CIBC Caribbean reaffirmed its commitment to the fight against cancer with the official handing over of funds raised from its annual 2024 Walk for the Cure initiative.
The recipients? The Jamaica Cancer Society (JCS) received the donation in cheque at a handing over ceremony held at the bank’s headquarters in Kingston.
The event marked another milestone in CIBC Caribbean’s long-standing partnership with the JCS, providing vital support for cancer awareness, early detection, and treatment services across the island.
L-R: CIBC Caribbean’s Managing Director Nigel Holness; Jacqueline Jackson of Balloons by Jaki-Jade; Jamaica Cancer Society (JCS) Acting Executive Director Michael Leslie; and CIBC Head of Corporate Annique Dawkins at the official handing over ceremony at the bank’s headquarters, recently. (Photos: Contributed)
‘It is an honour to welcome you all once again as we reaffirm our commitment to the fight against cancer. When CIBC Caribbean launched Walk for the Cure in 2012, it was with the deep understanding that cancer touches us all in some way. Over the years, this initiative has grown immensely and continues to be recognized as the largest cancer fundraising and education event in the Caribbean, a testament to our collective dedication to this cause’, said Nigel Holness, managing director, CIBC Caribbean in his opening statement.
He added… ‘Cancer is a reality that many of us have faced — whether through a family member, friend, colleague, or even our own personal battle. It is no longer a hidden conversation but one that demands awareness, support, and action. Through initiatives like Walk for the Cure, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected’.
Team CIBC Caribbean Jamaica and sponsor reps of the 2024 Walk For the Cure present the significant transfer receipt at the official handing over ceremony at the bank’s headquarters, recently. (Photos: Contributed)
Holness also noted that he was pleased to announce that through its collective efforts, Walk for the Cure 2024 raised J$8.13m for the Jamaica Cancer Society.
‘This achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering generosity of our sponsors, whose commitment to this cause has been invaluable,’ he added.
Michael Leslie, the acting executive director of the Jamaica Cancer Society, expressed gratitude for the contribution, stating ‘each time I come to CIBC Caribbean and receive a cheque; I am in awe. Last year, we received J$6m, and I was blown away. This year, receiving over J$8.13m is simply incredible’.
Leslie said ‘Breast cancer remains the most common among women, and prostate cancer is the most common among men. The generous support from CIBC Caribbean and everyone who participated in Walk for the Cure allows us to continue providing life-saving services across Jamaica. Early detection is crucial in the fight against cancer, and these funds will help us expand access to mammograms, screenings, and public education initiatives. We are truly grateful for CIBC Caribbean’s unwavering commitment to this cause.’
CIBC Caribbean’s Walk for the Cure continues to be one of the region’s largest cancer fundraising initiatives, bringing together thousands of participants each year to raise awareness and support for cancer-related causes.
Judith Denton, brand manager of Kingston Industrial Garage (KIG) — platinum sponsors of Walk for the Cure — emphasized the role of corporate Jamaica in advancing cancer research noting that ‘…as corporate entities and individuals, many of us are not medical professionals, scientists, or caregivers, but we must do our part to help advance research and treatment for cancer. Our collective presence here today represents more than just a fundraising event, it embodies the enduring theme of hope and resilience that defines our shared journey’.
Denton added that the ‘money handed over today is not just a financial contribution; it is a symbol of our belief in a brighter, cancer-free future. While today marks a significant milestone, our journey does not end here. We are both glad and grateful to contribute, and we remain committed to this cause. We extend our heartfelt thanks to CIBC Caribbean and everyone who participated in any way to make the [event] a resounding success’.
The Walk for the Cure continues to grow in impact each year, and CIBC Caribbean has already set the stage for another event. The next Walk for the Cure is scheduled for Sunday, October 12, 2025.
