To celebrate the 450th birthday of dynamic South American city – Rio de Janiero and the 15th anniversary of BrazilFoundation, a cadre of notables, including Victoria Secrets Angel – Alessandra Ambrosio, Terron Schaeffer, Paula Bezerra de Mello and Constantin Bjerke teamed up for this year’s gala events in New York City. Hosted during Fashion Week, the cocktail reception also honors Brazilian muse Andrea Dellal at the exclusive Elyx House. With a special performance by Harley Vieira Newton and DJ Ross One, the pre-party kicks off the Foundation’s #TeamRio Fund, an initiative to support educational projects in the city that will host the 2016 Olympics.
BrazilFoundation is a non-profit created in New York in 2000 that mobilizes resources for ideas and actions that transform Brazil. Since it’s inception, the Foundation has raised over $30 million dollars and supported 440 social projects in Brazil. Andrea Dellal, former YSL model, is also known as one of the most influential and stylish women in the world. As part of the Dellal dynasty, Charlotte Olympia, the celebrated shoe designer, and Chanel model, Alice Dellal are daughters. Andrea Dellal chaired The BrazilFoundation gala in 2011 at the New York Public Library, and since then has been one of the Foundation’s most avid supporters.
“We owe a lot to Andrea. She has introduced us to many partners, opened so many doors and helped the Foundation gain international visibility. Andrea has personally visited several of our projects in Rio. Her hands-on support and relentless networking towards our cause inspires all of us”, said Patricia Lobaccaro, CEO of BrazilFoundation.
“Before hosting the Gala in 2010, I visited several projects in Rio with Patricia and fell in love with the work of BrazilFoundation”, said Andre Dellal. “Rio is my hometown; I love it with all my heart and we will soon host the Olympics. We must take this moment to also raise awareness of these projects that will help make Rio a better place for the generations to come. I am proud to be part of the #TeamRio initiative through which BrazilFoundation will support campaigns centered on education. I am very passionate about Rio and want to make it a better place for my children, grandchildren and others around the world.”
The XIII annual BrazilFoundation Gala will take place on Thursday, Sept 17 at Cipriani 42nd street