How to convince journalists & business-influencers - Media Training Workshop for Startup Founders

Ilona Gähwiler is a Zurich-based Communications & Organisational Development Consultant with more than a decade of experience at the intersection of corporate and start-up ecosystems. Having worked, both in large established organizations and fast-paced start-ups, she understands how to bridge these two worlds — combining the strategic structure of corporates with the agility and storytelling energy that start-ups need to stand out. She holds a Master’s degree in Communication Science and Media Research. Ilona spent several years at Neue Zürcher Zeitung (NZZ), where she gained in-depth knowledge of the Swiss media landscape and built a strong network of journalists and business influencers. She later led PR and Communications at Ampere Dynamic, an innovative start-up in the field of renewable energies, where she built the department from scratch and successfully positioned the brand as a key player in the Swiss energy transition. Since 2023, Ilona has been working as an independent consultant, advising start-ups and founders on PR strategy, media outreach, and organizational positioning. Her experience across industries and company sizes allows her to help founders craft compelling stories that resonate with both the media and their target audiences. Known for her practical, people-focused approach, Ilona empowers entrepreneurs to communicate their vision with clarity and confidence — whether speaking to journalists, pitching to investors, or engaging their community.