Welcome to Centrepoint
a volunteer-run English-speaking community in the heart of Basel where people connect, join activities, and make friends
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News & articles
Volunteer of the month
Colin Hughson, March 2026
I grew up in the UK but have always had itchy feet and a curiosity about the world. Over the years I’ve been lucky enough to live in Switzerland, the USA, China and Japan, experiences that really shaped how I see people, culture and community.
Volunteer vacancy
Vacancy IT-Coordinator
The Centrepoint organisation is run entirely by volunteers. More and more we rely on IT-tools to collaborate, to inform, and to organise our activities. Last year, we made a plan to strengthen our IT
Basel news
Expat Expo Basel 2026
Living in Switzerland as an international often means learning how different systems work – from health insurance and schooling to pensions, taxation and housing. Much of this information exists, but it is rarely gathered in one place. Expat Expo Basel 2026 aims to do exactly that.
Talks & workshops
Talk: The Air We Breathe
This talk by Aletta Karsies explains what air pollution actually is, where it comes from, and how it affects our health in daily life. Recent maps of air-pollution levels across Europe and in Basel will be presented to explain how much air quality can vary from place to place.
Volunteer vacancy
Members Coordinator (Board Role)
Centrepoint is looking for a Members Coordinator to join the Governing Board from March 2026.
Trips & tours
Private Tour of the Tropical Greenhouse
This second joint event of Centrepoint and BaselConnect is a private tour of the new tropical greenhouse in Basel’s famous botanical garden.
What our members say
“Finding Centrepoint was a turning point for me after leaving Ukraine. The supportive community here has helped me feel connected and at home in Switzerland.”
Viktoriya from Ukraine
"I enjoy teaching beginners’ bridge at Centrepoint because it blends problem-solving, fast feedback, and intuitive pattern-spotting into a game played with people, not just against them. Watching newcomers discover the pleasure of playing bridge — and even give me new insights — is genuinely rewarding."
Sev from Russia
“I really enjoy volunteering on the Front Desk, as the variety of tasks makes every shift engaging and helps me feel connected to the Centrepoint community. Volunteering with the Italian Conversation Group is also rewarding as it gives me pleasure to share my language and help others develop their skills."
Francesca from Italy
"Volunteering at Centrepoint gives me the chance to organise fun events like minigolf, summer meet-ups, and visits to interesting places. I also enjoy being part of the Photography Club, where we share our passion, meet new people, and work together to make the group a success."
Marcel from Switzerland
“I have found a truly welcoming, international community at Centrepoint. Participating in its diverse activities has strengthened my spoken English and given me a supportive space where I feel I belong.”
Sissi from Switzerland
“I’ve discovered Basel in new ways and learned about many different subjects through Centrepoint’s talks and trips. It’s also been rewarding to contribute by hosting a French discussion group.”
Jean-Christian from Canada
“I enjoy volunteering at the Welcome Desk during weekly Coffee Mornings, where I can greet members and offer new members and visitors a friendly introduction. It’s rewarding to help people settle into the Centrepoint community.”
Steffen from the Netherlands