As the sun dipped beneath the horizon, casting a radiant glow over the Mediterranean, the Carlton Cannes Hotel became a beacon of elegance and compassion. The Better World Fund, in its 15th edition, curated a dazzling gala coinciding with the illustrious 77th Cannes Film Festival. This year, the Better World Fund Gala supported by Chic Icon as the Official Media Partner, honouring six decades of diplomatic relations between France and China.
Led by Manuel Collas de La Roche, President and Founder of the Better World Fund Gala, and Jacqueline Zheng, President of Bestway, the event was a magnificent fusion of cultural diversity and philanthropic spirit. A constellation of stars graced the evening, including luminaries such as the esteemed actress Juliette Binoche, virtuoso pianist Lang Lang, and the enchanting singer-songwriter Joyce Jonathan. The regal presence of European dignitaries added an extra layer of allure, with H.R.H Charles de Bourbon des Deux-Siciles, H.R.H Béatrice de Bourbon des Deux-Siciles, H.R.H Camilla de Bourbon des Deux-Siciles, H.R.H Maria Carolina de Bourbon des Deux-Siciles, Princess of Ligne La Tremoille of Belgium, among the distinguished guests.
The gala served as a platform for global dialogue, with notable figures like Eric Alauzet, French Deputy and President of the Group of “Amitiés France-Chine”, Dong Guangli, General Consulate of China in Marseille, Mohamed Abou el Enein, President of the House of Representatives of Egypt, and Enaam Mayara, president of the House of Councillors of Morocco, engaging in discussions of international significance. A highlight of the evening was the exquisite auction and raffle, with proceeds benefiting the Lang Lang International Music Foundation, a beacon of hope for underprivileged children worldwide. UNESCO Peace Ambassador Guila Clara Kessous delivered a stirring address on women’s empowerment, igniting a spark of inspiration among attendees.
Special Guests
The pinnacle of the event was the presentation of the Better World Best Achievement Award, honoring individuals who have made indelible contributions to humanitarian causes. Among the esteemed recipients were Jacqueline Zheng, Guila Clara Kessous, H.E Eliza Reid (Former First Lady of Iceland), Lady Monika Bacardi, Mohamed Abou el Enein, Alexandre Amartei. Anwar Elkamony of the Hope Giver Campaign bestowed the Hope Giver award upon Valentina Castellani Quinn, symbolizing the enduring spirit of altruism and compassion.
The evening was further elevated by captivating performances from Joyce Jonathan, flutist and composer Daniel Alhaiby, and the legendary Lang Lang, among others. Their melodies transcended borders, embodying the event’s theme of global unity and cultural exchange.
As the night unfolded, laughter and applause echoed through the halls, underscoring the collective commitment to a brighter future. In the heart of Cannes, amidst the glitz and glamour, the Better World Fund Gala served as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of compassion and cooperation. The event concluded with heartfelt gratitude to all guests and sponsors, whose unwavering support continues to illuminate the path toward a more equitable and harmonious world.
Global Equality in Focus: Better World Fund Welcomes Famous Speakers
The next day guests had a chance to continue their two-day program. The masterclass held on May 16th in the opulent Carlton Hotel streamed live via HerFlix, marked a continuation of the gala’s noble mission. Renowned luminary Guila Clara Kessous acknowledged as a UNESCO Artist for Peace, shared her insights on the systemic inequalities faced by women globally. Her exclusive session served as a poignant call to action, urging the dismantling of barriers and the promotion of inclusivity on a worldwide scale.
A stellar lineup of speakers graced the event, including Her Excellency Eliza Jean Reid, former First Lady of Iceland, and Sophie Yannicopoulos, the General Director of Adobe France. They were joined by Aurelia Khazan, Ambassador for Peace of the Universal Circle of Ambassadors of Peace, and Najat Vallaud Belkacem, former French Minister of Women’s Rights.
Royalty added a touch of distinction to the gathering with the presence of HRH Princess Camilla of Bourbon Two Sicilies, Duchess of Castro, HRH Princess Maria Carolina of Bourbon Two Sicilies, Duchess of Calabre, and HRH Princess Béatrice of Bourbon-Two Sicilies. Also in attendance were Jacqueline Zheng, Founder and Chair of Bestway Healthcare Group.
The event further boasted the participation of Valentina Castellani-Quinn from Quinn Studios Entertainment, Adriana Shaw, President & Founder of HerFlix, and Nicola Pearcey representing Lionsgate UK. Notable figures such as Francesco Ranieri Martinotti, President of ANAC, and Andrea Guerra, an Academy Award Nominated Composer, also contributed their expertise.
The event further boasted the participation of Valentina Castellani-Quinn from Quinn Studios Entertainment and Adriana Shaw, President & Founder of HerFlix. Notable figures such as Pan Nalin, Film Director, and Alessandra Speciale from the Giuria Venice Film Festival, also contributed their expertise.
The Cannes event owes its success to the invaluable backing of various esteemed supporters. Noteworthy among them are Bestway Healthcare Group, serving as the Co-Chair of the Event, alongside Hehe High Jewelry, Clinic Lémanic, 3.14 Casino, Jessica de Mortier, and the Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca. Additionally, Lagouarre, UNESCO Peace Ambassador Guila Clara Kessous, Joanna Plafsky, Maia Wine, Parole Paris, Squair Law Firm, Studio Mao, and Quinn Studios Entertainment played pivotal roles. Also contributing were We Do Sync, the Hope Giver Campaign, Chic Icon Magazine, the Open Culture Foundation, Luxury Investment Magazine, Rinascimento Magazine, and Celebre Magazine. Their collective support ensured the event’s resounding success.
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