Indian-American actor, author, and activist Nandana Sen has been honored with the Best Achievement Award for Humanitarian Advocacy at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, in recognition of her long-standing work in child protection, refugee rights, and women’s empowerment.
The award was presented by the Better World Fund during its Gala for Humanity event held at Copal Beach in Cannes on May 18, alongside the 79th edition of the prestigious film festival.
Sen, the daughter of Nobel laureate Amartya Sen, said she was grateful for the recognition and for the opportunity to spotlight humanitarian causes on an international stage. In a social media post, she thanked the Better World Fund and emphasized the urgent work being done by the Women’s Refugee Commission.
During the gala, Sen highlighted the challenges faced by refugee women and children worldwide and praised the Better World Fund for supporting humanitarian initiatives. She also acknowledged Better World Fund founder Manuel Collas de la Roche for helping raise support for refugee advocacy programs.
Sen currently serves on the board of the Women’s Refugee Commission and has long been associated with organizations focused on child rights, gender equality and education. Over the years, she has worked with groups including Save the Children India, UNICEF and Room to Read.
