The inaugural I See You Gala drew 300 guests and raised Rs. 2.6 million through a live auction, the Infinite Grace Foundation said.
The event was held on September at a venue in Colombo. The auction, led by Dushyanth Weeraman, featured six lots: four jewellery pieces, a sensory panel that had won a world record and a commemorative plaque presented by singer Jeff Timmons. The plaque was signed by members of his group and customised for the winning bidder. The foundation did not disclose the amount raised by each lot.
“This was never created to be a one-night event,” said Stephanie Siriwardhana, the foundation’s founder and chair. “Our vision was to establish an annual tradition that brings people together every September.”
The evening also featured a performance by Timmons, Siriwardhana and Weeraman, accompanied by an orchestra. Siriwardhana performed an original song.
The foundation said proceeds will support its work in mental health, education, prison rehabilitation and reintegration, humanitarian assistance and community wellbeing.
“The inaugural Gala was our first chapter,” Siriwardhana said. “Everyone who stood with us helped lay the foundation for something that will grow in reach, impact and purpose with every edition.” (Newswire)
