The NEXUS Chapter Retreat 2025 unfolded last weekend in the breathtaking setting of Phuket, Thailand—a destination that perfectly embodied the spirit of connection, growth, and joy. EO Melbourne members, joined by their spouses and life partners, guests from EO Adelaide, and Strategic Alliance Partners, came together for an unforgettable three-day journey. It was more than just a retreat; it was a vibrant tapestry of shared insights, meaningful conversations, and moments of pure inspiration.
The event began with a warm welcome at the Golden Sunset Soirée on Friday evening. Set against the stunning backdrop of SAii’s Upper Pool Lawn, attendees mingled over cocktails as the sky transformed into a canvas of fiery oranges and pinks. EO Melbourne President Costa Vasili officially opened the Chapter Retreat, extending a heartfelt welcome to all participants and setting the tone for the days ahead. His words resonated deeply, reminding everyone of the power of community and the limitless potential that arises when people connect with purpose. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, not just for the days ahead but for the connections waiting to be forged.
This was NEXUS at its finest—a space where relationships are nurtured, ideas are exchanged, and possibilities feel limitless.
Saturday morning offered an optional breathwork session led by wellness instructor Chris, setting a reflective tone for the day. As participants gathered on the beachfront, the rhythmic sound of waves provided the perfect backdrop for Chris’s guided techniques. These moments of mindfulness were designed to ground attendees, preparing them to fully engage with the wealth of knowledge and inspiration awaiting them.
The heart of the retreat truly came alive during the Saturday Sessions, where industry leaders took the stage to share their stories, expertise, and vision. Tony Nash, former CEO of Booktopia, captivated the audience with his candid reflections on scaling businesses and navigating failure as a critical step toward success. His talk resonated deeply, reminding everyone that resilience is not just a trait but a practice.
Sanaiyah Gurnamal, known as The Love Alchemist, followed with a powerful exploration of love and businesses—how love-driven business strategies can transform both personal and professional dynamics. Her words lingered long after she left the stage, sparking conversations throughout the room.
Finally, Itamar Marani, a former special forces agent turned mindset expert, delivered a riveting session on adaptability and mental toughness. His real-world anecdotes and actionable strategies left attendees equipped with tools to tackle challenges head-on.
After a nourishing lunch, the group headed to YONA, the world’s first floating beach club, where the energy shifted to relaxation and connection. Conversations flowed effortlessly in the VIP area, with the infinity pool glimmering under the sun. The informal setting allowed relationships to flourish organically, underscoring the essence of NEXUS—a community built on trust and mutual growth.
Sunday brought another opportunity for mindfulness with an optional yoga session led by Chris, who guided participants through stretches that awakened both body and mind. The serene morning set the stage for the final round of speaker sessions, which proved to be just as impactful as the day before.
Cindy Sirinya Bishop, the retreat’s charismatic emcee and a celebrated Thai model and actress, shared her journey of balancing creative pursuits with personal fulfilment. Her talk on Leading with “Jai”—heart-led leadership and the power of connected presence—left an impression among the participants. Her authenticity struck a chord, inspiring attendees to embrace their passions without compromise.
Nathan Chan, Founder & CEO of Foundr, followed with practical insights on the 12 Leadership Lessons from the 12 years of Foundr—building scalable ventures, emphasising the importance of adaptability and customer-centric thinking. Closing the sessions was Athan Didaskalou, Co-founder of July, whose fireside chat on design innovation and problem-solving left the audience brimming with fresh perspectives.
Post-lunch, attendees had the chance to dive deeper into experiences tailored to their interests. Some connected with nature at Green Elephant Sanctuary Park, feeding and bathing elephants while learning about conservation efforts. Others chose high-energy activities like Muay Thai classes or relaxed at Café Del Mar, soaking in the island’s laid-back charm. For those seeking introspection, the Sound Journey offered a meditative escape, using sound vibrations to unlock emotional clarity and creativity. Each activity, whether exhilarating or calming, reinforced the retreat’s theme of balance—between work and play, learning and leisure, individuality and community.
As the sun dipped below the horizon on Sunday evening, the Carpe Diem Closing Ceremony marked the culmination of an extraordinary journey. Fire dancers lit up the night, their movements a metaphor for the sparks of inspiration ignited throughout the weekend. Attendees gathered around the feast, sharing laughter and heartfelt reflections. It was clear that this retreat had transcended its agenda—it had become a living, breathing embodiment of what NEXUS stands for: connection, collaboration, and growth.
On Monday, as participants packed their bags and prepared to leave, there was a palpable sense of gratitude and renewed purpose. The bonds formed in Phuket would undoubtedly endure, serving as reminders of the power of community. Conversations sparked during the retreat would evolve into partnerships, friendships would deepen, and lessons learned would shape future endeavors.
Kudos to Costa Vasili, EO Melbourne President, for his visionary leadership in setting the tone for an extraordinary retreat, and to the tireless organisers whose dedication ensured its seamless success. Hats off to the incredible participants and their partners, generous sponsors, and inspiring speakers—your contributions were the lifeblood of this transformative experience. Together, you created a space where ideas ignited, connections deepened, and inspiration flourished, making this retreat an unforgettable celebration of community and growth.
For everyone who attended, the NEXUS Chapter Retreat 2025 wasn’t just a series of talks and activities—it was a celebration of human connection and collective potential. From the wisdom shared by remarkable speakers to the laughter echoing across beaches and lounges, every moment underscored the belief that when people come together with open hearts and minds, magic happens. If you missed this year’s retreat, don’t wait—mark your calendars now. The next chapter promises even more opportunities to connect, learn, and thrive.