Leadership in Focus: Caroline Faraj on her Role as a Swisscross Board Member.

Swisscross Foundation is proud to welcome Caroline Faraj to its Board of Directors. A respected media leader, award-winning journalist, and lifelong advocate for meaningful storytelling, Caroline brings a unique perspective to Swisscross’ mission of delivering reconstructive surgery to displaced and vulnerable communities in conflict-affected regions.

With deep roots in the Middle East and a career dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices, Caroline joins Swisscross at a pivotal moment in our growth. Her insight into regional dynamics, public engagement, and strategic communication will help strengthen the Foundation’s visibility and impact across both local and global audiences.

In this Q&A, Caroline reflects on what drew her to Swisscross, her views on humanitarian storytelling, and the critical role of communication in driving lasting change.

Caroline, welcome to the board of Swisscross. What drew you to the Foundation and its mission?

It’s an honor to join the board of Swisscross. What really drew me to the Foundation is its commitment to bridging the gaps in medical and humanitarian care, especially in parts of the world that are often overlooked. I’ve focused much of my career on telling untold stories and giving voices to people who might not otherwise be heard, so the mission of Swisscross connects with me on a personal level. Its work goes beyond simply giving medical aid, it’s about giving hope for the future.

You’ve spent years reporting from conflict zones and covering global crises. How has that shaped your understanding of humanitarian need?

Spending time in conflict zones and covering crises forces you to see things through a different lens. It has taught me that humanitarian need is about more than just food or shelter, it’s also about being seen and heard. In those situations, even small acts of humanity can make an enormous difference.

What do you believe are our collective responsibilities as individuals and societies in the face of such global crises?

I truly believe we all have a role to play, no matter how big or small. As an individual, it starts with awareness and compassion, not looking away. As a society, it’s about making sure our systems and resources are geared to support those who need help the most. We may not be able to fix everything, but we can choose to care, act, and support people in crisis with whatever we can.

So, you’ve spoken widely about the importance of storytelling in humanitarian work. Why does it matter so much?

Stories are part of every culture and contain universal truths, which are intrinsic to unlocking empathy.  Everybody owns their story, and they are the best people to tell it; but they also need a platform for that story to be heard. Storytelling reminds us that behind every crisis are real people with dreams and futures and lives that are, or were, just like our own. Getting those people’s stories out there helps the world see and hear something they can relate to; it can grab their attention and hopefully drive them to act.

In your new role with Swisscross, what do you hope to bring to the board and the broader mission?

I hope to bring a fresh point of view and help Swisscross field workers to tell their stories to the world.  After so many years in journalism I understand pretty well the power of words and pictures and the way this ever-changing media landscape is evolving. I hope to support the board by bringing new ideas, raising awareness of the issues Swisscross faces, and helping to shine a light on its mission.

Last question — what gives you hope

Young people always give me hope. I’ve seen so often how, even amid disasters, young people have an unbreakable spirit and a determination to make the best of any situation.  You see so many not just trying their best to survive but also to help others.  They help to remind me that, no matter how hard things can get, there’s always something good to hold on to and a future that is not yet set. I strongly believe that the best is yet to come.

Thank you to Caroline for making the time to share her perspective and passion for humanitarianism and storytelling and amplifying Swisscross’ mission to deliver life-changing surgery and dignity.