This Venice Film Festival, TOP CHARITY brings its philanthropic gala to the Hotel Cipriani for the first time. Founded by Omenaa Mensah and Rafał Brzoska, the initiative closes its fifth-anniversary season on the lagoon with Ethiopia, the legend of the Queen of Sheba, an international guest list and a black-tie dinner bringing African and Venetian culture together.
And TOP CHARITY comes to Venice after a record-breaking night in Warsaw. Last May, guests raised approximately €10 million in just 90 minutes through art and experience auctions. Rafał Brzoska matched the result with his own funds, bringing the evening to around €20 million. Since its launch in 2022, TOP CHARITY has raised approximately €55 million across five editions.
Two Days Inside the TOP CHARITY Venice Experience
In Warsaw, The Magic Kingdom of Asante brought the royal culture of Ghana into the Gala, connecting the evening with Omenaa Mensah's Ghanaian heritage. In Venice, TOP CHARITY turns its attention to Ethiopia. The legend of the Queen of Sheba shapes the artistic direction, and members of the Ethiopian Royal Family will join the guest list. Even the dress code follows the story: black tie with Ethiopian vibes.
The programme begins on September 9 with a cocktail at the Dolce & Gabbana boutique in Venice. The following morning, guests return to the boutique for a special Dolce & Gabbana breakfast before moving into TOP CHARITY's business programme, bringing together its international community of entrepreneurs, partners and guests.
By evening, everyone heads to Hotel Cipriani for the main event. A fine dining dinner opens the night, followed by an artistic programme bringing African and Venetian culture together. HATT et SÖNER, partner and co-organizer of the Venice edition, creates the Champagne experience, while the TOP CHARITY Auction returns with art and experiences at its center.
The programme also reaches into Venice itself. Guests receive access to selected experiences connected with Biennale Arte, Homo Faber and the Venice Film Festival, placing the two days between fashion, contemporary art, cinema and philanthropy.
