Colombian Senator-elect Luis Carlos Rúa made a striking entrance at the 2026 TIME100 Next Gala wearing a complete white elephant outfit before changing into a dark suit. He carried a stuffed white elephant to represent unfinished public infrastructure initiatives in his home nation, where he successfully ran an anti-corruption Senate campaign this year.
Rising Stars Gather in Manhattan
Rúa joined numerous prominent emerging figures on Thursday, Oct. 29, at the Manhattan event, bringing together innovators from sectors such as health, climate, commerce, athletics, and entertainment to connect and share perspectives. Actor Himesh Patel spoke with Food4Education founder Wawira Njiru, while musician Sombr connected with actress Joey King. Basketball player Tyrese Maxey shared a laugh with comedian and content creator Druski during dinner, and horror film director Curry Barker conversed with actor Paapa Essiedu between meal courses.
Musical Performances and Portraits
Grammy-nominated vocalist Raye entertained the crowd with a soulful rendition of Julie London’s track “Cry Me a River” along with “Happier Times Ahead” from her second album, This Music May Contain Hope, setting the tone for the evening’s toasts. “Hope is a cheesy, but necessary emotion,” she stated. Attendees also visited a portrait studio backed by Toyota and created with a handmade celestial backdrop by art director Jana Frost.
The event received support from presenting partners Rolex, Toyota, American Airlines, Danantara, Project Management Institute, and Target.
