TIME interviewed a diverse group of thought leaders in Cannes, France, to identify what gives them hope in the current global climate.
These perspectives from influential figures provide a snapshot of optimism during a high-profile gathering of creative and business minds. By capturing the views of those shaping culture and industry, the project highlights shared human aspirations amidst professional competition.
The interviews took place during the 2026 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity [1]. The participants included athletes, musicians, business leaders, and other influential figures who attended the event [1]. Each individual was asked a single, central question: “What gives you hope right now?” [1].
The resulting video segment documents the responses of these leaders as they reflect on their personal and professional drivers of optimism. The festival serves as a backdrop for these conversations, blending the pursuit of creative excellence with a deeper exploration of hope [1].
This initiative by TIME aims to distill a sense of positivity from a demographic that often operates under significant public pressure. The collection of answers varies by industry, ranging from the discipline of athletics to the innovation of business, yet centers on the universal theme of future-facing hope [1].
The project was shared publicly following the festival, with the related content appearing on July 9, 2026 [1].
“What gives you hope right now?”
The exercise reflects a broader media trend of seeking 'optimism' as a counter-narrative to prevailing global tensions. By sourcing these insights from the Cannes Lions festival, TIME leverages a concentrated hub of global influence to gauge whether the current creative and business elite view the future with confidence or caution.
