The Global Shapers Lugano Hub is a local non-profit organization that is part of the World Economic Forum's Global Shapers Community. It is a group of ambitious, passionate, and dedicated professionals under 30 who volunteer some of their free time to establish important projects that can help not only to the improvement of Ticino, but also to addressing worldwide concerns. In a nutshell, the goal is to make a positive difference in the following macro-areas: equity and social inclusion, innovation, environmental impact reduction, education, networking, and employment.

2015: our Hub was founded by Andrea Guida who, thanks to his significant experience in leadership and consultancy, tried to encourage a new culture open to change and innovation. Thanks to the support of the first curators, the Lugano Hub established beneficial collaborations within the Ticino ecosystem with diverse organizations with the aim of finding consistent solutions to tackle the ambitious challenges of the future. 

2016-2019: in line with its objectives, the Lugano Global Shapers Community immediately embarked on a multitude of initiatives, including the renowned "Champion of Innovation 4.0" project in collaboration with the Ticino Chamber of Commerce (Cc-TI) aimed at identifying and rewarding the most innovative companies with the best socio-environmental impact.

2020-2021: In reaction to the spread of Covid-19, the Lugano Hub provided urgent assistance and helped to alleviate the significant socioeconomic impact, particularly at the local level. First and foremost, the SwissConverge initiative was founded in order to provide beneficial and essential services to the Ticino community. Second, in partnership with the other Swiss centers, the Lugano Dona initiative was launched. In addition, the TI4Startups programme was completed.

2022-2023: the Lugano Global Shapers community recently revisited its team and appointed a new curator, Stefano Rappi, who has taken over from Mirco De Savelli. Regardless of these changes, the commitment, passion and determination to promote the new projects remain unchanged.