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Looking back, I remember with a sense of pride and nostalgia the days when I, as a Swiss citizen living abroad, actively participated in Switzerland's unique democratic process. Back when I was living in Germany, the Swiss system of direct democracy was not just a distant concept but a living, breathing part of my life. Every referendum, every vote, was a direct exercise of my rights as a citizen, linking me back to my homeland despite the physical distance. This engagement was not merely about casting a ballot; it was about being part of a community, a nation that valued its expatriates' voices.

Upon moving to Singapore in 2007, every time I voted, whether it was on matters of national policy, I felt a renewed sense of belonging to Switzerland, proud of how it included its citizens abroad in its political life.

The birth of my first daughter in 2018 in Singapore marked a pivotal point in my understanding of Swiss citizenship. Becoming a parent in a foreign land, I started to see citizenship not just as a personal identity but as a legacy to pass on. I pondered how I could ensure my children would feel connected to Switzerland, to understand and cherish their Swiss heritage as I did. This introspection led to a deeper appreciation of the rights and responsibilities that come with Swiss citizenship, especially the right to vote.

In 2020, an opportunity presented itself. My family and I spent nearly one and a half years in Switzerland. This period was not just a homecoming; it was an immersion. For my daughters, then very young, it was a chance to experience Switzerland firsthand, to see the mountains, to hear the Swiss German, French, Italian, and Romansh languages, and to feel the rhythm of Swiss life. They learned about the country through sensory experiences — the taste of Swiss chocolate, the chill of alpine air, the warmth of Swiss hospitality. This time was invaluable in building a tangible bond with their ancestral land, connecting them to the culture that shaped me and to the memory of my late grandparents from my mother's side.

This experience has profoundly shaped my perspective on what it means to be Swiss when living abroad. My daughters will grow up with the extraordinary privilege of Swiss citizenship, a status that opens doors to educational, professional, and cultural opportunities but also carries with it a responsibility to engage with and contribute to Swiss society. This thought alone has been a significant motivator for me to join The Organisation of the Swiss Abroad (OSA). My involvement here is not just for personal fulfilment but to represent and advocate for my family and all Swiss expatriates in Singapore.

Through OSA, I aim to foster a community that not only supports each other but also actively promotes Switzerland. This involves educating others about Swiss culture, politics, and the benefits of the Swiss system abroad. It's about creating a network where Swiss expatriates feel connected, informed, and involved.

But my role also extends to understanding and integrating into Singapore's vibrant and diverse culture. Living in this city-state, I've learned to appreciate the nuances of local customs, the importance of harmony, and the dynamism of a society where tradition and modernity coexist. This understanding is crucial for representing Swiss interests in a way that is respectful and adaptive to the local environment.

My goal is to look after the interests of Swiss expatriates here in Singapore, ensuring their voice is heard at home.

I also see it as my duty to bridge cultural gaps, promoting mutual understanding between Singaporeans and the Swiss community.

In essence, my journey from Germany to Singapore, through the lens of Swiss citizenship and parenthood, has taught me the importance of active participation in democracy, the value of cultural heritage, and the significance of community among expatriates. This journey has not only been about upholding my rights but also about nurturing a sense of belonging and identity for the next generation, ensuring they too can say with pride, "I am Swiss."