Starry Starry Night Gala is an electrifying evening in Palm Desert, CA, fueling cancer research funding at UC San Diego.
Written by Karen Hall, Emotional Intelligence Leadership Coach, Speaker, Bestselling Author
Palm Beach, CA—Step into a dazzling world where generosity meets groundbreaking impact at Starry Starry Night, a high-energy, purpose-driven gala hosted by renowned journalist, documentary filmmaker, and producer Daphne Barak, alongside Beverly Hills mayor and international affairs expert Erbil Gunasti.
This spectacular event, held March 2, 2025, in Palm Desert, CA, at the Chaparral Country Club, promises an electrifying evening filled with star-studded performances, luxury experiences, and a powerful mission to fund cancer breakthroughs.
A Show-Stopping Lineup of World-Class Entertainment
Headlining the night is Christopher Macchio, the internationally acclaimed “America’s Presidential Tenor”, whose breathtaking performances at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the U.S. presidential inauguration have captivated millions. His commanding voice will fill the evening with emotion and triumph, setting the perfect tone for this powerful event.
Christopher Macchio
The excitement continues with an innovative performance by hip-hop icon Eric B of Eric B & Rakim, ensuring an unforgettable fusion of artistry and impact. Adding to the star-studded experience, Patrick Evans of KESQ News Channel 3 will guide the evening with charisma and passion, leading guests through an exhilarating program filled with celebratory moments and high-energy engagement.
Guests will indulge in cocktails, a gourmet dining experience, and a live auction, featuring exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, including an intimate lunch with Hollywood icon Joan Collins and her husband, Percy Gibson.
None of this would be possible without media partners, Moe Rock and The Los Angeles Tribune; partners Ashkan Tabibnia and 90210 Enterprise, as well as numerous sponsors who are all committed to making a lasting impact.
Daphne Barak and Erbil Gunasti, attending amFAR gala dinner, Milan, Italy.
A Personal Mission of Hope and Healing with a Husband and Wife Dynamic Duo
For Daphne Barak, as a breast cancer survivor, this event is deeply personal. “My mother died of breast cancer and I know firsthand the power of early detection and innovative research.”
Urged by her close friend, Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, Daphne took action and underwent a life-saving screening. Now, she’s sharing her experience as a force for change, rallying the community to amplify awareness, accelerate research, and fund solutions that save lives.
“I’ve had the privilege of interviewing some of the most influential figures in the world, from world leaders to Hollywood icons,” says Daphne Barak. “But my greatest story is this one—the story of resilience, early detection, and hope. Starry Starry Night isn’t just another gala—it’s a mission to transform lives.”
Her husband and co-host, Erbil Gunasti, a distinguished film and television producer, geopolitical expert, and former press officer for eight Turkish prime ministers, adds, “We have seen firsthand how research and early detection can rewrite destinies. This event is about rallying together, fueling discoveries, and ensuring UC San Diego’s Moores Cancer Center continues pioneering life-saving breakthroughs.”
Daphne Barak and Erbil Gunasti
Ashkan Tabibnia: A Visionary Leader Driving Impact
A key partner supporting Starry Starry Night is Ashkan Tabibnia, a renowned entrepreneur, investor, and strategic connector. With decades of business expertise, Ashkan has founded and led multiple successful ventures spanning real estate, finance, media, and philanthropy.
As the CEO of 90210 Enterprise, a global private business network, Ashkan is dedicated to empowering visionaries, driving meaningful change, and creating lasting legacies. He is also the Synergetic Architect behind the Advisory Legacy Council, where he deeply values individuals and strengthens relationships.
Ashkan Tabibnia
“Supporting cancer research is a moral imperative. It is deeply personal to me because my saintly mother was a breast cancer survivor,” says Ashkan Tabibnia. “Early detection saved my mother and Daphne’s lives, and through this event, we are ensuring that countless others get the same chance. This is about making sure that innovation, research, and life-saving solutions reach those who need them most.”
Ashkan continues, “Every one of us has been touched by cancer in some way. Daphne’s courage and determination inspire us all. It’s time to take action, invest in the future of healthcare, and stand together with my dear friend Daphne in the fight against this disease. Starry Starry Night is a celebration of resilience, a commitment to progress, and a night to remember.”
Sponsoring Partners
Among the sponsors committed to making significant effects through innovation, business, and philanthropy is Game Changer Events (GCES), an organization dedicated to propelling impactful health initiatives. This year’s gala will directly fund pioneering medical research and early detection programs at UCSD’s Moores Cancer Center, one of the nation’s leading cancer research institutions.
“Our mission is clear,” says Daphne Barak. “We are here to disrupt complacency, ignite change, and mobilize support for game-changing research. This isn’t just about funding—it’s about fueling hope and saving lives.”
In addition, Game Changer Events also supports funding to support mental health, battle the opioid crisis, increase education and awareness of autism, and advance vaccine research.
How You Can Take Action
Don’t miss your opportunity to make an impact, spark change, and be part of something extraordinary. Secure your place today:
- General Admission Ticket: $1,000 – Enjoy cocktails, a lavish dinner, and live entertainment.
- Table Sponsorships: Starting at $10,000 – Gain premium seating and brand visibility.
- VIP Packages: Various packages up to $100,000 – Walk the red carpet, mingle with celebrities, enjoy exclusive receptions, and claim top-tier recognition.
💫 Special Offer: Mention KESQ when calling 442-484-2560 to receive $250 off your tickets and be entered into a drawing to receive a free pair of tickets.
🌟 Act Now—Reserve Your Spot Today!
🌟 Visit gamechangerevents.org to purchase tickets and become part of a movement where passion meets purpose, where generosity fuels life-saving research, and where we take a stand for those battling breast cancer.
About the Los Angeles Tribune
The Los Angeles Tribune is committed to delivering impactful journalism that informs, inspires, and engages our diverse readership. Through our coverage of significant events and stories that matter, we aim to foster a more informed and connected community.
Karen Hall is an international speaker, Emotional Intelligence Leadership Coach, international bestselling author, Executive Producer and Managing Director of The Los Angeles Tribune Women’s Journal and Spanish Journal. In the top 2.5% globally, Karen is the host of The Hero Within Podcast, Unstoppable AF – AND FUNNY! Podcast, The Empathy Advantage™ Podcast, and The AI Advantage Podcast. Karen is the CEO of Momentum Media PR company and empowers leaders to use empathy and emotional intelligence to build trust and increase resilience.
Media Contact Information
Karen Hall
karenhallcoaching@gmail.com
Moe Rock
CEO, Los Angeles Tribune
moerock@tribunela.com
