Mission

We empower Himalayan communities by supporting local organisations, providing financial assistance and engaging volunteers to drive sustainable change in healthcare, education, and the environment.

Vision

A future where every Himalayan community thrives with access to healthcare, quality education and a sustainable environment, built through collaboration, trust and local empowerment.

Our story

In 1992, Dr. Sushil Sharma and his wife, Oona, had founded an NGO in Uttarakhand called Aarohi. After years of dedication and commitment, Dr. Sharma’s visit to Switzerland in 2004 sparked a vibrant exchange of ideas. This led to the start of our journey. To formalize a fruitful collaboration, we founded Swiss Himalayan Amity (initially “Aarohi Switzerland”) in 2005.

Over the years our collaboration grew, and by 2019 we expanded our focus to assist even more Himalayan partners. In 2023, we launched a new three- year strategy that prioritizes key projects in health, education, and environment.

Our latest initiatives include:

  • Aarohi’s Mobile Medical Unit

  • Swiss Surgical Camps

  • New Birthing Centers

  • Smokeless Chullahs and Incinerators by Arogya

  • Children’s Cancer Clinic by Cankids

These initiatives are transforming access to care and addressing critical needs across the region.
This is a story of evolving partnerships, continuous learning from one another, and unwavering commitment to the communities we serve.

Our Approach

Transparency

We uphold the highest standards of transparency and accountability. Every donation is used responsibly, with clear reporting and close collaboration with our donors, to ensure funds directly benefit the communities we serve.

Presence

We maintain strong, ongoing relationships with our partners in India through regular visits and open communication. We ensure that our efforts align with the needs of the people and our financial support reaches the rural communities.

Collaboration

Lasting change is only possible through partnership. We work alongside experienced local professionals – CEOs, doctors, organisation boards and District Magistrates – who have dedicated their lives to serving the Himalayan region. Their expertise guides our work and drives the success of every initiative.

Our Team

Dr Robert Graf

Consultant General and Trauma Surgeon

“I am a founder member and now president of Swiss-Himalayan Amity. By profession I am a surgeon. My engagement in India helped me recognise the world’s inequality, the difficulties low income rural communities face. Over two decades SHA has taken on the challenge to tackle our global responsibility in this polar and not always justified world in the 3 most important areas of life – health, education and environment. My involvement
is not from far. We are and stay personally involved, are closely attached to our projects supported by regular visits and volunteers working and collaborating with the mountain people in the Indian Himalayas. My focus is on long-term sustainable support and collaboration.”

Dr Franziska Wenz

Consultant Dermatology and dermatologic Surgery

“The possibilities of a self-determined and conscious life in terms of health and education through responsible use of nature & resources is still not given everywhere in our world. This requires changes and developments in systems and communities. I would like to contribute to such processes.I would like to contribute to such processes.

I became a doctor out of passion. Interacting with people, their health, their worries, joys and needs are a matter close to my heart, no matter where in this world. I am very happy to be a part of SHA, to participate and create something for a more livable future.”

Amit Agarwal

Auditor

“When I became aware of Swiss Himalayan Amity (SHA) through a colleague, I immediately felt a connection with the organisation. As some of my close relatives come from Uttarakhand, this region is particularly close to my heart.
I worked as an auditor for the association for many years and was able to gain a deep insight into SHA’s valuable work. In my current role as treasurer, I am particularly keen to continue using the organisation’s financial resources efficiently.
I have been living in Switzerland for 14 years, together with my wife and my daughter. SHA’s focus areas – healthcare, education and ecology – are exactly the right priorities from my point of view. I am looking forward to making a significant contribution to SHA’s impact and continued positive change.”

Sandra Rosati

Financial accountant, mother of 3 children

“I found out about Swiss-Himalayan Amity (SHA) during a stay in hospital
when the surgeon and president of the association, Robert Graf, told me
about it. I was very touched by his enthusiasm and commitment.
SHA is particularly close to my heart because I have experienced for myself
how precious support can be in difficult times of life. My son was born with
a serious heart defect and we were very lucky to receive medical help and
human support. I am still grateful for that today.
Now I want to give something back. At SHA, we can do just that: Giving
hope, where it is most urgently needed. Our projects change lives, very
concretely and directly.

I support SHA in administrative matters and event planning.”

Robert Maringer

Risk Manager

“During an inspiring dinner conversation, I heard about Swiss-Himalayan Amity (then still known as Aarohi Switzerland). I was immediately attracted by the fact that highly committed people are working together to raise funds immediately directed to Indian aid projects.
I had moved to Zurich from Austria a few years earlier and was open to working in a charity. So, I didn’t hesitate when I was asked to get involved with Swiss-Himalayan Amity. I have been active in the organization since 2012 and am currently responsible for donor relations and newsletters.
I enjoy working in the SHA team, it’s great to make an impact together!”