Inside the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research’s Record-Breaking 14th Annual Luncheon

On May 1, the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research’s (CANFAR) annual Can You Do Lunch? fundraiser returned to the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto for its 14th edition, delivering its most successful—and stylish—year to date. This year’s luncheon far surpassed expectations, raising more than $400,000 to support ongoing efforts to end HIV in Canada through improved testing, research and care.

Over 400 of Toronto’s most fashionable philanthropists, including style icon and HIV+/AIDS advocate Myles Sexton, gathered in an array of spring-toned hues, floral patterns and sparkling accessories for the special, community-driven afternoon.

This year’s theme, HIV, Women & Family, centred around an important aspect of the HIV experience. Through a mix of personal storytelling, poetry and remarks from those with lived experience, guests were taken through the many ways HIV intersects with women’s lives—from youth and relationships to motherhood and later years. The approach underscored the growing urgency of HIV awareness in Canada, particularly for women, who account for nearly a third of new cases nationwide. The message was clear—to enact meaningful change, the path forward requires renewed awareness and investment.

Speakers from across Canada brought a range of perspectives spanning advocacy, community health and Indigenous research to the luncheon. Together, they underscored both how far things have come and where gaps remain—particularly for under-resourced communities across the country.

The afternoon closed on a high note with a powerful performance by Serena Ryder of her radio classic “Stompa,” while the event’s much-anticipated silent auction and overall supporter generosity helped push fundraising to its highest total yet. Behind it all, co-chairs Tom Ranson, Amanda Gotlieb and Daniel Achibandani shaped the thoughtful event alongside a strong network of partners.

Founded in 1987, CANFAR has invested more than $26 million into HIV/AIDS research and continues to play a national role in prevention, testing and stigma reduction. With progress at a critical point both in Canada and globally, the success of this year’s luncheon felt like more than a milestone—it was a clear signal of what sustained, meaningful support can make possible.

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Photography by George Pimentel

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