As it was the last board meeting of the year, we used our time to reflect on the past and look to the future.
Looking back:
A review of events
The board reviewed the success and financial impact of the events which were held this year: 9 networking events, 4 Professional Development Workshops, 2 Start Your Own Business Seminars, the IWD dinner and the Festive Lunch. The board has also been fortunate enough to benefit from two sessions with Sinead Hewson, focussing the WBII’s vision and strategy.
Festive Lunch
The board meeting took place a couple of days before our annual Festive Lunch. This year it was held at the ROC Mondriaan International Hotel and Management School. Over 50 members were present for what was a very festive occasion indeed! We heard some inspirational words from Sukai Cessay about the upcoming WEF event, Charlene gave us the highlights of the annual report, and Julie outlined our vision for 2017. In addition, we heard about the importance of strengthening our links with the Dutch business community, from the President of the MKB, Kim Schofaerts. Some of our members will be inaugurating our new partnership with the MKB on Monday by attending their Christmas “borrel”.
Looking ahead:
Branding
We are working on streamlining our image, and creating a strong brand. New promotional material reflecting these improvements will be printed in the new year.
Calendar 2017
We are finalising the dates of the events for 2017. Two PDW events are planned early next year, followed by the International Women’s Day event. We have reviewed options regarding the location and will communicate the finalised details soon!
(Write in by Sophie Bonavero)