Rula Tamer, Tony Shalhoub and Natalie Aukar during the evening.
Acting to support economic, agricultural, and social initiatives, SEAL (Social Economic Action for Lebanon) organized an event in New York bringing together more than 440 participants, which raised over one million one hundred thousand dollars. This non-profit organization founded in New York in 1997 aimed to help disadvantaged populations by working towards sustainable economic development. Its main areas of intervention include agricultural production, water, irrigation, women's integration into the labor market, business skills, environment and humanitarian efforts.
But beyond the numbers, this evening was highlighted by three key moments: The recognition of Tony Shalhoub, a renowned Lebanese-American actor awarded with Emmy, Golden Globe and Tony Awards, a pride of the Lebanese diaspora; the tribute to MEA and its pilots, true heroes of the sky who continued to ensure flights despite the Israeli bombings on Beirut; and the powerful speech of Rula Tamer, president of SEAL, announcing the organization's ambitions for 2025.
MEA: 'Keeping Lebanon connected to the world'
In an emotionally charged moment, SEAL paid a strong tribute to the pilots and crew members of Middle East Airlines (MEA), who continued to fly under Israeli bombings during the last Israeli-Lebanese war. Rula Tamer highlighted their unwavering courage and absolute dedication: "While Beirut was under bombs, these men and women continued to ensure flights. They crossed dangerous routes, worked under immense pressure, and risked their safety to keep Lebanon connected to the world."
Two young pilots and a flight attendant were present at the ceremony. Adib Kassis, MEA's general manager for the Americas, Captain Abed al-Hout, First Officer Marwan Shehaitly and Rana Azzi also received honorary distinctions.
"MEA never ceased to exist, even in the worst conditions. They are proof that Lebanon never bows down," stated SEAL's president. "The company's crews embodied the Lebanese spirit of resistance, proving once again that patriotism is not only measured on battlefields but also in the determination of those who refuse to let their country sink into isolation."
Tony Shalhoub: A pride of the diaspora in the spotlight
The Lebanese-American actor Tony Shalhoub became known for his role as Antonio Scarpacci in the series Wings, which aired from 1991 to 1997. Later, he portrayed Adrian Monk in the series Monk broadcast on USA Network from 2002 to 2009, winning three Primetime Emmy Awards for best lead actor in a comedy series, as well as a Golden Globe for best actor in a comedy series. For his supporting role as Abe Weissman in the series The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel on Amazon, he won the 2017 Primetime Emmy Award for best supporting actor in a comedy series.
With humor and emotion, Natalie Aukar, the traditional master of ceremonies for SEAL events, introduced Shalhoub, whose Lebanese roots have always been a source of pride for the diaspora, emphasizing the habit of his compatriots to claim any celebrity with the slightest link to their country: "As soon as a Lebanese shines internationally, they become our official ambassador. We have always been proud of Shakira, Carlos Slim ... and even Angelina Jolie after a photo of her wearing a hijab in northern Lebanon!"
But beyond the anecdote, it is Shalhoub's deep attachment to his Lebanese heritage that was celebrated. In his speech, the actor shared a memorable memory of his first trip to Lebanon: "I was told: Oh my God, you must absolutely go to Lebanon, you will be welcomed like a prince! Everyone loves you! But upon arriving there ... nothing. Total silence. No one recognized me," he said with humor, provoking collective laughter. "I visited Germany. There, I was besieged everywhere. In Lebanon, wherever I went, I watched, I waited ... and it was ultimately my wife who understood. She said to me: 'I think it's because you look exactly like everyone here.' So there it is, I guess I just didn't stand out. But it is still nice to know that, in a certain collective imagination, I have a place there."
Rula Tamer: Investing in Lebanon's future
After a 2024 marked by humanitarian and economic crises, the president of SEAL unveiled the 2024 report, supported by videos and reports. SEAL 2024 consists of 20 projects completed, impacting more than 54,000 people; 270 tons of food distributed, providing 205,000 meals to displaced families, nearly a million dollars raised to respond to humanitarian emergencies. But the challenges remain immense. Farmers in the South and Bekaa are in distress after losing their lands and livestock due to bombings and forced displacement.
The objectives for 2025 revolve around supporting the agricultural sector with job creation, improving irrigation systems, and integrating women into the rural economy; strengthening the livestock and dairy products sector to rebuild an essential pillar of the Lebanese economy, and providing selected livestock and modern agricultural equipment to improve the productivity and quality of local productions.
"Your generosity tonight is not just a donation; it's an investment in Lebanon's future," said Tamer. "We are all connected by the same story, the same resilience. And together, we will make a difference."
More than just a fundraising event, the SEAL 2025 edition was a declaration of love to Lebanon and a collective commitment to its future.
"Lebanon continues to shine, through its everyday heroes and its united diaspora. With a new government in place, unprecedented mobilization of the diaspora, and hopeful initiatives, this year could be the one of renewal," stated the president.
This article was originally published in French in L'Orient-Le Jour.