Our reason for being

Here's our 'why' – and how it guides our 'what' and 'how'

Our mission is to deliver facts on international cooperation for public policy professionals to navigate the complexities of global challenges.

We launched from Geneva, Switzerland’s hub of multilateralism and Arlington, Virginia's global media capital, and want to grow from there.

As a business started by journalists and climbers, we value uncovering truth, elevating people's voices, teamwork and resilience. We're building a global-minded platform that's unique, educational and foresighted.

We believe that taking a fact-based, data-driven approach to journalism provides people with a verifiable account of what’s happening, and that establishing common facts for people to agree on leads to solutions.

Why the name? The Greek word arete signifies knowledge, effectiveness, potential fulfilled. In French, arête is a knifelike ridge. Combining those meanings, we stand for elevation, sharpness, the pursuit of excellence.

We're all interdependent on our tiny blue ball in space. As astronaut Nick Hague said while aboard the International Space Station: “Cooperation at a global scale is what’s going to propel humanity into the future.”

And as a former colleague at AP, Anja Niedringhaus, once said: “I do my job simply to report people’s courage with my camera and with my heart."

Leadership Team

Pete Ward, CEO
Strategist and entrepreneur who has studied neuroscience and has an eMBA from IMD. Former rescue ranger and American Alpine Club interim CEO.
Silvan Hagen, CTO
Experienced Swiss entrepreneur and startup CTO, digital consultant, and web developer who helps businesses succeed with creative and easy-to-use solutions.
John Heilprin, Founding Editor
Thirty-plus years of experience as a journalist, including for AP as environment and climate writer, U.N. correspondent, and chief correspondent in Switzerland.
Ronald Powers, Managing Editor
Forty-plus years of experience working on the staff of the AP, including as a New York City-based reporter, national editor, and Washington bureau supervisor.