On Giving Tuesday, UNICEF Celebrated Its Annual Gala

Despite the cold gushes and unexpected flurries from yesterday’s wintry weather, more than 700 people in their best black-tie ensembles came down to Cipriani Wall Street to celebrate Giving Tuesday at the annual UNICEF Gala.

After a cocktail reception across the street, guests made their way into the grand space, where they were greeted by large posters that displayed the warm smiles of young girls whose lives have been changed thanks to UNICEF’s tireless efforts to provide education and support. The evening commenced with a medley of “I’m Every Woman,” “Girl on Fire,” and “Run the World” performed by several Broadway actors. Then the night’s host, UNICEF ambassador and actor Sofia Carson, introduced Aria Mia Loberti, fellow UNICEF ambassador and star of the new Netflix series All the Light We Cannot See.

Loberti, a staunch activist for people with disabilities, recounted her journey with achromatopsia, a rare genetic eye condition. Despite the obstacles she faced as a young child, she realized her dream of being an actor while simultaneously working toward her PhD. She commended UNICEF’s dedication to providing young girls much like herself with opportunities that empower them to blossom and thrive.

“UNICEF starts at the grassroots level and takes it a step further by allowing young people to speak for themselves and be advocates, and I have a voice, and I can learn from the experts,” Loberti tells Vogue. “It’s incredible to see people rallying to improve the lives of women and girls. I came from a challenging childhood myself, and so to be able to see that everyone takes it seriously for the next generation is truly special.”

Heartfelt performances by Maggie Rogers and Sara Bareilles moved guests, including Wes Gordon, Christian Siriano, Gillian Hearst, and Laurie Hernandez. Then an auction took place, where guests generously opened their hearts (and wallets) for the cause. The evening raised more than $3.6 million to support the acceleration of gender programming to empower young girls around the world to reach their full potential.

To end the evening on a high note, DJ Samantha Ronson kicked off the after-party, prompting guests to kick off their heels and dance the night away.