The Buddha Bar was the location for the 8th annual Butterfly Ball Monaco, where philanthropists gathered to support this year’s fundraiser ‘We Are All Different, Be You’, celebrating diversity and change.

Caudwell Children is a national children’s charity based in the UK, founded in 2000 by John Caudwell and led by CEO Trudi Beswick. In 2019, Caudwell International Children’s Centre was opened serving the UK’s first independent purpose-built facility for the assessment, intervention and research of autism. The aim of Caudwell Children is to make the world a better place for autistic and disabled people – a place where children can be themselves and grow up without fear of prejudice, discrimination or stigma.

Opera-inspired event in Monaco

The décor for the Butterfly Ball on 21st September was inspired by the Garnier Opera House in Paris. The event was organised by Emeritus Chairman John Caudwell and his partner Modesta Vžesniauskaitė – a former professional cyclist and olympian.

Hosted by Indre Kavaliauskaite, guests were treated to show stopping performances from the iconic Sophie Ellis-Bextor with her ‘Me and Mrs Jones’ DJ set, spellbinding entertainment from magician Rokas, the amazing vocal talents of Alexandra, and a Live Auction with Charlie Ross. The auction featured a one-of-a-kind art piece from artist David Yarrow, a Bianchet watch that was created especially for the Butterfly Ball, an Ultimate VIP BAFTA Film Awards Weekend luxury trip, a four-night charter on Persistence Yacht, and many more. The Butterfly Ball coincided with Cycle with the Champions, and together they raised a total of €554,838 for the charity.

Who is John Caudwell?

John Caudwell is one of Britain’s most influential entrepreneurs and philanthropists. His vision for a sustainable and efficient children’s charity has inspired thousands of supporters across the UK and he remains the charity’s largest single benefactor and most passionate supporter, personally paying the charity’s annual administration and management overheads.

It means that 100% of donations can go directly to the children and their families so they are able to lead an active and independent life while reaching their full potential with the services, equipment, therapies and treatments they need.

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By Monaco Life and Rose Wu. All photos supplied