Bonds Beyond the Boardroom: the Annual Team Retreat
As the ceaseless hum of our Gurgaon office faded into the background, it was time for a much-needed escape. This year, the BackBenchers and iConifer teams swapped their work desks for breathtaking mountain vistas and serene river views in Nainital. Our riverside resort became our haven—a perfect setting to unwind, reflect, and celebrate the journey we’ve been on since 2012.
The allure of Nainital’s natural splendour greeted us with open arms. Imagine a resort nestled by a sparkling river, surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. This wasn’t just any getaway; it was nature’s own sanctuary. The crisp mountain air and verdant landscapes created an idyllic backdrop that invited us to relax and rejuvenate. It felt like we were stepping into a picturesque postcard, where the only thing missing was a “Wish you were here” sign!
Engaging Activities and Moments of Joy
Our retreat was packed with activities designed to bring out our playful side and strengthen our team spirit:
Music and Balloon Games: We kicked things off with some toe-tapping music that had everyone grooving. The balloon games? Pure, unadulterated fun, filled with laughter, balloon pops, and friendly competition. If you weren’t dodging balloons, you probably laughed at the sheer chaos of it all!
Best-Out-of-Waste Contests: Who knew trash could be so glamorous? Our creativity was thoroughly tested as teams transformed everyday waste into fabulous creations. From artistic masterpieces to quirky gadgets, these contests were a reminder that innovation can come from the most unexpected places.
Blindfolded Object Mazes: Talk about trust exercises! Navigating through blindfolded mazes was a hilarious mix of teamwork, miscommunication, and unexpected revelations. It was a fantastic way to bond and discover how well we can work together—even when we can’t see what’s in front of us!
Honouring Exceptional Contributions
No retreat would be complete without celebrating the rockstars of our team. Our awards ceremony was a high-energy highlight, full of applause, cheers, and a few happy tears:
Star Performers of the Year: Hats off to Sukrit Jaie, Deepa Vaswani, Anisha Chhetri, and Aakib Mattoo! Their outstanding performances were nothing short of spectacular, and they truly shined in their roles throughout the year. If there were a “Corporate Olympics,” these stars would have taken home the gold!
Popular Choice Award: Pinkle Chauhan, you’re the people’s champ! Winning the Popular Choice Award for being the most beloved coworker is no small feat. It’s clear that Pinkle’s warmth and positivity have made a huge impact on everyone around.
Nasreen Khan Award for Exceptional Commitment, Excellence, and Achievement: Prerna Melody Stephen, you are a beacon of dedication and excellence. This award is a testament to your relentless commitment and significant achievements. You’ve set the bar high for all of us!
Alauddin Alam Award for Selfless Commitment to the Organization: Arleen Kapoor, your selfless dedication has not gone unnoticed. This award is a tribute to your unwavering commitment and tireless efforts. You truly exemplify what it means to be a team player!
Cherishing Every Moment
Our time in Nainital wasn’t just about the official awards and activities. It was also about enjoying the little things:
Sunlounger Rests and Pool Dips: From lounging by the pool to taking refreshing dips, we had plenty of time to relax and soak up the sun. It was the perfect way to unwind and recharge.
Chai and Photo Ops: Sipping chai by the riverside and capturing those magical moments in the drizzle—these were the small pleasures that made our retreat unforgettable. The Kosi River became our unofficial photo studio, where every snap was a reminder of our wonderful time together.
Amid all the fun, we also took out time to reflect on our collective journey and future goals. These moments of contemplation were not only crucial for aligning our vision but also for reinforcing our commitment to helping students achieve their study abroad dreams.
As we head back to our everyday routines, we do so with a renewed sense of camaraderie and excitement. This retreat wasn’t just a break from work but a celebration of our achievements and a reaffirmation of our shared goals. The memories we’ve made and the bonds we’ve strengthened will propel us into the coming year with fresh energy and enthusiasm.
With a heart full of gratitude and a spirit brimming with optimism, we look forward to continuing our journey with the BackBenchers and iConifer teams. Here’s to another year of teamwork, innovation, and helping students turn their study-abroad dreams into reality. Bring on the challenges because together, we’re unstoppable!
