The excitement is building as Make-A-Wish® Southern Florida and InterContinental® Miami gear up to host the 29th Annual InterContinental® Miami Make-A-Wish® Ball on Saturday, November 2, 2024. Known as the official kick-off to Miami's charity season, this iconic event sets the bar high with its creativity, lavish atmosphere, and the overwhelming generosity of its supporters.
Last year’s spectacular gala broke records, raising an incredible $5 million to grant life-changing wishes for children facing critical illnesses. Gala Chair Shareef M. Malnik is back with his unbounded enthusiasm, saying, “I have never placed a limit on how generous our community is – because it’s unlimited. And so is the amount the Ball will raise.” Joining him this year is his wife, actor and filmmaker Gabrielle Anwar, who steps into the role of Gala Co-Chair. An Ambassador for Make-A-Wish® Southern Florida, Anwar will continue her electrifying Live Wish Auction, making it an unforgettable highlight of the evening.
Upon arrival, guests will be warmly welcomed by “The Three Amigos”—Shareef M. Malnik, Glenn Sampert (General Manager of InterContinental® Miami), and Norman Wedderburn (President and CEO of Make-A-Wish® Southern Florida). This dynamic trio, affectionately named for their years of dedication and vision, will guide attendees through a night of wonder, joy, and meaningful giving.
A Night of Fantasy: “Il Circo: La Madre Della Luce”
This year’s Ball promises an imaginative escape with the theme “Il Circo: La Madre Della Luce.” Envisioned by Gala Creative Director Maxwell Blandford and brought to life by DECO Productions, the theme invites guests into an Italian circus universe where light, fantasy, and animation blend seamlessly. The experience kicks off with a grand red-carpet entrance, followed by a spectacular cocktail reception and silent auction, where guests can mingle and bid on one-of-a-kind items.
As the evening progresses, the magic continues in the Grand Ballroom. InterContinental® Miami’s Executive Chef Jhonnatan Contreras and his culinary team will dazzle with a multi-course gourmet feast that promises to take taste buds on an unforgettable journey. And just when dessert is served, Gabrielle Anwar will light up the stage with her high-energy Live Wish Auction, giving guests the opportunity to contribute directly to making children’s wishes come true.
A Night to Remember: Entertainment and Afterparty
The fun doesn’t end with the auction! Guests will be treated to a private concert by a global recording artist, whose identity remains a closely guarded secret. Previous performers have included music legends like Diana Ross, Jennifer Hudson, Lenny Kravitz, John Legend, Steven Tyler, Marc Anthony, Adam Lambert, and Sting. The anticipation is palpable as everyone eagerly awaits the reveal of this year’s star.
But the party doesn’t stop there! The festivities will continue at the official afterparty—the InterContinental® Miami Make-A-Wish® Nightclub. With live entertainment and premium cocktails, the Nightclub promises an unforgettable night as guests dance and celebrate until 3 a.m.
The Chairman’s Challenge: A Commitment to Giving
Since 2011, Shareef M. Malnik has championed the Chairman’s Challenge—a group of dedicated business, civic, and philanthropic leaders who each pledge $25,000 a year for five years to cover the costs of the Ball. This incredible initiative ensures that every dollar raised during the event goes directly toward making wishes come true. Among this year’s members are Mr. Marshall Ames; Mr. & Mrs. Andrew and Tatsiana Ansin; Mr. & Mrs. Nick and Adriana Ayala; Mr. & Mrs. Geert-Jan and Joyce Bakker; Mr. Dennis Crowley and Ms. Maria Haupert; and many more generous supporters, all contributing to the cause.
Be a Part of the Magic
The 29th Annual InterContinental® Miami Make-A-Wish® Ball promises to be a night where fantasy meets philanthropy, and every moment is designed to inspire generosity and joy. It’s more than just an event—it’s an opportunity to make dreams come true for children facing critical illnesses.
Don’t miss your chance to experience this magical evening. To secure your spot, visit Make-A-Wish® Southern Florida.
Let’s come together and create a night where wishes take flight!
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