our leadership team
Our team is made up of members of diverse origins and backgrounds. We believe that through our empathy and willingness to listen we can address the root causes of conflict and create a safe, inclusive environment that promotes unity, communication, cooperation and understanding.
Sanela M. Lee
Founder
Sanela M. Lee is a peacebuilder, social entrepreneur and founder of SANCHILD. A former refugee from Bosnia now living in Switzerland, she turned her own journey of healing and resilience after war into a lifelong commitment to peace.
Through SANCHILD, Sanela works with post-war communities affected by division and collective intergenerational trauma, empowering a new generation to move beyond inherited conflicts. She leads the Harmony Program, SANCHILD’s flagship initiative, which builds trust, healing and reconciliation and equips local changemakers to launch Harmony Ripple Projects in their own communities.
Sanela brings over 20 years of experience as an international HR consultant and coach, specialising in HR transformation, leadership, change management and process automation for multinational companies. She is also an expert and mentor at MassChallenge Switzerland.
In addition to SANCHILD’s initiatives, Sanela serves as a Rotary International Representative to the United Nations in Geneva. In 2024–25, Rotary International honoured her as a People of Action: Champion of Peace.
Connect with Sanela on LinkedIn.
Founder
Jasmina Chille
President
As President of SANCHILD Foundation Switzerland, Jasmina Chille supports the organization’s mission and presence from its Swiss base. Through her role, she contributes to the continuity and development of SANCHILD’s work, helping carry forward its commitment to peacebuilding, education, community development and long-term positive change.
She plays an important role in supporting the foundation’s Swiss structure and its connection to SANCHILD’s broader international vision. Her engagement reflects the organization’s belief that lasting impact is built through commitment, trust and collective responsibility.
President
Selma Memic
President
Selma Memic is a legal professional specialising in international justice and human rights, driven by a profound commitment to the people the law serves and a belief in its power to advance peace, justice, protect human dignity, and create meaningful change.
Her early experiences with the United Nations and Swiss diplomatic missions, followed by her legal practice in France and Switzerland, have shaped her understanding of the role that legal institutions, international cooperation, and cross-border partnerships can play in advancing peace and safeguarding fundamental rights.
As President of SANCHILD Foundation Bosnia and Herzegovina, Selma is committed to strengthening the foundation’s role as a platform for cooperation, dialogue, and meaningful action across the Western Balkans and neighbouring countries. She is particularly interested in fostering regional initiatives that bring together legal professionals, institutions, and civil society to advance human rights, strengthen social cohesion, and contribute to lasting peace.
Through her work, Selma seeks to help build a more connected and resilient Western Balkans, where cooperation transcends borders and the protection of human rights serves as a foundation for lasting peace.
President
Bruna Monteiro
Coordination & Communication Lead
Bruna Monteiro was born in Portugal and immigrated to Switzerland at the age of ten. Growing up between two cultures shaped her resilience, adaptability, and openness to different perspectives. Over time, her personal journey, including her own path of healing and transformation, has continued to influence her interest in people and human development.
With six years of experience in the healthcare sector, alongside a background in administration, coordination, and high-standard service environments, Bruna brings a structured, detail-oriented, and human-centered approach to her work. Her professional experience has strengthened her ability to organize complex information, support multidisciplinary collaboration, and translate ideas into action.
As Coordination & Communication Lead at SANCHILD International, Bruna contributes to the organization's strategic development, internal coordination, and institutional communication. Her work focuses on strengthening organizational processes, supporting project implementation, and developing a coherent communication strategy as SANCHILD expands its international reach.
Driven by a strong belief in human potential, Bruna believes that everyone deserves the freedom to dream beyond the limits of their circumstances and pursue a future of their own making. She is passionate about empowering individuals to challenge expectations, define their own paths, and turn aspirations into reality. Through her engagement with SANCHILD, she hopes to contribute to the transformation of individuals, communities, and systems toward a world where opportunities are not defined by where someone begins.
Connect with Bruna on LinkedIn.
Coordination & Communication Lead
Veronica Verdial
Head of Finance
As a Board member and Finance Lead, Veronica supports SANCHILD’s financial planning, budgeting, and long-term financial sustainability. She helps strengthen the organization’s financial foundations as it prepares for larger initiatives, multi-year programs, and more complex funding requirements.
Drawing on 30 years of experience across finance, private banking, risk management, and sustainable finance, she brings financial discipline and a strategic perspective to the development of SANCHILD’s activities.
Veronica is committed to use her professional experience to support meaningful initiatives like SANCHILD. She finds inspiration in the hummingbird, a symbol of joy, vitality, and renewal, reminding us of the quiet strength that kindness, lightness, and positive energy can bring. In this spirit, she hopes nurturing SANCHILD’s growth, helping it bring hope, connection, and lasting well-being to people and communities.
