Lighting the Way: UniAction’s First Lantern Ball Brings Community Together for a Cause

Montreal, June 10, 2017 — In a dazzling celebration of culture, compassion, and community, UniAction hosted its inaugural Lantern Ball on June 10, 2017 at the Challenger Reception Room in Ville Saint-Laurent, marking a milestone in its commitment to cultural diplomacy and social engagement. The elegant evening brought together guests from diverse backgrounds to celebrate unity, share stories, and raise awareness for UniAction’s growing mission.

To support UniAction’s educational and humanitarian projects, a silent auction was held featuring locally donated art, cultural items, and services. In a heartfelt gesture of unity, guests also purchased paper lanterns, with proceeds going toward UniAction’s initiatives.

Among those in attendance were leaders from business, philanthropic, and government sectors, as well as longtime supporters and new allies of UniAction’s cause. The Lantern Ball served not only as a fundraiser, but as a space for networking, cultural exchange, and community building.

"The Lantern Ball is more than a celebration—it is a gathering of hearts committed to a shared vision of empathy, connection, and global solidarity," said Thi Be Nguyen, Founder of UniAction. "It is a night to remember the past, embrace the present, and light a brighter path for future generations."

The success of the first Lantern Ball laid the foundation for an annual tradition that continues to shine a light on important causes while fostering mutual understanding across cultures. With gratitude to its sponsor, the National Bank of Canada, volunteers, and participants, UniAction reaffirmed its mission to bridge communities through meaningful action and heartfelt dialogue.

As lanterns light up the night, they carried with them the hopes of a community united in action, ready to build a more compassionate world.