Speakers 2027
The education opportunities at Cater+Event feature presentations from more than 100 industry luminaries who have been there, done that, and are armed with content that’s trendy, thought-provoking, and always influential.
Gazala Uradnik, Founder, GFS Events
Gazala Uradnik is the Founder and Principal of GFS Events, a strategic event planning firm that partners with nonprofits to elevate their fundraising outcomes. With a Master's in Healthcare Management from the University of Michigan School of Public Health, Gazala brings over two decades of experience in strategic planning, business development, and mission-focused execution. In 2012, Gazala founded GFS Events after recognizing a critical gap in support for nonprofit organizations striving to raise more through events. GFS Events partners with clients to create mission-driven fundraising experiences—galas, walks, auctions and more—that are not only well-executed but deeply aligned with each organization's purpose. GFS Events' work goes beyond logistics, to helping nonprofits articulate their stories, connect with donors on an emotional level, and raise significantly more money—often doubling or tripling what they've raised in previous years. For the past 14 years, Gazala and her team have produced over 400 nonprofit events across the Pacific Northwest and beyond and raised over $100 million through expertly planned and executed events. GFS Events has received multiple accolades, including Best Nonprofit Event and Best Public Event from the International Live Events Association. An active community leader, Gazala has served on several nonprofit boards including Women Business Owners, MPI Washington and ILEA Seattle.