Hearts & Stars Gala 2025: Carnaval do Brasil, held on March 15, 2025, at Jungle Plaza in Miami’s Design District, was the yearly event Miami has been waiting for—and every year, it gets bigger and better. This unforgettable evening brought together over 1,200 guests for a night of philanthropy, celebration, and a deep sense of community. Hosted by Emmy Award-winning WPLG-Local 10 News Anchor Jenise Fernandez, the event welcomed people from around the world to support the Little Little Lighthouse Foundation’s (LLF) mission to make a lasting impact in the lives of underserved children and families.
A highlight of the night came when Miami-Dade County Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins presented a Proclamation declaring March 15, 2025, as Little Lighthouse Foundation Day in Miami-Dade County, officially recognizing LLF’s transformative efforts. The evening also honored Udonis Haslem, Miami Heat legend and recipient of LLF’s Shining Light Award, for his ongoing commitment to philanthropy. Renee Cascarina was celebrated as LLF’s Volunteer of the Year for her dedication to the Foundation’s mission.
Harley Lippman and Daniel Krizen, the Honorary Gala Chairs, were also recognized for their leadership and generosity in raising hundreds of thousands of dollars to support LLF’s programs. Their contributions helped make the evening a resounding success.
As the night unfolded, guests enjoyed the event with Miami’s city lights in the background. A massive Feira Tent, inspired by Brazil’s street markets, became the heart of the celebration, where people danced nonstop. The Nossa Caipirinha Lounge served handcrafted Brazilian cocktails, while DJ Pietro kept the music going.
A standout moment of the night was Ja Rule’s performance, as he took the stage and had the crowd dancing and singing along to some of his biggest hits, including Always On Time, Livin’ It Up, Mesmerize, and more. His energy was infectious, keeping the audience engaged from start to finish. Guests also enjoyed a top-shelf open bar with premium selections like Casamigos, Amber & Opal Whiskey, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Penelope Bourbon, Chinola, Askur Gin, Lagoon Bay, The Tank Brewing Co, Tita Italia wines & sparkling selections, along with LaCroix and Icelandic water. They were treated to a curated culinary experience from South Florida’s top restaurants, including Red the Steakhouse, STK Steakhouse, Paperfish, Pubbelly Sushi, Andrés Carne de Res, Dolce Mio, Casa Maltida, Joey’s Wynwood Cafe, Sagrado, Oakberry Acai, Delicious Catering, and B&B Cappuccino. VIP guests indulged in luxurious Calvisius Caviar, adding an extra touch of exclusivity to the event.
As if the night couldn’t get any more exciting, guests had the chance to win over $55,000 worth of exclusive raffle prizes, including experiences with the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Sexy Fish, Miami Open, and more.
Produced by Live it Productions International, the same company behind major global events like the 2012 London Olympics and the ESPYs, the Hearts & Stars Gala 2025 demonstrated the power of community and the impact of giving back.
More than just a celebration, this year’s Gala proved that the Hearts & Stars event is truly a big family affair, where people from all walks of life come together to have a good time and make a meaningful difference. As the event celebrates its 15th anniversary, it is clear that the Hearts & Stars Gala will remain a cornerstone of Miami’s philanthropic landscape for years to come.
To learn more about LLF and how you can get involved, visit www.thelittlelighthouse.org.
About The Little Lighthouse Foundation: Founded in 2010, The Little Lighthouse Foundation (“LLF”) is a registered 501(c)(3), nonprofit organization, that assists underserved children and their families throughout South Florida. LLF has over 20 proprietary programs with 33 partner facilities, including, but not limited to, homeless shelters, hospitals, and youth centers. LLF’s programs include Adopt a Meal at Ronald McDonald House, Activity Hour, Story Hour and Move & Groove at Chapman Partnership, Craft Night and Beauty All Around at Lotus House, and more! LLF also holds annual Specialty Programs which serve hundreds of children and families at a time and bring together hundreds of volunteers. These include LLF’s Back to School, Children’s Halloween Party, and Holiday Toy Distribution, among others. Most recently, LLF received the Jan Pfeiffer Distinguished Service Award at the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce 97th Annual Gala as well as the Key to the City from the City of Miami Beach for its volunteer efforts. To learn how you can #DoGoodFeelGood with LLF, visit www.TheLittleLighthouse.org or follow LLF on Instagram @LLFoundation