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- Leadership, AI and Uncertainty. Living in Nyon’s Annual Leadership Panel Returns This September
What does effective leadership look like when uncertainty has become the norm? It is a question many organisations are grappling with. Economic pressures, geopolitical tensions, rapidly evolving technology and the growing influence of artificial intelligence are changing the way businesses operate and the way leaders make decisions. The challenges facing today's leaders are not necessarily new, but the pace and complexity of change continue to accelerate. That question sits at the heart of Living in Nyon’s second annual Leadership Panel, taking place on Wednesday 2 September 2026 at A.one Business Park in Rolle. Following a successful first edition, this year’s event brings together leaders from business, academia and humanitarian organisations for an evening of discussion, insight and networking. The theme for 2026 is: Leading Through Uncertainty The panel will explore what it means to lead when there are no clear answers. How do leaders maintain trust during periods of change? How do organisations stay adaptable while maintaining direction? What role does ethics play when technology and AI are transforming decision-making? And how can leaders continue to engage and motivate people when uncertainty feels constant? These are the conversations that many professionals are already having behind closed doors. This event brings them into the room. Meet the Panel Guido Palazzo Guido Palazzo Professor of Business Ethics at the University of Lausanne and author of The Dark Pattern, Guido explores how ethical blind spots emerge inside organisations. He brings a sharp, research-backed perspective on leadership, decision-making, and the hidden dynamics behind corporate behaviour. Paulien de Haes Paulien de Haes Former audit, risk and change professional at the International Committee of the Red Cross, she combines humanitarian field experience with strategic leadership and change expertise. Paulien brings a pragmatic, people-centered perspective on leadership, communication, and navigating complex organisational and risk environments in times of crisis. Barbara Lax Barbara Lax Founder of Little Green House, Barbara is an award-winning entrepreneur who knows how to lead with purpose, vision, and heart. Her experience blends business acumen with human-centric leadership. Moderated by Eoghan O'Sullivan Eoghan O'Sullivan (Image credit: Nathalie Mastail-Hirosawa) The evening will be moderated by Eoghan O'Sullivan, an independent communications advisor who works with nonprofits and international organisations. Known for making complex topics accessible and engaging, Eoghan will guide the conversation and audience discussion throughout the evening, bringing sharp facilitation, energy, and a knack for drawing out meaningful conversations. More Than a Panel Discussion One of the most valuable aspects of last year's event was what happened after the formal discussion ended. The Leadership Panel attracts professionals from a wide range of industries including business owners, entrepreneurs, managers, consultants and leaders working across the Lake Geneva region. Following the panel discussion, attendees will have the opportunity to continue the conversation during a networking apéro. If you are leading a company, a team, a project or simply thinking about the next stage of your career, the evening offers the opportunity to exchange ideas and connect with others facing similar challenges. Last year's LIN Leadership Event Programme 18:00 – 18:30 Doors open and arrival 18:30 – 18:40 Welcome and introduction from Living in Nyon 18:40 – 19:20 Individual interviews with panellists 19:20 – 19:50 Panel discussion and audience Q&A 19:50 – 20:00 Closing remarks 20:00 – 21:00 Networking apéro Event Information Date: Wednesday 2 September 2026 Time: 18:00 – 21:00 Venue: a.one Business Parc, Z.A. La Pièce 4, 1180 Rolle Tickets (includes apéro): Early Bird (until 30 June): CHF 35 Standard Ticket (from 1 July): CHF 45 Places are limited. Follow us on social media over the coming weeks as we introduce the panelists and explore some of the themes that will be discussed on the night. Secure your place today and Register HERE
- Why Living in Nyon Exists and How You Can Support It
When people move to Nyon, there is often a period of discovery. You might arrive because of a new job, a partner, a relocation or simply a desire for a different way of life. You quickly learn where to buy groceries and how to navigate the Swiss train system. Then come the other questions. What is happening this weekend? Where do people go for a good hike? Which festivals are worth going to? How do you meet people? Which local businesses should be on your radar? Finding answers can take time, particularly when you are living in a country where much of the information is not always available in English. That is one of the reasons Living in Nyon was created. Connecting International Residents Since 2009 Since 2009, Living in Nyon has been helping English-speaking residents feel more connected to life on La Côte. Over the years, the platform has grown from a blog and community resource into a website covering local news, events, culture, business, interviews and community life. Today, Living in Nyon reaches thousands of readers through its website, newsletter and social media channels. What has remained unchanged is the original goal: helping people feel more at home. Discovering a local festival, learning about a Swiss tradition, finding a family activity, meeting a local business owner or simply understanding what is happening around town, Living in Nyon aims to bridge the gap between international residents and the community