordinary journey from a joint family in Guyana to becoming a globally recognized cardiologist. Dr. Oudit recounted his ancestors’ arrival from Uttar Pradesh, India, as indentured laborers, his immigrant struggles in Canada, and his academic triumphs. “Service is the rent we pay for our place on Earth,” he declared, urging attendees to “give back to the soil that shaped us.” His message of perseverance and community upliftment resonated deeply, earning a standing ovation.
President Kamta Roy Singh spotlighted CCHHE’s milestones, including:
- Life-saving medical shipments to Guyana, Grenada, Barbados, and an upcoming 2025 shipment to St. Lucia.
- Educational forums and workshops on nutrition, lifestyle, and metabolic health, featuring experts like Dr. Karen Gordon-Boyle (Guyana) and Dr. Asad Junaid (Winnipeg).
- Youth empowerment through scholarships, with five Academic Excellence awards presented at the gala to future health advocates.
- Annual golf tournaments, blood pressure clinics, and partnerships with institutions like St. Boniface Hospital.
The gala seamlessly blended purpose with festivity. Singh also energized the crowd with a lively Head-and-Tail game, while door prizes and dancing to Caribbean rhythms capped the night. Sponsors and collaborators, including International Hope Canada, received heartfelt recognition for their role in amplifying CCHHE’s impact.
Heart Health for Generations.
As the evening concluded, Singh announced the 7th Annual Golf Tournament (August 15, 2025) and urged guests to stay engaged “Together,” he affirmed, “we’ll keep strengthening hearts—one beat, one community, one life at a time.”
CCHHE’s 2025 Gala not only celebrated a decade of service but ignited renewed passion for a future where cardiovascular health knows no borders.
From expanding medical shipments to empowering youth scholars, their evolution mirrors the very heartbeat they strive to protect—strong, resilient, and full of life. The camaraderie among attendees, the stories of impact shared on stage, and the collective drive to bridge healthcare gaps are a testament to what community-driven passion can achieve. CCHHE isn’t just growing—it’s thriving, and with every gala, it reignites hope for a healthier tomorrow.
For those who have attended CCHHE’s Annual Gala Fundraising Dinners over the years, the organization’s evolution is nothing short of remarkable.
From expanding medical shipments to empowering youth scholars, their growth mirrors the very heartbeat they strive to protect—strong, resilient, and full of life. The camaraderie among attendees, the stories of impact shared on stage, and the collective drive to bridge healthcare gaps are a testament to what community-driven passion can achieve. CCHHE isn’t just growing—it’s thriving, and with every gala, it reignites hope for a healthier tomorrow.
As a longtime supporter myself, who has attended Annual Gala Fundraising dinners over the past years, it’s inspiring to see how this organization continues to flourish. Each event radiates a brighter, more vibrant spirit, reflecting the committee’s boundless energy and unwavering dedication.