Caux Encounters

SUPPORT US

Encounters and Discoveries at the Caux Palace

15 March 2025

JOIN US TO (RE)CONNECT AT THE CAUX PALACE!

In a world where connections are often virtual, let’s come together in person to share experiences, and immerse ourselves in a vibrant mix of culture and community.

The Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation warmly invites you to a special gathering at the stunning Caux Palace on Saturday 15 March 2025, from 15:00 to 20:30.

What’s in store?

Inspiring conversations and encounters
A captivaing concert
Enchanting mysteries to discover
A thought-provoking art exhibition
A surprise guest that will leave you entertained and inspired
And of course, a shared meal and moments to bring us together

This is your chance to step away from the screen and connect with a vibrant community in an unforgettable setting.

📍 Where: Caux Palace in 1824 Caux, near Montreux, Switzerland

📅 When: Saturday 15 March 2025, from 15:00 to 20:30

🎟️ Free Entry - Everybody is welcome!

📋 Free - registration required

Whether you come alone, with friends, or family, everyone is welcome to this unique celebration of connection, creativity, and community.

Let’s make this moment count—we can’t wait to see you there!

Interaction group connection young people

PROGRAMME

15:00

Welcome to the Caux Palace, 2 Rue du Panorama, 1824 Caux
Location: Main Hall

The Caux Palace is a historic monument of national interest, offering one of the most spectacular views of the Lake Geneva basin and the Alps in Switzerland. This former Belle Époque hotel, recently featured in the RTS series "Winter Palace", is a unique piece of Swiss heritage. Its architecture, history and cultural role make it a fascinating place with a rich heritage.

From 15:30

Experience meaningful connections at Caux: Encounters – Conversations – Sharing - Discoveries
Location: Caux Palace salons

At Caux, we believe in the power of sharing life experiences and exploring emotions with confidence. Being able to do so is a privilege—and one we’re committed to supporting! Join us for inspiring moments of connection, hosted by Caux Initiatives of Change, the musician Tsvetana Petrushina, the Friends of Caux IofC Association, and the Hub des Possibles.

✨ Discover new perspectives
✨ Engage in heartfelt conversations
✨ Be part of a transformative journey

📋 Register on-site and be part of something special

In French, German, and Russian

From 17:30

Mysterious and intriguing characters are set to weave through the Caux Palace, bringing surprise and wonder at every turn! Get ready for an enchanting experience where the unexpected comes to life.

Step into the magic—let yourself be amazed!

18:00

Opening Exhibition by Dilawer Dildar
Location: Belle Epoque Room

Born in Syria, Dilawer Dildar has been painting since childhood, using his art as a powerful voice for peace and democracy. His works tell captivating stories, bring characters to life, and depict profound moments with grace and finesse.

Join us as Dilawer shares the inspiration behind his art and the message it carries. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with a visionary artist!
In collaboration with Private P’Arts Montreux

18:30

Bar and light refreshments – Dishes from here and there
Location: Belle Epoque Room

AND

Guided tours of the Caux Palace (📋registration on the day)

Dive into the fascinating history of the Caux Palace, constructed between 1900 and 1902 as a magnificent Belle Epoque Grand Hotel offering one of the most spectacular views in Switzerland.

During the tour, you will discover prestigious spaces, like the baroque theatre and the imposing Main Hall, and explore behind-the-scenes areas, such as the laundry rooms and the construction workshops.

You will also find out more about the international network of the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation and its activities in Switzerland and abroad.

19:30 - 20:30

Piano Performance by Xavier Silva Ferreira
Location: Caux Palace Theatre

A true prodigy from the region, Xavier Silva Ferreira will take us on an unforgettable musical journey! From classical masterpieces to the rhythms of rock, jazz, and soul, his talent knows no bounds.

Get ready to be mesmerized by his versatility and passion!
With the support of the September Musical Montreux-Vevey Festival.

And last but not least...

A Surprise Guest to spice up the night!

