The 6th annual Skoun gala dinner hosted within the historical splendor of the Sursock Palace was another tremendous success, as hundreds of well-heeled guests took part in the colorful festivities organized to support Skoun’s non-profit work to raise addiction awareness and provide comprehensive treatment services to individuals and families in Lebanon. 

The world-renowned jewelry house, Tabbah, who this year are celebrating 150 years of jewelry-making craftsmanship, added touch of golden glamour to the evening by pledging to be the event’s Gold Sponsor. 

Tabbah make exquisite pieces of bespoke and ready-to-wear jewelry for patrons and fans who include the royal families of Europe and the Middle East. In 2011 they crafted a unique cascading necklace of gold, diamonds and pearls worn by Her Serene Highness Princess Charlene of Monaco at her wedding to Prince Albert, son of Grace Kelly.

 “We are so happy to see that Skoun and its activities are gaining so much support from the community. Especially as we are working to extend our reach,” said Sarah Trad, Skoun Board President and Co-founder. “Every year, we are positively amazed by the commitment of those who regularly attend this event to help us continue achieving our goals. Your generous support has been crucial to our success, and we thank all of you here tonight for your continued belief in our cause”, she added.

To further sweep everyone off their feet, international design talent Najla El Zein set an enchanting mood of style with a bold and vivid décor scheme ideal for an up-tempo yet luxurious Latin-themed evening. Cynthia Sarkis Luxury Limited Edition SA wowed guests yet again with a spectacular entertainment set, inviting the band Latino22 to set the rhythm for dancing late into the night. The gala dinner this year celebrated Skoun’s achievements with optimism for the year ahead. In 2011, Skoun welcomed 123 new patients, delivered treatment to 214 individuals, and presented awareness sessions and interactive workshops in 12 more schools to reach a total of more than 3246 students in the 2011-2012 academic year.

“Last year at this time we announced our objective to open a new center in Chiyah. Today we proudly announce that this center is now open, with the help of the Drosos Foundation,” said Nadya Mikdashi, Skoun Executive Director and Co-founder. “It is tonight that we are celebrating this achievement, along with the remarkable difference that we have been able to make in the lives of the many people who benefit from Skoun’s extensive activities. Through our treatment services, and awareness and education programs, we are improving the lives of many”. 

Special Thanks:

Skoun would like to thank its generous sponsors for making this event possible by highlighting their meaningful contributions to this worthy cause.

Gold sponsor: Tabbah

Silver sponsors: BankMed, Booz & Co, Transmed, Fiat, Dar al Handasa, Magrabi Optical, Fondation Ousseimi Bronze sponsors: Solidere, Bank Audi, Crédit Agricole, Jammal Trust Bank, Loft Investments, Fransabank, BLC Bank

Contributors: Cat & Mouth, Fattal, Cynthia Sarkis Luxury Limited Edition SA, Print Works, Najla el Zein, Stree, Dar el Founoun, Sursock Palace Gardens, Park Towers Suites, Kubik Design, Wide Angle, Mirros Communication & Media Services, Diffa, Dj Caline Chidiac, Sky Beirut photography (Georges Abdallah).