Ms Simone Wietlisbach, if your life were a book, what would the opening line be?
«It would begin with gratitude – to the divine source of life, to my soul, and of course to my parents, my husband and my sons. Only after that would my life story unfold, beginning with “Once upon a time…».
Which memories from your youth have shaped your attitude towards generosity?
«I grew up in a family where commitment was simply part of life. My parents set an example of generosity in many ways. Sharing and togetherness were part of our everyday life – I was one of five children. Many in my family are doctors, deeply rooted in society. My father served Switzerland in many capacities – for instance, as a colonel on the General Staff in the army – and he founded the SVP in Lucerne. I was politically active myself, including as a member of the Grand City Council of Lucerne. For me, contributing to the common good was entirely natural».
What does generosity mean to you personally – is it an attitude or an action?
«For me, generosity is above all a quality of character – something that comes from the heart. It’s the willingness to give and to share without calculation. True generosity arises from empathy, not from abundance. It is an expression of the heart: giving freely, without expecting anything in return. Many who give hope for loyalty, recognition or gratitude. But that, to me, misses the essence. Genuine generosity carries no self-serving intention – not even the desire to feel better about oneself or to ease a guilty conscience».
How do you distinguish between generosity and philanthropy?
«Generosity is perhaps lived more privately, often expressed spontaneously. Yet it’s also an essential part of philanthropy. For us, philanthropy aims to create lasting, positive impact for others. Achieving such impact takes effort – it’s real work and often underestimated. I don’t expect thanks for what we do. What truly matters to me is knowing that we can make a difference for those we support. They don’t even need to know where the funds come from. We’re quite happy to remain in the background, quietly doing philanthropic work».
How do you and your husband differ in your approach to philanthropic decisions?
«I tend to follow my intuition – not in an emotional sense but guided by a deeper perception of the greater whole. Urs is more rational, and data driven. That combination is our strength. We complement one another perfectly – heart and mind need to work in balance».
What motivated you to establish the Ursimone Wietlisbach Foundation?
«We wanted to create a platform that reaches beyond short-term projects. A foundation can address issues and spark ideas that may only reveal their full impact in a hundred years’ time. It allows us to take risks where governments might hesitate – and in doing so, contribute to meaningful transformation».
How is the foundation structured, and how do you choose the projects you support?
«We operate with a lean team and trusted external partners. Our goal is to empower people to lead fulfilling lives – lives shaped by purpose, joy and value. We focus on long-term investments and partnerships that ensure as many people and communities as possible have access to holistic health, personal growth and active living. Every project we support must demonstrate measurable social value».
Do foundations like yours contribute more than financial support?
«Absolutely. Money alone is never enough. We also bring expertise, networks and strategic guidance. Our goal is to create partnerships that enable growth and development on both sides».
“Mindfulness” has become something of a buzzword today. What does it mean to you personally?
«For me, mindfulness means being present – in the moment, with oneself and with others. It connects spirituality with responsibility. Mindfulness is an inner compass that guides our actions – a lived form of awareness».
What role do you see philanthropy playing in a world marked by crises and inequality?
«Philanthropy can never fully compensate for crises or inequality – their roots lie elsewhere. But it remains an act of compassion, perhaps a light shining in the darkness».
Simone Wietlisbach
Simone Wietlisbach is a Swiss entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Powerlife AG, SH Power AG and Powerhair AG, all of which promote holistic well-being and natural vitality through innovative, patented products. She also serves as owner and CEO of PowerForm AG, part of Power Source Holding AG, and sits on the Board of the Arosa Kulm Hotel & Alpine Spa, for which she also develops interior design concepts with a partner. A trained orthomolecular medicine therapist, Reiki therapist, contextual coach, mental trainer and nutritionist, she combines her expertise to promote holistic approaches to health and vitality. She is the mother of two sons and the wife of Urs Wietlisbach, with whom she co-founded the Ursimone Wietlisbach Foundation.
