Here’s Exactly What We’ll Cover in the Masterclass:

• The #1 mistake most facilitators make when planning retreats (and how to avoid it)

• The difference between a “nice experience” and a life-changing one

• The core principles of transformational design—ancient and modern

• How to weave structure and flow so your retreat feels both solid and magical

• The 3 pillars you need to turn any retreat into a rite of passage

• Practical tools to help you design with confidence (even if it’s your first time)

• Powerful insights to amplify your unique gifts as a facilitator

(That’s a lot in one hour—wish me luck!)

✨ BONUS: After the session, I’ll send you a free PDF with the Retreat Design Checklist—so you can start planning with clarity and confidence right away.

✨ Replay included: If you can’t make it live, I’ll send you the recording.

Introducing your guide

Nele Vandersmissen

Founder of Wondr and Training Facilitator

I’m the founder of Wondr, where we reimagine how we gather, build meaningful community, and navigate collective uncertainty. At the centre of my work is Circle practice—a methodology I’ve devoted more than 10,000 hours to mastering because it has transformed my life so profoundly.

Over the past decade, I’ve facilitated more than 1,500 Circles across the world—from boardrooms in Singapore to deserts in the Middle East, from forests in Europe to corporate headquarters in the US and Australia. For four years, I worked with Snapchat, scaling their Council (Circle) practice, and I’ve designed and led gatherings for groups ranging from three to 250 people.

In the past three years alone, I’ve trained more than 500 facilitators in Circle Practices and Rites of Passage frameworks. Nothing brings me more joy than seeing them carry this work into their own communities, creating ripples of connection and transformation.

What makes my approach unique is the ability to bridge ancient frameworks and modern contexts—bringing the depth of ritual, story, and human connection into spaces as diverse as global retreats, corporate cultures, and community gatherings.

My facilitation style is grounded and authentic, often sprinkled with humour, and always rooted in a deep respect for the unique genius each person brings. My mission is simple: to create spaces where people can truly show up as themselves—and become more of themselves.