around them. Helping People Connect With Life on La Côte Living in Nyon has always been about helping people feel more connected to where they live. Each week we research local events, interview community members, spotlight local businesses and share stories that help people discover what is happening across the region. Alongside our articles and newsletters, we also maintain a free community events calendar where local organisations, associations, businesses and residents can submit events for inclusion. From major festivals such as Paléo and Visions du Réel to charity fundraisers, workshops, exhibitions and community gatherings, the aim is to make it easier for people to find and take part in what is happening locally. As a non-profit association, Living in Nyon relies on the support of its readers and a small number of carefully selected sponsors and partners. These partnerships help keep the platform running, support the creation of local content and allow us to continue providing free information, resources and event listings. And we do not want to stop there. We want to keep building, growing and finding new ways to connect people with life on La Côte. Could Your Business Be a Good Fit? Many of our sponsors are businesses based locally on La Côte or in the wider Lake Geneva region. Some provide professional services. Others work in hospitality, health and wellbeing, finance, education, property or community initiatives. What they share is a desire to connect with an engaged and international audience. Sponsorship opportunities can include: Sponsor spotlight articles and interviews Featured business profiles Homepage visibility Newsletter inclusion Social media promotion Opportunities to collaborate on community events Most importantly, sponsorship helps support a platform that continues to provide free local information to thousands of readers every year. Thank You Whether you have been reading Living in Nyon for a few weeks or have been with us for years, thank you. Every article read, newsletter opened, event attended and recommendation shared helps strengthen the community we are all building together. And if you are a business interested in supporting Living in Nyon while reaching a highly engaged local audience, we would love to hear from you. And if you enjoy what we do and would like to get involved, we are always happy to hear from people who share our passion for community. Whether you enjoy writing, social media, photography, event organisation or simply have ideas you'd like to contribute, Living in Nyon is very much powered by people who care about the place they live. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, collaborating or joining us, contact us at livinginnyon@gmail.com Mandy, Chance, Seema
- Nyon to Host the Region's Main FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Zone This Summer
Football fans won't have to travel far to soak up the atmosphere of the FIFA World Cup this summer. From 11 June to 19 July 2026, Nyon will become the region's football hotspot, hosting what is expected to be the main fan zone between Geneva and Lausanne. While both Geneva and Lausanne have opted not to organise official fan zones during the tournament due to security measures surrounding the G7 Summit in nearby Evian, Nyon is stepping in to create a month-long gathering place for supporters from across La Côte and beyond. Set beneath the Rive marquee, the fan zone will offer live match screenings on a giant screen, alongside food trucks, bars, a VIP area and a programme of entertainment designed to keep the atmosphere going long after the final whistle. A Summer of Football by the Lake The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest in the tournament's history, bringing together 48 national teams across the United States, Canada and Mexico. With more than 100 matches taking place over six weeks, football supporters will have plenty to follow. Around 40 matches will be shown in Nyon, with a focus on the tournament's most anticipated fixtures and all matches involving the Swiss national team. Because of the time difference with North America, only matches kicking off at 22:00 or earlier will be screened during the group stages and the early knockout rounds. Two later fixtures are currently scheduled for broadcast: a quarter-final on Saturday 11 July and the third-place play-off on Saturday 18 July, both starting at 23:00. Should Switzerland progress further into the tournament, additional screenings may be added. More Than Just Match Screenings The organisers are keen for the fan zone to become more than a place to watch football. Designed as a community gathering space, the venue will welcome football enthusiasts, families, groups of friends, companies looking for after-work meetups and anyone wanting to enjoy the summer atmosphere. Alongside the match broadcasts, visitors can expect food and drinks, post-match DJ sets and a lively social atmosphere throughout the tournament. Two stand-up comedy evenings have also been scheduled for Sunday 12 July and Friday 17 July, making use of evenings when no matches are taking place. Temporary Closures and Venue Changes Visitors should note that the fan zone will be closed from 15 to 17 June due to security measures linked to the G7 Summit being held in Evian. In addition, screenings will temporarily move from Rive to the Salle communale de Perdtemps (Rue des Marchandises 5) on 3, 4 and 5 July to accommodate another event already scheduled at the lakeside venue. Planning Your Visit Opening times will vary depending on the match schedule, with the site generally opening in the late afternoon and remaining open until the end of the evening's games. Programme details and opening times will be published on the Ville de Nyon agenda page.
