Roots in the Rugged North
My life’s adventure began amidst the pristine nature of Norway, where, like many Norwegians, I was steeped in the outdoors from a young age. The rugged landscapes and the shifting seasons taught us the intrinsic value of living harmoniously with our environment. From early on, whether competing in cross-country skiing and long-distance running or embarking on extended wilderness treks, I was immersed in nature.
This deep-seated appreciation for the natural world was further enhanced at the United World College in Canada. There, representing Norway among students from almost 100 different countries, I learned the power of global diversity and the significant impact every individual can have on fostering peace and understanding.
My academic journey and a dynamic career that took me through bustling cities like London and Paris, as well as Germany and Luxembourg, and ultimately led me to Switzerland, a place of profound natural beauty, where I also had the privilege of becoming a mother.
In the Darkness,
I Found Clarity
In 2002 a severe condition threatened to change the course of my life: I was suddenly facing blindness! The prognosis was grim; the doctors uncertain if my vision could be saved, prepared me for a life in darkness.
My entire existence, so intertwined with visual beauty and an active lifestyle, and the thought of not seeing my daughter growing up,- was shattered. At a moment of profound despair, I made a vow: “If I am granted a second chance, I will dedicate my life to creating meaningful change in the world.”
And I was put to the test, my vision was restored. Despite undergoing several surgeries, the doctors were still astonished by my recovery. Overjoyed I wanted to fulfil my promise.
From Vision to Visionary
At that point, I had left the corporate career and started a company, which I sold to join the globally renown World Vision Organisation, an organisation with a name which ironically matched my journey.
Over the next five years, my role at World Vision opened up the world in ways I had never imagined. I engaged directly with numerous developmental projects across continents, raising significant funds that transformed communities. My understanding of global challenges deepened profoundly through these experiences.
In 2007, fueled by what I had learned and the people I had met, I founded Future4Children (link: www.future4children.com). My vision was clear: to improve the education and care of underprivileged children, particularly girls. We have since established orphanages, schools, and child-oriented initiatives in countries including China, Moldova, India, Bolivia, the Dominican Republic, and Uganda.
The African Botanical Discovery
In 2020 while in northern Uganda establishing a girls' school, I experienced the harsh realities of the African sun firsthand, I got severely sunburned. Local women introduced me to a remarkable secret: Nilotica shea butter, a natural remedy derived from trees exclusive to the Nile River Valley. My skin's rapid recovery within just a day was miraculous!
The Inspiration for a Skincare Brand
I have always been in search of beautiful high-quality products that adhere to my principles, - health-conscious, environmentally benign, and ethically produced. Yet, I find that products are typically either organic but unsustainably packaged, aesthetically pleasing but environmentally detrimental, or eco-friendly but lacking in design appeal. Hardly any offer a truly holistic solution, especially in skincare.
With a wealth of experience and a heart full of compassion, the discovery of this rare botanical treasure ignited me to develop something truly holistic aligned with my values,- beautiful, effective products that positively impact, not only the users and producers but also Mother Nature herself.
