2024 UC Alumni UK Charity Gala
The evening commenced with a sparkling reception, which set the tone for what would be an unforgettable evening, filled with warmth, comradery, and a shared commitment to supporting the next generation of University of California students. Guests had the opportunity to bid on silent auction prizes and purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win highly coveted prizes and one-of-a-kind experiences.
As guests took their seats for the three-course dinner, the atmosphere was both festive and purposeful. UCLA, UC San Diego, UC Irvine, and UC Santa Cruz purchased tables for in which they could invite the alumni of their choice. Delegates from those campus travelled to London from several countries to attend this celebratory evening, including senior staff who travelled from California.
One of the evening's highlights was the inspiring speeches delivered by the event's keynote speakers. Daniel Mouen Makoua (Berkeley 86), an esteemed alumnus, captivated the audience with his personal journey and reflections on the importance of being a global citizen. His words resonated deeply, reminding everyone of the transformative power of international education.
Following Daniel, Nicole Calbreath (Davis '25), a current UC student and study abroad scholarship recipient, shared her experiences studying abroad in Barcelona. Nicole's heartfelt speech provided a tangible example of the difference that donor contributions make in the lives of students.
The evening also provided an opportunity for guests to make direct contributions to the University of California. Many attendees generously made gifts to support study abroad programs at their home UC campuses. The presence of current study abroad students and scholarship recipients added a personal touch, as donors could see firsthand the impact of their support.
The 7th Annual UC Alumni UK Charity Gala achieved its goals of raising significant funds to support the University of California's mission of providing world-class education and opportunities to its students.
The Gala was a testament to the strength and generosity of the UC community in the UK and Europe. The event successfully brought together alumni and supporters, reaffirming their commitment to the future of the University of California and its students. The funds raised will make a lasting difference in the lives of many, ensuring that the tradition of excellence at UC continues for generations to come.
About Our Speakers
Keynote Address: Daniel Mouen Makoua, UC Berkeley
Daniel is one of the Co-Founders of Zulu Ecosystems where he leads the firm’s Product Innovation, Strategic Partnerships and US Corporate Development.
Zulu Ecosystems is an award-winning climate technology business based in London that combines science, software, and finance to provide an end-to-end solution to deliver to all stakeholders, restored forest ecosystems that generate high-integrity carbon credits, with enhanced biodiversity, social co-benefits, and financial returns.
Daniel began his career in quantitative finance; he held the positions of Chief Investment Officer and Chief Operating Officer at AXA Investment Managers in London.
Prior to founding ZE, Daniel was advisor to Multi-Lateral Agencies, Corporates and Governments on Rural Development, Financial Services, and Energy in West Africa.
Daniel received an MEng degree from the University of California at Berkeley and from the Ecole Nationale des Ponts et Chaussées in Paris. In 2012, he was awarded “Alumnus of the Year” of International House at the University of California Berkeley for his efforts at addressing issues of food security and unemployment in Northern Nigeria.
Student Speaker: Nicole Calbreth, UC Davis
Nicole grew up in San Bernardino County, raised by a family of educators who instilled the importance of all forms of learning in her from a very young age. Coming from Southern California, learning Spanish was always something she prioritized. Studying abroad in college became a priority the moment her mother, a high school Spanish teacher, shared stories of her year in Spain with UCEAP.
Once getting accepted into UC Davis, she immediately scheduled an appointment with the Global Learning Center to find out how to make a year abroad happen. After two years of double majoring in History and Sociology at Davis, summer school courses, and the help of a Global Learning scholarship, going to Barcelona for a year became a reality.
About the UC Alumni UK Charity Gala Committee
An event developed by the UC Alumni UK Board, the Charity Gala is coordinated by a committee of dedicated alumni volunteers, with support from the University of California Trust.
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Questions? Please contact alumni@californiahouse.org.uk
Past Silent Auction and Raffle Prizes
- A 3-night stay in the beautiful Gracia neighbourhood in Barcelona
- A 2-night stay with breakfast at the picturesque Hotel & Winery Señorio de Nevada in Granada, plus a visit for two to The Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- 3x virtual 1:1 Executive Coaching Sessions by Aspire Coaching
- iUVO Skincare Baskets filled with luxury vegan cosmetics and beauty treatments
- A private tour of the world-renowned Christies Auction House
- A one-year subscription to the Financial Times
- A TP-Link Deco Whole Home Mesh WiFi 6 System, courtesy of Day 1 Connectivity
- A place on Christie's five-day summer course, "An Essential Guide to the Art World and Collecting"
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| Dinner for two at Mestizo Restaurant in London with a premium bottle of tequila. | Two tickets for the Dare Sky Walk at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and a signed 2023/24 pennant |
- Vouchers for Ugg, Hoka, and Teva footwear
- Two-night stay at the Hôtel Bedford in the heart of Paris
- One-night stay in Glasgow at The Social Hub Hotel
- Two tickets to a Premier League match of your choice
- Free course in communications marketing and/or public relations from the London School of Public Relations
- Selection of Vegan Iced Tea Lattes from HumaniTea
- A complimentary yoga class with Richard Knight of Yogarise
- Voucher for the Michelin Starred Restaurant Rossoblu in Los Angeles
- ... and more!