A GBAN community spotlight
Twenty entrepreneurs, philanthropists, investors, and global leaders recently came together in the country of Georgia for an experience unlike a typical business retreat, one that wove leadership development, cultural immersion, wellness, and deep human connection into a single five-day journey.
The retreat, called the VINCi Journey Mastermind, was founded and curated by Israel Pons, who represents Latin America on GEN's Global Business Angels Network (GBAN) board. Held May 9–14, the inaugural gathering brought in a delegation from the Optimum Elite Club, with leaders traveling from the United States, Mexico, Brazil, India, Thailand, the UK, and several European countries, among others, to take part.
A philosophy built on four pillars
At the center of the experience was what organizers called the "VINCi mindset" — a framework built around imagination, purpose, legacy, and execution. Every session and activity throughout the week was designed around those four ideas, encouraging participants to think differently about how they lead, build, and leave their mark.
Much of the programming focused on presence and authentic communication — including a session on how to pitch ideas and visions to funders in a way that feels genuine rather than rehearsed, and how to evaluate whether a meeting or relationship is truly worth the investment of time.
Connection beyond the conference room
Some of the most memorable moments happened away from formal sessions. Mornings began with yoga overlooking the vineyards; the days also included hiking, spa time, and group reflection — all meant to help participants connect as people first, before connecting as business leaders.
One standout ritual was a cold plunge challenge, where each participant reflected on a personal commitment to carry forward after the retreat ended, using the discomfort of the moment as a symbol of the discipline that real follow-through requires.
The group also explored Georgia's rich heritage directly — touring Tbilisi's historic sites, visiting wine museums, and learning the country's centuries-old qvevri winemaking tradition at Schuchmann Wines Château, where wine ages underground in clay vessels for months or years before bottling. A hands-on bread-making session, where participants learned to prepare the traditional Shotis Puri, added another layer of cultural connection to the week.
Why it matters for our network
Stories like this one are exactly why GBAN's global board matters: leaders across our network aren't just building investment ecosystems — they're creating entirely new models for how leaders connect, grow, and support one another across borders. Congratulations to Israel on a successful first VINCi Journey, and we look forward to seeing where this new platform goes next.
Read the full original feature from The Los Angeles Tribune: Inside the First VINCI Journey Georgia Mastermind
