In a mesmerizing display of solidarity and shared vision, the highly esteemed Better World Fund Gala took center stage on May 21, 2023. This remarkable event, meticulously orchestrated by the AMAZONIA FUND ALLIANCE, summoned an assembly of iconic figures, including Leonardo DiCaprio, the Brazilian delegation, and indigenous representatives, who responded to the heartfelt invitation with humility and grace. Their collective yearning for a brighter future formed the foundation that brought these exceptional individuals together, embarking on a profound journey to reshape society’s trajectory.
Nadia Farès, the captivating actress, and Ghassan Yammine, the gifted musician, assumed the roles of gracious hosts, leading the emotional odyssey that unfolded throughout the opulent halls of Hotel Carlton Cannes. For two consecutive days, May 21 and 22, a gathering fueled by an unwavering commitment to social change converged within these splendid surroundings. Their mission was clear: to illuminate the path toward a better world, a sentiment that reverberated throughout every corner of this momentous event.
The Better World Fund extends its deepest gratitude to the AMAZONIA FUND ALLIANCE program and its visionary co-founders, Thierry Klemeniuk and Jean-Charles Jougla. The presence of luminaries like Leonardo DiCaprio, Fisher Stevens, Alok, and esteemed Brazilian and indigenous officials, including Sonia Guajajara, Minister of Indigenous Peoples; Célia Xakriabá, federal deputy of Brazil; Osmar Almeida Junior, Secretary of State for the Ministry of Social Development of Brazil; and the venerable Chief Raoni, Mapu, made an unforgettable impression. The gathering of these influential indigenous figures under one roof fills us with immense pride. The partnership with Amazoniafundalliance.org for this event has brought immense joy and heralds the promise of future collaborations.
At the heart of this grand affair stands the Akbaraly Foundation, spearheaded by the visionary Cinzia Akbaraly, tirelessly championing the fundamental rights of women and children in Madagascar. Their unwavering dedication aims to grant access to healthcare, education, and an improved quality of life, fostering a brighter future for all. Equally commendable is the Amazônia Fund Alliance program, operating under the auspices of the Brazilian Federation of UNESCO (BFUCA). This program serves as a guardian, staunchly defending the invaluable ecosystems of the Amazon, preserving their beauty and life-sustaining essence.
The overwhelming turnout and boundless generosity witnessed at this grand event have left an indelible mark on Manuel Collas de la Roche, the driving force behind this historic gathering. Filled with gratitude for this remarkable display of solidarity, he emphasizes the transformative power that emerges when individuals rise above personal interests and unite to lead projects that uplift entire communities. Collas de la Roche firmly believes in the potential of the film industry as a vehicle for disseminating social, educational, and environmental values, shaping our collective consciousness, and inspiring change.
The birth of this extraordinary event owes its existence to the invaluable support of the International Well-Being Institute (IIWB), an organization dedicated to fostering connections among talented individuals and intellectuals transcending borders. Motivated by the desire to bring together the global elite through meaningful encounters and exchanges, the IIWB played a pivotal role in organizing this impressive gathering. The unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions of remarkable personalities such as Dr. ZHANG Dazhun, a psychologist, Emily Cheong, Secretary-General of the IIWB, and Grace Shi, CEO and spokesperson of the IIWB, deserve our deepest appreciation.
The captivating conferences held as part of this grand affair, featuring distinguished experts from various social, educational, cultural, and environmental domains, exceeded all expectations. The thoughtfully curated 2023 edition, dedicated to empowering and celebrating the younger generation, highlighted their pivotal role in shaping the future and forging a path toward a “better world.” One particularly enthralling conference, titled “Youth’s Got the Power,” organized and led by young individuals for young individuals, left an indelible impression on all attendees, testifying to the immense potential that the rising generation holds.
The Better World Fund Gala at Hotel Carlton Cannes transcended mere celebration; it epitomized unity, compassion, and an unwavering quest for a brighter future. Through the collective efforts of extraordinary individuals and organizations, a tapestry of hope and inspiration was woven, leaving an indelible mark on all fortunate enough to partake in this historic event. As the curtains closed, the world bore witness to the power of collaboration and the profound impact that can be achieved when hearts and minds unite in pursuit of a common cause.
