CANDIDATE PROFILES
Profession
Strategy & Sustainability Consultant
Member of
British Swiss Chamber of Commerce (BSCC)
The BSCC Young Professionals Group
YPG Mentorship program
Social
LinkedIn: eriktbergqvist
Erik Bergqvis
London
Profile
Whilst all my family is still in Switzerland, I have lived in London for over 10 years, building a career that bridges both countries. I have lived, studied and worked in both Switzerland and the UK. Both nations have rich histories and I see great potential for deeper cooperation in areas like finance, technology, and diplomacy. I am committed to fostering innovation, collaboration, and ensuring the continued prosperity of both nations in an interconnected world.
Motivation
I believe Switzerland and the UK have a strategic interdependence that can be strengthened through deeper economic and political ties. Raised with a strong sense of civic responsibility,
I am committed to contributing to both nations’ future by shaping important political and economic discussions. With my experience and contacts in both countries, I aim to bridge the gap between generations and bring new Swiss and UK professionals into the political arena to foster long-term collaboration and progress in a changing geopolitical environment.
Profession
Professor at University of Cambridge
Member of
Cambridge Swiss Society
New Helvetic Society
Swiss in London & the UK group
Social
LinkedIn: sfbucher
X: stefan_f_bucher
Stefan Bucher
Cambridge
Profile
Having grown up in Solothurn and studied in Zürich, I have lived, studied and worked in the UK, US, France and Germany. I thus understand the challenges faced by the Swiss abroad in a global context. As a trained scientist (ETH) and economics professor, I am well-informed about policy and eager to improve the lives of Swiss expats, whose courage to chase their dreams I admire. In my mid-thirties, I bring plenty of fresh ideas and drive but enough experience to know how to implement them!
Motivation
I’m eager to make daily life easier for us all, for instance by cutting bureaucratic hurdles and improving digital government services. I will also lobby for direct parliamentary representation of the Swiss abroad. Other priorities include expanding social security agreements and tax treaties, improving student and entrepreneurial mobility, and demanding equal treatment by Swiss banks for all citizens. I am running to make the diverse voices of our wonderful community heard – as cultural ambassadors representing our country, we deserve a stronger voice at home
Profession
General Manager, Business Advisor
Member of
BSCC
HSG Alumni
Unione Ticinese
New Helvetic Society
Social
LinkedIn: lorenzaannacavalli
Instagram: lorenza.london
Linktr.ee: lorenza4csa
Lorenza Anna Cavalli
London
Profile
Originally from Massagno, Ticino, I moved to London in 1994 for my first job at Nestlé UK after graduating in Business Administration from HSG University of St. Gallen. Fluent in Italian, English, German, and French, I have managed people, brands, and businesses in large corporations and medium-sized companies across industries from food to fashion, watches, and jewellery. As a ‘Swiss Italian Londoner,’ I cherish my Swiss roots and the values of direct democracy, federalism, and multiculturalism, while grateful for the personal and professional opportunities I’ve enjoyed in the UK.
Motivation
Passionate about promoting commerce, culture, and citizens' rights across international borders, I now want to give back to my community. As your UK delegate, I am committed to facilitating communication and collaboration between Swiss citizens in the UK and Swiss/British authorities. I advocate for accessible electronic voting, secure residence rights, and improved social security and pension provisions. I support adopting Italian as an official language of the Organisation of the Swiss Abroad (OSA) alongside German and French.
Profession
International Artist, Entrepreneur & Community Builder
Member of
New Helvetic Society
Swiss Artist Meetup (London)
Social
LinkedIn: natcartier
Facebook: its.nat.cartier
TikTok: its.nat.cartier
Instagram: its.nat.cartier
Nat Cartier
London
Profile
My dream is to be a global ambassador for Swiss artists, bridging cultures through music, business, and community. I have spent my career creating emotional connections across borders, encouraging art, culture and togetherness via memorable engagements. I am passionate about identity, opportunity, impact, and establishing lifelong connections with all of you. I have just moved to London from Edinburgh with my Ukrainian wife.
