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A Star-Studded Gathering for a Global Cause
The program, hosted at the luxurious Cipriani Hotel, brought together leaders from cinema, culture, and international diplomacy. The Awards Ceremony was graced by two-time Academy Award winner Kevin Spacey, who attended as Guest of Honor and captivated audiences with his presence and remarks.
The Better World Fund Gala drew an eclectic mix of international personalities, adding exceptional star power to the prestigious humanitarian event. Among the distinguished guests were Eric Roberts, acclaimed actor and brother of Julia Roberts; Keni Silva, known for her work in global media and philanthropy; and Victoria Bonya, the television host and influencer celebrated for her presence at major cultural events. Their attendance elevated the gala’s atmosphere of glamour and purpose, reinforcing the Better World Fund’s reputation as a global meeting point for cinema, art, philanthropy, and meaningful social impact.
Art Meets Purpose: Dante Mortet’s “The Magnificent 7”
The opening event featured the much-anticipated exhibition by Italian sculptor Dante Mortet, “The Magnificent 7 – Masterful Hands”, showcasing bronze sculptures inspired by the hands of cinematic icons such as Robert De Niro, Martin Scorsese, Quentin Tarantino, and Ennio Morricone. The collection stood as a tribute to creativity and craftsmanship that bridges generations of storytellers.
Dialogue and Discovery: Masterclasses and Forums
The Better World Fund Masterclass, curated by Enzo Di Taranto, a former United Nations diplomat, fostered dialogue around pressing societal issues through the theme “The Ties That Bind: A Journey Toward Understanding and Human Fraternity.”
Keynote speaker H.E. Ambassador Dr. Khalid Ghanim Al-Ghaith, Secretary-General of the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity, highlighted the vital role of empathy and cooperation in shaping a peaceful world.
Sessions explored how cinema transcends entertainment to become a tool for compassion and coexistence. The first, “Framing a Better World,” featured insights from H.E. Dr. Cheick Modibo Diarra and Ms. Ekaterina Zagladina, while “The Human Lens” brought filmmakers like Joel Soler and Nabil Ayouch together to reflect on storytelling as a force for social change.
Healing Through Hope
Ukrainian psychologist Natalia Kholodenko led a moving symposium titled “Your Future Is Bigger Than Your Trauma.” Drawing from her personal and professional experiences, she shared a powerful message of resilience and recovery, reminding audiences of the strength that lies beyond adversity.
Cinema Day and Celebration of Legacy
The Cinema Day Panel, led by award-winning producer Valentina Castellani-Quinn, celebrated the enduring influence of film as a medium for truth and transformation. Castellani-Quinn, recipient of numerous international honors, shared her journey and unveiled upcoming projects including a new documentary on democracy.
Gala for Humanity: A Night to Remember
The event culminated on August 30 with the Gala for Humanity, featuring a red carpet and the Better World Fund Awards.
Awardees included:
The Higher Committee of Human Fraternity – Best Achievement Award
Carmen Maura – Best Achievement Award
Natalia Kholodenko – Best Commitment Award
Pavel Kir – Best Commitment Award
Elvira Paterson – Best Achievement Award
Each award, crafted by Dante Mortet, symbolized creativity in service of humanity.
The event also welcomed Natalie Spivak, Miss Europe Switzerland, an advocate for sustainability and artistic innovation in fashion. As the founder of Queenissima, her groundbreaking sustainable fashion art brand, Natalie Spivak merges haute couture with environmental consciousness — transforming recycled materials into stunning works of wearable art. Her presence at the Better World Fund gala reflected the event’s core mission of blending creativity, compassion, and purpose, celebrating a vision where beauty and responsibility coexist in harmony.
Giving Back: The Private Auction
A private charity auction, hosted by Mel Gee Henderson and Vincent de Paul, raised significant funds for the NGO La Princesse Murat, supporting women and children in need. Auction lots included luxurious travel experiences, couture fashion, rare wines, and exclusive wellness retreats — all donated to advance meaningful social impact.
A Vision for a Better World
BWF founder Manuel Collas de La Roche summarized the spirit of the event:
“This Venetian edition confirmed that cinema and art are mong the most powerful tools to inspire and mobilize humanity. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our distinguished guests, partners, and supporters for making this experience truly unforgettable.”
Through art, dialogue, and philanthropy, the Better World Fund reaffirmed its mission to turn creativity into compassion — building bridges between cultures, and envisioning a better, kinder world for all.
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