I support social impact initiatives
to critically (but compassionately) examine the stories they tell,
invite new voices into the conversation,
and to transform bold ideas into even bolder action.
STORYTELLING WITH STEADFAST HOPE.
My Strengths
Facilitation
Using a variety of tools both online and in-person, I facilitate workshops, trainings and social-impact events.
These include:
Value Articulation for Entrepreneurial Integration
Migration Circles - fostering Deep Listening and Brave Expression for Cross-Cultural Understanding
Bias Awareness and Deconstruction through Story
Communication for Impact
In a world full of noise, empty platitudes and oversold narratives aren’t enough to drive the genuine connection we all crave.
My content creation and social media management enlivened the communications strategies of 6 social impact organizations, raising visibility and increasing audience engagement by 35%.
Corporate Social Responsibility Management
Social Progress is best achieved when stakeholder groups co-create success, leveraging the best of our differences while guided by what makes us the same.
My CSR management has catalyzed over 120 volunteers from 5 corporate entities in contributing to the socioeconomic integration of over 150 professionals with refugee and migrant experience from 19 Swiss cantons, 72% of whom are female-identifying and 65% of whom hold refugee status.
Public Presentation
Onstage communication holds a special place in my heart - there’s a fire, a passion, and a unique opportunity to trust one’s instincts. Onstage is where I shine.
I have been thrilled to use my presentation skills to represent each of my employers in representing our shared values for audiences spanning 3 continents.
Offstage, I also have offered representation in radio, podcast and written interviews ranging from Switzerland for UNHCR to RTL Germany.
“What truly sets Cathlene apart is her ability to listen and empathize. She doesn't just tell stories; she brings them to life, connecting with her audience on a profound level. Her work is a testament to her exceptional skills as a communicator and a storyteller.”
- Dorsa Sotudé, Social Entrepreneuse
My Passions
Intersectionality
Our global crises don’t occur in isolation: each is created by the same social ills, and each is nourished by the inaction of the well-intended.
If we are going to end these crises, safeguard one another, and rebuild a sustainably healthy world, we must divest from that which does not serve us - swiftly, creatively, and in community.
Equity + Justice = Diverse Belonging
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) can be a challenging topic for many, but I believe that there is exciting conversation to be had here.
When we dare to examine our errors in thought and behavior with curiosity rather than shame, and call each other in rather than call each other out. we prime our social canvas for a culture where justice and equity are actions, not statements.
Circularity
Unpopular opinion: a circular economy is a holistically healthy economy.
Both climate science & social science demonstrate the need for a bold reimagining of how we do business.
As a proud Solarpunk, I relish the opportunity to support innovative initiatives that dare to dream big enough for all of Earth to thrive.
Dignified & Ethical Storytelling
To tell a story with dignity is to do so ethically.
As a proud proponent of Dignified Storytelling, my motto in all narrative projects is:
“Don’t try to be ‘a voice for the voiceless.’ Everyone has a voice. Be their microphone instead.”
My Red Thread: the intersection between
Creativity & Social Impact
Who I’ve worked with:
-
![]()
We could not have asked for a more resourceful person than Cathlene. Her importance in our corporate partnership has been vital. She is very resourceful and committed. She always made sure we got good outcomes and was motivated to succeed in every project we worked on.
— Henry DeSousa, eBay
-
![]()
Cathlene demonstrated an remarkable talent for managing and nurturing meaningful relationships with mentors, and coaches. As part of her role, she skillfully coordinated the involvement of corporate volunteers in the program. Her dedication to creating a cooperative and people-centered support system is apparent in the positive impact the program has had on participants, including my own mentees.
-Jana Worosky, Dow
-
![]()
I highly recommend Cathlene for her dedication, professionalism, and ability to deliver results, as well as for her authenticity and ability to encourage and inspire team members, volunteers, and participants in the programs and projects she managed so far.
-Monica Moldovan, Fructify Network
-
![]()
Cathlene is such an inspiring person and an all-in-all shiny, positive human being. Her attitude, enthusiasm, knowledge, empathy and genuine care made my experience with her at Capacity simply fantastic. She acted brilliantly as a bridge between me as a Coach and the Entrepreneurs. She was available whenever I had questions, and I could reach out to her anytime for help.
-Filippo Viel, Caterpillar Inc.
-
![]()
She is a wonderful supervisor and meets you at eye level - and leads with warmth. Cathlene is the most understanding person and a very approachable mentor. she is willing to accept and implement feedback and also happy to consider proposals from her mentees/team members. Also, she has wonderful storytelling skills. I enjoyed working with her a great deal!
-Fanny Gasser, Attorney-at-Law
Why I want to join your team:
I strive to thrive in a diverse, flexible, creative and kind environment where my wealth of knowledge, experience and empathy can catalyze individual potential for collective benevolent impact.
Signs we’re a match:
You’re looking for someone to build a culture of ethical storytelling at your organization.
You are attuned to and inspired by the intersectionality of social impact problem-solving.
You want your impact stories to align with your values, but you aren’t sure where to start.
Your Comms and CSR teams could use a warm, collaborative presence who can also lead at every step of the production process.
I’ve still got your attention!
