Unitas Gala 2022

September 2022. New York City, Cipriani South Street

Empire was proud to partner with UNITAS to produce their 5th Annual Gala at Cipriani South Street. Over 450 guests gathered together for the first time since 2019 to support UNITAS' mission to disrupt human trafficking and to provide opportunities for survivors to thrive.

Held during the height of Fashion Week, there was a packed red carpet and a cocktail reception with gorgeous florals, generously donated by Sunshine Bouquet. Then guests sat down for a delicious dinner and program hosted by Emmy award winning journalist and WABC-TV News Anchor Sade Baderinwa.

The program featured remarks by UNITAS CEO Tonya Turner, Executive Vice President Lamont Heibert and three distinguished honorees: President and Founder of ESD Global Self Defense, Yehudit Zicklin-Sidikman; Human Trafficking Survivor and Educator, Jessica Kay; and Lieutenant Amy Capogna of the NYC Police Department Detective Bureau, Vice Human Trafficking Unit- Human Trafficking Squad. All were honored for their courageous work in the fight against trafficking and advocacy for a safer and violence free tomorrow. A live auction then followed with high energy auctioneer, Harry Santa Olalla, where overall they raised $1 million to continue UNITAS' vital work.

Evening highlights included an incredible live performance by multi-platinum singer Natasha Bedingfield, who performed four songs including a cover of Prince’s classic “Purple Rain,” the Grammy-nominated “Unwritten,” “These Words,” and “Pocketful of Sunshine, plus performances by Pharell-produced recording artist/singer Cris Cab and violist David Carpenter of The Carpenter Trio.

Working closely with UNITAS, Empire served as the overall event producer, managing elements including venue, catering, décor, program development and technical production. Empire is a leading producer of fundraising events and has been proud to serve leading not-for-profit organizations and foundations for nearly three decades.

For more information on UNITAS, please visit https://www.unitas.ngo/