Fondation Inalco in Hong Kong for the Fondation de France Asia's second "A Night for Philanthropy" event

22 July 2025

Foundation

On May 7, 2025, La Fondation de France Asia successfully celebrated the second edition of its iconic "A Night for Philanthropy" event at the Henderson in Hong Kong. Over 200 guests, institutions, companies, philanthropists and cultural players, gathered to celebrate the strength of Franco-Asian collaboration in the fields of culture and education.
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Personalities united around a shared goal

The evening began with words of welcome from Julien-Loïc Garin, Executive Director of Fondation de France Asia. The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the Hong Kong SAR, Christopher Hui, then emphasized the importance of Hong Kong as a global hub for philanthropy and the vital role of cross-border partnerships.

Axelle Davezac, Executive Director of the Fondation de France, emphasized the international commitment of the foundation, founded over 50 years ago, to strengthening cultural and educational ties between France and Asia, relying on its Hong Kong-based partners and ambassadors.

She was flanked on stage by Benjamin Hubin (Deputy Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau), Dr. Andrew Yuen (Ambassador of Fondation de France Asia), Philippe Advani (President of Fondation Inalco), Marie Lavandier (President of Centre des Monuments Nationaux), Laurent Martinet (President of Fondation Chaillot) and renowned cellist Gautier Capuçon, founder of his own foundation.

The advisory board, made up of the likes of Ruth Shapiro, Eva Yu, Hervé Guinebert, and Nicolas Vanderchmitt, also took part in an official photo with Axelle Davezac and Christopher Hui.

Focus on five cross-border philanthropy projects

During the evening, the audience was invited to a warm moment of exchange hosted by Peter Cheung. Among the initiatives presented, the Fondation Inalco was able to share its mission: to radiate the richness of Asian languages and civilizations. Through its programs and partnerships, it enables a wide audience to discover often little-known cultures, strengthen intercultural exchanges and nurture the intellectual curiosity of new generations.

Alongside other inspiring projects, such as the mentoring of young musical talent by the Fondation Gautier Capuçon, the promotion of contemporary dance by the Fondation Chaillot or the enhancement of French heritage by the Centre des Monuments Nationaux, the Fondation Inalco perfectly illustrates the commitment of Fondation de France Asia : supporting education, culture, innovation and preserving heritage beyond borders.

Artistic performance and fundraising

The evening featured an exceptional performance by cellist Gautier Capuçon, accompanied on piano by Victor Yuanhan Lu, a laureate of his foundation. An artistic performance that highlighted the role of mentoring and transmission in the cultural field.

Thanks to the generosity of the participants and their partners, significant funds were raised to support these far-reaching initiatives.

 

A Franco-Asian dynamic serving the common good

 

The Inalco Foundation was honored to participate in this evening alongside major players in the cultural world. This serves as a reminder of its role in promoting intercultural dialogue, support for research, and the dissemination of the world's languages and civilizations. Participating in this Franco-Asian cooperation dynamic alongside prestigious institutions confirms its desire to act at the intersection of education, culture and innovation, in the service of the common good.

"A Night for Philanthropy" in Hong Kong "A Night for Philanthropy" in Hong Kong "A Night for Philanthropy"
"A Night for Philanthropy" in Hong Kong © Fondation de France Asia / "A Night for Philanthropy" in Hong Kong © Fondation de France Asia / "A Night for Philanthropy" © Fondation de France Asia‎