Empowering Women: Better World Fund's Triumph at Venice

Celebrating Humanity’s Progress Towards Equality… This year, the 80th Edition of the Venice Film Festival takes on a profound mission in a world where stories shape perceptions and inspire change. Stepping into the spotlight is the Better World Fund, a Paris-based non-profit organization that has, since 2016, orchestrated international events and cultural programs designed to drive meaningful change.

Under the enchanting aura of the Ca’ Sagredo Hotel and the Misericordia di Venezia, the luminaries of our world gather, united by the collective aspiration to carve a more promising future for our society. This time, their focus finds a worthy companion in the theme of “Women Empowerment” within the realm of cinematic art.

– Manuel Collas de la Roche –

Manuel Collas de la Roche, the President and Founder of the Better World Fund, encapsulated the essence of this year’s festivities: “In the heart of the magic of La Mostra, the BWF edition in Venice will celebrate women and raise awareness about the place and power of women in the film industry.”

Cinema: A Catalyst for Change – The power of cinema is undeniable. Beyond its entertainment value, it acts as a prism through which society perceives its values, aspirations, and struggles. In recognizing this, the Better World Fund shines a spotlight on the role cinema plays as a driver of social, educational, and environmental values. As President de la Roche passionately asserts, supporting and encouraging women’s involvement in all facets of the film industry is crucial in forging a more just and inclusive world for all.

– La Scuola Grande della Misericordia –

A Gathering of Celestial Influences – The gala evening on September 8th at La Scuola Grande Della Misericordia promises a congregation of stars and luminaries, all lending their presence to endorse a cause that resonates deeply: Women Empowerment in the spirit of Maria Callas. Icons like Isabelle Huppert, Rossy de Palma, Jeremy Piven, and Euzhan Palcy come together to support an unequivocal declaration that equality knows no boundaries.

Euzhan Palcy: A Luminary Honored – In the hallowed halls of recognition, Euzhan Palcy takes her rightful place. A pioneering filmmaker whose work has inspired generations, Palcy was bestowed with an honorary Oscar in the previous year, further punctuating her significance as the first Black director to claim the Silver Lion at the 1983 Venice Mostra. Her accolades as a woman and a Black director amplify her impact, reaffirming that artistic genius knows no prejudice.

A Symphony of Visionaries – Within this constellation of empowerment, the Better World Fund highlights its support for the Maria Callas Foundation, honouring the artist’s centenary. Maria Callas personifies the empowered woman, her legacy a testament to the extraordinary heights that can be scaled with talent and determination. Renowned for his in-depth understanding of Maria Callas, Tom Volf brings his directorial prowess to the fore with a new film, a continuation of his critically acclaimed “Maria by Callas” from 2017. The synergy between Volf and Monica Bellucci and the foundation’s mission to curate archives for a museum collection fortifies the event’s theme of empowerment.

– Tom Volf and Monica Bellucci –

A Masterclass in Empowerment – On September 8th, La Scuola Grande Della Misericordia is on the stage for a Masterclass Conference titled “From Script to Screen: Empowering Women in the World of Cinema.” The power of women’s representation in cinema goes beyond the reel – it shapes societal perceptions, challenges norms, and ignites conversations. By fostering diverse and complex roles for women, the cinema industry becomes a beacon of empowerment, casting its radiance across society.

The distinguished Mrs. Elisabeth Moreno, President of Tech-Foundation and Former Minister in charge of Gender Equality, Diversity, and Equal Opportunities, will lead this masterclass. Alongside her, a panel of influencers and experts will discourse on the place, protection, and parity of women in our world. Speakers include influential individuals such as Rossy de Palma, Euzhan Palcy, Nadia Fares, Kiera Chaplin, Yasemin Samdereli, Valentina Castellani, Tarina Patel, Dr Solanges Vivens, Karine Gros and Lorene Ferrandes.

A Gala of Resplendence and Recognition – The grandeur of the evening extends to a gala dinner within the opulent walls of La Scuola Grande Della Misericordia. Here, artistic performances and profound acknowledgements intermingle. The event bears witness to a poignant award ceremony and auction, a tradition rooted in the Better World Fund’s commitment to social, cultural, and environmental causes.

As the stars align, the recipients of the Better World Best Achievement and Commitments Awards include names that have woven narratives of courage, resilience, and advocacy into the tapestry of our society. Maria Elena Infantino and Daniel Alhaiby’s performances lend a melodious undertone, while the auction, orchestrated by Julien-Vincent Brunie of Christie’s, encapsulates the spirit of giving.

– MAIN PARTNERS –

A Unified Journey of Progress – In the benevolent shadow of partners like the 314 Cannes Group, NAD Clinic, Homolog, and many others, the Better World Fund radiates its message of empowerment across the globe. From Cannes to Venice, Los Angeles to Dubai, this movement is nurtured by the hearts and hands that believe in the potency of unity.

– OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNERS –

Another figure steps into the spotlight as the curtain falls on this illustrious evening. Dr Solanges Vivens is recognized as the official Charity Partner of the Better World Fund, her unwavering dedication to the cause earning her a well-deserved award, presented by Anwar Elkamony. Guided by a meticulously crafted program, the Better World Fund has sculpted a journey of empowerment and enlightenment. The dates are etched in anticipation: September 7th at Ca’ Sagredo Hotel and September 8th at Scuola Grande Della Misericordia.

On these dates, the narrative unfurls:

September 7th, 07.00 pm: A Welcome Cocktail Reception at Ca’ Sagredo Hotel.
September 8th, 10.00 am: A Masterclass that imparts wisdom and insight.
September 8th, 07.30 pm: A Cocktail Reception and Red Carpet, setting the stage.
September 8th, 08.30 pm: A Sumptuous Gala Dinner orchestrated by the Better World Fund, accompanied by mesmerizing entertainment.
September 8th, 10.00 pm: The crescendo – the Awards Ceremony and Auction – a moment of tribute and giving.

For this Venice Edition, Samia Yusuf Omar, posthumously, for her tragic fate, her courage and her fight against discrimination as a Muslim woman taking part in the Olympic Games; Elisabeth Moreno; Jeremy Piven; Euzhan Palcy and Major of Venice Cateno De Luca will receive the Better World Best Achievement and Commitments Awards.

Amidst the glitz and glamour of the Venice Film Festival, the Better World Fund’s Triumph at Venice stands as a testament to the undeniable power of unity, compassion, and empowerment.

Discover even more @ www.betterworld.fund