Karen Thorsen

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My passion for helping others is a meaningful purpose that has driven me throughout my life. Before coming to Switzerland I worked as a Public Health Nurse at a community health centre in Norway where most of my clients where refugees families. Subsequently I completed a course in multi-cultural health work focusing on refugee politics internationally.

I joined Coucoudre hoping to use my existing skills to the charity as well as giving myself a sense of purpose. I have loved being part of a growing start up managing all aspects of operations and sales as well as having direct contact with refugees.

During my time at Coucoudre, I worked closely with my team to support the organisation’s growth, increase its visibility, and develop strategic partnerships. Together, we collaborated with the International School of Geneva and Collège du Léman to create sustainable solutions that empowered refugee families and engaged local communities.

In addition I work as a UN representative in Make Mothers Matter in the UN in Geneva, where my focus is in health relate to mothers and children.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family in the mountains, where I feel most at peace.