The 2025 AFMDA Miami Gala is set to take place on December 15, 2025, at the Miami Beach Convention Center, promising to be a highlight of the city’s philanthropic calendar. This year’s event, hosted by the American Friends of Magen David Adom (AFMDA), is not just a fundraiser; it is a gathering that emphasizes the life-saving work of Israel’s emergency response system, Magen David Adom.
One of the most anticipated aspects of the evening is the appearance of Eli Sharabi, a survivor of 491 days in Hamas captivity. His journey from adversity to resilience has inspired many worldwide. His memoir, recognized as a New York Times bestseller and included in Time Magazine’s list of “must-read books of 2025,” will serve as a poignant reminder of hope during the gala. Attendees will have the rare opportunity to hear Sharabi’s story firsthand, a moment expected to resonate deeply throughout the night.
Event Highlights and Honorees
The gala will be guided by Valeria Lipovetsky, a global creator and philanthropist, who brings a contemporary perspective to the event. Co-chaired by Eli and Tami Dadon, as well as Terri and Jeffrey Sonn, the gala reflects strong community involvement in support of AFMDA’s mission. This year’s event will also honor Julia and Elie Deshe with the L’Dor v Dor Lifesaver Award for their dedication to humanitarian efforts and leadership.
Over the years, the AFMDA Miami Gala has transformed into one of the city’s premier philanthropic events. Guests are drawn not only to its elegance and high-profile entertainment but also to its deeper purpose. Every aspect of the evening supports Magen David Adom, which has been at the forefront of Israel’s national emergency response for nearly a century.
Magen David Adom operates with over 34,000 volunteers from diverse backgrounds, including Jews, Christians, Muslims, Druze, and Bedouins. These teams work collaboratively to ensure emergency response readiness, providing ambulance services, trauma training, neonatal care, and disaster relief. The gala’s theme, “From Darkness to Light,” symbolizes both the organization’s mission and a broader call for global resilience in challenging times.
Community Impact and Call to Action
Mike Driquez, AFMDA’s director of strategic fundraising and community relations for the Southeast Region, highlighted the gala’s significance within Miami’s cultural landscape. He emphasized that the event represents an opportunity for the community to bolster Magen David Adom’s commitment to saving lives. “This is not just a celebration; it is a chance to fuel real change,” Driquez commented, noting the gala’s potential to strengthen support for emergency services.
Every dollar raised during the event will directly fund essential operations across Israel, including emergency transports, paramedic support, and maintaining the national blood supply. The impact of the gala extends far beyond the venue, reaching families and communities during critical moments when Magen David Adom’s services are vital.
With high anticipation surrounding the upcoming gala, tickets and sponsorships are expected to sell out quickly. Interested attendees are encouraged to secure their places promptly by visiting afmda.org/event/miami-gala-2025. The evening promises to be filled with emotion and purpose, uniting Miami’s philanthropic leaders in a shared commitment to humanitarian efforts.
As the world faces ongoing challenges, the AFMDA Miami Gala stands as a beacon of hope and unity, inviting individuals to come together for a vital cause.
