The gala, presented by Puente Romano Beach Resort, benefited the day center for children with special needs, Casa Ángeles.
Marbella, December 23, 2023: Last night, the prestigious Puente Romano Beach Resort became the epicenter of generosity and philanthropic commitment by hosting the first edition of the Christmas Global Gift Gala. Maria Bravo and Gary Dourdan welcomed around 200 elegantly dressed individuals to embrace Christmas in a different light, supporting the children of Casa Angeles, the day center for children with special needs founded by entrepreneur and philanthropist María Bravo.
Councilors Isabel Cintado and Manuel Cardeña attended the event on behalf of the Hon. Marbella City Council. Other attendees such as lawyer Ricardo Álvarez-Ossorio, journalist and criminologist Nacho Abad, enjoyed this magical night.
The gala showcased the mastery and talent of the hosts, British presenter Nick Ede, a recognized entrepreneur and philanthropist, alongside British presenter, actress, singer, and DJ Denise Van Outen. The exceptional performance by the Reyes Gipsy moved the audience, prompting them to rise, dance, and hum along to their timeless songs. The performance by the young Soleá captivated everyone present, astonishing most with her great talent despite her young age. The young British artist Samuel Hope conquered the stage with his captivating voice, leaving everyone amazed. Actor and singer, Gary Dourdan, sang a couple of songs on his guitar leaving everyone breathless. As the culmination to a dreamlike night, the amazing Denise Van Outen ignited the dance floor at the after-party with the best musical rhythms.
The turning points of the night occurred during the tribute to the distinguished actress and activist Brigitte Nielsen, who received the prestigious Global Gift Good Will Ambassador Award in recognition of her tireless humanitarian work and commitment to various philanthropic causes. Her dedication in the fight for the well-being of the most vulnerable individuals makes her an inspiring example of solidarity and generosity.
The other pivotal moment was the Global Gift Inspiration Award presented to the singer Soleá, bestowed by actress, producer, director and activist, Eva Longoria, through a video message that said: “Today, we honor a young artist, a global promise. From the first time I heard your voice, I was captivated, and I’m certain you will leave an indelible mark on the music industry. At such a young age, you are already an inspiration to many. Thank you for being part of the Global Gift family and for being so authentic. It’s a great honor to present the Global Gift Inspiration Award to Soleá.”
The event took place at the award-winning Puente Romano Beach Resort, acknowledged as the Best Resort in Spain by the Condé Nast Traveler Awards 2023, and Presenting Sponsor of the event. Located in the emblematic Golden Mile between Marbella and Puerto Banús, the venue provided an exceptional setting for this unique evening, showcasing its extraordinary culinary offerings with 20 renowned restaurants, including Nobu, COYA, Cipriani, Leña, and Bibo, both by chef Dani García, among others.
British auctioneer Jonny Gould expertly conducted a live auction that left an indelible mark on the fundraising efforts of this inaugural gala.
A painting by the artist and architect, Jaime Monge, was auctioned. His works span architectural design—proportionality, stability, and simplicity—as well as the creative and subjective aspect that allows him to express emotions, memories, or experiences. The silhouettes he draws are mere representations of different experiences he wishes to convey through art. He feels particularly satisfied when those who appreciate his art share this vision of the stories he aims to tell. His piece was highly valued by several bidders, eventually reaching a price of 11.000 euros.
Other auctioned pieces included the lithograph by artist Ludovic Baron, titled ‘La Parisienne,’ which reached the figure of 5.000 euros.
An artwork by Johann Perathoner titled ‘New York 3D’ was sold for 11.000 euros.
There was also an auction for an experience for two people, including a two-night stay at a 5-star hotel, airport transfers, a walk through the famous Mont des Marchés, presidential seating, a photocall at The Global Gift Gala Cannes with President and Honorary President Maria Bravo and Eva Longoria, and 2 VIP invitations to a private party by APM Monaco at La Mome Plage in Cannes. An experience for the senses auctioned for the amount of 16.000 euros.
Lastly, an artwork by master chocolatier Patrick Aubrion, titled ‘The World in Our Hands,’ representing exquisite flavors symbolizing a world united by belief in humanity and unity, the power of diversity and togetherness. We are better together, like the perfect blend of white and dark chocolate, which was auctioned for the amount of 2.000 euros.
Gratitude
- Our deepest gratitude to Puente Romano Beach Resort for being the Presenting Sponsor of this first edition of the Christmas Global Gift Gala, walking hand in hand with us on this charitable journey where they have given their all-in benefit of Casa Ángeles.
