About Us.
Wilstar started as a non-profit venture focused on social impact and supporting people who initiate sustainable lasting change to create a better world.
Today, Wilstar consists of two seperate investment platforms both inspired by the core values that have defined the Wilhelmsen’s legacy including innovation, free enterprise, self-reliance and an entrepreneurial spirit.
Our History
Wilstar started as the nonprofit social impact arm of the Arne and Lise Wilhelmsen family office and has developed into a space in which the Wilhelmsen family feel they can most effectively contribute to our society. Awilhelmsen is an investment company located in Oslo, Norway, established in 1939 with an approach rooted in generational thinking. A flexible mandate and long-term perspective provide a distinct competitive edge, enabling the group to invest across a wide spectrum of industries. The Awilhelmsen company is owned by the Arne Wilhelmsen family.
The Awilhelmsen group of companies and the family has over the years been involved in philanthropy and social impact both directly and indirectly through their partners. There has always been a clear family philosophy that Awilhelmsen should create value for society as well as pursuing its commercial goals. Historically the family has responded to many philanthropic requests and has been very proud of the impact they have managed to create around the world. Wilstar has been founded out of the family’s desire to have real and lasting social impact for future generations.
It is Wilstar’s vision to support
Empowerment - Strengthen our communities for a more sustainable future
Education and Economic Equality - Lay the foundations for a more inclusive society
Action on Climate Change - Leave our environment and the planet in a better condition for future generations
Our Commitment to Art and Social Impact
Art has long held a central place in the Wilhelmsen family's values - both as a form of cultural expression and as a catalyst for social change. Across generations, the Wilhelmsen family have sought to support artists whose work not only moves audiences but also addresses urgent issues in society.
This commitment is reflected in two art awards established to empower emerging artists with a social mission: the Lise Wilhelmsen Art Award Programme in Norway and the Linstow Art Award in Latvia. Both initiatives aim to recognise artistic excellence while amplifying the role of art in shaping more inclusive and resilient communities.
Lise Wilhelmsen Art Award Programme
The Lise Wilhelmsen Art Award Programme (LWAAP) was established to honour mid-career artists whose work engages with social, cultural, or political questions of our time. Presented in collaboration with Henie Onstad Kunstsenter, the award includes a financial grant, an exhibition, and acquisition of the artist's work into the institution's permanent collection.
Photo Private
The Linstow Art Award
The Linstow Art Award supports young and emerging Latvian artists whose work contributes to dialogue and development within contemporary society. The award includes financial support and the opportunity to exhibit work publicly, helping to elevate local voices with global relevance.
Who We Are
The Board
Paulina Rider Wilhelmsen
Founder / Board Member
Francesca Wilhelmsen
Co-Founder / Board Member
Solveig A. Wilhelmsen
Co-Founder / Board Member
Agnes Wilhelmsen
Emily Rider Wilhelmsen
Board Member
Programme Manager / Board Member
Carl Oscar Wilhelmsen
Board Member
Astrid Sørgaard
Board Chair
Staff
Marcus Bleasdale
Managing Director
Hanne Mork Gentzel
Senior Development Manager
Jean-Guillaume Marquaire
Investment Manager