Earlier this month, “luminaries from across the globe” came together in Monaco for the Takreem Foundation Spring Gala, an event designed to raise vital funds for humanitarian causes in the Arab world and promote cultural understanding between the region and the West.
Held on 9th May at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, the event was one of glimmering elegance, yet the focus remained firmly on philanthropy and the honouring of individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities.
The evening began with a speech from Ricardo Karam, the founder of the Takreem Foundation, who encapsulated the sentiment of the gala in saying, “Together, united by a shared commitment to progress, we can overcome the obstacles ahead.”
See more: Bridging cultures: Takreem Foundation’s fundraising gala to raise money for vulnerable children
He then handed the stage over to renowned French-Lebanese pianist Bachar Mar-Khalifé, who performed for the gala guests throughout the night.
Among the other entertainment highlights of the evening was the live auction that was hosted in collaboration with Christie’s International General Director of Private Sales, Julien-Vincent Brunie.
Proceeds from the auction will benefit this year’s chosen recipients: the children of Lebanon. Beneficiaries of the 2024 Spring Gala include organisations such as ASSAMEH Birth & Beyond, which establishes and supports the running of neonatal and premature paediatric wards in Lebanese hospitals, and Sesobel, a foundation dedicated to helping disabled children in the region.
2024 LAUREATES
The Takreem Foundation’s 2024 laureates were also introduced during the course of the event. They include artist Samia Halaby, businessman Abdul Hamied Ahmed Seddiqi and Iskandar Safa, a visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist. In the past, notable figures such as Zaha Hadid, Bill Gates, Princess Ghida Talal of Jordan and acclaimed artist Etel Adnan have been honoured by the Foundation for their contributions and achievements.
On choosing Monaco as the setting for his event, Karam said, “Monaco complements Takreem’s aspirations by providing a prestigious platform to showcase Arab excellence and promote cultural exchange.”
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Photos courtesy of the Takreem Foundation