Ismael Cala Foundation Raises Over $200,000 for Teen Emotional Health in Miami Event

A Night of Generosity: Ismael Cala Foundation's Gala

On November 7th, in a spectacular event hosted at the Britto Palace, the Ismael Cala Foundation gathered 86 guests to raise an impressive sum of over $200,000 aimed at supporting teen emotional health initiatives. The gala, aptly named "Legacy of Light: A Night of Joyful Giving," was not just a fundraising event; it was a beacon of hope for many adolescents seeking to develop emotional intelligence.

The Purpose Behind the Gala

The funds raised during the event are specifically earmarked to enhance "El Vuelo de la Cometa," a pivotal program launched by the Foundation. This initiative focuses on providing emotional intelligence education to young people aged 12 to 17, and it has already impacted over 4,000 youths in Colombia. The necessity for such programs is underscored by growing mental health challenges faced by teenagers today.

During the gala, attendees were fortunate to watch a documentary showcasing the program’s positive effects in Colombia, further cultivating a commitment among participants to support ongoing emotional intelligence training. As Ismael Cala, the founder and president of the organization, emphasized, the true essence of a legacy lies not in what we leave behind but in what we instill in others—encouraging everyone present to become "architects of possibility" for future generations.

Highlights of the Evening

One of the gala's main attractions was the 2026 Legacy of Light Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to enhancing the lives of others. Esteemed recipients included John C. Maxwell, a global leadership authority, and Emilio Estefan, a prominent figure in Latin culture, who shared insightful messages via a video address. Not only did the evening honor these outstanding contributors, but it also served as a reminder of the collective effort needed to empower our youth.

Romero Britto, a renowned artist and gracious host for the evening, was also among those honored, alongside Marie Vivianne "Vivi" Barguil Bechara, the founder of the A la Rueda Rueda Foundation, and many others who have shown a commitment to emotional and social leadership.

An Engaging Evening of Auction and Music

The gala was enhanced by an engaging live auction and silent auction featuring unique items and experiences, all aimed at generating further support for the Foundation's ambitious goals. Entertainment was provided by Vocal Youth Miami, an organization dedicated to working with over 600 children and youth each year, demonstrating the kind of community engagement the Foundation advocates.

Under the proficient guidance of hosts Delia Peralta and Daysi Rodríguez from TalenPro (Panamá), participants witnessed an inspiring blend of philanthropy, art, and heartfelt speeches, all contributing to a festive atmosphere charged with generosity.

Commitment to Support

In addition to the fundraising, the Foundation launched a sponsorship campaign inviting donors to pledge their support for at least three years. This initiative encourages sustained involvement and underscores the importance of continuous development in emotional health education.

The Ismael Cala Foundation, a non-profit organization based in the United States, is dedicated to human development through emotional intelligence and conscious leadership. With programs like El Vuelo de la Cometa and the SELI Institute, it strives to create a philanthropic ecosystem across the Americas.

The gala thus stands as a testament to the community's commitment to youth and emotional well-being, reinforcing the crucial need for emotional education in shaping resilient future leaders.