Lion and Slumdog Millionaire actor Dev Patel will be the guest of honour at Chivas Icon, an event that celebrates philanthropic people in Dubai. This year’s ceremony will take place on May 2 at Play in the H Hotel.

Chivas Icons launched in October 2016 to recognise individuals in the Gulf who are making a difference in the world. It champions the global campaign Win the Right Way, which encourages people to pay it forward when they find success.

According to a press release, the campaign has been supported by Javier Bardem, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Chris Evans, Don Cheadle and Oscar Isaac.

Patel’s work with the #LionHeart campaign, which helps vulnerable children in India, will be honoured at the event. It was inspired by his 2016 film Lion, which told the true story of Saroo Brierley, an Indian child who was estranged from his family. Millions of children go missing from India each year, with many living on the streets.

“The ideal of sharing success resonates strongly with me. Success is not something that’s handed to you on a plate. It takes hard work, many sacrifices and years to achieve and, in my own experience, it wouldn’t be possible without the support of family, friends and collaborators along the way,” said Patel.

“I don’t have to worry about where I’m going to sleep; when I’m going to eat or how I’m going to protect myself. I have the freedom to make my own choices and choose my path in life. Unfortunately, this is not the case for millions of children in India and around the world,” he added.

For this reason, Patel wants to help others through culturally diverse storytelling.

source: GULF NEWS