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Why We Have the Gala

The Gala brings together a vibrant community of supporters, partners, and friends all united by a shared purpose: to uplift and advance our mission.

More Than a Night Out

The Gala isn’t just a beautiful evening of dinner, dancing, and celebration t’s a vital part of how we continue our work. It’s a time to reflect on what we've accomplished, share powerful stories of impact, and rally the support we need to take our mission further.

Fueling Our Mission

Proceeds from the Gala directly fund Mental Health Suicide Awareness & Prevention Project  Every ticket purchased, every item bid on, every donation made during the evening helps us sustain and grow our work in the community.

Connecting and Celebrating Locally & Globally

Celebrating Our Global Community

Join Us

Whether it’s your first time attending or you’ve been with us from the start, your presence at the Gala makes a difference. Together, we can continue creating change in the world.

Nominate Community Leader Today!

Email: Info@TheGEMCommunityCenter.org

To be considered for selection as an official award recipient, participants must complete the registration process.

As we celebrate the incredible work happening in our community, we want to shine a spotlight on the people making it possible our volunteers, donors, partners, and everyday leaders driving real, lasting change.

This year, as part of our Gala celebration, we invite YOU to nominate a Community Leader who has made a meaningful impact.

 

Whether it's someone who gives tirelessly of their time, advocates for others, or supports our mission in powerful ways let’s honor their contributions together.

DEADLINE TO NOMINATE 

9/23/2025

NOMINATIONS CLOSED   

Award Recipients / Nominees: 

(So Far):

Reminder: To be considered for selection as an official award recipient, participants must complete the registration process.

 

GRAND MAYOR

SUCCESS CORNER 

Celebrate leadership in style! All registered ONLY mayors will be honored with a BIG dedicated showcase area at the venue, highlighting their achievements and offering a special space to take photos connect during & after the event inspire, and be recognized and more. WE CAN'T WAIT!

Mayor Paul S. Leon

Mayor Eunice Ulloa

Mayor L. Dennis Michael

Mayor  Bill Velto

Mayor Helen Tran

Mayor Art Bennett

Mayor Karen Bass

Mayor Emma Sharif

Mayor Acquanetta Warren

Mayor Corey Calaycay

Mayor Tim Hepbur

​Mayor Tim Sandoval

Supervisor Curt Hagman 

California State Treasurer - Fiona Ma

Jennifer Hudson

Dolly Parton

Garth Brooks

Katy Perry

Denzel Washington

Gloria M.B.

​Roy Gugliotta

Norma J. T.

Linda T. Sanchez

Maxine Waters

Nanette Diaz Barragan

Melanie H.

Mike A.

Zeb W.

Dr. Tyara L.

Dr. Richard S.

Dr. Nepetina S.

Susie M.

Lady, Dr. Robbie M.

Loretta C.

Norine True H.

Chad M.

Kathy A

EarMia L.​

John L.

Tony G.

Alexis S.

Eddie B.

Rose S.

Marco C.

Jaime C.

Ruth J.

Edward O Jr.

Joyce S.

Brenda D.

Sandra D.

Kirby Jones ​

KeJohnna Owens

Lesley H.

Georgia C.A.

Dr. Sandra L.

Jenny L.

Dr. Cherylin L.

Lisa M.

Julie G.

Lynette R.

Cynthia P.

Carol P.

Quenesha W.

Stephanie K.

Peter L.

Charmel S.​

Brownie T. M.

Leon J.

Susie M.​

Briana Rice 

Sheila A. 

Shatoia P.

Luz H.

Kathren Ohro

Tiffany W. 

Madoline P.

Shelia A.

Julie Gomez

Zeb W.

Brandon 

Kevin H.

Jody M.

Nelson B.

Olga B.

Anthony S.

Sara W. 

Jamel K. H.

Felicia H.

Alma J.

Sonia S.

P. Sandra 

Tony G.

Alexis 

Marlenia M.

Dr. Tomeshia W.

THE GEM CC QUEEN AMBS.

Award Categories 2025 

THE GEM COMMUNITY CENTER  

  • Faith in Action Award – Celebrating leaders whose faith guides their impactful service and dedication to others.

  • Godly Leadership Award – Honoring individuals who exemplify integrity, wisdom, and God-centered principles in their leadership.

  • Empowerment Icon Award – Honoring individuals who inspire, motivate, and uplift those around them.

  • Legacy Golden Award - Honoring excellence that creates impact for generations.

  • Pillar of the People Award – Recognizing leaders whose strength and dedication positively impact communities locally and globally.

  • Unyielding Leader Award – Celebrating leaders who remain steadfast and composed under pressure.

  • Iron Will Award – For individuals demonstrating remarkable determination and unwavering resolve.

  • Guardian of Greatness Award – Honoring those who protect, mentor, and elevate others through their leadership.

  • Apex Award – Recognizing leaders who have reached the highest levels of achievement and influence.

  • Stellar Leadership Award – For individuals whose leadership inspires excellence and fosters growth in communities.

  • Visionary Leader Award – Honoring those who innovate, imagine, and redefine what’s possible.

  • Trailblazer Award – Celebrating pioneers who boldly forge new paths in their industries or communities.

  • Luminary Award – For leaders who illuminate the way and guide others with clarity and purpose.

  • Visionary Queen Award – Honoring women whose transformative vision has a lasting impact.

  • Bridge Builder Award – Recognizing individuals who connect people, communities, and industries for meaningful collaboration.

  • Vanguard Award – Celebrating leaders at the forefront of innovation and progressive change.

  • Titan of Influence Award – For those whose leadership shapes and strengthens communities or industries.

  • Global Ambassador Award – Honoring leaders whose impact and guidance extend across international boundaries.

  • Endurance Award – Recognizing sustained commitment, resilience, and long-term contributions to their field or community.

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