Support an inclusive network

Building a network that transforms professional lives

My name is Mark, and my story is defined by a constant: turning every challenge into an opportunity.

Raised in a single-parent family, I grew up in the Grottes neighborhood in Geneva, an environment where social challenges like delinquency and drug addiction were widespread. In these tough circumstances, I quickly realized that hard work was my only hope to change my social situation.

At 13, I got my first job as a delivery boy, and by 15, I was working on construction sites, striving to build a better future. At 19, I joined the Swiss Special Forces in Isone, where I developed discipline, resilience, and the ability to endure extreme pressures. These experiences shaped my character and gave me the tools to dream bigger.

After my military service, at the age of 20, I set out on a journey of discovery, traveling as far as Australia to explore new realities. Returning to Switzerland, determined to change my trajectory, I embarked on an ambitious professional reinvention.

Without a formal degree, my application for prior learning recognition was rejected when I tried to enroll in higher education. But I refused to give up. During my night shifts as a security guard, I taught myself, devouring over 6,000 pages of Pearson textbooks used in bachelor’s and master’s programs. Those nights of self-learning marked a turning point in my life.

For several years, I worked seven days a week, held up to four precarious jobs, launched my first business, and earned CHF 3,000 a month while continuing this relentless pursuit of knowledge. These years of hard work taught me that success requires more than ambition—it takes tools, connections, and opportunities.

That’s why today, after more than a decade of building and leading projects in real estate, tech, and marketing, I decided to create what I wish I had at the start of my journey: an inclusive, accessible, and committed network capable of supporting anyone looking to start fresh or reinvent themselves.

In April 2023, I founded ASDEVA, a unique professional association, funded with my personal savings and run on a volunteer basis. Since then, we have brought together more than 200 members around strong values: inclusion, equal opportunity, and support for professionals seeking a new beginning.

Over 200 members in 18 months

In just a year and a half, ASDEVA has brought together over 200 members around key values: inclusion, mutual support, and equal opportunities.

This success highlights the strong need for a network that can support professionals seeking opportunities and guidance.

My goal is clear and ambitious: to provide a network for those who, like I once did, lack the means to move forward alone but have all the determination to succeed.

I have a big heart but modest resources. With your support, I aim to go even further:

1. Fund free training programs so everyone can develop their skills and adapt to a rapidly changing professional world.

2. Help young people and those facing challenges integrate into the job market with tools, mentorship, and tangible resources.

3. Organize inclusive networking events to connect talents, foster collaboration, and create sustainable opportunities.

With your help, we can transform even more lives and provide a brighter future to those who need it.

Giving everyone a chance to succeed

ASDEVA is much more than a professional network: it’s a springboard for those who want to transform their lives and contribute to their community.

Every donation, free membership, and participation in our events, like Ice Breaker 2025 on February 13, represents a step towards a more equitable professional world. All funds raised during this event will be fully reinvested in our initiatives.

Here’s how you can support us:

1. Make a donation through our campaign on wemakeit, with perks available as a token of our gratitude.

2. Join ASDEVA for free to benefit from a dynamic and supportive network.

3. Participate in Ice Breaker 2025, a unique evening where every ticket helps transform professional lives.

4. Spread the word about ASDEVA and share our mission: every smile and every gesture counts.

Your contribution, no matter the size, is essential to keeping ASDEVA free and strengthening its impact. Together, we can give everyone a real chance to succeed.

Thank you for believing in this project and being part of this positive change.