Gift Gala founder, Maria Bravo

What do you most enjoy when coming to Dubai?

It’s the last gala of the year when we come here, so it’s not only one night, but a celebration of the whole year. We can look everything we have been able to achieve with all the money raised. For example, we opened our Global Gift Home in Spain. We have 300 children with special needs. We give them treatment and space to be able to feel safe. The parents can come for psychological support and share their experiences with other parents.

What keeps you going?

I come from a very humble family and my mum was key in telling me the importance of education. She was the most generous person I ever met. She would embrace anyone who needed it. To help and not expect anything back was a natural thing for my mum and I learned that from her.

What’s it like working with Eva Longoria?

Eva for us is our heart and soul. 10 years ago we started this foundation together, embracing each other and empowering women together. The passion of two women has moved thousands of people around the world just by having the message of helping… simple!

What makes your charity events stand out for you?

We make the galas very personal. Every child creates a personal note to say thank you to the people attending because they are the ones that make it happen. The glitz is great for the sponsors. They pay for it all. So by the time the doors open, 100 per cent of the money raised can go back to those children who wrote the notes.