Legacy, Influence, And A Very Big Night
There are evenings that merely punctuate the social calendar - and then there are those rare nights that quietly recalibrate it. The second Annual Gala of The Monegasque™, held on December 3 at the Yacht Club de Monaco, belonged decisively to the latter.
Set against the maritime modernism of Lord Foster’s architectural masterpiece, the black-tie gala unfolded as a statement of intent. Royals, dignitaries, captains of industry, and leading figures from fashion, art, and finance gathered with a shared understanding: The Monegasque™ has arrived - and it is here to stay.
What made this moment particularly resonant is the speed of our journey. In less than two years, The Monegasque™ has become Monaco’s definitive international voice. Since our inaugural issue in December 2023, we have expanded into Parisian distribution, where editions have already sold out - proof that discerning readers recognize authenticity and rigor when they see it.
The evening delivered standout moments that will be remembered for years. Most electrifying was the performance of Jermaine Jackson, a longtime friend and living legend, who returned to the stage after a long absence, performing one of his iconic hits, Do What You Do. The room rose instinctively, aware that it was witnessing a rare, historic return.
Jermaine Jackson also made a remarkable announcement: the Jackson family is creating a Jackson Family Legacy Museum, a cultural institution to honor their musical history and global impact. I was deeply touched to be invited to serve as an advisor on this project, a responsibility I humbly accept with respect for the legacy it will preserve.
Shortly thereafter, I had the honor of unveiling the cover of our next issue together with Louis Ducruet, President of Les Barbagiuans de Monaco, the Principality’s charitable football team. Ducruet represents a modern Monaco: rooted in tradition, yet engaged in sport, philanthropy, and civic life.
The gala embodied the philosophy upon which The Monegasque™ was founded: to serve as a bridge between tradition and modernity, discretion and visibility, Monaco and the world. And looking across the room - at royalty conversing with creatives, at friends both old and new, and at generations intersecting with ease - I felt profound gratitude and responsibility. Gratitude for the trust placed in a still-young publication. Responsibility to honor that trust with integrity, editorial rigor, and ambition.
The Second Annual Gala was not a culmination. It was a declaration. The Monegasque™ is no longer emerging - it is established, international, and confidently shaping its own narrative. And in Monaco, that is perhaps the highest distinction of all.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of The Monegasque™.
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