Meet the UP Team.


  • FOUNDER & CEO

    Charlene has made it her mission to ensure that everyone has access to the support and resources they need to live a holistically healthy and happy life, free from any fear of the stigma surrounding mental health.

    With a career past as a Reintegration and Behavioural Specialist within the New York State Criminal Justice System, she has a way with people that enhances and ensures their long-lasting mental strength.

    She is passionate about supporting and encouraging individuals to be the best version of themselves and to know they are never truly alone.

    EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

    • B.A. Psychology, Deviant Behavior and Social Control from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, NYC

    • Gender and Sexuality, Diversity & Inclusion in the Workplace Certification from The University of Pittsburgh

    • Positive Psychology and Mental Health Certification from The University of Sydney

    • The Science of Wellbeing Certification from Yale University

    • Mental Health First Aider, Mensa


  • CO-FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE CONSULTANT

    Naomi is a Personal Development Coach who believes that we all should be living to our full potential whilst ensuring that our overall health remains a priority. 

    Naomi brings marketing, communications, events management and community development experience with her.

    She is passionate about encouraging growth in those around her and strives to build a supportive community wherever her journey takes her. 

    EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

    • Accredited Practitioner Coach, International Authority for Coaching and Mentoring

    • Practitioner Coach Diploma, Noble Manhattan Coaching, Switzerland

    • Certificate in Applied Coaching Competencies, Noble Manhattan Coaching, Switzerland

    • Marketing Certificate from The University of Cape Town, South Africa

    • Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Event Management from Stenden University, The Netherlands

    • Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com.), International Hospitality Management from Stenden University, South Africa

OUR VISION, MISSION & VALUES.

UP Zürich’s VISION is that every person within the community of Zürich has access to the support they need to maintain and improve mental as well as physical health. 

To fulfill our vision, UP Zürich’s MISSION is to positively impact mental strength in individuals by reconnecting the community. 

Our VALUES are community, empowerment, inclusion, accessibility, and respect. They are at the core of everything we do. We empower individuals to positively impact their mental wellbeing by gaining access to a diverse range of services. We provide the platform for a community that is non-judgmental, inclusive and respectful. 

The UP Community Assessment Committee.

  • Charlene Schmahl

  • Maddalena Fumagalli

  • Dominic Junghänel

  • Naomi Wernecke

Our SUPPORTERS.