Inspiring Leadership with Heart: Cindy Sirinya Bishop at the Nexus Chapter Retreat in Phuket

The EO Melbourne Nexus Chapter Retreat concluded last month on the breathtaking island of Phuket, Thailand, leaving attendees inspired, enriched, and deeply connected. The retreat brought together entrepreneurs from diverse industries for an immersive experience designed to foster growth, collaboration, and transformative learning. At the heart of this unforgettable event was Cindy Sirinya Bishop—a celebrated Thai model, actress, activist, and UN Women Goodwill Ambassador to Asia Pacific—whose presence as a speaker and emcee elevated the gathering to new heights.

Leading with "Jai": Heart-Led Leadership Unveiled

Cindy’s talk on leading with "Jai" (the Thai word for “heart”) resonated powerfully with attendees, offering profound insights into what it means to lead authentically and purposefully. Drawing from her extensive career spanning over two decades in entertainment and her impactful work as a social advocate, Cindy shared how heart-led leadership can drive meaningful change—not just within organisations but also across communities.

She spoke about the importance of emotional intelligence and self-awareness, urging leaders to cultivate a “cool heart” that allows them to navigate challenges with composure and clarity. Empathy and compassion were highlighted as essential tools for fostering collaboration, reminding attendees that understanding others’ perspectives strengthens trust and teamwork. Finally, she emphasised the value of authenticity, openness, and vulnerability—an “open heart”—as qualities that shape how leaders show up in the world and inspire those around them. These Thai heart values, she explained, are not merely cultural ideals but powerful principles that can transform leadership styles and organisational cultures.

Throughout her talk, Cindy wove personal anecdotes from her journey—from founding the #DontTellMeHowToDress movement to authoring a children’s book on body autonomy—as powerful examples of leading with passion and purpose. Her message was clear: When guided by heart, leadership becomes more than just strategy; it becomes a force for good.

Deepening Learnings Through Connection

Beyond her role as a speaker, Cindy’s dynamic moderation added another layer of depth to the retreat. As MC, she skillfully facilitated discussions, ensuring every session flowed seamlessly while encouraging active participation from attendees. Her warm demeanor and sharp wit created an atmosphere of inclusivity, making everyone feel seen and valued.

At the start of the Chapter Retreat’s talks, Cindy led participants in an engaging activity where they exchanged stories of their experiences, sparking conversations about how these experiences have shaped their entrepreneurial journeys. These dialogues deepened connections among participants, fostering a sense of camaraderie and enabling them to gain valuable insights from one another.

A Movement Toward Meaningful Change

The retreat underscored the importance of aligning business practices with personal values—a concept Cindy embodies through her multifaceted career and activism. Whether advocating for gender equality or championing individual autonomy, she reminded attendees that success isn’t measured solely by achievements but by the positive ripple effects they create in the world.

As the sun set over Phuket’s pristine beaches, the EO Melbourne Nexus Chapter Retreat left an inspiring imprint on its participants. Armed with fresh perspectives and renewed motivation, they departed ready to lead with “Jai”—to build businesses rooted in authenticity, empathy, and purpose. The retreat proved that true leadership begins with the heart—and thanks to Cindy Sirinya Bishop, attendees now carry that invaluable lesson forward, ready to inspire change wherever they go.

NEXUS Chapter Retreat 2025: A Celebration of Connection, Learning, and Inspiration in Phuket

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.

Unleashing the New Paradigm: A Productive EO Melbourne Chapter Retreat in Bali

EO Melbourne recently hosted a transformative Chapter Retreat on the enchanting island of Bali. Over the course of four extraordinary days, 140 participants came together to embark on an unforgettable journey filled with knowledge, inspiration, and meaningful connections. Guided by the theme "Unleash The New Paradigm," the retreat featured a stellar lineup of 11 exceptional speakers and a meticulously designed agenda, resulting in a truly remarkable experience of personal and professional growth.

The retreat buzzed with energy as the speakers took the stage, delivering inspiring talks that left a lasting impact on the attendees. From industry leaders to accomplished entrepreneurs, each speaker brought their unique expertise and perspectives, igniting a spark of inspiration in the hearts and minds of all present. Participants were immersed in a wealth of knowledge, gaining practical strategies and innovative insights to elevate their businesses and personal lives.

