Dear colleagues, dear friends,
These days in Japan have been intense, vibrant and deeply inspiring.
We have discussed, learned and laughed. We have stood together in the crowds before the golden pagoda, and we have shared quiet moments of reflection. Perhaps that is the most beautiful image of this Convention. We were on a journey together.
In Zen there is a simple thought: the path is created by walking it.
Over these days, we have walked this path side by side, with curiosity, professionalism and generous hearts. Now each of us continues the journey home, back to our cities, our groups and our daily guiding lives. But none of us leaves alone. We carry encounters with us. Friendships. New ideas. And the reassuring feeling of belonging to a truly global community.
From Japan, our road now leads to Peru. The Inca called their great network of roads the Qhapaq Ñan, a system that connected people, cultures and landscapes across an entire continent. Perhaps that is our symbol as well. We are part of a great network of guides across the world, connected through professionalism, respect and the shared joy of bringing stories to life. In the Andes there is also the word Ayni. It means reciprocity. I support you, and you support me. That spirit has been present here.
Before we close, a few practical notes for your onward journey.
As of today, support for the Convention App will come to an end. We will also discontinue active support within the WhatsApp group. The group itself will remain open for your exchange and networking, but it will no longer be actively monitored by us.
We are currently preparing an updated internal area for participants. This will include the participant list, the session recordings, all relevant documents shared by speakers and trainers and the shared photographs. We expect this area to be available next week and will inform.
Let us return home with gratitude for Japan, with anticipation for Peru and with confidence in the road ahead.
The journey continues, and we walk it together. I look forward to seeing you all again in Peru.
Thank you very much, and safe travels home.
Sebastian Frankenberger
President of WFTGA