Leaders embark on an extraordinary journey

Escape the comfort of the familiar and immerse yourself in the rhythm of life in Abéné, a rural community in the West African country of Senegal. Discover the beautiful complexity of life in a place where daily challenges are met with joy, generosity, and resilience. A once in a lifetime opportunity for a unique and transformational journey for your leaders and teams. This retreat provides time and a framework for self-reflection and opens the door to understanding another culture and experiencing a completely different way of being. Take seven days to return to the source and work alongside the people of Abéné to grow infrastructure and strengthen community.

New perspectives

This profound experience will move you, give you a new approach to people, new perspectives on what is important and take you to a new place of calm and gratitude. It will help you to break down barriers, lead with empathy, and create meaningful change. You will experience first-hand the impact of true collaboration and discover shared common human values. This is a unique opportunity to open your mind and reassess your priorities and values, enabling you to have a profound impact on the culture of your organization.

The itinerary in a nutshell

• Arrival in the capital Dakar, the western most city on the African Mainland

• Overnight stay at the Hotel Savana close to the centre of the city and the port

• Travel to the island of Gorée, the location of the Museum of Humanity

• Overnight ferry upriver to Ziguinchor

• Overnight travel, arrival and stay in Abéné

• In Abéné, all our accommodation is close to the sea, is of high quality, and you will be kept safe and comfortable

• Travel to Banjul, the Gambia for return flights

Key locations and activities

• Island of Gorée

  Historically, this was where many slaves left their homelands for the unknown. When driving positive change, we must first understand both the origins of our shared humanity, and the critical events that have shaped a culture's history.

• Travelling upriver to Ziguinchor

  As we travel along the Casamance River, you will likely find the river's dolphins bobbing their noses in the ferry's wake, mere metres away. We will visit a local school and market in the community of Ziguinchor before travelling to Abéné.

• Experience life in Abéné

  Abéné lies nestled on the Atlantic coast, just twelve kilometres from the Gambian border. Around 5,000 people make their home here, in a melting pot of different religions, cultures, and tribes. Despite their differences, the people are united in their love of their village, their music, and their traditions.

Ready to empower yourself and the people of Abéné?