In 2002, former Miss Universe Bui Simon created Angels Wings Foundation International to assist the underserved children of her native Thailand. Built on the belief that “every child is an angel and deserves wings to fly,” the non-profit group has established schools and provided healthcare, among other critical services, since its inception.
Following the December 2004 tsunami in Southeast Asia, Bui Simon donated playground equipment, boats for fishermen, schools, and an orphanage. Additionally, under Bui Simon’s direction, Angels Wings Foundation constructed 100 new homes in three months for those who were affected by the natural disaster.
Prior to founding Angels Wings Foundation, Bui Simon had already been actively involved in philanthropic work for 15 years, including helping needy children in Thailand through the fund she established in 1989, soon after her coronation as Miss Universe. Ms. Simon organized a 10-city concert tour to raise funds for education, food, and housing for the underprivileged of her home nation. Consequently, King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand presented her with the Thai Royal Medal of Honour for her service. Additionally, Bui Simon began serving as a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador in Thailand and as a spokesperson for UNICEF and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
An alumna of Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology, Bui Simon now sits on the university’s Board of Regents. Born in Bangkok in 1969 as Porntip Bui Nakhirunkanok, Bui Simon grew up in Los Angeles and currently lives in Malibu with her husband Herbert Simon, owner of the Indiana Pacers, and their two children, as well as three children of her late sister.
Today, Bui Simon spends her time taking care of her own family as well as the underprivileged in Thailand. At least twice a year, Bui Simon flies back to her home country to personally oversee the projects backed by Angels Wings Foundation.
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- Malibu, CA, United States of America
Bui Simon
Address: Malibu, CA, United States of America