- Fête de la Musique Returns to Nyon on 20 June
As summer officially arrives, streets, squares, parks and cultural venues across town will once again fill with live music for the annual Fête de la Musique. Taking place on Saturday 20 June 2026, this much-loved event transforms Nyon into one large open-air stage, celebrating local talent, musical discovery and the simple pleasure of gathering together around music. For one day and well into the evening, visitors can wander between performances, stumble across new artists and enjoy everything from rock and jazz to classical, electro, world music and much more. The event is free to attend and designed to be accessible to everyone, and is a lively way to spend a summer Saturday. @ Fête de la Musique Nyon A Celebration of Local Music The Fête de la Musique has long been one of Nyon's cultural highlights, giving local and regional musicians a chance to perform in front of a wider audience while bringing the community together through music. Each year, hundreds of performers take part across multiple stages and partner venues throughout the town. Part of the appeal is the variety. One moment you might find yourself listening to a choir in a historic setting, the next enjoying a rock band in a park, an emerging electronic artist in a cultural venue or a jazz performance on a terrace. The event encourages exploration, with audiences moving between stages and discovering genres and performers they may never have encountered otherwise. Music Across the Town Rather than being concentrated in a single venue, the festival spreads throughout Nyon, creating a festive atmosphere that can be felt across the entire town with several outdoor stages hosting performances throughout the day. One of the attractions this year is the continued involvement of local cultural organisations and music groups, helping showcase the diversity of the region's creative scene. The programme includes performances for all ages, making it an ideal outing for families as well as music enthusiasts. More than just concerts, it is one of those events that reminds you why Nyon has such a strong cultural identity. Alongside major festivals such as Caribana, Visions du Réel and Paléo, the Fête de la Musique offers something different: a grassroots celebration of local creativity and community spirit. Planning Your Visit The Fête de la Musique takes place on Saturday 20 June 2026 with performances running throughout the day and into the evening across multiple venues in Nyon. Entry is free. The full programme, stage locations and performance times are available on the official event website HERE
- KANADRINKS is the Local Hemp Drink Brand Looking Towards Switzerland’s Next Market
From café counters to supermarket aisles and summer festival bars, one thing is becoming increasingly clear. Our drinking habits are changing. The default drink is no longer always alcohol. More people are seeking out alcohol-free drinks that are both functional and delicious, alongside new ways to connect and socialise. At the same time, conversations around hemp and cannabis continue to evolve here in Switzerland, with pilot programmes and national discussions underway. Switzerland currently runs several scientific pilot projects exploring regulated cannabis models across the country. For local drinks brand Kanadrinks, these shifts in legislation are not something to wait for. They are something to build for. Building a Hemp Drink Brand Before the Market Arrives Behind Kana Drinks is Marc Hempel, originally from Denmark and living in Switzerland for more than 30 years, together with business partner Christian Thury from Be-Fruit in Etoy. Their vision is straightforward, but perhaps slightly ahead of its time. Create hemp-based drinks using local produce, establish the brand now and be ready as the market evolves. Rather than waiting to see where cannabis regulation eventually lands in Switzerland, Kanadrinks is already creating products centred around hemp and local ingredients. The thinking is simple: if wider legalisation or new market opportunities arrive in future years, the brand is already established. What Is Actually Inside the Drinks? The drinks themselves lean heavily into local sourcing and simplicity. Kanadrinks are conceived, grown and produced in Switzerland using Swiss ingredients focusing on fruit, herbs and organic hemp. Ingredients include: Swiss-grown apple juice Organic hemp One point worth noting is that although the drinks are hemp-infused, they do not contain CBD or THC. The hemp is there for flavour and identity rather than any psychoactive effect. Hemp drinks without CBD or THC are increasingly appearing as a separate category focused on flavour and botanical ingredients. The drinks are also: Low in calories, between 82.5 and 105 calories per bottle. Made without added sugars. Free from preservatives and additives, using only the sugars naturally present in the fruit. The range itself has grown too. Alongside earlier apple-based recipes such as Apple & Hibiscus, Apple & Verbena and Pure Apple, newer, natural flavours include Rhubarb & Strawberry, Yuzu & Pomegranate and Ginger can now be found in their Kanafresh range. The result is something quite different. Sparkling, fruit-based and botanical, with hemp sitting in the background rather than dominating the flavour. From Local Pies to Hemp Drinks Kanadrinks is not Marc’s first venture rooted in local food. Before this came LePie, a project focused on pies made with local ingredients and regional produce. That same philosophy continues here. Kanadrinks is built around local partnerships, local sourcing and creating something that feels connected to the region rather than importing a concept from elsewhere. Today, the drinks can already be found around La Côte including Dive Bär in Gland, Cosy Kitchen in Coppet, selected Migros Vaud stores including Geneva and online through the Kanadrinks website, where delivery is included. Changing Drinking Habits The timing is interesting. You only have to look around festivals, restaurants and social spaces to see it. People are increasingly looking for: Alcohol-free alternatives Botanical ingredients Different rituals around socialising Better tasting non-alcoholic options The conversation is becoming less about alcohol vs no alcohol. Consumers are looking for more options. Alternative drinks, different ingredients and discovering something new. And hemp sits in an interesting place within that conversation. It carries heritage, curiosity and increasingly, innovation. The wider beverage market is also watching hemp and cannabis-inspired drinks as part of the broader alcohol-free movement. For Kandrinks though, instead of waiting for the market, they are already part of it. For more information click HERE
