Foundation’s fundraising gala aims to aid transition to adulthood in PWS
'Supreme Twins' at heart of Miami-based nonprofit soon turning 22
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Nearly 400 civic, business, and philanthropic leaders in South Florida gathered this week for a second annual event aimed at raising funds to support people with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) and other developmental disorders, particularly as they “transition into adulthood.”
The fundraising gala was hosted by the Supreme Twins Foundation, a Miami-based nonprofit founded in 2024 by Ilieva and Miguel Valdés. The Valdés’ 21-year-old twin daughters, Nathaly and Nicolee, both live with PWS.
“This foundation was born out of love and the determination to build a better future for our daughters,” Ilieva Valdés said in a foundation press release. “When our twin girls were diagnosed, we realized how overwhelming this journey is for parents. [The gala] is about showing these families that they are not alone.”
Among other programming, the organization offers vocational and life skills training for neurodivergent youth, focusing on “expanding educational and developmental support” for those with PWS and other conditions.
Earlier this week, the foundation hosted its 2nd Annual Gala and Fashion Showcase. The event featured a fashion showcase with dozens of couture designs by Giannina Azar, a Dominican-Lebanese designer whose work has been worn by stars such as Beyoncé and Jennifer Lopez.
There was also a special showcase by students from the foundation’s music program, alongside live performances by Latin Grammy winners Tony Succar and Albita Rodríguez.
Many disabled young people age out of support at 22
A rare genetic condition, PWS affects development and a number of bodily processes, resulting in symptoms that commonly include distinctive physical features, learning disabilities, and problems with emotion and behavior. The disease’s hallmark symptom is hyperphagia, or excessive and insatiable hunger.
People with PWS and other developmental disabilities typically need unique supports to help them thrive. Although most schools offer special education programs, support for adults can be harder to find. The foundation aims to help families connect with the support they need.
The event helped raise funds to support the foundation’s main programs. These include:
- a psychological assessment program supports therapy services and insurance reimbursements
- an artistic expression program aimed at empowering young people with disabilities through music and art
- a special continuing education program that focuses on providing young people with special needs additional support during college or vocational training
The foundation also provides support for disabled young people who are navigating out of traditional school systems at age 22, “when families face an abrupt drop-off in daily care and therapies,” the release stated.
According to Miguel Valdés, “turning 22 shouldn’t mean the end. It should be the beginning of a new chapter.” He added: “Seeing our community come together proves that when we invest in these children and young adults, we enrich everyone.”
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