Over 100 guests attended the much-anticipated AX Foundation 2022 gala night, which took place on Saturday 12th November at the Royal Hall at AX The Palace in Sliema. Marking its return following the pandemic, this special fundraising event raised over €17,000 in aid of the foundation’s efforts and initiatives in supporting people living with invisible disabilities. Over the course of the evening, guests were treated to a spectacular multi-course dinner prepared by AX The Palace’s kitchen team with live entertainment by The Busker, a piano recital by pianist Alessia Bonnici, and an exclusive art exhibition by Richard Xuereb.
Chairperson Claire Zammit Xuereb opened proceedings by thanking guests for their attendance and continued support. She also presented Richard with a token of appreciation for his generous donation of over 300 original art pieces towards the foundation, the vast majority of which were sold on the night. All proceeds of which will be put towards funding educational initiatives for young people in need. Through his speech, Deputy Chairperson Joseph Borg acknowledged the accomplishments of the foundation since its inception. Over the past years, the Foundation has proactively identified gaps in support services to affect change on a national level and helped young people living with disabilities acquire functional skill sets to live as independently as possible throughout their adult lives.
The evening also saw the foundation announce the winner of the second edition of the AX Ability Award. Selected by the foundation’s Board, this honour seeks to celebrate and highlight the achievements of young individuals making significant steps with invisible challenges in their day-to-day lives and who serve as positive role models for others. This year the award was presented to Jacob Callus, a young man on the autism spectrum who continues to advocate and campaign for support, inclusion, empowerment, and acceptance of persons living with autism. Previous AX Ability winner Alessia Bonnici was also in attendance and took to the stage to perform three musical pieces at the piano.
In addition to funds raised through the art exhibition and Gala Dinner tickets, a sold-out raffle took place for a range of prizes, including gift vouchers and luxury hampers, with all proceeds also donated to AX Foundation.
For more information on AX Foundation and its charitable initiatives, please visit www.axgroup.mt/about-us/ax-foundation/