Fondation de France Asia Celebrates the Second Edition of “A Night for Philanthropy”: its Signature Showcase of Franco-Asian Collaboration, This Year Centred Around Culture and Education
Wednesday 7 May 2025 marked a significant milestone for cross-cultural exchange as Fondation de France Asia hosted its second annual “A Night for Philanthropy” at the elegant Cloud 39 Ballroom of The Henderson. The event brought together a distinguished gathering of institutions, corporate leaders, philanthropists, and cultural figures to celebrate the power of international cooperation in advancing culture and education.
The evening commenced with a warm welcome from Mr. Julien-Loïc Garin, Executive Director of Fondation de France Asia. His opening remarks were followed by an insightful address from Mr. Christopher Hui, GBS, JP, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the Hong Kong SAR. Mr. Hui underscored Hong Kong’s unique position as a vital global philanthropic hub and emphasised the crucial role of cross-border partnerships in driving cultural and charitable endeavors forward.
Mrs. Axelle Davezac, CEO of Fondation de France, then delivered an address about the foundation’s expanding footprint in Asia and its enduring mission, rooted in over 50 years of philanthropic leadership in France, to cultivate meaningful, cross-cultural connections and address global challenges through collaborative initiatives in diverse sectors, drawing on the expertise and insights of their Hong Kong-based ambassadors and partners.
This year’s edition shone a spotlight on the rich tapestry of French culture and education through the work of four exemplar institutions: Fondation Gautier Capuçon, Fondation Inalco, Fondation Chaillot – Théâtre national de la danse, and the Centre des Monuments Nationaux. In her address, Mrs. Davezac eloquently stated that these exceptional organizations “embody the diversity, richness, and excellence of French culture alongside the vibrant cultural landscape of Hong Kong.” Their participation underscored Fondation de France Asia’s core mission: to strengthen the bonds between France and Asia through initiatives that champion culture, education, the arts, and beyond. These collaborations reflect a profound and ongoing dedication to nurturing international exchange and understanding.
Mrs. Davezac was joined on stage by Mr. Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the Hong Kong SAR, Mr. Benjamin Hubin, Deputy Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, Mr. Phillipe Advani (Fondation Inalco), Mrs. Marie Lavandier (Centre des Monuments Nationaux), Mr. Laurent Martinet (Fondation Chaillot), the renowned cellist Mr. Gautier Capuçon (Fondation Gautier Capuçon), and Fondation de France Asia Ambassador, Dr. Andrew Yuen.
A highlight of the evening was an exclusive and captivating musical performance by the internationally acclaimed cellist Gautier Capuçon, who shared the stage with Victor Yuanhan Lu, a remarkably talented Chinese pianist and a laureate of the Fondation Gautier Capuçon scholarship. Their performance beautifully showcased the exceptional artistic talent and mentorship fostered by the foundation.
A fireside chat moderated by Mr. Peter Cheung followed, where each representative presented the philanthropic goals of their respective institutions. Mr. Gautier Capuçon spoke passionately about the mission of Fondation Gautier Capuçon to support and mentor the next generation of exceptional musical talent in France. Mr. Philippe Advani, President of Fondation Inalco, discussed the foundation’s vital work in promoting the study and research of Asian languages and civilisations. Mr. Pierre Lungheretti, Executive Director, and Mr. Laurent Martinet, President of Fondation Chaillot, shared their dedication to advancing the art of contemporary dance by continuing to advance their production and programmes. Finally, Mrs. Marie Lavandier, President of the Centre des Monuments Nationaux, offered compelling insights into their crucial work in safeguarding and promoting France’s invaluable cultural heritage sites. Together, these projects perfectly exemplify Fondation de France Asia’s overarching theme of the night: to support initiatives that champion cultural expression, educational advancement, and artistic excellence across international borders.
The resounding success of the evening was made possible through the generous support of valued sponsors, including Odile de Groc from Banque Transatlantique, Eva Yu of L’Oréal Hong Kong, Eliane Lattouf from G.H. Mumm, Michael Groll of Mandarin Oriental, and Frank Lee from Tom Lee Music. Their contributions played an integral role in making the event a truly memorable occasion.
The night culminated in a significant announcement: over HK$5.75 million was raised to support the philanthropic missions of the four highlighted French institutions and the broader ongoing work of Fondation de France Asia across the region.
