A Day of Hope and Peace: ELYSIAN’s Transformative Celebration in Rome

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November 25, 2024–on a brisk Monday morning–ELYSIAN brought the world together for an extraordinary day of storytelling, advocacy, and inspiration at the Casa del Cinema in the heart of Rome. This exclusive event included a European private screening of Ukraine: For the Children, a documentary produced by ELYSIAN Productions, and the unveiling of their 2024/25 Winter Peace on Earth issue. Set against the historic and artistic backdrop of Villa Borghese, the gathering resonated with themes of resilience, hope, and global unity.

The day began with an introduction by Karen Floyd, ELYSIAN’s Founder and Publisher, who also served as executive producer of the documentary. Floyd introduced two distinguished guests: Chitra Narayanan, a seven-time ambassador from India, including her ambassadorship to the Vatican, and Pamela Evette, Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina, whose leadership has long inspired ELYSIAN magazine.

These introductions were followed by the screening of Ukraine: For the Children. This powerful sequel to Fight for Ukraine: 12 Women’s War—a 2023 documentary that garnered 10 awards—chronicles the indomitable spirit of Ukraine’s women, children, and soldiers amid the turmoil of war. Through their stories, Floyd captures the essence of a nation’s hope and resilience, demonstrating how the youngest generation holds the key to a brighter future. The film ends with a moving message of hope: “They have an unwavering love of country, and they fight for Ukraine, for the children.” It received a standing ovation.

The documentary has already earned critical acclaim, winning Best Documentary at the London Independent Film Awards, Best Documentary Feature at the Rome International Movie Awards, Best Documentary Feature at the New York International Film Awards, and Best Documentary at the Eastern Europe Film Festival. It has also been selected for numerous other festivals on this year’s circuit.

The Casa del Cinema, a hub of cinematic culture, provided the ideal setting for this momentous occasion. Its state-of-the-art facilities and intimate atmosphere elevated the storytelling experience, fostering a deep connection between the audience and the film’s narrative. Guests were reminded of the transformative power of cinema to inspire action and dialogue.

Following the screening, attendees had the opportunity to speak with the documentary’s executive producers—Artem Petroshchuk, Dr. Christina Rahm, Clayton Thomas, and Garrick Lane. ELYSIAN also launched its Winter Peace on Earth issue, a tribute to individuals and initiatives dedicated to fostering peace. Dedicated to Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta, the issue serves as a rallying cry for collective action and innovation, echoing the spirit of the event. Attendees, including global changemakers and visionary leaders, united in their commitment to shaping a more peaceful world.

The day continued with a visit to the Pontifical Residence at the Vatican and culminated in a formal gala dinner in the historic Hall of the Pontiffs. Hosted by the Institute for Advanced Studies and Cooperation (IASC), the gala honored ELYSIAN’s contributions and featured a breathtaking performance of Schubert’s Ave Maria by violinist Olen Cesari.

This remarkable event in Rome underscored ELYSIAN’s mission: to use storytelling as a tool for empowerment and change. By intertwining art, advocacy, and inspiration, ELYSIAN showcased the profound impact of collective hope and action in envisioning a more peaceful future for all.