Head of Finance
Laura Rey
Treasurer
Laura Rey is a Board Member and Treasurer of SANCHILD International. In this role, she supports the organization by helping ensure clarity, reliability, and structure in its financial and administrative responsibilities.
Through her contribution, Laura brings care, precision, reliability, and human sensitivity to SANCHILD International.
Connect with Laura on LinkedIn.
Treasurer
Azra Karic
Vice President
Azra Karić holds an MSc in Genetics and Bioengineering. She currently works as a Research & Development Scientist at BiOptimizers, where she contributes to health solutions through research and data analysis.
With a background in molecular biology, research, and bioengineering, Azra brings precision, curiosity, and analytical thinking to her work. Her scientific path reflects a strong interest in life, health, and human well-being.
Azra’s journey with SANCHILD began when she was still a high school student. She first joined as a volunteer. Over time, she became more involved in projects connected to society, education, and the environment.
This commitment soon became one of her strongest passions.
“Working on projects of great value for society and environment became my strong passion, through which I shape my perspective of the world.”
Today, Azra is the Vice President of SANCHILD Foundation (B&H branch). In this role, she supports the organization’s local presence. She also helps continue SANCHILD’s mission in the region where many of its roots and projects were developed.
Her experience also includes working as a Research Assistant, tutoring English, and participating as a mentee with the Bosnia & Herzegovina Futures Foundation.
Through her work, Azra connects scientific thinking, community engagement, and social responsibility. As a result, her contribution reflects SANCHILD’s belief that positive change grows when people place their knowledge and values in service of society.
As part of SANCHILD Foundation, Azra continues to support projects that promote education, environmental awareness, community development, and long-term positive impact.
Connect with Azra on LinkedIn.
Vice President
Dzana Aladzuz
Secretary
Dzana Aladzuz holds an MSc degree from the University of Sarajevo and works as a general practitioner M.D.
Her journey with SANCHILD began when she was still in high school. Since then, volunteering has played an important role in her personal and professional growth. It has also shaped the way she understands people, care, and community healing.
As a doctor, Dzana works closely with people who still live with the consequences of the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Through this experience, she has seen how important trust, empathy, and communication are in the healing process.
For Dzana, medicine is not only about diagnosis and treatment. It is also about presence, reassurance, and the ability to create a safe relationship with patients. Her work with SANCHILD helped her strengthen this understanding.
“Volunteering in SANCHILD has helped me establish better communication and trust with patients who are still enduring consequences from the previous war. A good doctor’s comforting and reassuring words are sometimes more powerful than medicines.”
Today, Dzana is the Secretary of SANCHILD Foundation (B&H Branch). Through her medical background and long-standing commitment to the organization, she brings care, responsibility, and a deep understanding of human vulnerability.
Her contribution reflects SANCHILD’s belief that healing can happen through education, trust, compassion, and human connection. As part of SANCHILD Foundation, Dzana supports the organization’s mission to promote well-being, resilience, and long-term positive impact in communities affected by conflict.
Secretary
Advisory & Honorary Members
Advisory or Honorary Members support the organization’s objectives by providing strategic advice, insights and network connections.
Walter B. Gyger
Advisory Board Member
Walter B. Gyger is a former Swiss ambassador, diplomat, author, and long-standing supporter of peacebuilding and international cooperation.
He studied public management at the University of St. Gallen, where he also obtained his doctorate. He also holds an honorary doctorate in philosophy from the Pedagogical Academy of the University of Russia.
In 1974, Walter joined the Swiss diplomatic service. Over nearly four decades, he represented Switzerland in several regions of the world. His ambassadorial postings included Senegal, Mali, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, The Gambia, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and the Russian Federation. From 1995 to 1999, he was also Head of the Swiss Mission to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva.
Walter joined Rotary in 1994. His first club was RC Dakar Alizés. He later became a founding member of RC Geneva Palais Wilson and a member of RC Delhi Midtown and RC Ankara. Back in Geneva, he founded Rotary Club Geneva International.
From 2015 to 2021, Walter served as the main representative of Rotary International to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva. In this role, he organized the first Rotary Day at the United Nations in Geneva and the first Rotary Peace Projects Incubator.
Walter is also the author of Dare We Hope? Building Lasting Peace: A Swiss Ambassador’s Insight, a book on international governance, cooperation, and practical tools for building peace in complex times.
Walter has been an Honorary Member of SANCHILD since 2020 and became Head of the Advisory Board in 2022. Through his role, he brings diplomatic experience, strategic guidance, and a lifelong commitment to dialogue, governance, and peace.
Connect with Walter on LinkedIn.
Advisory Board Member
Susan Laverick
Advisory Board Member
Susan Laverick is the founder and director of Susan Laverick Consulting. She is a strategic communication adviser, executive coach, speechwriter, and trainer with over 25 years of experience supporting leaders, diplomats, organizations, and changemakers.
