Afro-Swiss Spotlight: Liliane Waldner

Meet Liliane Waldner, born on November 30, 1951, in Zurich, Switzerland, is abusiness economist, politician, and trade unionist. She is the daughter of Yusufu Kironde Lule, a prominent Ugandan academic who briefly served as President of Uganda, and Hildegard Schwarz-Waldner, a Swiss national. Liliane’s heritage reflects a rich blend of Ugandan and Swiss influences, symbolizing a bridge between continents. Remarkably, she met her father for the first time at the age of 30, a pivotal moment that deepened her understanding of her identity.

Waldner began her professional career in the industrial sector before transitioning to public service, where she made a lasting impact. From 1983 to 1994, she served as a personal assistant to Emilie Lieberherr, a member of the Zurich City Council. Simultaneously, she was an influential member of the Cantonal Council of Zurich from 1986 to 2003, representing the Social Democratic Party (SP). In 2003, Waldner was appointed to the Bank Council of the Zurich Cantonal Bank (ZKB), a role she held until 2015. She also served on the Board of Directors of the Electricity Works of the Canton of Zurich (EKZ) until 2003 and was a delegate of the Coop cooperative from 2009 to 2016.

As a passionate trade unionist, Waldner was deeply involved with the Swiss Public Service Union (VPOD), where she chaired a subgroup within the VPOD Zurich Municipal Union from 1979 to 1983. Her commitment to social justice extended to her role as president of the aid organization Co-Operaid from 2004 to 2012. Under her leadership, this Zurich-based organization, recognized with the Zewo seal of approval in 1998, made significant contributions to international development.

Waldner has been open about her experience living with multiple sclerosis, candidly discussing the challenges and limitations it presents. Despite these obstacles, she remains passionate about hiking along Swiss rivers and exploring urban Zurich—activities she documents on her website, www.fluss-frau.ch.

We admire Liliane Waldner for her unwavering dedication to public service, her tireless advocacy for workers' rights, and her resilience in the face of personal health challenges. Her story is one of strength, leadership, and a profound commitment to social justice, serving as an inspiration to all who strive for equity and inclusion.