WUSC's two annual Awards - one to a WUSC alumnus and one to a Local Committee - recognize outstanding contributions to international development and global citizenship through support of our programming directions. The Lewis Perinbam Award recognizes Canadians dedicated to improving people's lives across the globe.
The awards are presented during the opening reception at WUSC's International Forum held in November.
Alumni Award
Nominations are now closed.
Nominations must include a letter outlining:
- the relationship of the individual to WUSC (both nominee and nominator)
- what the ongoing contribution of this individual has been
- why the nominator feels this is an appropriate and timely recognition.
The Lewis Perinbam Award
The Award recognizes significant volunteer efforts that improve people’s lives in the developing world, that engage and inspire Canadians and others to undertake volunteer action, and that identify new ways of thinking and/or addressing difficult development challenges.
The monetary value of the Award is $2,500. It’s true value, lies in bringing international development home to Canadians, by highlighting the dedication and accomplishments of ordinary citizens.
In so doing, the Award commends individuals who make a noteworthy volunteer contribution to international development, rather than paid professionals in this arena. However, paid professionals, who make a significant voluntary effort, over and above their normal employment, are also eligible for the Perinbam Award.
Nominations are now closed.
For further information contact Vicki Sioris, Executive Assistant.
About Lewis Perinbam
Lewis Perinbam, O.C. (1925-2007) was admired and appreciated for his vast contributions to Canadian participation in development. Mr. Perinbam, who was born in Malaysia and educated in Scotland, was committed to sharing his knowledge of the developing world with Canadians who wanted to make a difference. He was the founding Executive Director of CUSO, the first full time Secretary-General of the Canadian National Commission for UNESCO and was for many years the General Secretary and CEO of World University Service of Canada (WUSC).
Joining the Canadian International Development Agency in 1969, he became the founding Director General of the Non-government Organizations Division, which he both pioneered and championed in the Agency and was later named Vice President, Special Programs - now the Canadian Partnership Branch. He continued to be sought after for important leadership and consultative roles. He led the Task Force on the Participation of Visible Minorities in the Public Service, whose 2000 report won respect - and generated change - throughout government and industry.
In October 1997 he was made an Officer of the Order of Canada. Mr. Perinbam served on numerous NGO Boards of Directors and was a longstanding advisor to the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE).
Make a donation to the Lewis Perinbam award.