The Natural Network at Patch - May

Cultivating Business and Community Together.

This is our monthly gathering as a collaboration between The Natural Network and Patch. 

We're passionate about bringing people together to explore how we work, lead and do business in more sustainable, human and natural ways.

It’s part of a growing series of in-person gatherings rooted in the belief that we work better when we spend time together, in real life.

Why this gathering exists

Many of us are feeling the strain of ways of working that no longer serve us - pressure, burnout, uncertainty and a sense that “business as usual” isn’t fit for the future.

We've disconnected from the natural rhythms of nature. And this event is an invitation to remember how much more effective we can be when we step back in to a rhythm that is grounded, not rushed.

This is a space to slow down, reflect and make sense of what’s changing by balancing sustainability, business culture, leadership and community with a grounded, compassionate and practical approach.

What to expect

This is more than an open chat. Each gathering is carefully curated and facilitated exploring themes, sense-making and understanding how we navigate these complex times with compassion, curiosity and impact.

Our monthly events are based around the idea of: 

• Welcome - Overview of our monthly theme from Nick
• Slowing down - Gentle grounding exercise with Karley 
• Guest speaker - This month we welcome Dr Sukanya Ayatakshi-Endow is the Principal Academic in Entrepreneurship at Bournemouth University. Sukanya is passionate about the power of enterprise in bringing about social change and works closely with various local organisations in developing values-driven and purpose-led enterprises.
• Chilled connecting - Networking. Naturally. These aren't forced conversations, they're humans getting together to talk about their life, work and everything in between.

Who it’s for

This space is intentionally inclusive. You don't need any specific knowledge, we meet with curiosity and reciprocity of ideas and experience. So, generally, it’s for:

• People with an interest in sustainability or purposeful business
• Founders and business owners
• Those exploring career change or a new way of working
• Community leaders
• Curious citizens 

Your hosts

Nick Whitnell - transformational coach, facilitator and sustainability guide, working at the intersection of inner work and outer impact.
Karley Woodford - Patch Site Director and Yoga Instructor (Simha Yoga) passionate about community, wellbeing and connection.

Practical details

• Location: Patch, Bournemouth
• Date: Thursday 28th May 10am-12pm
• Ticket: £10 - locally made plant-based pastry & drinks included. 

We're committed to building longer tables, not higher walls. So if cost is a barrier, we have a limited number of free tickets - no explanation needed. There’s also the option to add a donation if you’re in a position to support access to others.

In business terms, this is a time to:

• Reconnect with values and direction
• Notice what wants to emerge next
• Explore ideas without forcing outcomes
• Lay healthy foundations before accelerating

If that resonates, we’d love you to join us to pause, connect and explore what might emerge next.