The event raised funds to support socio-environmental initiatives that operate in the Brazilian biomes
On Saturday, May 20th, the first Gala of the Luz Alliance Fund took place at the magical Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Miami, a partnership between Gisele Bündchen and BrazilFoundation. The event was sponsored by Ambipar and raised close to US$ 1 million, which will be directed to the Luz Alliance Fund, whose objective is to support civil society organizations focused on the preservation and regeneration of the six Brazilian biomes (Amazon, Caatinga, Cerrado, Atlantic Forest, Pampas, and Pantanal), as well as a marine biome.
Gisele shared, “This event is not only to raise money for a cause, but to shine a light on the importance of joining forces to regenerate our ecosystems. I have chosen to support the 7 different Brazilian biomes, because I believe everything is interconnected and nature needs to be in balance for all life to thrive.”
The ceremony was hosted by iconic ballerina Ingrid Silva of Dance Theatre of Harlem and welcomed over 300 guests. Legendary Brazilian multi-talented singer Ivete Sangalo’s incredible set got the crowd up dancing and singing along to her impressive set. After the performance Brazilian DJ Marina Diniz took the turntables to continue the dance party. The event was attended by the inspirational Robin Roberts, co-anchor of the Good Morning America program on ABC, fellow Super Models Karlie Kloss, Karolina Kurkova, Ines Rivero, Rachel Maia, President of the UN Global Compact in Brazil, executives from Ambipar, VoLo Foundation, Tree of Life Foundation, Sagewood, Goldman Sachs, C6 Bank, Bloomberg, Vivara, Artefacto, and Ornare, with Fabio Zukerman as the auctioneer, as well as donors, activists, influencers, and artists.
Tasso Azevedo, an entrepreneur in the sustainability field, delivered an important speech on environmental awareness. “By supporting initiatives and organizations dedicated to the protection and restoration of these biomes, we can amplify their impact. We can provide the resources and opportunities for local communities to flourish, preserving their rich cultural heritage and sustainable way of life.”
Among the items auctioned were Gisele’s sustainable white Stella McCartney dress that was repurposed by the designer from another red carpet event; the winning bid was $48,000, the Vivara diamond and emerald jewelry set worn by Gisele Bündchen at the event, a wonderful piece by beloved Brazilian artist Vik Muniz, a stunning black and white photograph by Sebastião Salgado, and an exclusive experience during the Salvador Carnaval with five nights at the Fera Hotel, two nights at the Camarote Salvador, and a ride on the trio with Ivete Sangalo.
“The fundraising of this event will be invested to support biodiversity conservation and to protect natural ecosystems, species, and water resources, promoting more sustainable livelihoods”, emphasizes Rebecca Tavares, CEO of BrazilFoundation.
Photos: Leandro Justen, Ricardo de Mattos, Richard Alvarez/World Red Eye
