Laughter Is the Best Medicine: Jhpiego’s Benefit Gala Lights Up Beverly Hills

On May 1st, the iconic Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills hosted Jhpiego’s annual Benefit Gala, “Laughter Is the Best Medicine,” an unforgettable evening dedicated to global health, philanthropy, and hope. Waves and Runways Editor Pamela Quinzi attended the prestigious event alongside Jessica Ross, joining leaders from entertainment, fashion, and humanitarian communities in support of a powerful cause.

The evening honored Jim Gianopulos, Chairman and CEO of Paramount Pictures, and his wife Ann, recipients of the Elyse Bila Ouedraogo Award, recognizing their extraordinary philanthropic and volunteer efforts on behalf of women and families, as well as their unwavering support of Jhpiego’s global mission to prevent the needless deaths of women and families worldwide. Jhpiego is an international healthcare nonprofit and an affiliate of Johns Hopkins University. For more than 40 years, the organization has empowered frontline health workers by designing and implementing effective, low-cost solutions to strengthen healthcare delivery for women and their families. Jhpiego works tirelessly to break down barriers to high-quality care for the world’s most vulnerable populations.

The gala dinner was co-hosted by Kent Alterman, President of Comedy Central, and Dr. Michele Brennan, blending humor and heart throughout the night. The evening featured appearances by Al Madrigal, Melina Kanakaredes, Tom Papa, Jamie Denbo, Mena Suvari, Brooke Burke, with a special guest appearance by Vin Diesel, all lending their voices to the cause. One of the most meaningful moments of the evening was the unveiling of the Women of the World Scarf — An Accessory to Health. Designed exclusively for Jhpiego by Collection 18 Art Director Rachel Rowberry, the silk scarf represents the intersection of fashion and humanitarian impact. More than a beautiful accessory, each scarf symbolizes life-saving mosquito netting that protects mothers and children around the world. Wearing designer silk has never felt this meaningful—wrapping style, compassion, and purpose into a single, elegant statement that truly saves lives.

For more information about Jhpiego and its global mission, visit www.jhpiego.org.

— Pamela Quinzi
Editor-in-Chief, Waves and Runways