A journey is itself bliss when you are a spiritual monk with a desire to rejuvenate a sense of compassion in the continuously evolving world. Manuel Collas de La Roche, the President and Founder of The Better World Fund, was on a spiritual trail in a Tibetan monastery for three transformative years. He was accepting the non-materialistic way of living and stumbled upon a heartfelt conversation with Jan Kounen, a film director. His creative mind and inspiring talk sparked the realization that Manuel’s life purpose to do better extends beyond the monastery walls. He offered Manuel the opportunity to produce the film “Darshan” about the life of Amma, a spiritual Indian saint. The film was officially selected at the Cannes Film Festival, and the goal became clear—to spread spiritual kindness and serenity globally for a better world. The name for his production company, ‘The Better World Fund’ was chosen to reflect this overarching mission and commitment to positive change.
He is also a terrific leader who reckons adaptability is key. He supports the winning formula, which is based on the realization that there is no one-size-fits-all method. Being a leader, his approach is to adapt his strategy to the individuals he intends to lead, recognizing and leveraging their unique strengths and perspectives. He has been involved in a combination of meticulous work, thorough research, and unwavering effort. However, at its core, he believes success often comes down to faith—faith in the mission, the team, and the belief that positive change is achievable.
Opting The Better World Fund, for the Better
The Better World Fund operates as a movement dedicated to positive global change rather than a conventional business entity. Manuel and his team have been actively contributing to societal improvement for the past seven years, since its inception in 2016. While its operations are not limited to a physical location, its impact extends worldwide through various initiatives and events. Its guiding principle is encapsulated in the motto, ‘Cinematic Art at the Service of Humanity.’ He and his team recognize the influential role of the cinema industry as a medium for conveying social, educational, and environmental values. The essence of its mission is to elevate awareness through powerful and cause-focused films, with the overarching goal of fostering a positive impact on the world.
Since 2016, The Better World Fund has actively engaged in tangible actions, prestigious international events, and inspiring cultural programs. Its mission is to bring together influencers, filmmakers, and leaders from across the globe to collectively drive positive change for the future of our society. The company’s unique selling proposition lies in the concept of ‘Limitless Borders.’ His team stands united toward a common mission of creating a better world, transcending geographical, cultural, and societal boundaries. The collaborative spirit at the core of the company’s movement differentiates it from conventional competitors, as the team works collectively towards a shared vision. Meanwhile, in 2024, Manuel will be focusing on empowering women within the cinema industry by providing them with more varied and complex roles. By challenging traditional expectations, he aims to contribute to women’s emancipation, fostering a more egalitarian and inclusive society. It is passionate about utilizing cinema’s powerful cultural impact as a tool for social change, emphasizing the need to support and encourage women in all facets of the film industry.
Moreover, corporate social responsibility is not just a facet of Manuel’s business, which is its mission and motto. Every action, event, and program under The Better World Fund is designed to contribute positively to society and the environment. “One of the most surprising realizations was that not everyone in the business world shared the same values and commitment to a better world,” Manuel adds. Convincing others to stand together for this mission proved to be a significant challenge. The journey has been a mix of highs and lows, with each obstacle reinforcing the importance of perseverance and collective action.
"The Better World Fund operates as a movement dedicated to positive global change rather than a conventional business entity."
A Tangible Change, Frame-by-Frame
Manuel has great endeavors ahead of him. He is particularly excited about its upcoming program in Taormina in April 2024. Under the high patronage of the mayor of Taormina, in association with Quinn Studios, he will be hosting a three-day opera at the ancient Greek theater. This program will passionately advocate for women’s empowerment, aligning with its mission to create positive social change through the medium of cinema.
Additionally, the launch of the Better World Business Club is another exciting initiative on the horizon. This platform will bring together like-minded individuals and businesses committed to making a positive impact on the world. Through collaboration and shared values, he aims to foster a community dedicated to creating a better world. In the coming years, he will be focusing on expanding the reach and impact of his company’s initiatives. He envisions a future where The Better World Fund continues to inspire and mobilize individuals and organizations globally, driving tangible change through the power of cinematic art.
Despite the achievements, the current challenge lies in securing the necessary funds. Manuel says, “It’s disheartening to observe companies diverting resources for appearances rather than investing in real-time efforts and missions. The market seems to be veering towards superficial gestures, contributing to inflated prices and a lack of genuine support for meaningful causes.”
Passion and purpose
Manuel daily prioritizes health as his number one concern. Through regular visits to the NAD Clinic and biweekly infusions, he focuses on aligning his physical and mental well-being. Adequate sleep, a balanced diet, prayer and meditation, and natural supplements contribute to maintaining a healthy aura. While his primary passion is his work, he finds joy in producing films that convey meaningful messages. The art of cinema is not just a professional endeavor but a personal interest that allows him to contribute positively to the cultural landscape. This intersection of passion and purpose defines his approach to both work and life. Mostly, reflecting on questions like ‘How can I lead more effectively?’ and ‘Am I staying true to the core mission?’ helps him continuously grow as a leader.
Manuel hopes to leave a legacy of a positive global change driven by the transformative power of cinematic art. Through The Better World Fund, he aims to contribute to a more egalitarian and inclusive society. Success for him is not just financial or organizational; it’s measured by the positive impact he makes on individuals’ lives and the world at large. The success of The Better World Fund will manifest in a world where cinema becomes a force for social good, where women’s empowerment is championed, and where individuals are inspired to stand together for a common mission. His endgame is a better world shaped by the shared commitment of individuals and organizations working towards a common goal: to create positive change and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.