- Nyon Tourist Office Opens the Doors to Its New Home at Maison Richard
The Nyon Tourist Office has moved. Since the beginning of March, Nyon Région Tourisme has been settling into its new home at Maison Richard, the historic building in the town centre dating back to 1672. The building may already feel familiar to many locals as it housed Nyon’s library from 1972 until its recent move to L’INTERLUDE earlier this year. To mark the move, they are inviting locals and visitors to discover the new space during two open days on 28 and 29 May. The event will include local product tastings, entertainment and the chance to explore the office’s new home. Thursday 28 May 11am – 7pm The first day includes: Live broadcast from Radio LFM between 4pm and 7pm Showcase and music workshop with local artist LAURH Performance by the Côte Magic Circle Apéritif and tastings of local products Friday 29 May 11am – 5pm The open house continues with tastings and the chance to discover the new space. The Tourist Office is often seen as somewhere visitors go, but it is worth remembering how useful it can be for locals too. We live in a pretty vibrant region and there is always something happening, from events and exhibitions to walks, activities and places to discover around La Côte. If you have not popped in for a while, it is worth saying hello. The team can help with local ideas, resources, regional activities and often the things happening on our doorstep that we simply have not heard about yet. The move to Maison Richard keeps them right in the centre of town while giving the office a new home inside one of Nyon’s historic buildings. Nyon Tourist Office Location: Maison Richard, Nyon Thursday 28 May: 11am–7pm Friday 29 May: 11am–5pm For more information visit their website HERE
- Natures en Fête Returns to Nyon With Plants, Biodiversity and Three Days of Activities
If your idea of a good weekend includes plants, local producers, gardens, nature walks or simply spending time outdoors, Natures en Fête is returning to Nyon from 29 to 31 May for its third edition. The event brings together biodiversity, gardening, local know-how and plenty of family activities across town. Nature Festival 2026 Photo: Nature Festival Association Over three days, more than 60 stands will spread across Place du Château, the Promenade des Vieilles-Murailles and the Esplanade des Marronniers, creating a nature-focused event right in the heart of Nyon. Plant growers, garden specialists, artisans and local organisations will all be there alongside workshops, walks and activities exploring local wildlife and biodiversity. More Than a Plant Market Yes, there will be plants and garden inspiration, but Natures en Fête has grown into something much bigger. This year’s programme includes: Plant and seedling market stalls Garden professionals and outdoor living exhibitors Local artisans and producers Workshops and creative activities Themed walks exploring wildlife and nature around Nyon Food stalls, local products and small catering stands Music and roaming entertainment throughout the event Several activities will need advance registration, so it is worth checking the programme beforehand. Wild Pesto, Hedgehogs and Exploring the Treetops Among this year’s highlights are some lovely “only at Natures en Fête” activities. Visitors can take part in wild pesto workshops, learn how to encourage hedgehogs in urban spaces, join walks around medicinal plants, birds and the shores of Lake Geneva, or visit the swallow and swift colonies in Nyon’s old town. The “Explorateur des cimes” treetop adventure activity also returns, alongside games, storytelling, face painting and even yoga under the chestnut trees. There is also the second chapter of “VIVANTS!”, photographer Nadir Mokdad’s exhibition exploring life in Nyon’s parks. Here's a look at last year's Festival. Free Entry to Nyon’s Museums One of the nice additions this year is that all three Nyon museums will be free on Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 May. Each museum is joining the event with its own activities: At the Musée romain, visitors can discover the horti, the gardens of Antiquity. The Château de Nyon will offer a sensory visit called “Le château en fleurs”. At the Musée du Léman, choreographer Simon Ramseier will lead a dance activity inspired by plankton, alongside bird observation outings by the lake. Nature in the Middle of Town Natures en Fête fits quite well with what Nyon has been doing more broadly around biodiversity and green spaces. Rather than taking place outside of town, the event brings nature directly into the centre and turns familiar places like the Château and Marronniers into spaces for learning, exploring and simply spending time outdoors. And with food, plants, workshops and music all mixed in, it feels more festival than environmental event. Practical Information Friday 29 May: 1pm to 9pm (stands until 6pm) Saturday 30 May: 10am to 9pm (stands until 6pm) Sunday 31 May: 10am to 5pm Locations: Place du Château, Promenade des Vieilles-Murailles, Esplanade des Marronniers and Nyon museums. For the full programme, exhibitors list and registrations visit Natures en Fête
- Gladiators, Legionnaires and Myths. Nyon’s Roman Days Are Bringing the City’s Past Back to Life
