Cover Inside the Fondation de France event on May 7 (Photo: courtesy of Fondation de France Asia)
Inside the Fondation de France event on May 7 (Photo: courtesy of Fondation de France Asia)
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Fondation de France hosted an elegant evening celebrating French heritage and arts, uniting Hong Kong’s philanthropic community to support four exceptional cultural foundations across France and Asia
On May 7, Fondation de France, an independent body established by the French government in support of philanthropy and private foundations in France, hosted an exclusive soirée at The Henderson’s Cloud 39 Ballroom in Hong Kong.
Graced by VIPs from the cultural and philanthropic worlds, the charity event celebrated French culture and was hosted in support of four organisations championing the arts and heritage across France and Asia: Fondation Gautier Capuçon supports young musicians embarking on their professional journeys; Fondation Inalco promotes the study of Asian languages and civilisations, ensuring their enduring vitality; Fondation Chaillot Théâtre National de la Danse champions contemporary dance, expanding its reach to new audiences; while the Centre des Monuments Nationaux preserves and illuminates France’s universal heritage treasures.
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Inside the Fondation de France event on May 7 (Photo: courtesy of Fondation de France Asia)
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Christopher Hui, Hong Kong’s secretary for financial services and the treasury, delivered the opening remarks with warmth and gravitas. Axelle Davezac, CEO of Fondation de France, said, “These projects embody the diversity, richness and excellence of French culture, and are all significant initiatives in need of your financial support.” Her words set the stage for a night of celebration and generosity.
The evening’s artistic offerings were sublime, with a cello performance by renowned musician Gautier Capuçon, accompanied by the talented pianist Victor Yuanhan Lu. Their music echoed the evening’s mission: to support and nurture artistic excellence.
Emcee Peter Cheung took to the stage to share the stories behind each of the beneficiaries of the evening, with each of them representing a vital facet of cultural preservation and innovation. Notable attendees included Julien-Loïc Garin, the executive director of Fondation de France Asia, along with Ruth Shapiro, Shirley Hiranand, Reyna Harilela, Victoria Tang-Owen, Christopher Owen, Leta Lau and Andrew Yuen, the last of whom serves on the ambassadors committee with Sino Group’s Daryl Ng.
The evening concluded with the announcement of generous pledges totalling HK$5,753,000, highlighting the community’s commitment to cultural preservation.
Credits
Photography: Courtesy of Fondation de France Asia
As Content Director at Tatler Hong Kong, Tara shapes the brand's editorial vision across social, digital and print, and reports on Asia's most influential figures — from CEOs and leaders across business, style and the arts. In her dual role as Head of VIP, she also drives the planning and execution of Tatler's flagship IPs, curating star-studded events and building the relationships and communities that define the brand. Born and raised in the Middle East, she honed her craft in Dubai, crafting communication strategies for luxury brands across the Gulf. Follow her on Instagram @tarasobti.
