Christina balances art history as an independent art consultant with running two industrial companies and being involved in two start-ups. With Brazilian roots, this means commuting between two continents, which is not so easy in today's Covid times. I find it impressive how an art exhibition showed Christina her later career path. There are signposts everywhere, you just have to recognise them as such.

Who is Christina Simonius?
I am a Brazilian-Swiss who moved to Zurich in 2009. After studying Art History at Princeton, I went on to work with Sotheby’s and Christie’s auction houses. From 1999 to 2009 my position was Director of Christie’s São Paulo. Since my move to Zurich in 2009, I became an independent art consultant. I am married and have a 22-year old daughter. Business trips to São Paulo are part of my routine, as I am also a Board Member of two companies located there. One company makes aluminum and plastic packaging for cosmetic and pharmaceutical products, while the other manufactures weighing equipment. In the past three years I have become involved in two start-ups as well: one trades art online and the other manufactures beauty and cosmetic products.

Sports are integral to my well-being and they include tennis, golf, skiing and hiking. Recently I began doing yoga and meditation. Going to museums, galleries and art fairs bring a lot of joy to my life, as does travelling and spending time with family and friends. My newest hobby has been taking up bridge.

Who or what has strongly influenced your professional career?
My early professional career was influenced by an incredible art exhibition on David Hockney which I saw in London, just before I had to decide what I wanted to study at university. Because of this exhibition I decided to major in art history and went on to work in the art world, which still fascinates me. After my father passed away, I inherited participations in family companies, and had to learn more about business and finance. Thinking of my daughter and what sort of legacy I could leave for her, I have recently diversified my investments, getting involved in start-ups. These have added a new perspective to my professional career and have been interesting and educational to follow.

Why am I a bwomen member?
I joined bwomen because of Claudia Bally, who I met doing yoga. Her openness, engagement and sparkle inspired me tremendously. I believe in women supporting women and think that bwomen is such a network, where we could motivate and learn from each other.

On which topics can other members contact you and where?
I am fascinated by art, business, leadership, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy, especially with an emphasis on the environment. Spirituality has also become a topic of interest, and Kundalini Yoga as well as its teachings are a constant source of inspiration.

If anyone would like to contact me, I could be reached at: christina.simonius@gmail.com.