CELEBRATING A DECADE OF KINDNESS: THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY MAG GALA PRESENTED BY LUISA DIAZ FOUNDATION

View a photo gallery of images from the event

The grand ballroom of the iconic Plaza Hotel was abuzz on the evening of May 18th, as notable guests from across the globe gathered to celebrate the Luisa Diaz Foundation’s 10th Anniversary Black Tie MAG Gala. Aptly themed “A Celebration of Kindness,” this milestone event honored the foundation’s decade-long commitment to transforming lives and spreading compassion, with this year’s focus on supporting Safe Passage Heals and Sanctuary for Families.

The night was marked by a touching moment when survivors presented Luisa Diaz with a proclamation from the New York State Senate, acknowledging her remarkable work with victims of domestic violence and human trafficking. The Senate also declared May 15th as “Luisa Diaz Day,” underscoring the impact of her tireless advocacy. This followed a declaration by Mayor Adams last year, making May 18th “Kindness is Cool Day” in New York City, which will now be celebrated annually with a festival in Central Park.

The gala was hosted by the ever-elegant Consuelo Vanderbilt, who kicked off the evening’s festivities. The “Runway of Hope” fashion show was a highlight, featuring survivors of abuse walking the runway, symbolizing their journey towards empowerment and healing. Pamela Morgan captivated the audience with a performance from her one-woman Broadway show, while singer and DJ Chloe Jane kept the celebration lively after dinner. Eyewitness News’ Kristin N. Thorne introduced the beneficiaries of the gala, setting the stage for an evening of heartfelt tributes.

The evening honored three exemplary individuals and organizations with the Kindness is Cool Awards. Peter Thomas Roth was presented with his award by Candace Bushnell, Beatriz Gasca by Lynda Lopez, and Jovani Fashions by Juliia Faist. These honorees were recognized for their significant contributions to humanitarian and philanthropic causes, embodying the spirit of the foundation’s mission.

The gala drew an impressive roster of attendees, including Luisa Diaz Brown, Alan Brown, Peter Thomas Roth, Beatriz Gasca, Noreen Donovan, Candace Bushnell, Julia Haart, Lynda Lopez, Tracey Turco, Fernando Allende, Trish Steele, Anne Fontaine, Nicole Miller, Jane Shafiroff, and The Untitled Magazine’s editor-in-chief Indira Cesarine. 

A poignant part of the gala was the “Runway of Hope,” where fashion served as a powerful metaphor for resilience and renewal. Women survivors, alongside a trans survivor, walked the runway after a year of confidence-building and styling sessions provided by the Luisa Diaz Foundation. This was not just a fashion show but a transformative experience, offering participants a chance to reclaim their self-worth and stride towards a brighter future.

Founded by Luisa Diaz, the Luisa Diaz Foundation (LDF, 501c3) is dedicated to supporting those making direct impacts in their communities through acts of kindness. The foundation’s flagship event, the MAG Gala, is a celebration of kindness that takes place annually in Los Angeles and New York, raising funds and awareness for various charitable organizations. The “Runway of Hope” is a testament to the foundation’s commitment to empowering survivors through fashion and compassion.

Executive Director Luisa Diaz, a former Ms. Venezuela International, established the foundation in honor of her grandmother. Her work continues to inspire and support survivors of domestic violence, helping them to rebuild their lives. She is also the author of “Sexy is Timeless: Ten Timeless Sexy Assets That Lie within You,” a book that champions inner beauty and self-empowerment. The 10th Anniversary Black Tie MAG Gala was a celebration not only of a decade of impactful work but also of the enduring power of kindness.