

Internationally known as an annual celebration of cinema and artistic creations, The Cannes Film Festival 2023 recently unfolded with an addition of compassion and philanthropy. Transforming the French Riviera into a haven for charitable initiatives, the festival united the film industry with humanitarian organizations in an enchanting display of support. One of the brightest events was the Better World Fund Charity Gala that took place in Carlton Hotel in Cannes on May 21st.
With a large distinguished guest list with Leonardo DiCaprio as a headliner, the visitors from the cinema, fashion, and philanthropy segments, the Better World Fund graced the Cannes Film Festival and added an extra aura of self-awareness and purpose to this year’s event. Chic Icon proudly took part in it as the Official Media Partner for the third time in a row and had an excellent opportunity to talk to the Founder and President of BWF Manuel Collas de la Roche.


How went the BWF gala dinner in Cannes this year and are you happy with the results?
The Cannes Film Festival gala dinner in Cannes this year was a tremendous success, and I am absolutely delighted with the results. On Sunday, May 21, and Monday, May 22, 2023, the halls of the iconic Carlton Cannes Hotel were filled with committed and creative personalities from all over the world. Esteemed individuals such as Ms. Sonia Guajajara, Minister of Indigenous Peoples, Ms. Célia Xakriabá, Federal Deputy of Brazil, Mr. Osmar Almeida Junior, Secretary of State, Ministry of Social Development of Brazil, Chief Raoni, Mapu, Leonardo DiCaprio, Liz McComb, Arisa, Georges Tomb, Alok Petrillo, Yury Revich, Fisher Stevens, Kelly Piquet, Kiera Chaplin, Tony Nader, Hofit Golan, Swan Sit, Johanna Plafsky, Richard Orlinski, Alvaro Nuñez, Scottie Thompson, Tom Volf, Elie BNC & the United Choirs, Amazonia the Space of Life, Sara Garcia Saura, and many more, came together with a shared desire to positively influence the future of our society.


The funds raised during the gala dinner were dedicated to supporting the Akbaraly Foundation, led by its founder Cinzia Catalfamo Akbaraly. This remarkable organization is committed to promoting the right to health, education, and a better quality of life for women and children in Madagascar. Additionally, The Better World Fund wishes to particularly thank the AMAZONIA FUND ALLIANCE Program and their Co-Founders Thierry Klemeniuk and Jean-Charles Jougla, for inviting Leonardo Di Caprio, Fisher Stevens, Alok, and all the Brazilian and Indigenous to the Better world fund Gala. Never before, has there been any event, that had managed to group all the most prominent indigenous personalities at the same gala which gives us great pride.
The event was held thanks to the precious support of Emily Cheong, IIWB, and the support of our partners: 314 Cannes, Joanna Plafsky, Maslina Resort, Studio Mao, Squair, Clinique La Prairie, SDB New Delhi, LUXURY International Magazine, Filmfestivals.com, Chic Icon, Paris Saclay University, Paris-Saclay Foundation, Clinique La Prairie, Open Culture Foundation, Jazz Magazine, Responsible Jewelry Council, Herflix, Luxury Limited Edition, Jazzbook Records, We Do Sync, Doctor’s Natural, Kamal Sagar / Total Environment, Luxury Investment Magazine, Rinascimento Magazine, Celebre Magazine, Circle X – The Green Trillion Club, Academia for a Better World, Fab UK Magazine, United Studio, Breaking-News-Arabia.com, Qatar-Media.tv, Dubai-Media.tv, Breaking News: Saudi Arabia, Breaking News Kingdom of Bahrain, Opportunity Saudi, Opportunity Mena, Opportunity Europe, Inside US Films, Fashion TV, Wella Company, Maia Wine, France Musique, !Teoola, Reporters d’Espoirs et Le Muni.


What is the real help and impact of BWF?
At the Better World Fund, our core approach is to raise awareness and drive positive change through cinema. By leveraging the power of storytelling and the influence of the film industry, we aim to shine a light on global issues and inspire individuals to take action. Through our various initiatives and events, such as the BWF gala dinner, we bring together influential figures from different fields who share a common goal of creating a better world.
The real impact of the Better World Fund lies in the combination of advocacy, fundraising, and fostering collaborations among like-minded individuals and organizations. Through our efforts, we raise funds to support projects and programs that address pressing social and environmental challenges. By promoting dialogue, raising awareness, and channeling resources to these important causes, we strive to make a tangible and lasting impact on the world.
The Better World Fund also recognizes and honors individuals and organizations that opt to have a positive impact on our world in their own capacities. This year, the Better World Fund recognized individuals committed to social and environmental causes: Arisa (Italy) received a Best Commitment Award, Sônia Guajajara (Brazil) received a Best Achievement Award, Liz McComb (USA) received the Best Commitment Award, Alice Chen (USA) received the Best Achievement Award, Karine Gros (France) received an Academia for a Better World Trophy, Tom Volf received the Best Achievement in Cinematography Award, Ahmad Jamal (USA) received the Best Achievement Award Posthumously from his daughter, Enzo Di Taranto (USA) received the Best Commitment Award, Alok Petrillo (Brazil) received the Best Achievement Award.


How people can be a part of BWF to bring a real change and positive impact to the world?
We firmly believe that bringing about real change and a positive impact requires collective action. We encourage individuals to become a part of the Better World Fund and contribute to our mission in various ways.
There are several ways to get involved: share and spread the word: help us by sharing information about the Better World Fund and our initiatives with your friends, family, and social networks. By amplifying our message, you can raise awareness and inspire others to join our cause.
Repost and engage: engage with our social media channels, repost our content, and actively participate in discussions surrounding the issues we care about. Your engagement plays a crucial role in reaching a wider audience and fostering meaningful conversations.
Donate: financial contributions are vital to support our projects and programs. Consider making a donation to the Better World Fund or supporting specific initiatives that resonate with you. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference.
Join the program: explore opportunities to actively participate in our programs and events. Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for updates on how you can engage directly with the Better World Fund and collaborate with other passionate individuals.


What is the tendency in terms of charity and sustainability that you observe lately?
In recent times, there has been a noticeable trend towards greater emphasis on charity and sustainability. People are increasingly recognizing the urgent need to address global challenges such as poverty, climate change, and social inequality. There is a growing understanding that individual actions, combined with collective efforts, can lead to significant positive change.
Charities and organizations dedicated to sustainability are experiencing heightened demand for support. However, the magnitude of these challenges requires a united front. We must encourage more individuals to get involved, as the resources and support needed to tackle these issues extend beyond what one person or organization can provide.
There is a call for help, and I invite everyone to join forces. Together, we can make a real difference and create a better world for future generations.


What are your plans with BWF for the rest of the year?
With an eye set on the future, and moving forward with our forthcoming program for this year, we are proud to announce the Better World Fund Program at the Venice Film Festival, La Mostra, which will take place on the 7th, 8th, and 9th of September 2023 at the Ca’ Sagredo Hotel, La Scuola Grande Della Misericordia di Venezia & Hotel Cipriani.
To give you a further brief of the event, we are pleased to inform you that this year, in the scope of “Women Empowerment”, the distinguished Maria Callas Foundation and the remarkable film with the participation of Monica Bellucci “Letters & Memoirs” by Tom Volf will be the recipients of our honors. Their outstanding contributions to the arts and culture industry have left an indelible mark, and we are excited to recognize their achievements during the event.
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