Who We Are
We are an open and inclusive association of international families based in Biel/Bienne. Our community includes not only expats, but also long-term residents, Swiss nationals, and families who are here for just a short time.
Some of us are new to Switzerland, while others have called it home for many years. What brings us together is English — a shared language that helps us connect, communicate, and build friendships across cultures.
We welcome families from all backgrounds, with over 40 nationalities represented — and growing!
Our Vision
Our vision is to foster a welcoming and supportive community where international families in Biel/Bienne can connect, share, and thrive. At the heart of our values are openness, inclusivity, cultural exchange, and mutual support.
Our common language is English – providing a bridge for families of all backgrounds to feel at home, no matter their mother tongue.
Our Purpose
ESFBB was founded to offer international families in Biel/Bienne a safe, open, and supportive environment. We aim to foster integration, friendship, and community engagement, while helping families navigate life in Switzerland.
Our Offer
We organize and facilitate regular events and activities that bring families together, such as:
– Playdate Café (Weekly parent-child meetups)
– Monday Lunch Circle
– Seasonal celebrations (Easter, Halloween, Christmas, etc.)
– Informational talks on topics related to family, education and health
We also maintain active communication through our WhatsApp group (140+ members) and Facebook page (300+ followers), where members can share experiences, ask questions, and support one another.
Our Story
Our community began in 2018 in response to a lack of English-speaking family resources in Biel.
Many newcomers felt isolated, as most existing groups operated in German, French or other native languages.
What started as a small initiative has grown into a vibrant, diverse network of families representing over 40 countries – from Switzerland to Brazil, from the UK to Bhutan. We are proud to be a multicultural, caring community – and we look forward to growing together.
Our Board
As of January 2025, we are officially registered as a non-profit association. Our committee is dedicated to strengthening our structures and building a sustainable foundation to support current and future families in Biel. Our committee members consist of:
– Rita Felder, President
– Tanya Heimlich-Ng Yuen, Treasurer
– Bridget Black, Secretary
– Ning Hilpert, Events Coordinator