The annual event was presented by the National Beauty Industry (NBI), an organization comprising leaders in the beauty industry dedicated to supporting the critical and lifesaving work of the doctors, researchers and staff of City of Hope. Country music artist Jessie James Decker performed at the event. Decker's hair and makeup were provided by Farouk Systems.
The NBI has been committed to supporting City of Hope for more than 40 years. Since its founding, the organization has raised more than $20 million.
The Spirit of Life® Award is given to individuals in business, entertainment, science and philanthropy who help bring about change that improves the lives of others. It is the highest honor awarded by City of Hope, one of the largest cancer research and treatment organizations in the United States.
Shami is a successful business innovator as well as a humanitarian. His company, Farouk Systems, is dedicated to providing the beauty industry with innovative professional hair care products, styling tools and educational support for hairdressers.
Over the years, Farouk Systems has donated millions of dollars and hours of service to improve the quality of life in communities nationwide. Recently, Shami pledged to donate up to $1 million to this year's NBI campaign. He also made a contribution of beauty product valued at $1 million to the Positive Image CenterSM at City of Hope. The Positive Image Center is located on City of Hope’s Duarte, California, campus. It provides a welcoming and supportive environment where oncology-trained, licensed cosmetologists work with patients with cancer to minimize the visible side effects of their illness.
“The Spirit of Life Award means a lot to me,” said Shami. “I’m honored to partner with City of Hope because we share the mission to save life. I appreciate the support and belief of the National Beauty Industry worldwide that honored me. I want each and every one of you to believe in City of Hope. We are part of the cure.”