(Photos) NBA’s Dikembe Mutombo Honored at UNICEF Gala ATLANTA

Yesterday, NBA Legend Dikembe Mutombo was honored with the Global Humanitarian Award at the fourth annual UNICEF Gala Atlanta. The Southeast Regional Office of UNICEF USA hosted the special event to recognize individuals for their work to put children first.

“Taking time out of your busy schedule, going out to change somebody’s life and make a difference, you will really appreciate it. Thank you, UNICEF, for everything you’ve done.” –Dikembe Mutombo 

The event.. emceed by CNN’s George Howell and chaired by Dr. Tasneem Bhatia, Z. Ileana Martinez and Brannigan Thompson, celebrated UNICEF’s lifesaving work and honored Dikembe & Rose Mutombo along with Michele & Patrick Boushka who received the Global Philanthropist Award.

Over the course of the evening, guests enjoyed remarks from featured speaker Mark Haidar, UNICEF USA Great Plains Regional Board Member and CEO of Vinli. The night also included a seated dinner with a menu design from Chef Philippe Haddad of Cape Dutch Restaurant.

More than 350 guests attended the gala raising more than $878,000, which will further support UNICEF’s lifesaving work for children around the world.   Notable attendees included Ted Turner; Dr. Sanjay and Rebecca Gupta; Jim Barber, UPS International President; and designer Vern Yip.

Last year, I had the opportunity to photograph this special event with Lawrence Fishburn!  Certainly hate I couldn’t’ attend.  Take a look at some the event photos from 2018! Marcus Ingram/Getty Images for UNICEF

UNICEF Gala Atlanta

Dikembe Mutombo and wife Rose