Motivation
I offer my love for networking and my deep passion for community-building to the Swiss communities of the UK. Two communities in Edinburgh have felt this, and hopefully, in time London will too. I provide dedicated youthful and cultural energy to inspire and make a difference – and yes, I’d really love to send you a postcard!
Profession
CEO
Member of
Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram Swiss Groups
Social
LinkedIn: samuel-hadorn-222201
Instagram: samuel.hadorn
Samuel Hadorn
London
Profile
I know firsthand how challenging it is to maintain a strong connection with your home country. My wife (from Moscow) and I have lived across Europe since 2006, settling in the UK in 2020. As CEO of a coffee company with over 1,500 employees across Europe, I stay updated on Swiss, EU, and UK regulations. I bring motivation, experience, hard work, and Swiss neutrality. Having reviewed past meeting minutes, I can offer expertise on key issues, from banking challenges to governance concerns, ensuring practical and effective solutions.
Motivation
As a father of two (14 and 8) who has travelled extensively, I have been deeply interested in the ASR for a long time. Childhood memories of the August 1st events at the Swiss embassy in Bolivia shaped my perspective. Having moved abroad multiple times, I understand the challenges expats face. I want to share my experience, help others, and give a voice to this important community. With global tensions rising, I believe collaboration is essential, and the Swiss abroad can play a pivotal role in fostering unity.
Profession
Professor in Mathematical Programming, Oxford Mathematical Institute
Social
LinkedIn: raphael-hauser-837691
Raphael Hauser
Oxford
Profile
I have lived abroad since 1995 (USA 1995–1999, UK since 1999), working in higher education, SMEs, and startups in both Switzerland and the UK. As a faculty member at the University of Oxford since 2001, I have deep insight into university governance, financial planning, and international research collaborations. I also understand the challenges Swiss expatriates face, from pensions and taxation to navigating dual education systems for children. My experience equips me to represent Swiss students, academics, and professionals abroad effectively.
Motivation
As an OSA delegate, I would like to give back to the community that has supported my life in the UK for 25 years. I believe my perspective would contribute to a diverse and constructive dialogue at the CSA. My professional experience in governance and education enables me to play an active role in discussions and effectively communicate key issues to our community.
Profession
Manager in Financial Services
Member of
Swiss Abroad
Geraldine Kraev
London
Profile
My name is Geraldine Kraev. I moved to the UK to study and now live in London with my husband and two children. At 18, I faced the challenge of being the only Swiss student at my university in Wales. Over time, I developed a deep connection to both Switzerland and the UK. I worked at the Swiss Embassy in London for over 7 years, promoting trade and investment, and now focus on innovation in financial services. My children’s connection to Swiss culture motivates me to strengthen ties between the two countries.
Motivation
I spent over 7 years leading the Swiss Business Hub in the UK, understanding the issues faced by Swiss expats. Having moved here as a student, I’ve built a career in politics, NGOs, and financial services, gaining insight into the cultural differences between Switzerland and the UK. I believe I can be a strong voice for Swiss abroad. Politically savvy, dynamic, and engaged, I’m eager to represent my fellow citizens, championing the key issues that affect both our professional and personal lives.
Thomas Laubscher
London
Profile
Born and raised in Switzerland, I moved to the UK nearly ten years ago for work. I am now firmly settled here, with my British wife, and together we strive to blend both cultures as we raise our daughter. With a degree in Politics and International Relations, I have a keen interest in global affairs and over two decades of experience in international finance. In my day-to-day work, I engage with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds in a high-pressure, high-risk environment, using my communication skills to build lasting relationships. Travelling and exploring new cultures are passions of mine, and my love for fine wine and food opens doors to new experiences.
Motivation
Having lived in the UK for nearly a decade, I now consider myself somewhat British, yet my Swiss roots remain deep. I still regularly visit family and friends in Switzerland, staying connected to my homeland. With my experience of starting a new life abroad, I aim to help fellow expats settle in and navigate life in the UK. My background in international finance has honed my analytical approach and communication skills, which I apply in both professional and personal spheres, working with integrity and a strong sense of ownership.
