Will Smith Guest of Honor at American Culture Reception in Dubai

Will Smith was the guest of honor yesterday evening at an intimate reception for the UAE business and Emirati community. The event launched a new collaboration between the US Consulate General and Maven Marketing & Events to promote American Culture across Dubai and the Northern Emirates, while fostering business relationships between the UAE and the United States. Smith was presented with a traditional Emirati dhow boat to signify the vision of the leaders in Dubai, as he has widely spoken about being inspired by the ambition and dynamic growth of the city.

The event was part of Smith's highly anticipated visit to Dubai to screen his latest Blockbuster film, Suicide Squad at Vox Cinemas. The film set an August box office record on its opening weekend raking in $135.1 million in North American ticket sales.

Commenting on the new collaboration, Sarah Omolewu, Managing Partner of Maven Marketing & Events stated, "It is an honor to be working with the US Consulate on such an exciting initiative to promote American culture in a city which is home to over 200 different nationalities. We look forward to expanding this initiative by creating staple events on the Dubai calendar throughout the year. With over 20 blockbuster films under his belt, I can't think of a more respected popular cultural icon as Will Smith to be the guest of honor at our inaugural event."

Paul Malik, U.S. Consul General in Dubai, said "Will Smith is an American cinematic icon and an ideal ambassador for American films and the important role they play in conveying to the world some of the United States' greatest strengths imagination, innovation, creativity, and the drive to make the seemingly impossible a reality. The creativity and innovation that are responsible for the success of the American film industry are dependent upon the United States' strong enforcement and protection of intellectual property rights,"

The protection of intellectual property also is a necessary ingredient for entrepreneurship, which has been an integral part of the American story, with 27 million business owners in the United States. Entertainment industry icons have embraced the business world and Smith is no exception. A rare creative talent, Smith's career defies stereotypes, inspires youth and universal audiences with his unwavering example of hard work infused with infectious charm. Smith has amplified his innate talent with a global minded approach to combining creative fulfillment with an overall focus on impactful and purpose-driven endeavors well beyond the world of entertainment. In addition to multiple entrepreneurial pursuits spanning tech, energy, and innovation, Smith also has embraced socially responsible causes.

Furthering his commitment to diverse voices and underserved youth through providing access, opportunity and inclusion in the Entertainment industry; this autumn sees the domestic launch of the Smiths' "Careers In Entertainment" national tour in support of the US Small Business Administration and in support of President Obama's "My Brother's Keeper Initiative". Since the early 1990's The Will & Jada Smith Family Foundation (WJSFF), has been dedicated to the betterment of the world and has assisted individuals, charities, and organizations in the areas of education, health, empowerment and sustainability. A recent investment in a responsibly sourced, produced and packaged water product, is just the latest example of Smith's commitment to having a direct environmental and community impact. Smith has always made it his mission to help others through his humanitarian efforts; he is a dynamic global citizen, and a uniquely positioned agent for intercultural exchange through entrepreneurship and unity through the Arts. WJSFF President, Jana Babatunde-Bey notes, "Smith's commitment to the guiding ideal 'make it better because you touched it' continues to be a hallmark of his leadership and driving force for social good."

*Source: ME NewsWire

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