World Prize Gala Sept. 30 — Larry Wilmore Hosts, Honoring Civic & International Leaders
The Californer/10327538

LOS ANGELES - Californer -- LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles World Affairs Council hosts its inaugural World Prize Gala, a landmark event positioning Los Angeles as the global "Center Stage of Ideas." The gala will honor four distinguished leaders and feature comedian, writer, and political commentator Larry Wilmore as host.

WHO:

Honorees:

• Robert J. Abernethy – Entrepreneur & civic leader, philanthropist
• Hon. Jane Harman – Former U.S. Congresswoman; Director Emerita, Wilson Center
• Dominic Ng – Chairman & CEO, East West Bank
• Allison Zhang, Polytechnic High School

Remarks from:

• Secretary Maria Contreras-Sweet, Los Angeles World Affairs Council Board Chair, former U.S. Small Business Administrator
• Dr. Julian Gold, event co-chair and former Mayor of Beverly Hills
• Larry Wilmore, host

WHEN:

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Tuesday, September 30, 2025

• Red Carpet / Media Check-In: 5:00 p.m.
• Cocktail Reception: 5:30 p.m.
• Dinner & Program: 6:30 p.m.

WHERE:

Taglyan Cultural Complex

1201 Vine St., Hollywood, CA 90038

WHY:

As Los Angeles prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympic Games, the Los Angeles World Affairs Council is launching a revitalized platform for global dialogue, diplomacy, and civic engagement. This high-profile gala will convene leaders across business, government, culture, and international affairs to mark a new era for the organization and the city's global role.

PHOTO / VIDEO OPPORTUNITIES:

• Red carpet arrivals of honorees, civic leaders, and international guests
• Remarks by Larry Wilmore, Maria Contreras-Sweet, and honorees
• Gala program highlighting Los Angeles's role on the world stage

About the Los Angeles World Affairs Council

The Los Angeles World Affairs Council is a nonpartisan organization dedicated to fostering informed dialogue on global issues and promoting international understanding through educational programs and public discourse.

For more information, visit https://lawac.org/