Our Vision
We envision a Switzerland where every woman feels fully integrated, valued, and inspired to grow personally and professionally. By fostering cultural understanding, collaboration, and empowerment, we strive to create an inclusive environment that supports women’s success and well-being throughout their journey.
Our Mission
Women of the World, based in Kloten, Canton of Zurich, is committed to empowering women from diverse backgrounds by providing a supportive community. We facilitate meaningful connections, share experiences, and offer practical resources to help women confidently navigate life and opportunities in Switzerland.
Meet the team
President
Darlene Takahashi-Knecht
Originally from Canada, Darlene’s journey has taken her across the globe. She earned her Master’s Degree in Teaching in Australia before moving to Abu Dhabi, where she spent seven years teaching English and met her husband. In 2017, she relocated to Switzerland, navigating the challenges of expat life, including the language barrier. This experience inspired her to create a WhatsApp group in 2021, providing a space for women seeking friendship and support. What began as a small community has since evolved into Women of the World, a growing platform dedicated to fostering connections and empowerment among women in Switzerland. Alongside her leadership in Women of the World, Darlene is the founder of Treasures Switzerland, a handmade bath and body company and a dedicated wife and mother of two. Balancing entrepreneurship, community building and family life, she embraces every challenge as part of the adventure.
.jpg)
Secretary
Vicky Labaj
Vicky Labaj joined the Women of the World committee in 2024, bringing with her a strong commitment to community-building and intercultural understanding. Originally from Hong Kong, she moved to Kloten in 2022 to join her now-husband and quickly experienced first hand the challenges of integration in a new country. In her first years in Switzerland, she struggled with loneliness and language barriers, but gradually found connection through local German classes and by meeting other international women living in Kloten. Her own experience with cultural adjustment inspired her to join Women of the World. Vicky strongly believes in creating spaces where everyone feels welcome, heard, and valued. In addition to her role as secretary, Vicky works part-time as a webshop manager for a specialty coffee roastery and enjoys exploring Kloten on foot and trying out new vegetarian recipes.