Insurer’s CEO Emanuel M. Alexiou honored for longstanding support of The Bahamas AIDS Foundation

Team Colina attended the 30th Red Ribbon Ball under the theme “Black or White”, in support of The Bahamas AIDS Foundation on Saturday, November 7 at Atlantis resort, Paradise Island. The black-tie event was a memorable celebration of fashion, fine dining, philanthropy and entertainment.

In addition to serving as a platinum sponsor, Colina Insurance Limited presented a $30,000 donation to The foundation during the ball, in commemoration of its 30th ball.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of an award to Emanuel M. Alexiou, chief executive officer and chairman of Colina Insurance Limited (Colina) and chairman of Colina Holdings Bahamas Limited (CHBL). The award celebrated his visionary leadership, philanthropy and the significant support that Colina has given to the foundation.

Colina has a longstanding relationship with The Bahamas AIDS Foundation. Its legacy company, Imperial Life Financial, established the Red Ribbon Ball, a tradition CHBL continued after it acquired the local operations of Imperial Life Financial more than two decades ago.

Imperial Life Financial became a major corporate partner of the foundation in 1994, helping to establish the Red Ribbon Ball and donating the Delancy Street property that became the foundation’s permanent home in 1997.

“Our theme this evening, ‘Black or White,’ reminds us that while the world often sees people through labels, assumptions, skin colour and social status HIV has no single face,” said Arame Ford, president of The Bahamas AIDS Foundation.

“No one should ever lose their dignity because they are living with HIV. This is why our work matters and why your support tonight is so important.”

“As we celebrate this milestone 30th Red Ribbon Ball, we take a moment to reflect on where this journey began … we recognize [Emanuel M. Alexiou] for something that goes beyond business achievements. We recognize him for a vision that created an enduring platform of support for The Bahamas AIDS Foundation and the people whose lives we serve.”

Emanuel M. Alexiou received the award during Saturday evening’s ball from Dr. Carlyne Smith-McKenzie, vice president of The Bahamas AIDS Foundation, and Arame Ford, the foundation’s president.

“I am deeply touched by this recognition and sincerely grateful to The Bahamas AIDS Foundation for such a meaningful tribute,” said Alexiou.

“I have always believed that the true measure of success in business lies not simply in what we achieve, but in how we improve the lives of others. This conviction has guided me throughout my life and remains at the heart of our longstanding relationship with the foundation. Many thanks to the president, Arame Ford, who was a most gracious host, and to the entire team for their tireless efforts in advancing this worthy cause. Colina values this enduring partnership and remains firmly committed to supporting the foundation’s important work for many years to come.”

Also in attendance at the Red Ribbon Ball from Colina were DeAndrea Lewis, vice president, life operations & sales, and former co-chair of the Red Ribbon Ball Planning Committee; Sandra Smith, Executive Agent of the Year and Top Producer, and former co-chair of the Red Ribbon Ball Planning Committee; Patricia Bain, director, human resources; and Maxine V. Seymour, chief communications officer.

The Red Ribbon Ball is the premier fundraising event and the primary source of funding for The Bahamas AIDS Foundation’s programs and services. The money raised by the ball helps the foundation to provide confidential HIV self-testing kits, which increases access to testing; operate the foundation’s Food Security Program, which delivers essential supplies to persons impacted by HIV and AIDS; and provide financial assistance to persons impacted by the virus who are unable to work. The funding also supports HIV and AIDS educational sessions throughout The Bahamas; public awareness campaigns related to HIV prevention; and initiatives to improve the quality of life and reduce the stigma associated with HIV and AIDS.

“Organizations like The Bahamas AIDS Foundation do the heavy lifting every day, providing vital support, restoring hope and touching lives in ways that often go unseen. Having personally supported HIV/AIDS advocacy and outreach in The Bahamas over the years, I understand the importance of this work and was especially pleased to join a company with such a longstanding tradition of service,” said Maxine V. Seymour, chief communications officer at CHBL.

“I believe that, as corporate citizens, we have a duty to make a meaningful difference in the communities we serve and in the lives of citizens and residents across our islands. We are especially grateful to the foundation for recognizing Mr. Alexiou, whose quiet generosity and lifelong dedication to improving the lives of others reflect the very values that guide our group of companies.”