It is easy to forget when walking through Nyon that beneath the cafés, streets and shops sits a Roman city that dates back more than 2,000 years. On Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 June, the Journées romaines (Roman Days) return to Nyon and for one weekend lean fully into that history. Gladiators will fight, legionnaires will patrol the streets, artisans will demonstrate ancient crafts and mythology will once again fill the Esplanade des Marronniers. This year’s edition is particularly special as it marks 10 years since the event first began, turning what started as a museum event into a town tradition. Step Back Into Roman Nyon Across the Musée romain, the Esplanade des Marronniers and the amphitheatre site, visitors will have the chance to discover what daily life may have looked like in ancient Noviodunum, the Roman settlement that once stood where Nyon is today. Throughout the weekend you can expect: Roman legionnaires moving through the town Gladiator demonstrations and combat displays Mythological storytelling Archaeologists sharing their work and discoveries Ancient crafts including ceramics, glass blowing and Roman clothing demonstrations Activities exploring everyday Roman life It is one of those events that works for almost everyone. History enthusiasts can go deep into the archaeology, while families can simply enjoy watching Nyon transform into its Roman past. Spectaculum 2024 – ©Benjamin Banon A Rare Chance to Visit the Amphitheatre One of the highlights this year is something usually not open to the public. Visitors will have exceptional access to the amphitheatre site, which remains inaccessible most of the year, through guided visits led by archaeologists. These tours will run throughout the weekend. Places are limited and advance booking is required via the museum website. For anyone curious about the ongoing work around the amphitheatre project in Nyon, this is a pretty unique opportunity. Rediscovering Nyon’s Roman Story Nyon’s Roman heritage is easy to miss because the city never really moved. The modern town grew directly over the ancient one. The Musée romain, built around the remains of the forum basilica discovered in the 1970s, helps tell that story and reveal what once stood here. For Alexandra Spühler, Conservator of the Musée romain de Nyon, the anniversary edition feels particularly special, with the event continuing to transform Nyon into a living Roman city for the weekend Practical Information Dates: Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 June 2026 Time: 10:00 - 18:00 Location: Musée romain, Esplanade des Marronniers and amphitheatre site Price: Free entry and activities throughout the weekend Only the amphitheatre visits require prior booking. For the full programme and amphitheatre reservations visit the Musée romain de Nyon
- The CGN Naval Parade Returns to Nyon This May With Historic Boats, Heritage Vessels and Lakeside Festivities
Thirteen years after its last stop in Nyon, the CGN (Compagnie Générale de Navigation sur le Léman) Naval Parade is returning to town on Sunday 31 May, bringing one of Lake Geneva’s most iconic events back to the quays. If you were here in 2013, you may remember the crowds lining the lakefront. More than 8,000 people attended, with around 1,700 passengers boarding the participating boats. This year, organisers are hoping to recreate that atmosphere with a full afternoon of festivities by the water. But this edition comes with something new. Alongside the famous Belle Époque fleet of the CGN, visitors will also see a historic flotilla of heritage boats, bringing together private owners, associations and vessels that help tell the wider story of navigation on Lac Léman. The initiative, led by the Musée du Léman, adds a new layer to the event and shines a light on the smaller boats and lesser-known pieces of the lake's maritime history. Naval Parade 2026 - Ville de Nyon A Rare Historic Fleet on the Water The day begins at 2:15pm with a first parade dedicated entirely to historic vessels. Visitors will see: La Vaudoise (1931) and La Neptune (1904), traditional lateen sail boats Gilliatt (1905), believed to be the oldest motor launch still navigating on Lake Geneva Ida (1913), an early motor boat Walkyrie (1925), a steam yacht Don Juan, a reconstruction of a late 19th-century steam launch Phoebus II (1903), a historic racing sailboat There is even the possibility that Le Venoge (1905), a former CGN cargo vessel currently being restored at Le Bouveret, could return to the water in time for the event. It is not often you get to see this many heritage vessels together in one place. The Belle Époque Fleet Takes Centre Stage From 3pm to 3:45pm, the CGN fleet takes over. The Belle Époque paddle steamers: Montreux (1904) Italie (1908) Savoie (1914) Rhône (1927) will perform their famous choreography offshore in front of the Nyon quays. Three of these historic boats are still steam powered today. Joining them will also be the NAVIEXPRESS Thonon-les-Bains, launched in 2024, and Lausanne (1991) which will act as the viewing boat. The parade commentary will be provided live from the quays by Didier Zuchuat, specialist in CGN history and Belle Époque navigation. A Full Afternoon on the Quays While the boats may be the headline act, the Ville de Nyon and Musée du Léman are also helping turn the quays into a full lakeside celebration with music, family activities and heritage experiences throughout the afternoon. From 12pm to 6pm there will be: Food stalls and bars Street entertainment The municipal brass band and La Bande de Dièses Stilt walkers from Circodream Clown Filibert Entertainment runs between 12pm–2pm and again 4pm–6pm. A concert by regional group Yalé, performing French songs, takes place under the Cantine de Rive from 4:15pm to 5:15pm. Musée du Léman Opens Its Doors The Musée du Léman will be open free of charge from 10am to 6pm. As official guardian of the CGN archives since 2018, the museum offers visitors a chance to dive into the history - through models, artefacts, paintings and maritime objects. Families can also take part in creative workshops inspired by the lake between 12pm and 2pm, suitable for children aged four and above. Getting There Traffic restrictions will be in place around the lake. The RC1 road between Clémenty and Vy Creuse will be closed from 11am to 6pm. Organisers recommend using public transport and soft mobility where possible. To help visitors access the event: Yellow shuttle line: Petite Prairie and Pensées parking areas Green shuttle line: Colovray to the Conservatory Tourist train: Continuous loop between Nyon station and the quays It feels like one of those events that could only really happen here. Historic boats, the lake, local heritage and thousands of people gathering by the water. For more information and full programme details, visit CGN. Tickets for onboard experiences and parade cruises are also still available.
