IMG_8865Sunrise in Noordwijkerhout

The NH conference center becomes our own global community, and the welcome extends beyond the people. Accommodations, meals, snacks, and juice and coffee bars are all included in the conference fee. Few conferences offer that level of hospitality. Having everything in one place makes it easy to settle in, connect with others, and feel part of the community.

New attendees were invited to an introductory gathering to get acquainted with IFC. Twenty session leaders were stationed throughout the room, welcoming guests and answering questions.

From there, we headed into a huge auditorium for the opening plenary, joining more than 700 attendees from around the world. Music, messages, and lights filled the space, building anticipation. CEO Willeke van Rijn stepped onto the stage to thunderous applause, with the lights and music perfectly timed. She set the stage for the next few days by pausing and saying one word: UNSTOPPABLE.

Opening speaker Nyasha Gwatidzo explored what it means to be unstoppable: recognizing when we need to change course and understanding that sustainable impact is always about relationships.

Then we were off to choose workshops from dozens of presenters, reconnect with familiar faces, and meet new people. An opening reception, dinner, trivia, and more followed.

And that was just the first day.

Day two begins with breakfast at 8:00 a.m., followed by stimulating, thought-provoking workshops that continue until 7:00 p.m. Then it’s gala time.

Every year, the auditorium is transformed into a mystical, magical, and enchanting setting. Some people wear themed costumes; others dress up a little, choosing something fun or special for the evening. Together, we enjoy the entertainment and a chance to relax.

This is where the real magic happens—in the conversations and those unbeatable one-on-one connections that make the conference special. For a few hours, people simply enjoy being together in a true global community.

Then comes Friday: one last workshop, followed by the closing plenary with inspiring American activist Rashad Robinson, author of From Presence to Power.

And then it’s over. Just like that.

Many attendees rush to catch the bus to the airport. I stay a little longer.

With three flights to get home and connections that don’t always go as planned, I allow a couple of extra days before beginning the journey. I also appreciate the chance to reflect on the experience and enjoy the area. I walked around downtown Noordwijkerhout, browsed the stores, and spent time by the sea. I met a colleague from the Leadership Program for dinner, went to the spa, and enjoyed those quieter days.

My journey home included an unexpected overnight stay near Heathrow after a delayed flight and missed connection. British Airways provided a comfortable hotel and dinner, and I appreciated a good night’s sleep before continuing through Chicago to home. Home by ten Monday evening, I was back and reunited with Shadow. The next morning, Lake Superior and the sunrise were waiting.

One possibility has stayed with me since returning is that next year I could propose my signature communication workshop to IFC. Working with an international audience would mean exploring how culture shapes the ways we communicate, interpret behavior, and build relationships. What feels direct and helpful to one person may feel uncomfortable to another. I would have a year to research, learn from others, and adapt the workshop to make room for those differences.

Perhaps that would be my reason to return—to contribute something useful while continuing to learn.