“I had come up with a whole script prescribing what this narrative would be…”
– Inder Nirwan, Kahani Pictures owner & filmmaker
When he signed up to capture his experience as a first-time attender of Social Venture Institute (SVI) 2024, Inder had no idea what was in store for him.
Hosted annually on Cortes Island, SVI is not your typical business conference. “SVI is a retreat-style conference that is very carefully curated to allow social purpose entrepreneurs and leaders experience a journey,” says Suzanne Siemens, a social entrepreneur, consultant, and veteran attendee who joined the event producer team for the first time this year.
Over five days, participants shared a transformative experience – learning, playing, resting, and connecting on the land. The vibe? Less networking event, more chosen family reunion for those doing the often-exhausting, world-building work to lead impactful, sustainable organizations at the twilight of late-stage Capitalism.
“SVI offers a chance to do a deep dive into maximizing your business’s purpose and profit while surrounded by incredible entrepreneurs who are full of heart and clear thought,” reflected Vancouver architect Bruce Hayden.
This year’s SVI included “true confessions” from Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) Chairperson Khelsilem and TomboyX cofounders Fran Dunaway and Naomi Gonzalez, plus case studies and workshops with leaders like Software for Good CEO Sharon Kennedy Vickers, ZEGO Foods CEO Colleen Kavanagh, and somatic abolitionist Resmaa Menakem – among other paradigm-shifting impact leaders bringing healing to their communities in diverse ways.
“I come to SVI for a renewed sense of possibility,” says Janelle Hardy, writer, artist, bodyworker and founder of The Art of Personal
Mythmaking. “I’m deeply moved by everyone and the world-changing work they’re doing. This is why I keep returning.”
Relationships developed at SVI can last a lifetime. Business partners, clients, board members, and friends form a lifelong community of 3,000+ SVI alumni who champion and support one another year-round.
“The international presence expands your network and opens doors to new opportunities,” reflected Paola Murillo, Latincouver Founder & Executive Director. “At the same time, you reconnect with yourself, nature, and marginalized communities. It’s been one of the best business experiences of my life.”
Capturing moments of laughter, vulnerability, and insight as he filmed the conference, Inder leaned into the experience, shifting his role from observer to participant.
“I came to film it,” he says, “but ended up being transformed by it.”
“How do we take this experience back with us?” Inder asks Njoki Mbũrũ, a facilitator, consultant and storyteller working in public health, philanthropy and public policy. Her response: “Somatically, in my body.”
After 39 years, SVI continues to be a vital part of Hollyhock’s theory of change, nurturing the inner lives of leaders and connecting them into community as they co-create a more just, joyful, and regenerative world.
“If you are looking for an immersive, career-shifting, life-changing experience, look no further. SVI will exceed your expectations,” says Caela Berry, Head of Operations & Development for Reclaim Community CDO.
“Your work and your community will thank you.”
Film produced by Inder Nirwan (Kahani Pictures) following his SVI 2024 experience.
Click Here to watch Inder’s short film about his first experience in your web browser.
