CANNES, 16 May 2024 — During the 77th Cannes Film Festival, Lady Monika Bacardi received the prestigious Better World Best Achievement Award, recognizing her significant contributions to cinema and international philanthropy. The distinguished event, held at the Carlton Hotel in Cannes on May 15th and 16th, celebrated the 60th anniversary of Franco-Chinese diplomatic relations while honoring individuals whose work advances social change through the arts.
Lady Monika Bacardi, renowned film producer and dedicated philanthropist, has established herself as a pivotal figure in international cinema, recognized for her commitment to arts and culture. Her recognition by the Better World Fund underscores decades of dedication to leveraging cinema as a powerful medium for positive social impact and humanitarian advancement.
The Better World Fund’s 15th edition during the Cannes Film Festival brought together luminaries from cinema, culture, and philanthropy. The gathering featured notable personalities including Juliette Binoche, pianist Lang Lang, singer Joyce Jonathan, and European royalty, alongside diplomatic representatives and cultural leaders from around the world. The event’s beneficiary was the Lang Lang International Music Foundation, with proceeds supporting musical education and cultural exchange initiatives.
The Better World Best Achievement Awards honored seven distinguished individuals whose work exemplifies the intersection of artistic excellence and meaningful social impact. Alongside Lady Monika Bacardi, recipients included Jacqueline Zheng, Guila Clara Kessous (UNESCO Peace Ambassador), Eliza Reid (First Lady of Iceland), Mohamed Abou el Enein, Alexandre Amartei, and Valentina Castellani Quinn. Each honoree received a bespoke trophy created by master sculptor Dante Mortet.
Founded by Manuel Collas de La Roche and co-led with Jacqueline Zheng, the Better World Fund utilizes major international film festivals as platforms to advance humanitarian causes addressing climate change, social inequalities, and women’s empowerment. The organization’s mission aligns with Lady Monika Bacardi’s longstanding commitment to supporting initiatives that create positive societal transformation through cultural engagement.
Lady Monika Bacardi’s recognition reflects her enduring impact on the film industry and unwavering support for causes that promote meaningful change through cinema and the arts. Her continued presence at distinguished international cultural events reinforces her position as an influential figure bridging Monaco’s aristocratic heritage with the creative dynamism of global cinema.













