At the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, amidst the glamour of global cinema and celebrity, Anna Stukkert once again distinguished herself—not only as a fashion icon but as a leader in cultural diplomacy. As the producer of international summits and founder of the Congress Awards, she continues to craft events where sophistication and substance meet.
This year, she co-organized the prestigious Beach Gala Dinner & Awards, held on May 22 at the Majestic Barrière Beach Club. Together with Thomas Misse (The Royal Gentlemen), Jacques Durand (AI Films Awards), and the Maria Callas Charity Monaco, the evening united cinema, fashion, philanthropy, and global leadership in a singular celebration.
Rex Fernando — Honored VIP Guest Among the prominent guests, Rex Fernando stood out as an honored VIP and official partner of the gala. His participation underscored the international reach of the event and its mission to bring together influential leaders from across sectors. His presence added a notable aura of prestige to the celebration. 
An Evening of Recognition, Glamour, and Purpose With over 200 distinguished guests in attendance, the evening highlighted trailblazers across multiple industries through the esteemed Congress Awards. Honorees included: – Toby Hyder, for pioneering work in AI-powered storytelling
– CASAPADRINO – Mr. Marvin & Mrs. Sina Schertl, for excellence in luxury furniture design
– Maria Callas Charity Monaco – Mrs. Ioanna Efithoumiou, for her significant philanthropic contributions
– Juri Semiletopulo, for his work in promoting international legal cooperation
– Olga Levchenko, former Miss Ukraine, for her modern take on visionary female leadership.
Later that evening, a Charity Gala Dinner was held to benefit the IRA France Africa Solidarity Renal Association, which provides critical support to kidney patients in both France and Africa.
Olga Filippova — The Voice That Touched the Night The emotional centerpiece of the evening was the breathtaking performance by world-renowned opera soprano Olga Filippova. Her commanding voice, deep stage presence, and emotionally charged delivery held the audience spellbound. Her artistry truly captured the spirit of the event—where beauty and meaning merge.
Anna Stukkert in Rafa Alieva Couture A visual standout of the night was Anna Stukkert’s appearance in a custom gown by celebrated designer Rafa Alieva. Known for her mastery of structure and form, Alieva crafts gowns with corseted bodices and voluminous skirts that define an hourglass figure. Her hallmark is the detailed, hand-applied crystal work that gives each creation a luminous finish.
Presented by House of Vendôme Paris Designer: Rafa Alieva Venue: Pavillon Royal Cannes Organized by Rex Fernando
With over 15 years of experience and more than 5,000 gowns to her name, Rafa Alieva has become a powerful presence on the global fashion scene. Her work has graced countless Cannes red carpets, representing a balance of refinement, empowerment, and individuality.
The Artistic Finale The evening concluded with a dynamic artistic program featuring fashion shows by Jean Koute Munich, Bianca Rusu, Lifestyle Pop, Illusion Paris, and Lolita Meski. Guests also enjoyed a Japanese contemporary art exhibition by Nakayama Hideyuki and Yusuke Akamatsu. Musical highlights included performances by singer Victori, tenor Lorenzo Caltagirone (Opera de Monaco), DJ Nicole Chen, and the energetic Dynasty Performers.
Anna Stukkert, Thomas Misse, and the gala’s honorees demonstrated that cultural diplomacy is rooted not only in presence but in purposeful collaboration, vision, and artistry. The Beach Gala Dinner & Awards was not merely an event to witness—it was an experience to feel.
