Who We Are

“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.”
— Desmond Tutu

Our Vision

We envision a world where all people—regardless of background or circumstance—have access to the healthcare, education, resources, and opportunities needed to realize their highest potential.

Our Mission

The mission of The Gatsby Showcase Foundation is to empower historically marginalized communities to achieve economic independence through education, business development tools, a supportive network, and access to quality healthcare.

We are committed to addressing systemic inequities in healthcare access, education, and economic opportunity. Through inclusive, community-centered initiatives, we promote equity, dignity, and well-being—ensuring that individuals and families can thrive locally and globally.

Our Approach

The Gatsby Showcase Foundation takes a holistic, equity-driven approach to empowerment. We recognize that individuals and communities face distinct challenges shaped by social, economic, and cultural factors. Our programs are designed to be responsive, culturally informed, and scalable.

Through strategic partnerships, community-led programming, and accountability-focused implementation, we build ecosystems of support that advance economic mobility, health equity, and long-term resilience—aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Our History

The Gatsby Showcase Foundation was born out of purpose and possibility.

Our journey began with the inaugural Gatsby Showcase Gala in 2021, where we recognized a critical opportunity to leverage the platform, influence, and networks present in the room to address systemic inequities affecting vulnerable communities. While the gala celebrated fashion, culture, and excellence, it also illuminated the need for sustained impact beyond a single evening.

In response, The Gatsby Showcase Foundation was established to transform awareness into action mobilizing resources, partnerships, and programs that drive measurable social change.

In 2022, the Foundation introduced The Laura Fote Award, honoring emerging entrepreneurs who demonstrate exceptional vision, leadership, and resilience while creating meaningful social and economic impact. The award reflects our belief that innovation and perseverance are powerful forces for change.

Our Values

We Value Everyone
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central to who we are. We operate with compassion, integrity, and respect, honoring the dignity and lived experiences of the communities we serve.

We Are Committed
We are dedicated to empowering historically disadvantaged groups through education, mentorship, grants, and business development support creating pathways to sustainable economic independence.

We Are Impact-Driven
Our work is bold, collaborative, and intentional. We pursue solutions rooted in social justice and accountability, focused on expanding access to opportunity and improving outcomes for communities of color, women, youth, and other historically marginalized populations.

Our Global Alignment

The Gatsby Showcase Foundation aligns its mission and programs with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, advancing inclusive, community-led solutions that bridge local impact with global priorities.

Our work directly supports:

• SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being

• SDG 4 – Quality Education

• SDG 5 – Gender Equality

• SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth

• SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities

• SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals

This alignment ensures our initiatives are measurable, scalable, and positioned for collaboration with global institutions, governments, and impact-driven partners.