Operation Smile’s annual New York Gala is set to light up Sony Hall in Times Square this Wednesday evening, bringing together stars, philanthropists, and changemakers for a night dedicated to spreading smiles and supporting vital healthcare access worldwide.
The global nonprofit — renowned for providing cleft surgeries and comprehensive medical care to children across the world — will welcome over 400 guests to the high-profile event, hosted by model, influencer, and Prakti Beauty founder Pritika Swarup.
Honorees of the Evening
The night’s top honors will recognize several individuals for their extraordinary humanitarian efforts:
- Mira Sorvino, Oscar-winning actress and activist, will receive the Universal Smile Award following her recent stage run in Chicago.
- Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast, will be honored with the Cotto Changemaker Award for his ongoing advocacy and generous support of Operation Smile programs.
- The Cotto family, whose philanthropic work spans generations, will receive the Founders Circle Award.
- Viet Hoang, a philanthropist known for raising millions to fund surgical care initiatives, will be celebrated with the Wallis Annenberg Public Service Award.
A Night of Glamour and Giving
Beyond the awards, the gala promises a lively, speakeasy-inspired celebration featuring Broadway-style performances and swing-era entertainment.
Performers include Zachary Levi, Carmit Bachar, Jessica Lee Goldyn, Voodoo Orchestra X from Caleb Chapman’s Soundhouse, Byrdie Wilson, and other Broadway stars.
Guests will also enjoy a Roaring Twenties-themed evening complete with a curated dinner, tequila and gin speakeasy (courtesy of Teremana Tequila and Himbrimi Pure Icelandic Gin), a bubbles room sponsored by Freixenet, and a silent auction.
The Team Behind the Gala
The host committee for the New York Operation Smile Gala includes Riley Clifford, Carol Ann Cotto, Lucy Cotto, Ray Cotto, Cabell Graves, Skyler Griswold, Austin Rae Haycox, Isabella Santini Hoang, Chris Harper, John Kenney Jr., Giselle Leon-Gomez, Giacomo Melegari, Zenya Merchant, Gabriela Sandoval, Rachel Sidari, and Sarah Smith.
Final Words
With an inspiring mix of Hollywood glamour, heartfelt philanthropy, and musical magic, the 2025 Operation Smile Gala aims to celebrate compassion and amplify the mission of delivering brighter smiles — and brighter futures — to children around the world.