The esteemed roster of speakers showcased a diverse range of expertise, including Rodney Cocks, Tully Walter, Nishant Arya, Michael Klim, Dr Wei Siang Yu, Dr Michelle Woolhouse, Janur Yasa, Walid Aboulnaga, Ben Johnston, Peter Scott, and Ray Chou. Their captivating talks covered a wide array of topics, such as emerging trends, well-being, artificial intelligence, and more. Attendees walked away with invaluable insights and actionable takeaways that could be readily applied to their future endeavours, both personally and professionally.

In addition to the engaging keynote speeches and thought-provoking panel discussions, the Chapter Retreat offered a diverse range of meaningful activities and discussions, ensuring participants made the most of their time in Bali. Optional group activities allowed attendees to customise their experiences, with options including Sundays Beach Club, Canang Making & Temple Tour, Farm to Kitchen Experience, Surf Lesson, Sound Healing, Thalassotherapy, and Swim with Klim. In addition, participants also had the opportunity to engage in various wellness activities, including Shamanic Breathwork and Ice Bath Therapy.

Beyond the educational aspects, the retreat provided ample opportunities for attendees to forge meaningful connections and build lasting relationships with fellow EO members. Through interactive learning sessions, wellness exercises, and social events, participants were able to share their experiences, exchange ideas, and cultivate valuable connections. The retreat epitomised the spirit of EO, nurturing a sense of camaraderie and support among all participants.

Taking advantage of Bali's natural beauty, the retreat seamlessly integrated activities that showcased the island's charm. Attendees had the privilege of immersing themselves in the vibrant local culture, exploring breathtaking landscapes, and experiencing rich traditions unique to Bali. Whether indulging in culinary delights, embracing local customs, or simply basking in the serenity of their surroundings, participants revelled in an immersive and unforgettable retreat.

The EO Melbourne Chapter Retreat in Bali truly served as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. With its impressive lineup of speakers, dynamic agenda, and activities that fostered meaningful connections, the retreat left an indelible impact on all who attended. Participants returned home equipped with fresh perspectives, inspired by newfound knowledge, and empowered by valuable connections. This retreat stands as a testament to the profound impact that collaboration, learning, and shared purpose can have on unleashing untapped potential. As EO Melbourne looks forward to future Chapter Retreats, the memories and lessons learned in Bali will continue to fuel the entrepreneurial journeys of its members, inspiring and empowering them to achieve even greater heights.

EO Melbourne Chapter Retreat agenda launched

EO Melbourne recently unveiled the Chapter Retreat Agenda to reveal the thrilling activities the committee has planned for its participants.

Members and guests have the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful Bali sunset with their EO community at the stunning Ayana Resort during the Welcome Reception. Following the reception, guests have the option to enjoy cocktails and engaging conversations at the Rock Bar.

Shamanic Breathwork with Walid Aboulnaga will offer a unique opportunity for self-discovery and healing. Participants will embark on a transformative journey of self-exploration, unleashing a new mission of personal growth.

The workshop will be enriched by keynote speaker Rodney Cocks, a veteran who saw action in Bali during the 2002 bombing. Rodney will share his inspiring story of transitioning from the military to business, leaving the audience in awe of his resilience.

The event will also feature a Fireside Chat with Nishant Arya, Vice Chairman of the esteemed JBM Group. The chat will delve into the future of electric vehicles and how they will shape our world.

Moreover, attendees can choose from an array of exciting activities to complete their day, including Sundays Beach Club, Canang Making & Temple Tour, Farm to Kitchen Experience, Sound Healing, or Thalassotherapy, ending on a high note with a delectable tapas dinner at Cuca Restaurant.

The third day will be set in the breathtaking Canna Bali Beach Club which will leave attendees feeling motivated and empowered. It will start with a Fireside Chat featuring Janur Yasa, the Balinese founder of Plastic Exchange and a Top 10 CNN Heroes of 2021 nominee. Next, attendees will hear an enriching talk by our Keynote Speaker, Dr Michelle Woolhouse, the founding medical director of Vively.com.au, an innovative online platform.

Afternoon activities will include a unique ice bath therapy experience, followed by plenty of time to soak in the serene atmosphere and amenities of the beach club. To cap off the day, attendees will be treated to a sophisticated evening soiree, as the Chapter Retreat comes to a close.

Finally, the final day will be dedicated to exploring the realm of AI, with Keynote Speakers Ben Johnston, Peter Scott, and Ray Chou sharing their expertise.

More about the upcoming Chapter Retreat at https://www.unleash2023.com.au/.