- The Fun Side of Finance. A Conversation with Alex Clarke from Albatross.
Accounting firms are not usually described as fun. More often, they leave people with a sense of worry from all the complicated, financial language and tax form deadlines. Well, maybe it’s time to change that narrative. When you sit down with Alex Clarke, founder of Albatross in Gland, you quickly realise that he is trying to do exactly that. Earlier this year, I visited the team at their offices in Gland to learn more about the company, how they work with entrepreneurs across the region, and what sets their approach apart. What followed was a conversation that ranged from tax season realities to startup ambitions, team culture and even the growing role of AI in finance. The result is a firm that combines serious expertise with a refreshingly straightforward approach. Camille Colomer Bastanti and Alex Clarke Building Albatross Before founding Albatross, Alex spent several years working in the accounting and consulting world, including time at PricewaterhouseCoopers. While the experience gave him a strong technical foundation, it also helped clarify what he wanted to do differently. With a background rooted in finance, he realised his real interest lay in working with entrepreneurs, the people driving their ideas forward and building businesses. This led to the creation of Albatross, a company focused on providing clear, accessible financial support for small to medium-sized businesses, as well as individuals navigating the Swiss system. “We wanted to create a package that helps entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of finance, accounting, and tax,” Alex explained. “We cater to different types of entrepreneurs, from solo consultants to ambitious startups.” Today, the firm works with a mix of clients around 60% companies and 40% individual tax clients. While the profiles vary, the need is often the same: guidance through the financial side of running a business or a household. For many entrepreneurs, that relationship becomes long-term. The work goes beyond compliance into planning, projections and thinking ahead. “You almost become partners,” Alex says. “Understanding clients’ unique needs is key.” Why “Albatross”? The name itself was also a deliberate choice. Alex knew early on that he didn’t want the company to be built around his own name, something common in more traditional firms. Instead, he wanted something that felt distinct, neutral and easy to recognise across languages. “Albatross works in both French and English,” he explains. “And it’s not tied to a person.” There’s also a sense of direction behind it. The idea of “flying high” reflects the ambition not just for the company, but for the clients they work with, many of whom are building something of their own. It’s a small detail, but one that captures the tone of the firm. Professional, but not conventional. The Questions People Really Ask For individuals, the biggest challenge is often simply understanding how the Swiss tax system works. As Alex explains, the most common questions are surprisingly straightforward. People want to know where they stand, what they need to declare and how much tax they will ultimately owe. For expatriates arriving in Switzerland, the process can feel even more complex, particularly when assets abroad need to be factored in. The timeline itself can also be a source of confusion. A tax return can take anywhere from six to nine months between submission and final assessment, leaving many people unsure of what is happening in the meantime. At its core, the service comes down to reassurance. “At the end of the day, people come to us for peace of mind.” Transparency and Simplicity One thing that stands out in conversation is the firm’s focus on clarity. Services are structured and explained in a way that makes them accessible, particularly for those unfamiliar with the Swiss system. Finance and tax can quickly become technical, but the emphasis here is on making things understandable without overcomplicating them. That clarity is especially valuable for the firm’s international client base, where navigating both language and financial systems can add an extra layer of complexity. Growth for the company is also something they approach carefully. Rather than taking on every client, the focus is on maintaining quality and building relationships that work long-term. It’s a deliberate choice and one that reflects how they want to position the business. The team at Albatross Group A Young Team, A Different Culture While the work itself is structured and detail-heavy, the culture inside the office is intentionally more relaxed. Camille Colomer Bastanti, Managing Director, has been with Albatross for five years and plays a key role in the day-to-day running of the business. “The work we do is serious, but the atmosphere doesn’t have to be, and we try to keep a friendly environment.” Her focus is on organisation and ensuring processes run smoothly across the team. The structure allows each team member to take ownership of their work while maintaining a collaborative approach. Monthly team lunches and an open, approachable culture help create a sense of balance, something that becomes particularly important during busy periods like tax season. “There has to be trust and respect between the team. That’s the only way to get through the busy, high-stress periods.” Advice for Entrepreneurs In a region like La Côte, where many professionals are exploring independent or entrepreneurial paths, the team sees a consistent pattern. Many people are highly skilled in their core profession but underestimate the administrative side of running a business. Most new business owners quickly realise that running a company is about more than just their core skill. As we discussed, you don’t just do the work, you become everything. Sales. Marketing. Admin. Finance. It’s often at that point that people realise they need support. Both Alex and Camille work diligently to demystify the tax landscape for their clients. They