The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) is pleased to officially announce that His Excellency Kerwyn Garcia, S.C., First Gentleman of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, has been confirmed as Patron for the Portraits of Excellence Scholarship Awards & Gala 2026.
This engagement represents His Excellency’s inaugural appearance as Patron of the University’s premier annual scholarship pageant. He is scheduled to deliver the Patron’s Address on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at the USC Auditorium in Maracas, St. Joseph.
The 2026 edition of Portraits of Excellence is anchored in the theme: “Empowering My Generation: Youth in Motion for Health and Hope, ” highlighting youth-driven solutions to health and wellness challenges across the Caribbean, aligning with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being. Through research, service, leadership development, and cultural expression, USC students are challenged to be architects of hope and advocates for holistic wellness in their communities.
His Excellency’s life and service demonstrate a longstanding commitment to youth development and cultural advancement. An attorney-at-law with over thirty-two (32) years of legal practice, he was born and raised in Arima and pursued his education at Arima Boys’ Government Primary School, St. Mary’s College, The University of the West Indies (St. Augustine and Cave Hill), and the Hugh Wooding Law School. On March 20, 2023, he became Trinidad and Tobago’s first-ever First Gentleman, upon the inauguration of Her Excellency President Christine Carla Kangaloo O.R.T.T.
In his role as First Gentleman, His Excellency actively supports initiatives involving young people and culture, an area of engagement that is well aligned with the mission of Portraits of Excellence and USC’s legacy of contributions to nation-building on a global scale.
As USC advances toward its centennial milestone in 2027, this year’s pageant stands within the broader vision of our institutional journey, “Journey to 100: Excellence in Motion.” For nearly a century, USC has shaped leaders of faith, competence, and character across the Caribbean and beyond. Portraits of Excellence 2026 embodies this legacy, placing youth leadership at the forefront of sustainable health and hopeful futures.
The University looks forward to welcoming His Excellency Kerwyn Garcia, S.C., as Patron and to the distinguished presence he will bring to the 20th anniversary celebration of Portraits of Excellence.
The public is warmly invited to join us on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at 5:30pm at the USC Auditorium for an evening of scholarship, service, culture, and excellence in motion.
For more information, visit: usc.edu.tt/poe.
