The Champions Retreat 2024 in Vancouver, Canada, was not just a conference; it was an immersive experience filled with moments of learning, connection, and celebration. From March 18 to March 22, over 600 guests from across the United States and Canada converged in this beautiful city to participate in this transformative event hosted by B Corp.
On Monday, the retreat kicked off with optional trips, tours, activities, and service opportunities. Melissa-Sue John, accompanied by her consultant Kerrie McDevitt set on a serene outing to Lynn Canyon Park, then Granville Public Market, followed by Stanley Park. This excursion set the tone for the days ahead, fostering a sense of harmony with nature and each other. Being concerned with energy, they took the public bus.
On Tuesday, Melissa-Sue John, representing Lauren Simone Publishing, found herself in the spotlight as she was interviewed alongside other influential figures such as Asha Wheeldon (Kula Kitchen), Aurora Archer (The Opt-In), Carolina Arias (Descalzas), and Farmer Cee (Green Heffa Farms) by Lauren Everett, Professional Storyteller, B Lab U.S. & Canada, based in Atlanta, GA.
The insightful discussions were followed by a visit to a And-Co Offices hosting a BIPOC event by the BIPOC Network, where they had the opportunity to connect with fellow business owners from underrepresented communities who were also part of B Corp's level program. The event was well-organized, and the food provided a delightful culinary experience.
Wednesday morning began with a morning yoga wake up and flow activity followed by a nourishing breakfast gathering with Impact Growth Partners, setting the stage for a day filled with learning and growth.
Melissa-Sue John attended main sessions where she delved into topics such as collaboration and effective communication, drawing inspiration from Adam Kahane's book "Collaborating with the Enemy" and exploring the four ways of listening: generative dialogue, empathetic dialogue, download, and debating. She also learned from panelists who demonstrated the need for collaboration and localization for circular-business models to scale and become economically viable.
As the week progressed, participants immersed themselves in a diverse array of activities and experiences. Wednesday night saw tour buses transporting attendees from the Vancouver Conference Center to Grouse Mountain, where they indulged in hot cocoa, live music, ice skating, and snowshoeing under the starlit sky—a magical evening that fostered camaraderie and joy.
The festivities continued on Thursday with an unforgettable closing night celebration at the Commodores. B Corp business owners came together to enjoy live music, delectable cuisine, and refreshing drinks, basking in the sense of accomplishment and community forged throughout the retreat.
Throughout the week, attendees also had the opportunity to connect on a more personal level. Monday night's open reception for level business owners provided the perfect setting for networking and relationship-building, with delicious food and captivating decor adding to the ambiance. We got to meet Alesha Hartley the Senior Manager, Equitable Programs for B Corp.
As the Champions Retreat 2024 drew to a close, participants departed Vancouver with hearts full of inspiration and minds brimming with new ideas. United by a shared commitment to using business as a force for good, they returned to their communities empowered to drive positive change and foster a more sustainable and equitable world. The journey of restoration and connection had left an indelible mark, serving as a testament to the transformative power of collective action and collaboration.