Recap of Sueños 2020 and 2021
As we approach our 10th anniversary, it is clear the Sueños Benefit has become one of NYC’s most anticipated events, selling out in 2020 and drawing our largest audience in 2021. The pandemic couldn’t stop our celebration and, for the first time, it was a virtual success. Regardless of the year and circumstances, celebrities, educators and prominent philanthropists always come together to celebrate education for all and help the DREAM Project raise funds to expand our programs. These innovative education models impact more than 8,000 children and youth in 15 disadvantaged communities, helping close the cycle of poverty in the Dominican Republic. More than ever, this event is critically important, as our children and youth return to school and attempt to catch up to time lost.
Sueños 2021
1.2 million Press & Social Media Impressions 12+ Organic Social Shout Outs 1 Broadcast News Feature
Telemundo 47 and Press and Social Media Reach
Sueños 2021 kicked off with an exclusive DREAM Brugal 1888 Toast hosted by DREAM Executive Board Members. This intimate half hour was hosted by Brugal 1888, with special DREAM Boxes delivered to the door of special guests so they could participate in a virtual toast from the comfort of their home.
The main event was headlined by DREAM’s award ceremony, recognizing the DREAMer of the Year, and closed by the sounds and rhythm of The DREAM Bachata Academy. Good company, cocktails, and amazing music all came together once again for this magic night of giving back and celebrating the very best of the Dominican Republic.
2021 personalities attending the event included: Actor Taye Diggs from All American, Leslie Grace from In the Heights, American Ballet Theatre’s Misty Copeland, musician Pavel Nuñez, Living Colour's Doug Wimbish, actor Anthony Ramos from Hamilton and In the Heights, Miss DR 2015 Clarissa Molina, artist Tony Peralta, actress Katherine Castro and many others.
Sueños 2020
Kelly Day and Dagan Kasavana of Phoenix Tower International accepting the Corporate DREAMer of the Year award
Sueños red carpet kicked off the night with celebrity guest appearances and an exclusive Brugal 1888 Ambassador Cocktail and VIP networking hour. This limited networking hour was hosted by Brugal 1888 and the event’s Co-Chair’s, event planner to the stars Kathy Romero, artist Tony Peralta and philanthropist Michel Zaleski. In addition, actors Taye Diggs from All American, Food Network’s Chef Kelvin, were joined by additional celebrities, among them a group of independent Dominican women led by actress Solly Duran, Katherine Castro and CEO/Activist Miss Rizos. The Brugal 1888 pairing, alongside Chef Ricardo Cardona, added the final touches to this unique pre event cocktail.
2020’s main event was headlined by DREAM’s award ceremony recognizing their Corporate DREAMer of the Year, Phoenix Tower International, and closed with an amazing set by Dominicans Got Talent runner up, The DREAM Bachata Academy. The networking and mingling turned into a true celebration, as guests connected through conversation and dance.
2020’s Co-Chairs reflected the diverse support network of DREAM. Tony Peralta, contemporary artist and community leader, embraces DREAM’s roots “In the Heights” and the need for innovative ideas in education. Michel Zaleski, DREAM Chair and Founder, understands the bridge between passion for the island and philanthropic support. Finally, Kathy Romero, Global Entrepreneur and Celebrity Event Planner, was the essence of this year’s event, celebrating Dominican Independence and the Independent Dominican woman.
The DREAM Bachata Academy’s Emily Díaz and event Co-Host Kathy Romero present the DREAMer of the Year award to the Independent Dominican Women involved with The DREAM Project