IN THE NEWS

ROTA ANNOUNCES 3rd GALA DINNER AND AUCTION

Reach Out To Asia (ROTA) announced today that its 3rd Gala Dinner will take place on the 31st of October 2009 at the Museum of Islamic Art, Doha-Qatar. The event will be held under the auspices of The Emir of the State of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. His Highness the Emir and his consort Her Highness Sheikha Mozah bint Nasser Al Missned will grace the occasion with their presence. The Gala Dinner will be followed by an extraordinary auction in support of ROTA's work.

ROTA Board Member Sheikha Aisha bint Faleh Al Thani said "This event is a reflection of ROTA's unwavering commitment to a world in which all young people have been given the opportunity to realize their full potential. That is the world we envision and that is the world this event seeks to support." On the other hand Mr. Rashid Al Naeimi, ROTA Board Member added "In the true tradition of Reach Out To Asia, this Gala Dinner goes beyond, being a stand alone event. The entire evening will be symbolic of our positive and proactive approach and an expression, of ROTA's on going involvement, across the Asian continent."
Mr. Al Naimi offered a glimpse into the evening by highlighting that the evening will bring together some of the world's best known faces and highly esteemed brands and introduce them to the potential of thousands of crisis affected children and youth all across Asia including the Middle East.

The auction will be directed by Sotheby's. The items said to go under the hammer, include a unique selection of jewellery sepecially inspired by H.H Sheikha Mozah bint Nasser Al Missnad, paintings, hand crafted art and other collectibles, a super luxury car and a luxury apartment. Donors include Adler Jewellers and Amiri Gems, Cartier, Hermès, Sir Richard Branson, UDC, Lorenzo Quinn and Sacha Jafri.

Speaking on the expected outcome of the Gala Dinner and auction, ROTA Director Ms. Omnia Nour said " The funds we raise will be channelled to support our on going projects in Cambodia, Indonesia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Palestine, Lebanon, Nepal and Iraq and future projects in Yemen, Nepal, Bangladesh and Iraq. We were pleased that the 2nd Gala Dinner, held in 2006 raised an impressive USD 11,25 million, attracting 500 guests and extensive local and international media coverage. Out plan is to exceed this record. "
ROTA also announced that the 3rd Reach Out To Asia Gala Dinner will offer unprecedented opportunities for organizations and individuals to help fundraise and partner with some of Asia's most underprivileged yet, promise filled children and youth, and make a real difference, in their lives and future.