- Maria Bravo also expressed gratitude to Casanis Group, particularly to its owner and CEO Zazou Belounis, for their commitment to Global Gift and Casa Ángeles. Their truly exemplary commitment involves offering their customers the opportunity to make a significant difference through a Cause Marketing initiative. They invite customers from their establishments, Mamzel at Finca Besaya, Nota Blu New Brasserie, La Plage Casanis, and Casanis Bistrot Marbella, to donate any amount they wish in support of this valuable cause. This display of generosity and involvement underscores genuine inclusivity and the desire to engage the community in beneficial actions for others.
Thanks to this collaboration, Casa Angeles can continue providing care and support to children and families in vulnerable situations, offering them a safe and conducive environment for their development.
- Our heartfelt gratitude to the artists who have donated their work for the auction and for their years of commitment and solidarity: Jaime Monge, Ludovic Baron, and Johann Perathoner.
- Our sincere thanks also to Love Spirit and Sture Vodka, continuing as collaborators, adding a magical and sophisticated touch to our event, turning every moment into an unforgettable experience.
- Thanks to Sociis Worldwide and Patrick Aubrion for their commitment to Casa Ángeles through a Cause Marketing initiative and their sweet creation for the auction.
- Our gratitude to Virgina Florista for her talent and creativity that added a special dimension to the event.
- To Montblanc for their ongoing support and commitment.
- To Popi for always being there and supporting our goals with enthusiasm and dedication.
The Christmas Global Gift Gala solidifies itself as an event that brings influential personalities together to make a lasting difference in the world. This is made possible through the combined effort of Puente Romano Beach Resort, Maria Bravo, and all those involved in this gesture of solidarity and hope, demonstrating that unity can transform lives and create a positive impact on society.
The funds raised at this gala will be allocated to Casa Ángeles, a day center for children and young people with special needs located in Marbella, founded by Maria Bravo. Casa Ángeles focuses on enhancing the quality of life for these children through therapies, workshops, and recreational programs designed to promote social inclusion.
About Puente Romano Beach Resort
Puente Romano Beach Resort, awarded Best Resort in Spain by the Condé Nast Traveler Awards 2023, stands as a 5-star destination set in an exceptional Mediterranean environment, offering unparalleled views stretching from the sea to the mountains of North Africa.
This member of Leading Hotels of the World, located a 45-minute drive from Malaga International Airport, holds a privileged position on the beachfront, situated in the iconic Golden Mile between Marbella and Puerto Banús.
The resort, designed in the style of an Andalusian village, comprises 3 private villas and 162 spacious suites, secluded within lush botanical gardens that extend to the Mediterranean Sea.
Covering an area of 55,000 m2, Puente Romano Beach Resort has established itself as a renowned culinary destination, boasting an extraordinary selection of 20 restaurants. These include internationally acclaimed establishments like Nobu, COYA, and Cipriani, as well as the award-winning Leña and Bibo, both by chef Dani García, a 3 Michelin-starred chef. It also features a trendy beach club, Chiringuito Puente Romano, and the Mediterranean restaurant, Sea Grill.
For the younger guests, the resort offers unforgettable experiences in three different kids’ clubs, such as La Casita Club.
First-class fitness and wellness facilities encompass the health and fitness center equipped with TechnoGym apparatus, a Jungle Gym in the gardens, and an outdoor gym with professional equipment.
Guests can indulge in a wide array of activities, including golf, hiking, horseback riding, and water sports, alongside a daily complimentary program of yoga, pilates, and athletics classes.
The resort includes the internationally acclaimed Puente Romano Tennis Club, hosting ATP, WTA, and Davis Cup championships, private lessons, guest matches, and academies for the younger guests.
Puente Romano Beach Resort is also home to the only Six Senses Spa on the peninsula, offering exclusive treatments and locally inspired therapies combining herbs, sea salt, olive oil, and minerals for a truly Mediterranean experience.
About The Global Gift Gala
The Global Gift Gala is the flagship event of the Global Gift Foundation and one of the world’s most significant charitable initiatives. Initially conceived by entrepreneurs Maria Bravo and Alina Peralta, it brings together and merges the worlds of business, celebrities, and philanthropy to raise funds and awareness, making a substantial difference in the lives of countless children and women worldwide.
About Global Gift Foundation
The Global Gift Foundation is an international charity aiming to improve the lives of the most vulnerable, especially children, women, and families in precarious situations. Through its work, the foundation collaborates with social projects and charities in areas such as health, education, social inclusion, and empowerment. The Global Gift Foundation hosts exclusive charitable events worldwide to raise funds and create awareness for the causes it supports.
Casa Ángeles
Casa Ángeles is a day center for children and young people with special needs founded by Maria Bravo. Its primary goal is to enhance the quality of life for these children through therapies, workshops, and recreational programs designed to foster social inclusion. The center boasts modern facilities and highly trained staff to provide a safe and stimulating environment. Casa Ángeles stands out for offering individualized therapies tailored to each child’s needs and for promoting participation in group activities and collaborative projects to encourage social integration.