Oscar-winning Pakistani filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy received a prestigious award at the 2025 Cinema for Peace Gala. She received the Cinema for Peace Dove Award for Women’s Empowerment for her film “Diane Von Furstenberg: Woman in Charge.”
Renowned Pakistani filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy won the Cinema for Peace Dove Award for Women’s Empowerment at the 2025 Cinema for Peace Gala. She received the award for her documentary Diane Von Furstenberg: Woman in Charge, which highlights resilience, entrepreneurship, and women’s empowerment.
The film follows the inspiring journey of Diane von Furstenberg. The legendary fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg created the iconic wrap dress. Her story premiered at the Tribeca Festival and later debuted on Hulu in June 2024, earning widespread recognition.
Recognizing Women’s Strength and Resilience
Actress and UN Women Goodwill Ambassador Nicole Kidman established the Cinema for Peace Dove Award for Women’s Empowerment in 2013. The award honors films that celebrate women’s strength and perseverance in overcoming challenges. This year, it presents as part of the 75th Berlin International Film Festival.
Obaid-Chinoy spoke about the importance of Von Furstenberg’s story, emphasizing its message of courage and self-belief. She said, ““Diana’s story is one of courage, determination, and self-belief. A testament to the fight for women’s rights that is constantly challenged by those seeking to hold us back. Her legacy reminds us that nothing is absolute, that change is always possible. Through this film, we celebrate not just her life, but the universal truth that women can achieve anything when they embrace their true selves. Her spirit continues to inspire generations, and I am honored to see it recognized at Cinema for Peace,”.
A Star-Studded Gala Honoring Global Changemakers
The Cinema for Peace Gala 2025 also paid tribute to Sir Bob Geldof for his humanitarian contributions, marking 40 years of Live Aid. Other honorees included Antonio Banderas, Pope Francis, and Dame Helen Mirren. The event recognized films that address social, political, and humanitarian issues worldwide.
Cinema for Peace has a long history of supporting impactful projects and has worked with numerous influential figures. The list includes Angelina Jolie, Charlize Theron, Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio, Julia Roberts, Sean Penn, Nicole Kidman, Muhammad Ali, and Nelson Mandela.
Obaid-Chinoy, a two-time Academy Award winner, has consistently used her platform to shed light on pressing global issues. With this latest honor, she continues to make Pakistan proud by championing stories of empowerment and resilience on the international stage.