guide individuals through the intricacies of tax returns, ensuring they don’t miss out on deductions or deadlines. “Don’t ignore the administrative side of your business,” Camille says. “The things you ignore today often become problems later.” Alex adds that even a simple starting point can make a difference. “You don’t need a perfect plan, but you should have at least a minimum vision.” Camille Colomer Bastanti The AI Question Before wrapping up, I asked Alex what he thought about the rise of AI and whether it’s starting to change how people approach their tax returns. His response was immediate. “People already ask AI questions about taxes but the answers are often wrong.” He explains that much of the information AI tools rely on comes from general articles or blogs, which don’t reflect the complexity of the Swiss system. “In Switzerland, tax is handled at a cantonal level,” he says. “So the rules are very specific. AI doesn’t have access to the right level of detail.” That means while AI might seem like a quick solution, it can easily mislead, particularly when it comes to personal situations or nuanced tax questions. That said, the technology isn’t being ignored. Within Albatross, the team is already exploring how AI can be used more effectively behind the scenes, particularly in areas where it can save time or streamline processes. “It’s definitely going to become a tool of the future,” A Strategic Location Being based in Gland places Albatross at the centre of a growing business region between Geneva and Lausanne. The area continues to attract entrepreneurs, consultants and small companies, creating a strong and diverse client base. For the team, it reflects exactly the type of environment they want to be part of. And as a relatively young, bi-lingual team, they see this as part of their advantage, bringing a more flexible, forward-thinking approach to a traditionally structured industry. A mix of structure and flexibility, local roots and international profiles, and a growing community of people building something of their own. As Albatross continues to develop, the direction remains clear: strengthen the team, refine the processes and continue building long-term relationships with clients. And perhaps, in the process, make finance feel just a little less intimidating.
- Events in Nyon Through a Different Lens
Event Video Production in Nyon and How Professional Filming Elevates Local Community Moments and Helps Them Be Remembered If there is one thing that defines Nyon beyond its lakeside beauty, it’s the way this town can bring people together. Lively summer festivals, cultural gatherings, corporate events, charity runs, or even the smaller community celebrations like the Fête des voisin·e·s coming up. Nyon has a special talent for creating moments that feel warm, and uniquely local. But as anyone who has helped organise an event here knows, those moments pass quickly. The music fades, the lights dim, and the energy of the day slowly becomes memory. This is why event video production in Nyon has become more important than ever. It allows those moments to continue, not just as memories but as something you can share, revist and remember long after the event itself. Why Events in Nyon Are Perfect for Video Nyon is a setting that does half the production work for you! Between the lake, the vineyards, the Jura, and the historic old town, it already offers a stunning backdrop that almost films itself. The result? Even a small gathering looks cinematic. Add to that a community with a strong cultural identity and video is a natural extention. Nyon is definitely not short on events, including internationally known Visions du Réel and the Paléo Festival, as well as museum and art exhibitions, local markets, lakeside concerts, and cultural programmes. Many events serve the diverse groups that make up the town of Nyon and the region in general. With a mix of corporate, expat, and local audiences, including young families and international professionals, video is ideal for speaking to all these audiences at once. We are a community that shares everything. From WhatsApp groups to Instagram and LinkedIn, a lot of life in Nyon happens online as much as it does offline. Video makes it easier to reach an audience who weren’t there for them to experience for themselves and gives the events far more visibility. What Event Video Adds That Photos Alone Cannot Photos freeze a single moment, but video tells the full story. Where a photo captures what something looked like, video captures what it felt like. A well-crafted event video brings together atmosphere, movement, sound, emotion, and energy. It shows people interacting, the rhythm of the day, and the small in-between moments. For organisers, businesses, and associations, this goes beyond documentation. It becomes something they can use, whether that’s planning future editions, sharing the experience more widely, or showing the real impact of what they’ve created. Types of Events That Benefit From Video From large festivals to local performances, video helps preserve the artistic impact and community participation, while also acting as a valuable tool for future promotion. Nyon is home to many international companies and organisations, where video is essential for conferences, product launches, seminars, team-building days, and company anniversaries, allowing teams across the world to share the experience. Charity and community events such as runs, fundraisers, markets, and awareness events rely heavily on emotional connection, and video helps amplify that sense of purpose. Even smaller moments deserve good storytelling, whether it’s anniversaries, small celebrations, workshops, school events, or sports gatherings. Video helps families, businesses, and groups preserve these moments in a meaningful way. The Elements That Make an Event Video Stand Out Cinematic footage without being “too much” is key. In the Living in Nyon style, the goal is not Hollywood, it’s authenticity, with clean, natural, warm visuals that represent