On 12th November, the Esharelife Foundation hosted its 8th Annual Gala Dinner, an evening dedicated to raising vital funds for AVSI Kenya, the foundation’s main beneficiary, and its other supported initiatives. The gala brought together distinguished government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and leaders from the corporate sector to support charities that work tirelessly to empower disadvantaged communities.
Guests were engaged by a series of insightful speeches from leaders across various sectors. Our chair, Professor Maurizio Bragagni Esq OBE, welcomed attendees with a warm address, setting the stage for an evening focused on giving back. Dr Antonino Masuri, Fundraising and DSP Communications Manager at AVSI Kenya, provided an update on the foundation’s work over the past year, highlighting key initiatives in healthcare and education.
Support programs this year have reached 15,000 individuals, including 3,000 children who now attend school regularly. Healthcare services are being provided to 50,000 people living with HIV across 18 Kenyan slums. One notable initiative is the St. Kizito Vocational Training Institute, which has helped 700 individuals gain employment through its training courses. Updates on these programs underscored the tangible impact of donor support and were a key highlight of the evening.
Guests also had the honour of hearing from our keynote speaker, Shadow Secretary for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs – the Rt Hon Dame Priti Patel MP. She shared a passionate speech regarding the importance of giving back; grounding ourselves in the real-life impact that small acts of generosity can have on communities both locally and globally. Newly knighted Consul Domenico Bellantone also shared inspiring words on the value of the evening. Mr Ruper Lowe MP rounded off the addresses from the delegates, once again highlighting that working together, we can make a positive, sustainable change in the lives of others.
Dedicated Esharelife volunteer Michela Guerini Rocco, organised a raffle to fundraise extra funds for the charitable initiatives supported by Esharelife Foundation. Guests were particularly engaged in the tense but lighthearted announcement of the winners at the end of the dinner.
Despite an evening filled with laughter, camaraderie (and the occasional singing), the need for solidarity in our fragmented world pervaded the evening. Professor Bragagni’s continued emphasis on celebrating our capacity to share and give, and the immeasurable impact on human lives, left a lasting impression on every single attendee. It was clear that Esharelife’s mission resonates deeply, inspiring action among those fortunate enough to attend.
The evening’s success is a testament to the hard work of the Esharelife Foundation team and the unwavering support of its benefactors. Thanks to their donations, Esharelife can support ongoing projects in Kenya and at home, for another year!
Every single contribution, no matter how small or large, regardless of whether it was a donation of time, money or effort, had a lasting and meaningful impact on the evening – and the continued functioning of our supported programmes. Esharelife’s vision continues to be bolstered through these acts of generosity.
Whoever you are, make a difference.