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I attended an alumni event organized by Boardman at Varma, centered around the compelling theme of “The Force to Regenerate.” The topic itself was sufficiently enticing to prompt me to carve out time for this gathering. I was also aware that I might encounter familiar faces I’d be delighted to catch up with after a long time, all while meeting new people.

Laura Pääkkönen is one of the co-founders in Bonfire Agency, which is the first Thought Leadership Agency in the Nordics helping B2B companies to build impact with Thought Leadership.

So, how did I become a part of Boardman’s alumni community? At fall 2022, I participated in Boardman’s Boardwork Training program, drawing valuable insights for the formation of Bonfire’s upcoming board. The entire training was filled with great content from start to finish.

Yet, the most enriching aspects were undoubtedly the interactions and dialogues with fellow attendees. Once the training sessions concluded, I was thrilled that Boardman offered an affordable alumni membership, which grants access to high-caliber events and nurtures my innate curiosity.

Yet, the most enriching aspects were undoubtedly the interactions and dialogues with fellow attendees.

In both the Boardwork Training program and the alumni events I’ve attended this year, the most valuable element has consistently been the people involved. Given that the alumni events attract a diverse range of participants, from experienced corporate titans to rookie start-up entrepreneurs, the conversations during the social hours have been remarkably fruitful.

For instance, it has been enlightening to gain perspectives on how different industries have navigated this economically challenging year, and to hear that downturns have been a recurring theme over the decades—and likely will continue to be. The only constant is change.

“The Force to Regenerate” is, in my opinion, a positive phrase. Although rarely do diamonds emerge under force, drifting aimlessly is not beneficial for entrepreneurs either. A positive imperative to innovate could mean awakening one’s senses and curiosity, colliding ideas and elevating levels of ambition.

And how does one innovate? By clashing one’s own ideas and viewpoints against others and subjecting them to external scrutiny. This is precisely what Boardman’s alumni network offers.

By clashing one’s own ideas and viewpoints against others and subjecting them to external scrutiny. This is precisely what Boardman’s alumni network offers.

Are you a Boardman alumnus yet?

The Boardman Alumni Network is comprised of decision-makers who have completed Boardman training and who want to further develop their skills and remain active within the network.

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About the writer

Laura Pääkkönen is one of the co-founders in Bonfire Agency, which is the first Thought Leadership Agency in the Nordics helping B2B companies to build impact with Thought Leadership.