With the event in Zurich, the PERSPECTIVES programme marked its first step into the German‑speaking part of Switzerland. The programme supports the mobility of young, highly skilled professionals from Tunisia and creates links between talent and Swiss companies.
In her welcome address, Carole Schaber, Programme Manager PERSPECTIVES, pointed to the similarities between the two countries: both small, multilingual nations with well‑educated young people. She also underlined the purpose of the evening – to show Swiss companies how they can benefit from the drive and commitment of Tunisian professionals, while at the same time contributing to Tunisia’s development through circular migration. Her remarks set the scene for the two panels that followed, in which young professionals and employers shared their experiences and offered an authentic insight into what distinguishes Tunisian talent and how it can make a meaningful contribution within Swiss companies.
The first panel focused on the personal experiences of the three young professionals. When moderator Sunnie Groeneveld asked how they had found their way to Switzerland, all three explained that this step had not been planned – yet in retrospect, it proved to be both important and enriching. They mentioned above all the reliable infrastructure, the openness of the people and the professional opportunities they encountered in Switzerland.
In discussing what it means to live between two cultures, the young professionals highlighted both differences and unexpected similarities. Switzerland, they explained, feels calmer and more structured – at times so calm that, as Slim Kammoun noted with a smile, he even misses the familiar bustle of Tunisia and the sound of honking cars. At the same time, they value the closeness to nature in both countries: the sea in Tunisia, and the mountains and lakes in Switzerland.
It also became clear what they contribute to the Swiss working environment: multilingualism, cultural awareness for international markets and a strong willingness to perform. Many have completed a competitive education system in Tunisia, which encourages resilience, determination and a sense of responsibility. At the same time, they highlighted what they have learnt in Switzerland – from respecting different working styles to listening more carefully and engaging in diverse teams. When asked by the audience what advice they would give to other young talents, their recommendations were consistent: stay curious, explore the country, talk to people and observe closely.
In the second panel, entrepreneurs and employers spoke about what collaboration with Tunisian professionals looks like in practice – and the potential they see in it. One particularly striking example came from Selim Gatti, founder of DigiTech Bridge 360. His platform links the needs of European companies with highly skilled engineers from Tunisia, showing how circular migration can work in a very tangible way. Co‑founder Mohamed Kalai, himself a former participant in the Young Professionals Programme, now feeds knowledge and experience back into Tunisia – closing the circle.
The discussion also highlighted the strengths that Tunisian talent brings to companies: solid technical training, commitment, a strong sense of responsibility and the ability to adapt quickly to new working environments. Many are accustomed to finding solutions in demanding or fast‑moving situations – experience that further strengthens their contribution in Switzerland. The panellists also emphasised how valuable new perspectives and cultural diversity can be for teams and for driving innovation.
A question from the audience about suitable leadership styles was also discussed. The key, the panellists noted, is to provide direction and build trust – rather than resorting to micromanagement. With clear structures and the freedom to work independently, Tunisian talents are able to realise their full potential.
The event highlighted in various ways the contribution that Tunisian professionals can make in Switzerland. Their strong technical qualifications, commitment and readiness to take on responsibility make them valuable members of the workforce. Many also bring multilingual skills and a solid understanding of international markets – capabilities that are becoming ever more important for Swiss companies.
At the same time, it became evident that collaboration is enriching on a personal level: different perspectives, new ideas and shared commonalities that connect people in their day‑to‑day work. Tunisian talent brings experience from dynamic environments and combines this with the stability and opportunities they find in Switzerland.
Companies interested in learning more about the programme or the recruitment process can find further details on the PERSPECTIVES website.