Caudwell Children celebrated a decade of dazzling generosity on the evening of Tuesday, October 21, as its 10th annual Butterfly Ball Monaco raised more than €1 million to support disabled and neurodivergent children across the UK.
Held at the iconic Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo and sponsored by luxury yacht firm Burgess, the glittering gala gathered philanthropists, celebrities, and international guests for an evening of high glamour and heartfelt purpose — continuing its legacy as one of Monaco’s premier charity events.
The Butterfly Ball Monaco was founded by Modesta Vžesniauskaitė, partner of entrepreneur and philanthropist John Caudwell, who remains the creative force behind the event. “When I founded the Butterfly Ball ten years ago, I wanted to create something magical — a night that captures Monaco’s beauty but, more importantly, changes children’s lives,” Modesta said.
Claire Marshall, CEO of Caudwell Children, praised the milestone event: “The Butterfly Ball holds a special place in our hearts. It has raised millions over the years, helping disabled and autistic children thrive. Seeing the impact of these funds is truly extraordinary.”
Hosted by racing driver and disability advocate Nicolas Hamilton and DJ and broadcaster Neev Spencer, the evening shone with messages of inclusion and empowerment. Hamilton, who lives with cerebral palsy, called it “an honour to stand with a charity that does so much for children like me.”
Guests enjoyed a lavish dinner, live music from Anastasian, The Troubadours and DJ Filippo, and a high-stakes live auction led by renowned auctioneer Charlie Ross, offering luxury superyacht stays and exclusive racing experiences. The night’s creative direction came from Billy Folchetti, whose design transformed the ballroom into a vision of elegance and imagination.
Founded in 2000 by John Caudwell, Caudwell Children has become one of the UK’s leading charities for disabled and neurodivergent children, providing direct, tailored support to help them reach their full potential.
Reflecting on the event’s legacy, John Caudwell said: “In ten years, the Butterfly Ball has raised millions and transformed countless young lives. It’s proof that when compassion meets ambition, incredible things happen.”
Over its history, the Butterfly Ball has raised more than £30 million globally, with past appearances from icons like Sir Elton John, Whitney Houston, Kylie Minogue, and Sir Rod Stewart. A decade on, its wings are still beating — brighter than ever.