As a consultant, Susan works with international corporations, academic institutions, NGOs, teams, and individuals to address critical communication challenges. Her work helps people become high-impact communicators, especially in moments where words, presence, and clarity must deliver results.
Susan’s first-class communication background includes experience with Citigroup and the BBC in London, as well as teaching across international organizations in Geneva. She regularly works with Rotary International, preparing annual laureates for maiden speeches at the United Nations in Geneva and New York.
She also teaches critical communication skills and applied rhetoric at both the Geneva Graduate Institute and the University of Geneva. As a seasoned speechwriter and presenter, Susan supports clients in drafting speeches, preparing impactful presentations, and delivering high-stakes pitches.
Susan has a particular interest in supporting women moving into leadership positions. She helps them strengthen their authority, confidence, and communication skills. She is also often invited as a guest speaker at international conferences focused on women’s professional empowerment.
Susan holds a Doctorate in English Literature, completed on an Australian government Research Scholarship for scholars of exceptional promise. She also holds a Master’s in History from the University of London and is an ICF-qualified executive coach.
Through her work with SANCHILD and the Harmony Project, Susan brings deep expertise in strategic communication, leadership presence, speechwriting, and authentic influence. Her contribution supports peacebuilding by helping people articulate messages, visions, and stories that strengthen dialogue, understanding, and collective impact.
Connect with Susan on LinkedIn.
Advisory Board Member
Justin Friedman
Advisory Board Member
Justin Friedman has worked for over 20 years in the environmental and wellbeing sectors across the UK, Europe, Asia, the USA, and South Africa. His work connects environmental awareness, human wellbeing, creativity, and large-scale behaviour change.
The name Friedman means “Man of Peace”, and Justin carries this meaning through his work. He seeks to support peacebuilding with ourselves, each other, and the planet.
With a background in design development, strategic planning, Creative Direction, Communication, and Campaign strategies, Justin has supported social entrepreneurs, non-profits, foundations, governments, businesses, ecolabels, and public figures. His work helps organizations strengthen their resilience through restorative and regenerative principles. He also has a unique ability to draw out talents, contributions, action, and passion to create flow.
Justin founded FLOW (For Love Of Water) in South Africa. Through FLOW, he connected people, organizations, Government departments, Corporates, Media, Educators, and Civil Society around a shared respect for water. At its heart, FLOW reflects a simple belief: caring for water means caring for life, communities, and our shared planet.
In 2010, Justin helped create Water Access and Awareness for the FIFA World Cup. In 2011, he hosted UN-Habitat and UN-Water during their visit to South Africa for World Water Day.
He was also network leader at BiomimicrySA for five years, where he led projects focused on nature-inspired innovation and regenerative solutions.
Justin also brings a strong creative dimension to his work. He has experience producing and directing musical tracks and performances that support environmental awareness, including projects connected to TEDx and the United Nations. He also shared his work on water awareness through For Love of Water at TEDxCapeTown 2011.
Today, Justin provides advisory services for Pioneering People & Projects. He has been supporting SANCHILD’s activities since 2013.
Connect with Justin on LinkedIn.
Advisory Board Member
Diana Godoy
Advisory Board Member
Diana Godoy is an international relations specialist, business administrator, political scientist, project manager, and systems thinker. Her work focuses on strategy, transformation, complexity, organizational development, and peacebuilding.
She began her career in Latin America, where she founded and managed non-governmental organizations focused on international development and socio-political research. This early experience shaped her commitment to people, systems, and positive social change.
Diana later continued her professional path in Germany. There, she worked as a global project, change, and crisis manager in the automotive industry. She also served as Chief Operations Officer and organizational development manager for a machine, line production, and automation technology company during a phase of restructuring and growth.
Today, Diana helps organizations bring systemic order into complexity. As a strategic thinker and Chief Strategy Officer, she supports companies and teams in becoming more structured, resilient, and ready to move forward sustainably.
On her website, Diana describes herself as a generalist, bridge builder, strategic planner, storyteller, workshop designer, facilitator, and peacebuilder.. She works across projects, change, transformation, complexity, strategy, and chaos.
In her own words, “Embracing chaos unlocks the potential for positive transformation. Chaos is a catalyst for change and innovation.” This belief reflects her ability to see possibility, creativity, and cooperation even in uncertain environments.
“I volunteer for several organizations, and as an active Rotarian, I lead peace and youth projects internationally. This is how I got in touch with SANCHILD NGO, an organization which encompasses her passions: peace, people and a systems approach.”
Through her work with SANCHILD, Diana contributes strategic insight, intercultural understanding, and systemic thinking. She strives to be a bearer of peace in a world of chaos, believing that even in uncertainty, there is always potential for positive change.
Connect with Diana on LinkedIn.
Advisory Board Member
© 2026 SANCHILD International. All rights reserved.