Cindy Koehler – Mind Garage – BNI Evolve

For Cindy, the Global Convention delivered value on multiple fronts – deepening relationships with existing members across Australia, connecting with more than 40 new businesses, and drawing inspiration from world-class speakers.

“I would recommend Global Convention without hesitation.”

The impact extended well beyond the event itself. As a direct result of attending, Cindy closed more than $42,000 in contract work, along with 12 additional enquiries for future projects — a clear example of the tangible return on investment that global networking can deliver.

Ben Ragless – Ad On Workforce – BNI Evolve

Ben described the convention as an eye-opening experience, highlighting the opportunity to see the true scale of BNI worldwide and the passion of its leadership to continually improve member experience and ROI.

One standout moment was participating in the Guinness World Record speed networking event, where Ben was paired with Mary Kennedy Thompson, CEO of BNI Global. That brief initial conversation led to a dedicated one-to-one meeting, sparking fresh ideas and practical strategies for maximising his BNI membership.

Adam Gardnir, Executive Adelaide – BNI Advantage

For Adam, the Global Convention delivered value at every level — from international relationship-building to a deeper understanding of the discipline of effective networking.

He particularly enjoyed the opening ceremony and international flag parade, the record-breaking networking event, and hearing directly from BNI’s global leadership about the future vision for the organisation.

In smaller breakout sessions, Adam valued the opportunity to hear from BNI founder Dr Ivan Misner, along with a range of international speakers, business coaches, and even local representation from South Australia. Beyond the formal program, Adam also visited one of Sydney’s leading BNI chapters, gaining practical insights and forming connections that have continued well beyond the event.

“BNI remains a central tenant of my business, and the 2025 Global Conference in Sydney most definitely expanded my understanding of and connection with this extraordinary community.”

Simon Derrick-Roberts, Executive Director – BNI Adelaide CBD & South

For SDR, one of the most valuable aspects of national and global conventions has consistently been the conversations that happen beyond the main stage — during networking breaks, informal discussions, and shared meals. While keynote speakers provide inspiration, it is often peer-to-peer exchange that delivers the most practical and enduring insights.

Two key concepts stood out from this year’s convention and are already shaping plans for 2026.

The first came from Alan Stein Jr., mindset coach to the late NBA legend Kobe Bryant. His principle of “Next Play” reinforces the importance of not dwelling on past mistakes or missed opportunities. Instead, the focus should shift immediately to what can be improved and executed differently moving forward. In business, as in sport, energy is best invested in the next opportunity — not the last one.

The second insight was shared by BNI’s CEO, Mary Kennedy Thompson, who distinguished BNI not simply as a membership organisation, but as a leadership organisation. Whether business owners (entrepreneurs) or employees (intrapreneurs), members are leaders in various aspects of their lives — within their businesses, professional networks, volunteer roles, or families. BNI provides a platform where leadership capability can be continually developed and strengthened.

Together, these lessons reinforced a powerful theme of the convention: growth is intentional, leadership is shared, and progress depends on what we choose to do next.