Aspiring Media Professional - Help Me Get to Cannes!

Story

Hello! My name is Sarai and I am raising funds to attend a once-in-a-lifetime professional development opportunity in Cannes, France this upcoming summer. In Cannes, I have the incredible opportunity to attend the Cannes Lion International Festival of Creativity, where advertising and communications industry professionals meet to network and engage in the world's best creative work. This global networking experience will allow me to meet with industry professionals, learn from the best of the best, and explore potential career opportunities in communications, media, and the film industry. Why This Matters to Me As some people may know, I originally earned two bachelor's degrees in Criminology and Social Work from Florida State University. Since then, I have followed my passion and joined the University of Florida's College of Journalism and Communications to pursue my master's in Mass Communications with a concentration in social media. Alongside my studies, I also work as a freelance social media UGC creator. My main focuses right now are finishing my master's program (I am almost there) and building my career in digital media, but I want to explore more opportunities on just what career path is the right one for me, especially since making such a drastic career shift. I know I want to work in film, media, or entertainment, but I am still figuring out what role fits me best. I have been enjoying all aspects of my coursework so far, but as a first-generation student, I desperately need the opportunity to explore my desired industry in the real world. That is why this opportunity matters to me. The Cannes Lions Festival is the world's leading event for creative marketing, digital media, and advertising. Attending this will give me firsthand exposure to the industry, access to networking opportunities, and inspiration to shape my career path. How You Can Help The cost of this trip includes academic credits, accommodations, a ticket to Cannes Lion Festival, airfare, and daily expenses. As a student trying to balance school and my work in social media, I am reaching out for any support that will help make this dream a reality. Any amount - big or small - will help me get one step closer to this life-changing experience. Even if you can't donate, sharing this campaign would also mean the world to me! Thank you so much for your support - I can't wait to take you along on this journey with me! ✈️ Ways to Support Donate whatever you can - even $1 is greatly appreciated Share/Repost this GoFundMe on social media! Send words of encouragement (I really need it!) Link to Cannes Lion Festival: https://www.canneslions.com Link to social media: https://beacons.ai/avatarsarai Link to academic program: https://www.jou.ufl.edu/cjc-study-abroad/cannes-study-abroad-2025/