Cuba Gooding Jr. ©Olivia Arthur/Magnum Photos

Chivas Regal, the official sponsor of the 65th Festival De Cannes, announced a new global fundraising programme with FilmAid International.

To mark the first year anniversary of the Chivas Regal FilmAid partnership, Chivas unveiled a new short film documenting the amazing work of FilmAid focussing on a FilmAid project at the Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya.

FilmAid is a non-profit organisation that uses the power of film and media to transcend language and literacy, bringing life-saving information, psychological relief and much-needed hope to refugees and other communities in need.

Oscar winning actor and FilmAid supporter, Cuba Gooding Jr., joined FilmAid UK Chair Iliane Ogilvie Thompson and Chivas Regal Brand Director, James Slack on stage for an exclusive screening of the new short film commissioned by Chivas.

(left to right) Iliane Ogilvie Thompson, Cuba Gooding Jr. and James Slack ©Olivia Arthur/Magnum Photos

The film was also supported by an exhibition of images captured during filming by distinguished Magnum Photos photographer, Olivia Arthur.

Cuba Gooding Jr. praised FilmAid’s unique work in using the power of film to bring hope and joy to refugees. He said: “Communities in crisis need information and empowerment. FilmAid provides both through the power of film, and I am delighted to be here to support their work and the generosity of Chivas Regal.”

Cuba was in Cannes for a special screening of the film, Red Tails, which he stars in and which tells the true, heroic story of the Tuskegee airmen. He was joined by George Lucas, director Anthony Hemingway, and producer Rick McCallum for a special screening on the Cinema de la Plage.

James Slack, Chivas Regal Brand Director, said, “After a successful first year of the partnership, we are delighted to reaffirm our commitment to FilmAid. Generosity of spirit lies at the heart of the Chivas brand and we are proud to play a continued role in providing financial support to projects worldwide.”

“The FilmAid film will help kick-start our fundraising plans for the year ahead but equally as important raise awareness of the charity’s amazing work by bringing FilmAid’s inspirational story to Cannes.”

Caroline Baron, FilmAid Founder, said, “FilmAid was formed in 1999 with the belief that movies could have a healing effect on refugees and displaced people, specifically those fleeing war in Kosovo.”

“More than a decade later, FilmAid’s work exhibiting and producing educational and inspirational films is thriving in communities affected by war and natural disaster in Haiti, Kenya, Thailand and beyond. Our work would not be possible without the generous support of organizations like Chivas Regal. We are deeply grateful.”