Today, at Zurich’s Schauspielhaus and in the presence of more than 400 children and adults, the Star Weeks Awards were presented. The most creative fundraising activities organised by children were honoured. This year’s winners come from Riehen (Basel-Stadt), Zurich, Bern and Buchs (Aargau). More than 4,000 children raised CHF 354,000 for Sudanese refugee children in Chad.
Star Weeks Awards 2026
Star Weeks is a joint initiative of UNICEF and the magazine «Schweizer Familie». Children in Switzerland and Liechtenstein support children in need through creative fundraising activities. Over the past 22 years, more than 145,000 children have raised around CHF 9 million, demonstrating remarkable solidarity with children facing hardship. Twelve initiatives were nominated across four categories. The event was hosted by Zoe Torinesi. Entertainment was provided by, among others, Stefanie Heinzmann, Charles Nguela, Sven Ivanic, Alayah Pilgrim and the duo Full House.
This year’s winners are:
Individual Child Category
Jasmin Wunderle (2014), Riehen (Basel-Stadt)
With great creativity and craftsmanship, Jasmin organised a charity wheel of fortune. In exchange for a voluntary donation, participants could spin the wheel and win handmade prizes, including candles, stars, card holders and baked treats. Through her thoughtfully designed initiative, Jasmin raised CHF 600.
Friends / Siblings Category
Malena Burger (2013), Laura Perez (2013), and Lily (2012) and Kim (2014) Häberling, Zurich
With their film project «It Doesn’t Get More Unusual Than This», the four friends created a powerful and creative act of solidarity. Inspired by Star Weeks, they produced a short film together – from the initial idea and screenplay to filming and editing. The project was developed with passion, teamwork and imagination. The young filmmakers used their enthusiasm for cinema to raise awareness of Star Weeks and encourage donations. Their creative initiative raised CHF 810.
Families / Neighbourhood Category
The Saurer Family with Simon (2018), Jonas (2014) and Florian (2013), Bern
For Halloween, the Saurer family transformed their garden into an atmospheric haunted garden. After dark, visitors were welcomed into a spooky yet enchanting experience that attracted many guests. Through their imaginative initiative, the family raised CHF 352.60.
Schools Category
Risiacher School, Grade 5, Andrea Blunier, Buchs (Aargau)
The Grade 5 pupils of Risiacher School organised a varied charity evening featuring music, dance and gymnastics performances, a quiz competition and a public screening of a Swiss national football team match. More than 300 guests attended the event. Through the sale of food and drinks and generous donations, the class raised an impressive CHF 3,639.
Over 4,000 children raised funds for Sudanese refugee children in Chad
More than 4,000 children raised funds for Sudanese refugee children in Chad
During this year’s Star Weeks campaign, more than 4,000 children raised CHF 354,000 through their fundraising activities. This year, children in Switzerland and Liechtenstein supported Sudanese refugee children who have sought safety in Chad. Around one million people have fled to Chad, the majority of them women and children.
Star Weeks 2025 aims to improve support for Sudanese refugee families in Chad. This includes medical treatment, vaccinations and the provision of nutritious food. Water supply and sanitation infrastructure are also being expanded to create a safer and healthier environment. In addition, child-friendly spaces are being established where children can play, learn and receive psychosocial support in a protected setting. These safe spaces help children process traumatic experiences and regain a sense of normality and security.
The Sternenwochen campaign is supported by the school magazine Spick.
Detailed information about Sternenwochen can be found here.
