Afro-Swiss Spotlight: Zeedah Meierhofer-Mangeli

Meet Zeedah Meierhofer-Mangeli, a social anthropologist, activist, and pedagogue dedicated to advancing migration, minority rights, and gender equality in Switzerland and beyond. Born in Kenya, she moved to Zurich in 1979 as a student and quickly became aware of the social isolation faced by Black women in Swiss society. Recognizing the need for safe, supportive spaces, she took action.

In 1993, Zeedah founded the Meeting Point for Black Women in Zurich, a counseling and advocacy hub that became a cornerstone of the Swiss women's movement. The center offered Black women a platform to share experiences, build community, and advocate for their rights. Having their own space was an existential need for Black women in Zurich in the early nineties, Zeedah explained. Public gatherings in restaurants often led to discomfort and harassment: "The men in the restaurant laughed, waved, winked at the women’s bottoms, and sent the waiter to the table with suggestive letters." This hostile environment underscored the necessity of a dedicated, safe space.

Under her leadership, the Meeting Point received the Municipal Equality Award in 1997 and was later chronicled in "Terra Incognita? The Meeting Place for Black Women in Zurich," highlighting its role in shaping conversations around race and gender in Switzerland.

Beyond her work with the Meeting Point, Zeedah broke barriers as Switzerland’s first Black female firefighter, challenging stereotypes and paving the way for greater diversity in public service. She also represented Switzerland at the 1995 Beijing Women's Conference, a landmark event in the global fight for gender equality.

Today, Zeedah continues her mission of empowerment and social justice. She splits her time between London, Zurich,and Nairobi, where she runs a resource center for women and girls, providing tools to foster leadership and resilience. As a scientific consultant, lecturer, and project manager, Zeedah remains a force in promoting diversity, inclusion, and the rights of marginalized communities

We at Afro Swiss Families applaud Zeedah Meierhofer-Mangeli's groundbreaking initiatives and lifelong dedication to empowering Black women and fostering inclusive communities. Her work continues to inspire us in our mission to create safe, supportive spaces for Afro-Swiss families.