A mystery guest—a true white wolf among Romand humorists—will close the evening with his signature sharp wit and fiery humor. Expect a performance seasoned with Vinegar and Tabasco, just the way you like it…

Brace yourself for a bold, unforgettable finale!

THE ARTISTS

Dilawer Dildar, painter (Syria/Switzerland)

Born in Afrin, Syria, in 1976, Dilawer Dildar discovered his passion for painting at just 10 years old. In a country where his only true freedom was through art and poetry, he became a powerful advocate for peace and democracy. His work has been featured in Kurdish newspapers alongside his poems and writings, and since arriving in Switzerland in 2015, he has exhibited in galleries across Switzerland, Germany (including the Peace Symposium), and Kurdistan. Even during the pandemic, he continued to share his art through virtual exhibitions. For Dilawer, art is more than creativity—it’s a voice for the oppressed, a tribute to freedom, and a celebration of life’s beauty. His paintings capture the pain of suffering, the hope for peace, and the vibrant colors of cultural unity.

Xavier Silva Ferreira, pianist (Switzerland)

At just 16 years old, Xavier Silva Ferreira is already making waves as a talented young pianist from Vevey, Switzerland. A student at the Auguste Piccard Gymnasium in Lausanne, he is currently preparing for his music maturity exams while continuing to refine his craft. His journey began with school music lessons, leading him to teach himself piano for a year through online videos before pursuing classical training at the Vevey Conservatory. In just three years, he has evolved into a versatile performer, captivating audiences at hotels, festivals, and even Claude Nobs' legendary chalet. From classical masterpieces to the grooves of jazz, rock, and soul, Xavier embraces all styles with passion and curiosity. With an insatiable thirst for musical exploration, he is a pianist to watch out for!

Zappar - Peuple lumière

Zappar brings together artists who are convinced that collective creation strengthens social cohesion. Through the participatory creation of works of art, Zappar gives the public a voice and encourages them to express themselves on social issues of direct concern to them. Zappar creates its own projects or works on commission for public authorities, associations, NGOs or universities. (photo Peuple Lumière left and top banner: Laura NPasche)

FREE REGISTRATION HERE

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Practical Information

GETTING TO CAUX

We highly recommend that you travel to Caux by public transport as parking spaces are limited. Caux’s train station is situated right next to the Caux Palace. Caux can be reached within one and a half hours by car or train from Geneva, and two hours from Bern. Trains run every hour from both Geneva Airport and Bern.

For exact travel times and connections, please consult www.rail.ch
Click here for a detailed map of the area.

PARTNER ORGANISATIONS

Friends of Caux IofC

The Swiss association Friends of Caux IofC connects people living in Switzerland who are interested in keeping in touch during the year and in implementing projects that are furthering the aims of the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation and increasing the visibility of the events and conferences at the Caux Palace.

Hub des Possibles

Le Hub des Possibles is a unique “Think-and-Be Tank” focused on fostering connections, imagination, and personal growth to help individuals and organizations break free from sectoral silos. It encourages a shift from inertia to action by promoting self-awareness, meaningful relationships, and envisioning future possibilities. Through a holistic approach to environmental and social mobilization, the Hub supports the creation of new narratives for both individuals and collectives. The Hub envisions a world where people are deeply connected to themselves, others, and the environment, working together to build a future that honors both planetary boundaries and human dignity.

Private P'Arts

Private P'Arts is an association of around fifty Montreux artists founded in 2009 to promote their work that creates links between artists, but above all with the residents of the Montreux region. Private P'Arts is committed to contributing to the social and economic life of the area, to making it friendlier and sometimes more critical.

Septembre Musical Montreux-Vevey

Septembre Musical Montreux-Vevey is the oldest classical music festival in Switzerland, second only to Lucerne. The first Septembre Musical dates back to 1946. An integral part of Switzerland's cultural heritage for almost 80 years, the Septembre Musical festival brings together the world's greatest orchestras, conductors and soloists every year in the idyllic setting of the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland. Thanks to its international reputation, the cultural event attracts musicians and spectators from all over the world every year.