The World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2024 commenced with an opening concert dedicated to the Sahara desert and the Amazon rainforest, addressing concerns about climate change, conflicts, and misinformation. The opening ceremony featured the presentation of the annual Crystal Awards to architect Diebedo Francis Kere, actor Michelle Yeoh, and guitarist Nile Rodgers.
Kere, from Burkina Faso, received the award for his leadership in fostering a socially, economically, and ecologically sustainable future for the Gando community through education, health, and environmental projects. Yeoh, the first woman of Asian descent to win the Academy Award for Best Actress, was recognized for her impactful roles challenging traditional views of Asian women and her advocacy for wildlife conservation and climate change awareness.
Nile Rodgers received the Crystal Award for his extraordinary contributions to making the world more peaceful, equal, and inclusive through his iconic music and commitment to fighting systemic racism and inequality. The concert, transformed into an AI-driven immersive experience by Refik Anadol, featured performances by Angelique Kidjo, Ibrahim Maalouf, and Will Santt, highlighting the interconnectivity of distant ecosystems and emphasizing the urgency of environmental action.
The concert conveyed a powerful message that the merging of art and advocacy has the potential to inspire a collective response to the pressing challenges faced by the planet. The event was supported by Intesa Sanpaolo.
(With Agency Inputs)
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