Look What Nelly Is Doing To Fight Domestic Abuse with Tahirah!

By Tahirah Nyanin | October 10, 2016 | Gals On The Town

L.A. contributor Tahirah Nyanin gets forward for an amazing cause.

Face Forward, an inspirational charity giving survivors a second chance at leaving external scars and stigmas behind by providing complimentary reconstructive surgery, hosted its most important fundraising and awareness-building event of the year. The 7th annual gala was held at the Vibiana in Los Angeles, Calif., on Sept. 24. The theme for this year’s gala was ΓÇ£Havana Nights.ΓÇ¥

The night focused on celebrating survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. The powerhouse-packed event featured a stunning cocktail reception, complete with entertainment from the moment guests stepped out of their cars for the seated dinner, silent & live auctions, dancers and live musical performances. The evening featured Cuban-infused cuisine by Bravo’s Top Chef Master Neal Fraser, as well as Latin-inspired music and decor to match the Havana Nights theme.

The gala event recognized all star athlete and NBA head coach Byron Scott as one of the eveningΓÇÖs celebrity athlete honorees for his philanthropic work and his pledge to help recruit athletes to learn and spread the word about domestic violence.┬áShantal Jackson accepted an honor for being a survivor and advocate. The night was closed with a performance by certified Diamond and Grammy winning rapper Nelly. Performers, hosts and attendees included professional boxer Shane Mosley and retired NFL Player Brett Lockett.

Since its creation in 2007, Face Forward has worked with community leaders around the world to identify victims of violence who are working toward recovery yet carry the burdening physical evidence of past abuse. Face Forward does more than just provide pro bono reconstructive surgery to adults and children who have suffered traumatic and severe physical abuse; they also create a welcoming and safe environment for these survivors to start a fresh new life, and reclaim their confidence.

The organization co-founders┬áDr. David and┬áDeborah┬áAlessi both donate their time and skills 100 percent to the organization to provide Face Forward patients with the necessary surgeries and counseling services. Funds raised by the organization help with ancillary costs, travel expenses for patients including air fare, accommodations and transportation, nursing aftercare and more. Face Forward treats patients from around the world, and currently brings all patients for treatment to their office in Beverly Hills.

Deborah Alessi is a survivor of domestic abuse and a true advocate of this worthy cause.

The 7th annual Face Forward gala was sponsored by Etihad Ariways, Per Aquum Niyama. Maldives, The Alessi Institute, Roberto Cavalli and Torrey Pines Bank.