By the FL Innovation News editorial team · Entrepreneurship
Miami’s own Architect of Modern Beauty is proving that the power of aesthetics extends far beyond the surface. This past weekend, Dr. Constantino Mendieta, internationally renowned plastic surgeon at 4Beauty Medspa, hosted a transformative charity gala in Coral Gables alongside the Aromas Sembrando Sonrisas Foundation and the Miss Universe Organization. The event raised critical funds to provide reconstructive surgeries for more than 120 children who are survivors of severe burn injuries.
The sold out gala, held on October 3, united civic leaders, philanthropists, and global beauty ambassadors under one mission: to restore not only form but hope. Guests included Miss Universe Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark and 15 reigning titleholders from around the world, representing the Miss Universe Organization’s Beyond the Crown commitment to social impact.
Dr. Mendieta, recently named Medical Director of International Reconstructive Surgery for the Aromas Sembrando Sonrisas Foundation, is taking on a deeply personal role in the initiative. “For me, this is more than medicine; it is philanthropy,” he shared during the event. “Partnering with Fundacion Aromas allows me to align my expertise with compassion and purpose. I am proud to be part of this cause, and I invite others to join us in making a lasting difference.”
Under his leadership, the foundation will deliver free reconstructive procedures to children who have suffered devastating burns, many of whom are under the age of five. Dr. Mendieta will personally oversee 35 of the surgeries.
Founded by Marita Astete, the Aromas Sembrando Sonrisas Foundation blends culture, gastronomy, and philanthropy to uplift children in need. “Every contribution carries the power to transform lives,” Astete said. “We call upon the international community to stand with us in building a movement of love and hope.”
The Miss Universe Organization’s involvement added a global spotlight to the cause. “Our philosophy of ‘Beyond the Crown’ is about using our global platform to champion meaningful causes. By joining with the Aromas Sembrando Sonrisas Foundation, this gala embodies our commitment to social responsibility, demonstrating how beauty can inspire positive change and bring healing to children who need it most,” a spokesperson said.
By the evening’s end, guests had contributed enough to fund all 120 surgeries and set the stage for a continued partnership between Dr. Mendieta, the foundation, and the Miss Universe Organization.
“This gala was not just a celebration,” Dr. Mendieta said. “It was a call to action. Together, we are helping children face the world again with confidence and dignity.”
The success of the gala reflects Miami’s growing role as a hub for global philanthropy and medical innovation. Through this partnership, Dr. Mendieta and the Miss Universe Organization have shown how collaboration between medicine, compassion, and culture can create lasting change. Their shared mission continues beyond one night, shaping a future where beauty, purpose, and humanity work hand in hand to restore lives and hope.
