Motivated by being a victim of homophobic violence, at age 21 Gareth became involved with Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, All-Sexuals, and Gays (JFLAG) at its inception in 1998. Since then he has served the organization in several capacities, most recently as Program Director and Co-Chair before becoming a refugee claimant in Canada.
Gareth has been fundamental in the design and implementation of HIV/AIDS prevention programmes for Jamaica’s vulnerable population as Program
Director of Jamaica AIDS Support for Life. Also as co-founder of the Sunshine Cathedral Jamaica, Gareth has helped to provide a much needed spiritual space for LGBT community in Jamaica.
The recipient of the 2006 Human Rights Watch and Canadian HIV/AIDS Legal Network Award for his work in humanrights and HIV, Gareth continues to believe strongly in the possibility of change in Jamaica and endeavours to remain part of this process. A graduate of the University of the West Indies with a bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Gareth is currently pursuing his post graduate degree in Communication for Behaviour and Social Change.
Photo: Ajoy Pinto
2008 Pride Parade Grand Marshal Enza "Supermodel" Anderson
Enza Anderson, a writer, activist and media personality, is a trans-woman who works and lives in Toronto. Best known for her public persona as Enza
Supermodel, and social columnist for Metro Toronto, she has been active in
the LGBTTIQQ2S community, dedicating many volunteer hours working for various organizations. However, it's her political ambitions that have put her front and centre. She garnered headlines in 2000 with a bid for the city's mayoralty and surprised many by finishing a respectable third. In
2010, Anderson again will campaign to seek office for Toronto city council.
Be it politics, activism or being in the public eye, Enza "Supermodel"
Anderson exemplifies the courage of what it's like to be a trans-woman who
works hard to make a difference.
2008 Pride Parade Honoured Group
Friends for Life Bike Rally
As long as there’s a reason… there’s a ride.
Each July, hundreds of cyclists and crew take to the road in The Toronto People With AIDS Foundation 10 event raises critical awareness and funds to support men, women and children living with HIV and AIDS in Toronto.
Riders cycle an average of 100KM a day for six days along the beautiful stretches of shoreline and country roads between Toronto and Montreal.
The Crew moves on – tearing down campsites, preparing meals and moving bins filled with personal effects and camping supplies. Safety officials keep an eye on the procession of cyclists while a volunteer team of wellness professionals monitors the health and safety of all involved.
Now in its 10th year, the Friends For Life Bike Rally is the second-largest fundraiser benefiting an HIV/AIDS organization in Canada. Run almost entirely by volunteers, our goal in 2008 is to raise over $1 million dollars – and the fundraising has already begun.
