Everyone was a star at the dazzling AFS Centennial Reception & Gala Dinner. Representing 57 countries around the globe, the AFS Global Community came out to celebrate our 100th Anniversary on a beautiful November evening in Paris.
With Dato “Dale” Lokman taking reign as our Master of Ceremonies, the event was a night to remember. Festive attire or National Dress was the dress code and the Gala guests did not disappoint.
Entertainment from the Battery Dance Company provided a dramatic start to the Gala, honoring traditional dances of eight countries.
A video tribute to the AFS Volunteer Drivers, with excerpts from “The Drivers” documentary by Tracy Christian, featured WWII AFS Drivers Ward Chamberlin, David Ford, Art Howe, Dick Morrill and Robert Sawhill. The Drivers delighted Gala guests and the tribute ended with a 100th birthday toast to AFS.
BP Executive Vice President and Group Global Human Resources Director Helmut Schuster (AUT To USA) made remarks about the success partnership BP has with AFS through the BP/AFS Global Citizens of Tomorrow Scholarships and sponsorship of the AFS Global Intercultural Education Symposium held at UNESCO Headquarters earlier in the day.
Master of Ceremonies Lokman led a rousing roll call acknowledging each of the 57 countries represented at the gala before dinner evolved into an international dance party. Those interested in having a more relaxed end to the evening enjoyed musical selections at the AFS Centennial Piano Lounge.
At midnight, everyone reconvened in the ballroom for wonderful champagne toast to AFS’s 100th Birthday, complete with a beautifully decorated tiered birthday cake topped with dazzling sparklers.
AFS International and AFS Vivre Sans Frontière would like to thank everyone who made the AFS Centennial Reception and Gala such an beautiful and festive event.