**Clooney Foundation for Justice Shines a Light on Courageous Defenders as Donatella Versace Praises “True Good” Work**
London, England – October 3, 2025 – The historic Natural History Museum in London was transformed into a beacon of hope and glamour as George and Amal Clooney hosted the annual Albies, a prestigious awards ceremony by The Clooney Foundation For Justice (CFJ). The event, now a highlight in the global justice calendar, celebrated courageous individuals from around the world who have dedicated their lives to fighting for justice, often at great personal risk. Fashion icon Donatella Versace, a longtime friend of the power couple, lauded the evening as “one of the great highlights” of her year, praising the Clooneys for their unwavering commitment to “true good and to change the world.”
Versace, speaking exclusively to PEOPLE, articulated her profound admiration for the foundation’s work and the inspiring stories shared throughout the night. “The Albies is really one of the great highlights of my year. I am always so humbled and inspired to hear the incredible stories of the real heroes of our world,” she stated, adding that the Clooneys “fight, they fight and they fight some more for justice in our world and the protection of the truth speakers.” The Italian designer emphasized her honor that Versace supports an event doing such vital work.
Named in tribute to South African anti-apartheid hero Justice Albie Sachs, the Albies aim to cast “a protective spotlight on brave individuals and groups from around the globe who, at great personal risk, have devoted their lives to fighting for justice.” This year’s ceremony, attended by global leaders, activists, and Hollywood luminaries, powerfully showcased the impact of dedicated advocacy.
Among the distinguished honorees were Melinda French Gates, recognized for her extensive philanthropic endeavors, and Fatou Baldeh, a tireless Gambian women’s rights activist. Former Washington Post editor Marty Baron was celebrated for his contributions to journalism, while Darren Walker received a lifetime achievement award. A particularly poignant moment arrived with the recognition of Guatemalan journalist José Rubén Zamora, who remains imprisoned for courageously defending freedom of speech. His son delivered a deeply moving address on his father’s behalf, resonating with the audience and underscoring the profound sacrifices made in the pursuit of truth.
The evening also presented a fusion of purpose and high fashion. Amal Clooney, 47, dazzled in a sophisticated chocolate brown Atelier Versace gown, a design by Dario Vitale, who succeeded Versace as the brand’s chief creative officer in April. While acknowledging the glamour of the night, Donatella Versace remarked, “everyone looks so glamorous on the night, and I loved Amal’s beautiful chocolate brown dress – it is such a classic Versace silhouette – but really the clothes are secondary to the cause.”
Indeed, the cause took center stage, culminating in an extraordinary act of generosity. Legendary actress Meryl Streep spontaneously donated a staggering £1 million ($1.3 million) to the foundation, a gesture that profoundly moved attendees. “I was so blown away by Meryl Streep giving a spontaneous donation of £1 million ($1.3 million) on the night,” Versace shared, attributing such inspiration to the Clooneys. “But that is what George and Amal inspire us to do. To be our best selves in the defence of the bravest people in the world.”
For Donatella Versace, 69, the event also marked a symbolic moment in her own career, having recently transitioned from nearly three decades as Versace’s creative director to assume the role of global ambassador. Her presence underscored the enduring power of influence, whether in fashion or philanthropy, when channeled for meaningful change. George Clooney, 64, alongside his wife, continues to champion a world where justice prevails, inspiring both celebrities and citizens to contribute to this vital fight.
