The majestic Salle Empire of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo lit up with brilliance, compassion, and star-studded elegance as Monaco hosted the inaugural edition of the Global Gift Gala. The evening brought together international celebrities, philanthropists, and Monegasque royalty in a spectacular celebration of charity and social commitment.
While the night dazzled with world-class performances and A-list attendees, it was deeply marked by the heartfelt absence of the event’s founder and host, María Bravo, who was unable to attend due to health reasons. Stepping in to carry the torch was actress and activist Eva Longoria, who served as Honorary Host and delivered an emotional tribute to her long-time friend.
“In 17 years of doing philanthropy together, this is the first time she hasn’t been here, and yet her presence can be felt in every corner,” said Eva Longoria. “When someone gives so much of themselves, they are never truly gone.”
Eva Longoria
Honoring Humanitarian Excellence
The evening celebrated remarkable individuals whose philanthropic efforts have left a global impact.
H.S.H Princess Stéphanie of Monaco received the Global Gift Philanthropist Award, recognizing her enduring commitment to social inclusion, child welfare, and humanitarian causes through her foundation.
Eva Longoria and Princess Stéphanie of Monaco
“Creating my foundation was not easy… but when you see a smile, when you know you’ve made a difference, everything makes sense,” Princess Stéphanie shared. “Every small gesture matters.”
Daddy Yankee, global music icon and pioneer of reggaeton, was honored with the Global Gift Humanitarian Award for his work supporting disadvantaged communities across Latin America and the United States.
“I promised myself I would do more than just make music. I wanted to feed children with hope, faith, and belief in their dreams,” said the artist. “May we all continue to be instruments of love, compassion, and faith.”
A Night of Magic, Music, and Meaning
While singer Christina Milian was unable to perform due to illness, French pop sensation Vitaa took the stage, delivering a powerful performance that moved the audience. Mentalist Lior Suchard stunned with his mind-bending show, and Gipsy Reyes Heritage, heirs of the legendary Gipsy Kings, mesmerized with their modern flamenco rhythms.
Vitaa
The gala was hosted with flair and elegance by renowned French journalist Sandy Heribert, known for her role at the Ballon d’Or.
Among the distinguished attendees were:
Camille Gottlieb, Louis and Marie Ducruet, members of the Monegasque royal family;
Alexandre Grimaldi, son of Prince Albert II;
Model Baptiste Giabiconi, interior designer Nicolás Escanez Galera, racing driver Arthur Leclerc, and former footballer Marco Simone;
Arthur Leclerc
Philanthropic ambassadors Kevin Fearnley, Genevieve Pantin, Scott Flecher, and Anastasiya Krauchanka;
Auction Highlights: Priceless Experiences for a Purpose
The live auction, led by auctioneer Ferxel Fourgon, featured show-stopping pieces — including an evocative artwork by Jaime Monge, which sold for €70,000 — and once-in-a-lifetime experiences:
€15,000 for a VIP red-carpet weekend at the Global Gift Gala in London, including seats at the presidential table alongside Emilia Clarke and María Bravo.
€40,000 for a unique VIP experience at the 2026 Monaco Grand Prix, featuring pit lane access, luxury hospitality, and premium race-day views.
Eva Longoria and Baptiste Giabiconi
A Gala with Purpose
All proceeds from the gala will benefit Casa Ángeles, a day center in Marbella for children with special needs, and other charitable projects supported by the Global Gift Foundation.
“Their dedication to bringing hope is unmatched,” said Princess Stéphanie, urging guests to support the work of María Bravo and Eva Longoria. “Together, we can build a more caring and just world.”
Founded by entrepreneurs María Bravo and Alina Peralta, the Global Gift Gala is the flagship fundraising platform of the Global Gift Foundation, uniting business leaders, celebrities, and philanthropists for social impact. The Foundation supports vulnerable children, women, and families through initiatives in health, education, and inclusion.