On May 20th, as the Cannes Film Festival spotlighted cinematic brilliance, a different kind of spotlight illuminated the iconic Carlton Hotel. It wasn’t just about film premieres or red carpet fashion—it was about purpose. The Better World Fund (BWF) celebrated its 10th anniversary with a glittering gala that blended art, philanthropy, and cross-cultural dialogue under one powerful theme: Cinema and the Arts in the Service of Humanity.

This year’s gala held extra resonance, not just as a milestone year, but as a platform to elevate global causes through storytelling, collaboration, and—naturally—elegant soirĂŠes that Cannes is famous for.

India Takes the Spotlight

The 2025 edition of the BWF Gala honored India as its featured country, shining a cultural and humanitarian light on the subcontinent. From traditional Indian music echoing through the hotel halls to charitable partnerships like the one with Salaam Baalak Trust, the night paid tribute to India’s artistic heritage and urgent social challenges. Funds raised were directed to support street children and youth empowerment initiatives in the country.

A midday masterclass hosted by UNESCO Artist for Peace Guila Clara Kessous and global sustainability expert Enzo di Taranto set the tone for the day, with discussions on women’s rights, education, and environmental justice—echoing BWF’s ongoing commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Mohamed Hadid, Keni Silva

The Glamour Meets the Mission

As evening fell, the red carpet came alive with an eclectic mix of activists, celebrities, and business leaders. Among the notable attendees were real estate mogul Mohamed Hadid, his girlfriend author & philanthropist Keni Silva. Keni was honored with the Best Achievement Award by the Better World Fund at Cannes for her impactful work with the Children’s Oncology Support Fund (COSF). She also spoke on the UNESCO panel focused on women’s empowerment. Model and philanthropist Izabela Zofia also attended. The fashion stakes were high, too—guests were seen clutching Thalie Paris eco-luxury bags, including the shimmering “Livia in Astral” and the dazzling “Rivière de Diamants” clutch, reinforcing the night’s marriage of sustainability and style.

The gala dinner was more than just fine dining. It became a space where luxury met legacy. Exclusive items—from couture gowns to memorabilia signed by Sting—went under the hammer in a spirited charity auction. All proceeds benefited educational programs and child welfare initiatives in India, offering guests the chance to give back in haute couture.

A Comeback or a Controversy

No story from the night was more polarizing than that of Kevin Spacey, who accepted a Lifetime Achievement Award to a room that was equal parts supportive and stunned. “It’s nice to be back,” he said during his speech—a nod to his years away from the public eye following multiple allegations. Though the Cannes Film Festival itself remained distant from the event, the gala’s decision drew mixed reactions from the media and attendees alike.

Publications like The Guardian described the atmosphere as “chaotic,” while others noted the contrast between the event’s humanitarian ethos and the controversy surrounding the award. Still, Spacey remained composed, telling outlets he felt “surrounded by affection.”

Overall Scene at The Carlton Cannes
Menu
The Gala Dinner
Cocktail Hour

Fashion, Film, and a Future-Focused Legacy

Beyond the headlines and red carpet glitz, the Better World Fund Gala underscored something deeper: that art and influence can be vehicles for real-world change. The launch of the CCIFI Art & Culture Club—a new India–France initiative to promote literature, design, and fine art—also hinted at long-term impact beyond a single evening in Cannes.

As the gala wrapped up under a sky dotted with Riviera stars, it was clear this wasn’t just a charity event—it was a cultural call to action. Whether through auction bids, masterclass conversations, or moments of controversy, the Better World Fund once again proved that storytelling—when backed by sincere commitment—can move more than hearts. It can move the world.

The gala was a marquee event for the Better World Fund, an international organization committed to tackling pressing global issues through actionable programs. The evening served to advance the Fund’s mission of creating a more sustainable and equitable world, with a focus on environmental protection, education, and health.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of the Cannes Film Festival, the Better World Fund’s event was a testament to the power of film to inspire and enact positive change. The red carpet welcomed a host of international personalities and surprise guests, all gathered to support the Fund’s noble causes and celebrate the honorees of the night.