A Celebration of Light, Legacy, and Soul: Honoring Fadil Berisha in the Heart of Wall Street
On a dazzling evening in New York City, within the majestic walls of Cipriani Wall Street, the world came together to celebrate the 65th birthday and extraordinary career of a man whose camera doesn’t just capture light and shadows—but the very soul of humanity: Fadil Berisha.
As President of the Institute for Advanced Studies and Cooperation, I had the deep honor of presenting Fadil with our Medal of Honor, a symbol of recognition for a man whose artistry transcends time and medium. Fadil is not only a master photographer, but a humanitarian, a mentor, and a soul who elevates the lives of those he encounters. His lens tells stories that words often cannot.
The atmosphere was infused with love, gratitude, and global unity, as hundreds of distinguished guests gathered from around the world to pay tribute to his legacy. One of the most touching moments of the evening was a breathtaking performance by renowned violinist Olen Cesari, who played from the heart to honor his dear friend in a performance that echoed through the hearts of everyone present.
Among the many notable personalities in attendance were:
• Martha Stewart – Lifestyle icon and media mogul
• Beverly Johnson – Trailblazing supermodel and actress
• Candy Spelling – Producer and philanthropist
• Carol Alt – International model and actress
• Katie Ford – Fashion industry leader
• Carmen Dell’Orefice – The world’s oldest working model at 93, an icon of timeless beauty
• Nikki Haskell – Socialite and TV host
• Paula Shugart – President, Miss Universe Organization
• Evie Evangelou – Founder, Fashion 4 Development
• Barbara Winston – Philanthropist and designer
• David Hryck – International attorney and diplomat
• Stacey Schieffelin – Beauty entrepreneur
• Ginni Conquest – Fashion executive
• Esther Swan – Director of Talent, Miss Universe Organization
The celebration also featured heartfelt video tributes from Clive Davis, legendary music executive, and Vjosa Osmani, President of Kosovo, both expressing their deep respect and admiration for Fadil Berisha’s contributions to global culture and the arts.
This exceptional event was supported and attended by several leading lights of philanthropy and entrepreneurship, including:
• Mrs. Fotini Allteni Kokeri, Philanthropist
• Donika Bardha, Entrepreneur and founder of Bardha Winery
• Emina Cunmulaj, International model and humanitarian
• Eliza Dushku, Acclaimed Hollywood actress
• Mimoza Bakraqi, Founder of Royal Backdrops LLC
It was more than a birthday—it was a tribute to a legacy of vision, compassion, and artistry. The evening stood as a reminder of what it means to live with purpose and to create with intention. Fadil Berisha’s impact is not just in the images he captures, but in the hearts he touches.