Forum is one of the most valuable perks of EO membership. Having a tight-knit community of like-minded members to bounce ideas and concerns off of is invaluable, especially in terms of one’s personal and professional growth. As a member of the EO Asia-Pacific region, we have taken Forums to another level by creating the Asia Bridge, an innovative approach to the Forum experience.
What is the Asia Bridge?
The Asia Bridge is a professional and personal development initiative that dates back to November 2006. The objective of this initiative is to create a structure in which regional EO members can meet on a regular basis and take their Forum experiences beyond local.
In the beginning, we started with 16 members from five chapters. A year and a half later, we reached our goal of recruiting three Forums with 33 members from 7 different chapters, all of whom meet three times a year. EO members from each of the participating countries take turns hosting Asia Bridge. The goal is to offer members unique, in-country experiences with the intimacy of Forum.
Inside the Asia Bridge Experience
In the most recent Asia Bridge regional meeting, held 25-27 June 2008, seven chapters met in Bali and stayed at Batu Karang Lembongan Resort. On the first day, three new members from Hong Kong, Japan and Malaysia were formally introduced. This was followed by a relaxing dinner on a patio overlooking the crystal-clear sea.
The next day was devoted to Forum. Each Forum was comprised of members from various EO chapters. Having come from very different cultures and backgrounds, each member offered unique and compelling views. The experience sharing was truly special and enriching! As it turns out, many attending members have regional business aspirations, and Asia Bridge became a conduit for business opportunities and networking in the respective countries.
The final night was a tremendous experience. Dinner was set in the villa courtyard of a beautiful Balinese garden, complete with gigantic palms, fountains, infinity pools and a panoramic view of the famous Jambaran Bay. We had the opportunity to network with the local Indonesian chapter members, whose hospitality was outstanding. The night ended perfectly with members lying by the pool, chatting and enjoying a beautiful Balinese night. We had come together to network and grow as business owners, and we left as close friends.
Upcoming Asia Bridge
The dates and venue for the Asia Bridge "Wild" Campus 2009 has been set. The event will be held at one of the most unique locations in the world ... by the mighty Kinabatangan River in the heartland of Borneo! This will truly be a once-in-a-life time experience for those seeking knowledge, adventure and fun, EO style! The event will be held from 26 February to 1 March at the Sepilok Nature Resort.
Questions?
If you’d like to learn more about Asia Bridge events and how you can set up something similar in your Forum, please contact EO Malaysia member George Gan.