Profile
Opening the Doors to Philanthropy in Switzerland: The Women Joining Forces for the Paris Brain Institute
Behind the scenes of the Paris Brain Institute’s Franco-Swiss dinner, held in Geneva on 29 September 2026, is a support committee made up of six women from very different backgrounds, united by a shared conviction: brain diseases affect us all, and research is our greatest hope in tackling them.
For some, this commitment is deeply personal. Lou Gerhig’s disease (ALS) or Alzheimer’s disease has touched their families, giving them first-hand insight into the impact these conditions have on patients and their loved ones. Watching someone you love gradually lose their abilities and independence can bring a profound sense of helplessness — but also a determination to act. Supporting research then becomes a way of helping, however modestly, to change the future.
For others, their involvement began with an encounter: with Olivier Goy, ambassador of the Paris Brain Institute who is living with ALS, with a doctor, or with the Institute’s researchers. These conversations opened their eyes to ambitious research and to a cause whose significance extends far beyond those directly affected today. “Brain diseases know no boundaries of age, background or geography,” Mara Hank Moret reminds us.
Philanthropy That Goes Far Beyond Giving
This collective effort has also highlighted that philanthropy is about much more than financial support. It is about giving your time, opening up your networks, bringing others on board and sharing a belief in a cause.
Over the months, members of the committee have helped bring together guests and partners and secure exceptional lots. What has struck them most? The generosity that emerges once people understand the importance of the cause. Artists, companies, friends and members of their networks have all wanted to contribute in their own way.
“Joining a support committee means amplifying a message, creating momentum, bringing people together and enabling everyone to contribute, in their own way, to progress that will benefit as many people as possible.”
Solène Porcherot
The Strength of a Collective
This collective effort also owes much to the diversity of the committee. Different personalities, experiences and networks, but all moving in the same direction. This complementarity has generated more ideas, helped reach different audiences and given the event genuine local roots.
“When each person brings their own unique contribution — their network, skills and perspective — to a shared purpose, the impact is multiplied. What matters is not the sum of individual contributions, but the synergy they create. Seeing this in action, for such an essential cause, is both moving and a genuine source of hope.”
Séverine Cantoia
Giving Research the Means to Go Further
Beyond the dinner, a broader vision of philanthropy is taking shape: one that brings people together and builds bridges between a scientific institution and a community of philanthropists, partners and engaged citizens.
For the committee members, supporting the Paris Brain Institute means giving researchers the resources they need to better understand neurodegenerative diseases and advance prevention, diagnosis and treatment. As the population ages, these issues will affect a growing number of families.
Supporting research therefore means helping to push back boundaries in an area that concerns every one of us. “Every contribution matters. No donation is too small,” says Véronique De Kepper, also member of the Institute’s Campaign Committee.
Behind this evening in Geneva lies a shared conviction: when women and men devote their time, resources, networks and energy to the same cause, their collective impact extends far beyond what any of them could achieve individually.
Supporting research today means helping to build a better future for millions of patients and their loved ones.
Members of the Support Committee:
Laura Bohbot
Séverine Cantoia
Véronique De Kepper
Mara Hank Moret
Aude Oltramare
Solène Porcherot