Profession
Senior Lecturer at Bristol University
Social
X: TobyMatthiesen
Toby Matthiesen
Bristol/London
Profile
Having lived in the UK for almost two decades, I have worked at universities in London, Cambridge, Oxford, and Bristol. With expertise in global politics, I follow Swiss affairs closely and regularly provide insights to Swiss media. I am committed to ensuring that the voices of Swiss Abroad are better represented in Swiss politics. I aim to work specifically for the Swiss in the UK, tackling challenges such as post-Brexit legal issues and improving Swiss-British relations more generally.
Motivation
Swiss in the UK face unique challenges post-Brexit as Switzerland and the UK rethink their relations with the EU and with each other. My experience with international politics and diplomacy will help me fulfil the role of UK delegate and support this process. I am excited to stand in these elections as I am a strong believer in direct democracy and am keen to work towards ensuring that the issues affecting Swiss citizens in the UK, like banking, double taxation, and legal problems, are taken seriously in Bern and London.
Profession
Professor of Particle Physics at the University of Edinburgh
Member of
Swiss Club Edinburgh (President)
FOSSUK committee
Member of several Facebook groups –
Swiss in the UK, Swiss in London & the UK
Swiss Abroad
Auslandschweizer
Swiss Community.org
Social
LinkedIn: franz-muheim-61a0bb6
Facebook: franz.muheim.7
Bluesky: muheim.bsky.social
Instagram: franz.muheim
X: muheim
Website: franzmuheim.ch
Franz Muheim
Edinburgh
Profile
I am a professor of particle physics at the University of Edinburgh, with major involvement at the Large Hadron Collider at CERN. I moved to the UK in 1999 and regularly travel to Switzerland for work, family, and leisure. I have a strong interest in politics and have been active in Swiss affairs, serving as a delegate to the Council of the Swiss Abroad (CSA) since 2013. I have worked to enhance representation for Swiss Abroad, improve E-voting, and advocate for Swiss citizens' rights, particularly post-Brexit.
Motivation
As a current UK delegate to the CSA and a member of the OSA Executive Board, I am committed to representing the 40,000 Swiss citizens in the UK. With my extensive political experience in both Switzerland and the UK, I will continue to advocate for Swiss Abroad, ensuring their voice is heard in Swiss politics. I will also address concerns and maintain close ties with the Swiss Embassy to help citizens navigate key issues such as Settled Status and travel authorizations.
Profession
Wine Importer, Distributor & Retailer
Member of
Manchester Swiss Club
Unione Ticinese
BSCC
Swiss British Business Exchange
Social
LinkedIn: joellenebbe
Facebook: iphigenie
Threads: superiphi
Joelle Nebbe-Mornod
Idle, West Yorkshire
Profile
My name is Joelle, and I live in Yorkshire with my husband, Robb. I moved to the UK in 2000 and joined my first Swiss club in 2004. I feel deeply connected to Switzerland and am more engaged with its policies now than when I lived there. In 2012, I launched Alpine Wines to make Swiss wine more accessible in the UK, and I’m proud to say I’m halfway to achieving this goal.
Motivation
I’ve been on the FOSSUK committee for 10 years, but now I want to take on the role of a delegate. Over the past decade, I’ve seen the impactful work of our delegates and the Council of the Swiss Abroad. There are ongoing challenges, such as e-voting, bank accounts, AHV, and the status of partners and children. Specific issues for the UK, like the renegotiation post-Brexit, also need attention. It’s vital to stay engaged and safeguard our rights as Swiss abroad.
Profession
Strategy Consultant
Member of
Swiss in the UK
Swiss in Manchester
Social
LinkedIn: isabelleschenk
Instagram: bella2ch3nk
Isabelle Schenk
Manchester
Profile
Originally from Zurich, Switzerland, I have built my life and career in the UK while maintaining strong ties to my homeland. Having studied and worked in both Switzerland and the UK I understand the challenges of transferring skills and credentials between international job market standards. My work spans strategy, innovation, and investment, connecting Switzerland and the UK. Fluent in multiple languages, I am passionate about strengthening the Swiss community and supporting expatriates in navigating their international careers, preserving their Swiss identity, and maintaining cultural connections.
