King’s Trust Global Ambassadors Lionel Richie and Edward Enninful OBE hosted The King's Trust's fourth annual Global Gala at the iconic Casa Cipriani in New York City to raise funds in support of the global youth charity established by His Majesty King Charles III in 1976.

This year, the King’s Trust celebrates a decade of global impact since expanding its work beyond the UK. Now operating in over 20 countries, including the United States, the charity has helped more than one million young people access opportunities in education, employment, and entrepreneurship.

Guests at the Global Gala enjoyed a stunning performance by the Young People’s Chorus of New York City, which shared a heartfelt message of unity and hope. Grammy Award winner Nile Rodgers also treated guests to a special performance of hits including Le Freak and Good Times.

Young people supported by the Trust also took to the stage to share their personal experiences of taking part in King’s Trust programs. Darnell from the UK, an alumnus of the Trust’s ‘Make It In Media’ program and host of the red carpet on the night, shared how the King’s Trust supported him to overcome personal challenges and launch his dream career in production.

The Trust launched its first programs in the USA in 2023 and currently works in New York, Detroit, Chicago, San Jose, and Orlando to support young people in the development of their entrepreneurial spirit and business knowledge.

Lionel Richie, Global Gala Co-Chair and Chairman of the King’s Trust Global Ambassador Group said, “Supporting young people has always been close to my heart, and for decades The King’s Trust has inspired the next generation. I’ve been able to witness firsthand programs like the Enterprise Challenge that the Trust has pioneered, this year expanding with job fairs and grants that give young people the confidence, skills, and opportunities they deserve to shape a better future. It’s powerful to watch and gives me a lot of hope for the work that still must be done."

Edward Enninful OBE, King’s Trust Global Ambassador added, “I am so inspired by the King’s Trust’s dedication to building a more inclusive and empowered future for young people around the world. It is because of events like this one that we are able to raise awareness and vital funds that help to power life-changing programs which encourage purpose and possibility. I am incredibly proud to be playing a part in the incredible work the Trust do.”

Charlotte Tilbury MBE, King’s Trust Ambassador for Enterprise said, “As the King’s Trust Ambassador for Enterprise, I am honoured to support the charity in its incredible work to encourage, empower and enable young people everywhere to unlock the magic of confidence. For nearly 50 years, the King’s Trust – founded and led by His Majesty King Charles – has worked with over a million young people to unlock confidence and create opportunity. I am so proud to play my part in helping young people around the world feel inspired and empowered to change their lives. My message to all young people is that if you feel confident, you can live a life without limits and pursue your biggest and boldest dreams.”

Jeremy Green, Chair of King’s Trust USA said, “We are delighted to host our fourth Global Gala, allowing us to raise crucial funds for programmes in the US and around the world. Our employment, education, and enterprise programmes support underserved young people to develop the skills they need to build sustainable futures. These programmes have supported communities across Detroit, Chicago, New York, San Joseand Orlando in 2025, and we hope that we can continue expanding these to reach those that need it most.”

Image credit: Neil Rasmus/BFA, Darian DiCianno/BFA