What a wonderful thing it is to see people come together for a phenomenal cause. Celebrities, philanthropists, activists, and youth leaders showed their support at the 16th Annual Thirst Gala, which took place on June 28 at the SLS Beverly Hills Hotel in Los Angeles, California. Comedian Andrea Savage hosted the remarkable event, which highlighted the incredible work the Thirst Project has done and continues to do. This inspiring organization has raised over $13 million, served more than 655,000 people, and made a difference in 13 countries with over 3,500 projects.
This year’s event raised over $260,000 to increase awareness and further the Thirst Project’s initiatives to provide safe drinking water to communities around the world.
Highlights from the 2025 Thirst Gala
This year’s marvelous event featured many spectacular highlights. The Green brothers, renowned author and humanitarian John Green and science communicator and author Hank Green, received the Cameron Boyce Pioneering Spirit Award. The Thirst Project recognized them for their exceptional efforts to support the organization, including their Project for Awesome initiative, which has raised over $200,000 to date.
Actors Ansel Elgort and Nat Wolff, who have worked with John Green on outstanding film projects, took the stage along with Libby and Maya Boyce to honor John and Hank Green.
Other terrific highlights included a video message from Sibusiso “Sibu” Mazibuko, the Thirst Project’s country director in eSwatini. Mazibuko shared an update with guests about a fully funded water project that last year’s gala donations made possible, showcasing how supporting the Thirst Project brings game-changing projects to life and saves lives.
Thirst Project Founder and CEO Seth Maxwell, the visionary behind this groundbreaking organization, delivered a touching speech that emphasized the power of community.
Loren Lott delivered a stellar performance of “Never Enough,” which earned her a standing ovation from guests.
Other excellent celebrities showed their support and attended the event including Abby Lee Miller, Roshon Fegan, Mike Manning, and many others.
The Power of Youth to Move the Thirst Project’s Initiatives Forward
The Thirst Project stands out because it empowers young people to drive change. TV personality Tom Sandoval presented the Power of Youth Award to this year’s recipient, Lila Mokhtari. In a post on Instagram, the Thirst Project wrote, “From founding her own impact-driven business to leading her school’s Thirst Project club with heart and vision, Lila is showing the world what it means to turn passion into action. Her words remind us that young people aren’t just the future, they’re the leaders of right now!”
The Thirst Project’s Moving Work
The Thirst Project continues to make a positive difference in the lives of so many. Water is a crucial resource—not just for drinking and hygiene but for countless reasons, including effectively treating and managing AIDS. The Thirst Project offers many ways for people to support its mission. To learn more about how you can get involved, visit here.
Check out more photos below from the 2025 Thirst Gala!
Photo Credits: Gonzalo Marroquin / Getty Images for Thirst Project
