Cabarete Butterfly Effect attracts record 190 participants from seven countries
Cabarete, Puerto Plata.- The Cabarete Butterfly Effect concluded its 18th edition with a record 190 participants from seven countries, making it the largest event in its history. Held under the theme “Ignite,” the five-day program promoted women’s empowerment through sports, wellness, leadership, and sustainability.
The event featured fitness activities, educational sessions, cultural experiences, and community initiatives, including participation from girls supported by the Fundación Cuatro Estrellas.
A key highlight was the annual La Boca beach cleanup, where volunteers collected 693 kilograms of waste, including 361 kilograms of plastic, reinforcing the event’s commitment to environmental conservation and coastal protection.
Participants also attended the “Women in Leadership: Ignite Talk” panel, which explored leadership, entrepreneurship, wellness, and personal growth, while enjoying activities such as a catamaran tour of Sosúa Bay, stand-up paddleboarding on the La Boca River, yoga sessions, and the traditional BE Full Day celebration.
Founder Michelle Bourdeau said the initiative was created to help women and girls build confidence, develop leadership skills, and inspire positive change within their communities.
The 2026 edition welcomed participants from the Dominican Republic, Canada, the United States, England, Russia, Israel, and Chile. Since its launch 18 years ago, the Cabarete Butterfly Effect has grown into a leading platform for promoting female leadership, personal development, and environmental stewardship in the Dominican Republic.

