Connie Nielsen Leads Human Needs Project 10th Anniversary Fundraiser

On October 2, the Human Needs Project (HNP) used the occasion of its 10th anniversary to spotlight some of the world’s most marginalized people. The “Voices of Kibera” event raised awareness of the needs of the residents of Kibera, a large and impoverished neighborhood in Nairobi, Kenya, which constitutes the largest urban slum on the African continent. 

Actress Connie Nielsen, an HNP founder, acted as host for the evening, welcoming guests to the beautiful Fort Mason event space overlooking the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge. The opening cocktail reception was followed by an elegant seated dinner and silent auction. Among the fabulous packages up for auction were two tickets to the world premier of the upcoming film Gladiator, co-starring Nielsen. Included in that package–which sold for $40,000–is entrance to the VIP after party and the chance to mingle with all the film’s stars, including Denzel Washington, Paul Mescal and Pedro Pascal. 

Area notables among the guests that night included hosts Nielsen and David Warner, Katie and Todd Traina, Judge Ann Claire Williams and Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation. Emcee Betty Yu ushered guests through a program honoring the voices of Kibera and the progress its residents have made alongside NHP. The audience also enjoyed an inspiring performance by Kibera musical artist Daniel Futwax, HNP’s music producer and scholarship recipient. HNP offers a wide array of services to the Kibera community, including sanitation, green energy, scholarships and more. Funds raised at the 10th anniversary gala will benefit these essential programs.