Los Angeles World Affairs Council Announces Inaugural World Prize Gala
The Californer/10325087

LOS ANGELES - Californer -- The Los Angeles World Affairs Council (LAWAC) will host its inaugural World Prize Gala on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at the Taglyan Cultural Complex, marking a transformative moment as the organization positions itself as Los Angeles's premier platform for international dialogue during an unprecedented period of global attention.

The milestone event signals LAWAC's strategic evolution as the "Center Stage of Ideas" – a dynamic forum where thought leaders, diplomats, business executives, and engaged citizens converge to address the most pressing challenges facing our interconnected world. As Los Angeles prepares to welcome millions of international visitors for the FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympic Games, LAWAC is facilitating the crucial conversations that will define the city's global legacy.

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"This inaugural World Prize Gala represents far more than a celebration. It is a declaration of Los Angeles's readiness to lead on the global stage," said Secretary Maria Contreras-Sweet, Chair of the LAWAC Board of Directors. "At a time when our world faces complex challenges that demand collaborative solutions, Los Angeles must be the center stage where transformative ideas are born, debated, and refined."

The gala will honor three distinguished leaders: Robert J. Abernethy, entrepreneur and civic leader; The Honorable Jane Harman, former Congresswoman and Director Emerita of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars; and Dominic Ng, Chairman and CEO of East West Bank. The evening will be hosted by Larry Wilmore, the acclaimed comedian, writer, producer, and political commentator.

Founded in 1954, LAWAC has welcomed eight U.S. presidents and more than 250 heads of state to its programs, building an unparalleled archive of international dialogue. The organization now embarks on an ambitious revitalization strategy designed to expand its influence as Los Angeles takes center stage globally.

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"This inaugural gala embodies everything we envision for LAWAC's future – bringing together Los Angeles's most thoughtful leaders around ideas that matter," said Dr. Julian Gold, gala co-chair and LAWAC board member.

The September 30 gala begins with cocktails at 5:30 PM, followed by dinner at 6:30 PM. Cocktail attire is requested.

About the Los Angeles World Affairs Council
Founded in 1954, LAWAC operates as a nonpartisan forum dedicated to fostering civic engagement and informed public discourse on international affairs.

For tickets and information, visit https://www.lawacworldprizegala.org/ or email worldprizegala@lawac.org.