the real energy of the event. Great event videos focus on people, not just stages, capturing smiles, laughter, hands clapping, children playing, friends meeting, and speakers connecting with the audience. Moments of atmosphere are just as important. These subtle details help build emotional storytelling. Sound and music also play a role, with clean natural sound combined with carefully chosen music carrying the emotion without feeling forced. Even a 60-second video benefits from a narrative arc, from the build-up to the peak of energy and the closing atmosphere, leaving viewers feeling something, not just seeing something. Why Professional Event Video Production Matters Many organisers try to film events themselves, but professional production brings advantages that change the final result completely. This includes stabilised, smooth footage, correct colour and exposure, strong composition, storytelling experience, high-quality audio, multi-camera capability, drone shots where appropriate, fast turnaround, and a polished and cohesive final edit. More importantly, a professional crew knows how to blend in, capture real emotion, and not interrupt the natural flow of an event. How Businesses and Organisations Use Event Video Businesses and organisations in Nyon use event video in a number of ways. For annual events, it becomes the single strongest promotional tool, showing real people enjoying real moments. International companies often use event videos to strengthen team spirit and share highlights with colleagues around the world. A well-produced video also demonstrates professionalism and impact, helping to attract sponsors and partners. For local associations, it builds community engagement by increasing visibility and creating a stronger connection with residents. And sometimes, the simplest use is the most meaningful, capturing a moment that families, teams, or communities want to keep. Nyon’s Future Is Visual As attention spans shorten and social media becomes the primary place where people discover events, video will only grow in importance. Nyon is a town that thrives on shared experiences and video allows those experiences to continue long after the day is over. Event video production helps transform temporary moments into long-lasting stories. A big thank you to Pieter Nijssen from Tulip Films for sharing his insight and experience. His work behind the camera plays a key role in how events in Nyon are captured and brought to life. Pieter Nijssen
- L’INTERLUDE Inauguration in Nyon is a Full Day of Culture, Music and Play
Photo : Christiane Steiner On Saturday 2 May, Nyon’s new library space, L’INTERLUDE, officially opens its doors. And rather than a short ceremony, they are marking the moment with a full day of activities, running from morning through to late evening. It’s free, open to everyone, and designed so you can drop in at any point. A Day That Starts Officially… Then Opens Up The morning begins with a more traditional moment. At 10:30, there’s a presentation of the space by the cultural team and architects, followed by the official apéritif at 11:00 with Alexandre Démétriadès, Municipal in charge of the Cultural Service, and Daniel Rossellat, Mayor of Nyon from the Ville de Nyon. From there, the tone shifts. By midday, the terrace will showcase Capoeira, the Afro-Brazilian martial art with a performance, mixing music, combat and acrobatics. It’s part demonstration, part workshop, so you can watch or get involved. This is from the Capoeira, Culture and Diversity Association Explore the New Space Throughout the afternoon, there are guided visits of L’INTERLUDE, but not in the usual format. “Les arcanes de L’Interlude” runs multiple times during the day and promises a more playful, slightly unexpected way of discovering the space. Alongside this, there’s a steady flow of activities happening in parallel, so you’re never really following one fixed schedule. Workshops, Making and Creative Corners From early afternoon, the library turns into a series of hands-on spaces. You’ll find: A screen-printing workshop where you can create your own “pizza” design A sewing atelier to make your own book pouch Live demos in the Fabrique, including 3D printing and laser cutting A roaming artist creating portraits as he moves through the space A photography project where you can become part of a future exhibition Most of these run continuously between 13:00 and 18:00, so you can dip in and out depending on what catches your eye. For families, there’s also an “expédition secrète” to explore the space with a stamp-and-colour activity, which adds a bit of structure for younger visitors. There’s also a Just Dance tournament earlier in the afternoon (15:00-16:00) for anyone ready to take on the dancefloor. The Ludothèque Takes Over One of the biggest additions to L’INTERLUDE is the ludothèque, and during the inauguration, it’s fully in action. Throughout the day, there are open play areas with giant games, challenges, and people on hand to explain how everything works. Then in the evening, it becomes the main event. From 18:00 to 22:00, the space hosts a games evening, with everything from strategy to fast-paced and skill-based games. It’s open to both adults and children (from 8 years old, with an adult), and it’s designed as a relaxed, social way to end the day. Music, Drinks and a Late Finish As the day moves into evening, the café area changes its vibe. At 19:30, there’s a live concert with Evita Koné and Erwan Valazza, bringing a mix of R&B, neo soul and jazz into the space. Then from 20:30, a DJ set takes over, turning the inauguration into something closer to a laid-back night out than a formal opening. Food and drinks are available throughout the day via the café bar. Drop In What stands out about this inauguration is how open it is. There’s no single moment you have to be there for. No fixed route through the programme. They have planned it in a way that really shows how the space is meant to be used. For more details visit the Ville de Nyon website here.












