Gala Starlite 2025: A Celebration of Philanthropy in Marbella
Marbella once again became the backdrop for solidarity as it hosted the Starlite Gala 2025, marking the sixteenth anniversary of this charity event. Under the evocative theme Masquerade, the evening promised magic and meaning, highlighting the essence of generosity.
During the gala, Sandra García-Sanjuán and Antonio Banderas brought together celebrities who supported the night’s noble cause. Although Banderas was in London filming a new movie and unable to attend in person, he sent a heartfelt message conveyed by his partner, Nicole Kimpel. In his words collected by Kimpel, he stated, “I apologize to the organization and participants for not being able to be physically present this year. This summer has been intense, with the filming of three films, but I wanted to express my gratitude for breathing life into all foundational goals.” This occasion also coincided with the actor’s birthday, which Kimpel celebrated on stage with a warm greeting, while Los Alpresa and Juan Peña performed “Happy Birthday”. “Nicole has acted as an ambassador,” commented Banderas. “Today I turn 65 and she couldn’t be with me but was representing me.”
A Night of Support and Recognition
The Starlite Gala 2025 has established itself as one of the most significant social events of the summer, also serving as a prominent platform for charity. The night was hosted by Cayetana Guillén Cuervo and Valeria Mazza, who brought warmth and rhythm to an unforgettable evening. Notable attendees included Turkish actor Kerem Bürsin, Victoria Federica, Paula Echevarría, Hiba Abouk, María José Suárez, and Irene Villa. Additionally, Paloma Ponce Cuevas and Daniella Bustamante Echevarría followed in their mothers’ footsteps. Present were also Carmen Lomana, Gunilla von Bismarck, Béatrice d’Orléans, Marta and Jaime Martínez-Bordiú, alongside aristocrats Rodrigo Moreno de Borbón and Casilda Guerrero Burgos. Completing the list were Andrea Valero, Spain’s representative at Miss Universe 2025, Ana Lucía Domínguez, and designer Custo Dalmau, among others.
Award Ceremony Highlights
One of the most moving moments was the Solidarity Award presentation, recognizing committed personalities in social development.
- Influence Award: Kerem Bürsin, for promoting meaningful social changes as an ambassador of HeForShe of UN Women in Turkey and goodwill ambassador of UNICEF.
- Impact Award: Lucy Doughty, for her leadership at The Doughty Family Foundation, supporting children’s hospitals and promoting educational and health initiatives.
- Soul Award: Ismael Cala, acknowledged for his transformative work through the Ismael Cala Foundation, utilizing his communication talents to motivate youth in the USA and Latin America.
- Hope Award: Begoña Arana Álvarez, for her dedication to Nuevo Hogar Betania, providing shelter and opportunities for vulnerable individuals.
- Lifelong Achievement Award: Pedro Rodríguez, for his leadership at the Sierra Blanca Foundation and his impact in Marbella.
A Night of Performances
The artistic program kept emotions high throughout the night. Marilia Andrés, vocalist of Ella Baila Sola, captivated the audience with a nostalgic repertoire that included “Amores de barra.” Juan Peña and the Los Alpresa trio ignited the stage with flamenco energy, while Fátima Florez, an Argentine actress, provided the humor imitating icons like Raffaella Carrà, Shakira, and Liza Minnelli, bringing laughter to the audience.
Solidarity Auction and Unique Experiences
As is tradition, the solidary auction gathered exclusive items, artworks, and unique experiences. “We are thrilled to announce that this year saw the highest funds raised. Thank you all for supporting this incredible project that gives meaning to everything we do at Starlite,” declared García-Sanjuán. Among the highlighted works were La menina del siglo XXI by Felipao, God Save the Queen by Jesús Arrué, Medio torero by Aldo Comas, Los caminos del corazón by Elisabeth Ollé Curiel, and a signed cajón by Santana. Moreover, the gala offered exclusive experiences, such as a private visit to the atelier of Ágatha Ruiz de la Prada and VIP access to the Joan Miró Foundation, alongside the opportunity to attend a masquerade ball in Venice.
The auction funds will allow continuing support for the projects promoted by the Starlite Foundation, including the Children in Joy Foundation, founded by Sandra García-Sanjuán and Alejandra Alemán, which strives to improve educational and living conditions for children in Mexico; and the Tears and Favors Foundation, created by Antonio Banderas, which finances various educational, cultural, and social projects.
