We’re four months into the year, and already, the social calendar is full up. Brands are wasting no time breaking out the champagne and hors d’oeuvres, fueled by awards season, new collaborations, or the simple desire to throw a great bash. Fêtes are taking place all over the world in honor of award nominees, fresh launches, the Olympics, fashion month, and every other reason imaginable. It’s all just an excuse to have a wonderful time. And while you might not be invited to the biggest parties in town, you can still enjoy them vicariously. Keep checking back here as we cover the best and brightest events of the year—and their A-list attendees.
Gala season in New York City is officially in full swing. Apex for Youth—an organization that mentors and supports underserved Asian and immigrant youth in NYC—hosted its annual fete on April 16 at Cipriani South Street. The event drew over 600 guests and raised nearly $3.7 million for the nonprofit, which offers health-focused programming, education, and community engagement via volunteers. Olympic champion Eileen Gu, shown here with Michael Chung, attended the event, along with actress Lana Condor, who received honors.
“The Inspiration Awards Gala is one of the few moments where you can see the full ecosystem of Apex in one room—our youth, mentors, supporters, and partners,” executive director of Apex for Youth Jiyoon Chung told W. “It’s powerful because the impact is tangible. You’re not just hearing about change—you’re witnessing the relationships and community that make it possible.” That sentiment proved true when Avantika Vandanapu, pictured here, presented Condor her award onstage.
Of course, the dinnertime auction is as key for a gala as the starry guest list. During the evening, guests like Kim Shui—photographed here with Chloe Misseldine and Isiah Magsino—Sandy Liang, Dao-Yi Chow, and many other New York City insiders helped raise nearly $4 million for Apex for Youth.
Read more on W Magazine here.
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