THE NAT Gala Ignites New York with a Cultural Shift for Nature
BLACK PEARL joins as Cultural Responsibility Partner
NEW YORK, NY – September 21, 2025 – The inaugural NAT Gala, held in New York City on the eve of the UN General Assembly and opening Climate Week, marked a historic cultural and philanthropic moment.
Hosted by Van Jones, the Gala spotlighted a remarkable trio of honorees. Playwright Sophie Hunter celebrated Nemonte Nenquimo for her groundbreaking Indigenous leadership in protecting one of the planet’s most biodiverse regions. Activist and cultural icon Jane Fonda paid tribute to Stella McCartney, honoring her for redefining fashion by rejecting leather, feathers, and fur while proving that glamour and ethics can coexist. And in between dates on her Hit Me Hard and Soft tour, Billie Eilish presented Sylvia Earle with recognition for her pioneering ocean advocacy, which has inspired generations to safeguard marine life.
As a ‘Creative Talent’ advisor alongside climate journalist Sophia Li, and as a Cultural Responsibility Partner, BLACK PEARL—led by founder Samata Pattinson—supported the cultural sustainability programming, across fashion, music, and entertainment. This included curating a sustainable style guide for guests, spotlighting inclusive resources for attendees like Berriez and Relative Arts, interviewing guests about their sustainable style and passion for nature, alongside enlisting Grammy-winning DJ Miss Milan, a creative force and nature advocate, to close the evening.
“Trust the impossible can happen,” said Samata Pattinson, who also contributed as a Creative Talent and interviewed guests on the carpet. “This was more than a gala—it was a cultural shift. Luxury can be ethical. Glamour can be responsible. Sustainability isn’t niche—it’s necessary.”
The evening brought together leaders from fashion, culture, and activism, including Gayle King, Jane Fonda, Xiye Bastida, Rainn Wilson, Amber Valletta, Maggie Baird, Kat Graham, Arizona Muse, Tati Gabrielle, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, Nemonté Nenquimo, and many more. Red-carpet choices highlighted circular fashion, Indigenous design, vintage, and recycled couture—proof that sustainability belongs at the center of culture’s biggest stages.
Proceeds from the Gala will support landmark projects led by Conservation International, UNICEF, and Open Planet, from forest restoration to marine protection and youth education initiatives.
The NAT Gala is the launch of an annual global convening designed to unite culture and capital, addressing the $711 billion gap in nature finance and reframing nature as a cultural priority.
BLACK PEARL is a Cultural Responsibility Partner, with founder Samata Pattinson contributing as a Creative Talent.
🌍 Nature needs our respect. Nature needs our protection. Nature needs our investment. Nature needs THE NAT.
Learn more: www.thenat.com
