Kering Foundation Announces Star-Studded Co-Host Lineup for 2026 Gala

A Night of Advocacy: Kering Foundation Unveils 2026 Gala Co-Hosts

The Kering Foundation has officially announced the star-studded lineup of co-hosts for its highly anticipated Caring for Women Gala, scheduled to take place in New York City on September 10. As the organization continues its mission to combat gender-based violence, this year’s event promises to unite some of the most influential voices in entertainment, sports, and fine arts to drive awareness and critical funding.

Leading the charge are the foundation’s founding co-hosts, Salma Hayek Pinault and François-Henri Pinault. Their long-standing commitment to the cause has turned the gala into a cornerstone event for philanthropic efforts within the luxury and entertainment sectors. Joining them this year is a diverse and powerful group of co-hosts, representing various fields of global impact: Pamela Anderson, Simone Biles, Benicio Del Toro, Nacho Figueras, Dakota Johnson, and renowned visual artist Lorna Simpson.

A Commitment to Global Change

The Caring for Women Gala has established itself as a pivotal moment in the philanthropic calendar. By leveraging the reach of high-profile celebrities and industry titans, the Kering Foundation aims to dismantle the systemic barriers that perpetuate violence against women. The funds raised during the evening are directed toward supporting organizations that provide essential services to survivors, ranging from legal advocacy to psychological support and economic empowerment.

For the 2026 edition, the inclusion of such a broad spectrum of talent—from Olympic gymnastics icon Simone Biles to award-winning actor Benicio Del Toro—signals a strategic effort to broaden the conversation. The foundation emphasizes that the fight against gender-based violence is not confined to one industry; it is a global crisis that requires a multidisciplinary response.

The Power of Celebrity Advocacy

The selection of co-hosts for the 2026 gala reflects a deliberate choice to engage advocates who have demonstrated a genuine commitment to social causes.

• Simone Biles: Beyond her unparalleled athletic achievements, Biles has become a vocal advocate for mental health and the protection of vulnerable individuals.
• Pamela Anderson: Known for her recent shift toward activism, Anderson has utilized her platform to highlight human rights and environmental issues.
• Dakota Johnson: A long-time supporter of equality initiatives, Johnson’s participation brings a younger demographic into the fold of the foundation's mission.
• Nacho Figueras: The world-renowned polo player and philanthropist continues to use his visibility to support charitable endeavors globally.

By bringing these figures together, the Kering Foundation aims to amplify its message, ensuring that the gala transcends the typical "red carpet" narrative to become a genuine catalyst for policy and social change.

Addressing Systemic Challenges

Gender-based violence remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations globally. The Kering Foundation, established in 2008, has focused its efforts on three key pillars: supporting survivors, changing behaviors through prevention and education, and working with partners to influence systemic change.

The 2026 event will serve as a platform to highlight progress made in these areas while also addressing the modern challenges exacerbated by digital harassment and global instability. As the gala approaches, the foundation is expected to release further details regarding the specific NGOs and grassroots organizations that will benefit from this year’s proceeds.

Looking Ahead to September

As the fashion and entertainment worlds look toward September, the expectations for the Caring for Women Gala are higher than ever. The event, which has historically been characterized by its blend of high-fashion glamour and serious, purpose-driven discourse, serves as a reminder that the influence of the entertainment industry can be a potent tool for social progress.

With such a robust team of co-hosts, the Kering Foundation is well-positioned to make a significant impact. By fostering collaboration between the arts, sports, and corporate leadership, the gala reinforces the idea that ending violence against women is a collective responsibility that demands the participation of leaders from every corner of society.