Motivation
Switzerland will always be home, but the UK is where I have built my family and career. I understand the complexities of balancing two cultures and maintaining Swiss roots while embracing British customs. As a parent abroad, I want to help future generations retain their Swiss heritage, especially through language and cultural initiatives. I aim to advocate for Swiss expatriates’ rights, support families, and ensure that the next generation can easily move between both countries for education, work, and family life.
Marc Stoessel
Portsmouth/Taunton
Profile
I grew up in Basel, Switzerland, and pursued my medical studies at the University of Basel. During my final year, I met my British partner, a Royal Navy doctor. After working in Switzerland, we relocated to the UK, where I joined the NHS. I trained in the West Country before starting GP training in Portsmouth, which I will complete in 1.5 years. While committed to our UK medical careers for now, we plan to return to Switzerland in the future, remaining open to new opportunities.
Motivation
My experience in both Swiss and British healthcare gives me valuable insight into issues affecting Swiss citizens in the UK. Living in a service family, I engage with diverse communities, including the UK Armed Forces. With family in the U.S., Germany, and Switzerland, I understand the challenges faced by internationally spread families. This perspective allows me to represent Swiss abroad effectively, addressing their concerns in healthcare, social matters, and cross-border family life.
Profession
Senior Lecturer at Newcastle University, specialising in advanced mathematics
Member of
Swiss Community
Swiss Club Tyne Tees)
Pascal Stiefenhofer
Newcastle
Profile
With 20 years of experience in the UK, I am a university lecturer passionate about strengthening ties between the Swiss community and Switzerland. My academic career has equipped me to engage diverse audiences and advocate effectively. Growing up in the Romantsch-speaking region of Graubünden, I value Switzerland’s linguistic and cultural diversity, and I use my multicultural background to represent the needs of minority communities and foster inclusivity.
Motivation
I aim to strengthen the voice of the Swiss living in the UK by promoting proactive dialogue with Swiss institutions and addressing key concerns of the diaspora. With my experience in community engagement, I can contribute to building stronger ties between the Swiss abroad and their homeland, advocating for citizen rights, and ensuring that the diverse perspectives of Swiss residents in the UK are well-represented at both national and local levelsty.
Profession
Global Health and Gender Equality Expert
Member of
OSA
FOSSUK
New Helvetic Society
Swiss in the UK
Swiss Abroad Facebook groups
Social
LinkedIn: lakshmi-sundaram-9743a
Facebook: lakshmi.sundaram.3
X: LakSundaram
Instagram: laksundaram
Lakshmi Sundaram
London
Profile
My career has focused on changing the world – tackling AIDS in Rwanda; championing global health at the World Economic Forum; running Girls Not Brides (a global organisation to end child marriage); and with openDemocracy. Now, I work as a consultant helping institutions create a positive impact. Born and raised in Geneva, I first came to the UK as a student in 1997, then experienced being a Swiss abroad in the US and Rwanda before moving back here in 2012.
Motivation
As an OSA delegate since 2021, I’m passionate about making sure our unique needs are understood in Switzerland, by policymakers and the general public. While change can be frustratingly slow, it’s been encouraging to see politicians at federal and cantonal levels take on our issues. If elected, I will build on this experience and continue to fight for our interests, while challenging outdated perceptions of Switzerland and representing a vibrant, forward-looking nation.
Nicolas Szita
Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire
Profile
I have lived in the UK for nearly two decades, am married, and a father of four. I work as a Professor in Engineering at University College London and am bilingual in French and German. I have also lived in the USA, Denmark, and Switzerland. Now that my children are older, I want to support the interests of Swiss abroad in the UK. I aim to foster business exchanges, strengthen education links, and assist Swiss citizens with challenges like social security, qualifications, and banking.
Motivation
With nearly 20 years in the UK, a position at UCL, and experience as a father of four, I’m committed to supporting Swiss abroad. Bilingual in French and German, I aim to foster business and educational connections, while addressing challenges like social security, banking, and professional recognition. I would be honored to represent the over 42,000 Swiss in the UK. Leveraging my network and knowledge of Swiss politics, I will ensure the voices of Swiss citizens, from the young to the elderly, are heard in Bern.
