Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy is a two-time Academy Award-winning filmmaker whose films have impacted legislative change. Since 2001, she has made over two dozen multi-award-winning films in over 16 countries. In 2022, she infused her signature style and the verisimilitude she brings to her non-fiction projects to her narrative directorial debut for Marvel’s critically acclaimed series, Ms. Marvel. The New York Times included her episodes in its annual “Best Episodes of TV” list, calling them “ingenious and surprisingly moving”. More recently, it was announced that Obaid-Chinoy will direct a Star Wars feature starring Daisy Ridley. She will also direct Paramount’s Brilliance, based on the Marcus Sakey novel of the same name. Obaid-Chinoy is also the recipient of Four Emmy Awards, a Knight International Journalism Award, two The Alfred I. duPont awards, The Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award and the Tällberg/Eliasson Global Leadership Prize. She was named one of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world and in 2013, the Canadian government awarded her a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for her work in documentary films and the World Economic Forum honoured her with a Crystal Award at the Annual Meeting in Davos. At the helm of SOC Films, a film and animation production company, Obaid-Chinoy continues her mission to further social consciousness and bring about meaningful legislative and societal change. Crystal Award recipient 2013Andrea Bocelli is a world- renowned Italian tenor and crossover artist, celebrated for his powerful voice and emotive performances. Bocelli has overcome significant challenges, including a severe football injury that led to temporary blindness. Despite these obstacles, he has risen to international fame with albums that blend classical and popular genres. In addition to his musical achievements, Bocelli is deeply committed to philanthropy through the Andrea Bocelli Foundation. Established in 2011, the foundation focuses on supporting vulnerable individuals, promoting education and improving access to healthcare. Through various initiatives and partnerships, the foundation aims to create opportunities for those in need, demonstrating Bocelli’s dedication to making a positive impact in the world. Crystal Award recipient 2015 Deborah Rutter is a distinguished arts administrator and advocate, best known for her role as President of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington DC. Appointed in 2015, she has been instrumental in advancing the centre’s mission to promote and support the performing arts, fostering a diverse and inclusive cultural landscape. Rutter began her career in the arts as an accomplished cellist before transitioning to leadership roles, including serving as CEO of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Her innovative programming and commitment to community engagement have earned her accolades within the arts community. With a focus on education, accessibility and artistic excellence, Rutter continues to inspire audiences and support artists across disciplines. Meet the Cultural Leaders 2025 (Opposite) Image credit: Matterhorn : Frozen Peak, Zermatt 2017 by Thomas Crauwels Arts and Culture Programme Annual Meeting 202535 Arts and Culture Programme Annual Meeting 2025 34

Arts and Culture Programme AM25