Overview

The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 was one of history’s most powerful symbols of transformation—an overnight shift from division and fear to unity and possibility. For today’s leaders, Berlin provides a living classroom for exploring how to lead through disruption, uncertainty, transition, and rapid change.

In this Executive GlobeTREK Summit Sabbatical Experience, executives will draw lessons from Berlin’s iconic sites where history teaches us what it means to lead in times of profound change.

Why Berlin?

Berlin is more than a city; it is a symbol of resilience and reinvention. The remnants of the Wall, the art of the East Side Gallery, and the reclaimed spaces of Brandenburg Gate and Alexanderplatz all illustrate the tension between division and unity, fear and courage, collapse and renewal.

For leaders navigating today’s rapidly changing world, Berlin offers unparalleled insight into how symbols, stories, and grassroots action can dismantle barriers, rebuild trust, and shape new futures.

What You’ll Experience

As we walk the paths where walls once stood, executives will explore the timeless lessons of leadership that emerge when systems collapse, trust is tested, and cultures shift. Through guided reflection and deep dialogue, leaders will:

Discover Berlin’s lessons in resilience by using historic sites as catalysts for leadership reflection.
Engage in leadership dialogues that connect Berlin’s history to the challenges of organizational change.
Harness the power of narrative and symbols to shape culture, inspire teams, and drive transformation.
Break down hidden barriers by learning to recognize and dismantle the “walls” within their own organizations.
Strengthen adaptive leadership by knowing when to lead from the front, when to amplify others, and when to step aside.

Objectives

By the end of this journey, participants will:

• Engage in a deeper understanding of when to step forward, when to empower others, and when to step aside for transformation to take root. 

• Strengthen leadership qualities needed to lead through periods of transition and disruption.

• Learn how to rebuild trust and credibility after times of fear or mistrust.

• Develop the capacity to use narrative and symbols to unify divided teams.

• Gain insight into sustaining transformation through governance and long-term vision.

Berlin is more than a destination—it is a mirror for leaders navigating today’s shifting landscapes. Join us on this experience to reflect, recharge, and reimagine your leadership journey in the very city that embodies transition and renewal. 

Will you lead through change—or be led by it?