Ali Ali Makes History as Cannes Lions’ First Egyptian Jury President

Renowned filmmaker, co-founder of Good People Films, and advertising guru Ali Ali has been appointed the first-ever Egyptian Jury President for the prestigious Film Craft Lions category at the 72nd Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity.

“This came as a huge surprise to me. I am deeply humbled by this recognition from Cannes Lions, for this has always been a ginormous career goal,” Ali tells CairoScene. “I look forward to representing Egypt and the region in judging the world’s finest commercials this year. I also look forward to being in the presence of all the great Jury members, for there is always room to learn from them.”

Ali Ali, among the top ten most-awarded advertising directors worldwide, is known for his ‘Never Say No to Panda’ campaign, which earned a Gold Lion at Cannes and garnered over 90 million views on YouTube. He also directed his debut short film Smokey Eyes, selected for the 2023 Red Sea Film Festival.

“Ali Ali’s groundbreaking work and leadership have inspired many. His appointment as the Film Craft Lions Jury President is a testament to Egypt's growing recognition of creative talent. We are proud to have him bring his unique perspective and expertise to this critical role,” said Simon Cook, CEO of LIONS.

Alongside Ali Ali’s historic appointment, Cannes Lions 2025 will introduce key updates, including renaming the Social & Influencer Lions to Social & Creator Lions, acknowledging the growing power of creators in marketing. The Glass: The Lion for Change category will also expand, now advocating for equity across a broader spectrum of communities.

Mai Salama, Founding Partner of the Creative Industry Summit and Managing Partner of the Cannes Lions Egypt Office, congratulated Egypt’s creative industries, saying, “Ali Ali’s appointment is proof that Egypt’s creativity speaks a global language. This is a win for our industry and a proud moment for us all.”

With submissions open until April 10, 2025, Cannes Lions 2025 will showcase the best in global creativity from June 16 to 20 in Cannes, France. For more details on submissions, awards, and festival highlights, visit www.canneslions.com.