Building Bonds: BES-HNS Foundation Hosts Transformative Retreat for Young Professionals

The BES-HNS Foundation, Inc. recently hosted a transformative teambuilding and fellowship event for its young professional members at the tranquil Baan Thai Villa in San Fernando, Pampanga. Sponsored by the generous support of Sis Lisa and Primo Valerio, this overnight retreat, held from April 27 to April 28, 2024, aimed to deepen bonds among young professionals while reinforcing the foundation’s vision of fostering excellence and meaningful relationships.

Under the leadership of Sis Tess Andres from the Scholarship and Transition Committee, the event unfolded with a series of engaging activities designed to encourage collaboration, reflection, and personal growth.

The retreat commenced with a warm welcome and check-in, followed by a brief snack to energize participants for the exciting activities ahead. Attendees were divided into teams for the first activity, where they demonstrated teamwork and strategy by protecting a chosen member from getting wet while the other team poured water. This challenge highlighted the importance of solidarity and mutual support in achieving common goals.

Reflective sessions followed each activity, providing an opportunity for participants to share insights and lessons learned. One key takeaway emphasized the significance of stepping up and supporting each other, especially during challenging times—a principle that resonates deeply with the foundation’s ethos of camaraderie and service.

The second activity, a coin dive in the pool, tested participants’ resourcefulness and adaptability. As teams dove to collect coins of varying denominations, they discovered the importance of leveraging individual strengths to achieve collective success. This metaphorical exploration of diversity and teamwork underscored the foundation’s commitment to recognizing and maximizing the potential of each member.

A highlight of the retreat was the open forum and roundtable discussion, where members shared ideas, aspirations, and challenges facing the foundation. Notable insights included the importance of defining clear roles and responsibilities, optimizing communication channels, and bridging the gap between young professionals and undergraduate members.

Throughout the retreat, participants also enjoyed moments of relaxation and camaraderie, bonding over karaoke sessions, light exercises, and shared meals. These informal interactions fostered deeper connections and laid the groundwork for future collaboration and support within the foundation.

As the retreat drew to a close, participants left with renewed energy, strengthened friendships, and a shared commitment to the foundation’s mission. With a clear sense of purpose and unity, they departed Baan Thai Villa, carrying forward the spirit of camaraderie and growth instilled during this enriching experience.

The BES-HNS Foundation looks forward to building on the momentum of this retreat, continuing to empower young professionals and nurture a community dedicated to excellence and service.