In a spectacular showcase of celebrity philanthropy, Leonardo DiCaprio hosted a remarkable event at Art Basel Miami that amassed an impressive $2.5 million for his conservation initiative, Re:wild. The exclusive gala took place at a private residence and featured an array of prominent figures from various sectors, including Hollywood and business. Hosted by Jamie Foxx, the evening attracted stars such as Steve Aoki, Daymond John, and Soleil Moon Frye, uniting a community dedicated to environmental advocacy and support for Indigenous peoples.
The event sought not just to raise funds, but to spotlight the critical issues surrounding environmental conservation and Indigenous rights. DiCaprio, a known advocate for the planet, took to the stage to emphasize the importance of supporting local leaders and organizations working tirelessly to safeguard ecosystems. Notably, Henena Gualinga, an environmental defender from the Kichwa people in Ecuador, graced the occasion with her presence, delivering a heartfelt speech regarding her grassroots efforts to protect the Amazon rainforest and the invaluable contributions of Indigenous communities. Her moving testimony underlines the intersection of environmental protection and human rights.
An exciting aspect of the evening was the auction, led by Foxx and Frye, where attendees bid on exclusive experiences and pieces of art. The auction featured unique travel opportunities to places like Madagascar and Rwanda, in addition to artwork from renowned artists, including a striking tiger sculpture by Vasily Klyukin and a painting by Adrien Brody entitled, “Tiger on Last Legs.” This eclectic mix of offerings highlights how art and travel can play integral roles in raising awareness and funds for conservation initiatives, reinforcing the connection between creativity and activism.
Gastronomy Meets Sustainability
Guests were treated to gourmet culinary offerings from two Michelin-starred restaurants, L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon and Le Jardinier, known for their innovative plant-based cuisines. The emphasis on sustainable dining mirrored the event’s overarching theme of environmental consciousness. Complemented by Telmont Champagne—sourced from a sustainable vineyard—dinner was not only a culinary delight but also a testament to responsible choices in food and beverage sourcing.
As the night concluded, DiCaprio, who is often seen donning his signature black baseball cap and casual attire, celebrated the evening’s success alongside Wes Sechrest, co-founder of Re:wild. Their collaboration exemplifies the potential for impactful environmental work, with DiCaprio spearheading initiatives that have channeled over $200 million into various conservation projects worldwide. The event not only celebrated these achievements but also fostered a networking environment where like-minded individuals could contribute to the cause of protecting the Earth’s irreplaceable ecosystems.
Leonardo DiCaprio’s charity event at Art Basel Miami was a powerful combination of celebrity influence, cultural richness, and a commitment to ecological preservation, ideally inspiring others to engage in meaningful action towards safeguarding our planet.