Empowering Communities

Lorena G.'s journey as a Filipino entrepreneur in Switzerland

Images: Lorena Grospietsch-Laurel

In the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland, where the mountains kiss the sky and the rivers flow with a certain magic, one woman stands out not just for her entrepreneurial spirit but for her commitment to empowering others. Lorena Grospietsch-Laurel, or Lorena G. as she’s affectionately known, is a shining example of how a Filipino entrepreneur can thrive and make a difference in a foreign land. Her journey is a tapestry woven with dreams, challenges, and a deep-rooted desire to uplift her community.

From Banking to Business

Lorena's professional backdrop is as colorful and rich as the country she now calls home. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Banking and Finance from PUP, she began her career in Manila’s bustling banking sector. Her journey took a turn when she received an offer from Deutsche Bank AG in Zürich, where her role involved overseeing client backgrounds in credit, investments, and bank accounts. With 20 years of diverse experience across various departments—including General Management, Payments, and KYC—Lorena built a robust foundation for her next venture.

Driven by the desire to become a "dangerous dreamer," Lorena took the leap into entrepreneurship. “Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake in the day to find that all was vanity; but the dreamers of the day are dangerous, for they may act their dream with open eyes,” she recites, embodying the spirit of those who dare to dream big. Her leap led to the establishment of JC Premiere GmbH, soon to be known as ELF 4 HEALTH GmbH, a direct-selling company focused on health and wellness products. This endeavor aims not only to cultivate better health practices but also to foster a vibrant community embracing wellness together.

Facing Challenges Head-On

Like many women in business, Lorena encountered unique challenges as an entrepreneur in Switzerland. Balancing work and family life often felt like a tightrope walk, a struggle many female entrepreneurs can relate to. “The dual expectations of being a business leader and a primary caregiver can be overwhelming,” she shares. Her mantra? Prioritization and delegation. By outsourcing tasks wherever possible, embracing technology, and setting clear boundaries, she managed to avoid burnout while staying true to her business vision.

Moreover, Lorena confronted the paradox of leadership as a woman, where she was often labeled as either too soft or excessively assertive. However, her authenticity emerged as her greatest strength. “Lead with your unique style without trying to fit into predefined molds,” she emphasizes, proving that strength lies in being true to oneself. Surrounding herself with supportive individuals has also contributed to her growth, encouraging continual learning and adaptation.

Uplifting the Swiss Filipino Community

Lorena's influence extends beyond her own enterprises. Through her businesses, particularly ELF 4 HEALTH GmbH and partnerships with Luxe Beauty and Wellness and SaladMaster, she has become a beacon of support for the Swiss Filipino community. “Health challenges are universal, and as such, adopting healthier lifestyles is crucial. Our products focus on organic health solutions, making them vital, especially following the pandemic,” she states, underscoring her commitment to community well-being.

Notably, SaladMaster offers innovative kitchen solutions that promote healthier cooking techniques, addressing the growing appetite for organic products in Switzerland. Lorena’s effort to raise awareness about healthful living means she is not just selling products; she is initiating a movement towards better health practices that resonate across cultures.

Supporting Fellow Entrepreneurs

As a board member of Switzerland Association of Filipino Entrepreneurs (S.A.F.E.), Lorena is actively engaging in initiatives that elevate Filipino entrepreneurs in Switzerland. By creating platforms for showcasing Filipino products and services through trade fairs and pop-up markets, S.A.F.E assists entrepreneurs in increasing their visibility and customer outreach. “Navigating Swiss business regulations can be daunting. We provide resources and training to ease this transition,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of shared knowledge in building a sustainable entrepreneurial landscape.

Lorena’s initiatives illustrate her commitment to fostering a supportive ecosystem where Filipino entrepreneurs can thrive. By offering access to legal advice and operational guidance, she empowers her peers, reinforcing the notion that hand-in-hand, communities can rise.

Words of Wisdom

For aspiring Filipino entrepreneurs eyeing opportunities abroad, Lorena’s advice is simple yet profound: “Always have a plan. Live within your means, and don’t lose sight of your values.” She highlights the importance of humility, quality over quantity in friendships, and prioritizing personal growth and community over superficial success. “Prepare yourself mentally and put God first,” she concludes, revealing a mindset rooted in resilience and trust in a higher purpose.

Lorena G.’s journey as a Filipino entrepreneur in Switzerland embodies the spirit of empowerment and community. With each challenge faced, she has turned adversity into opportunity, proving that with determination, authenticity, and a commitment to lifting others, one can indeed weave a beautiful narrative of success. Her story is not just one of personal achievement; it is a call to all dreamers—dangerous or not—to chase their aspirations and uplift those around them, creating a vibrant community of empowered individuals.