As we stand at the start of 2023, it is impossible to ignore the challenges we faced in 2022. From the devastating aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the energy crisis, it is clear that these are uncertain and trying times. And in our home city of Amsterdam, we have witnessed firsthand the impact of these challenges as one in every thirteen children grows up in poverty.

But as leaders, it is our responsibility to remain positive and to work together to create a better and more regenerative system for the world. This is no easy task, and it is all too tempting to lose hope in facing such challenges. Yet we must remain resilient and determined if we are to overcome these obstacles.

At BR-ND People, we have been fortunate to have a dedicated and hardworking team, including Daniel Kilian Cohen Stuart, Ivo Grupping, Elles Koch, Kim Cramer, Michael Cortino, Kiki Hartmann, Viola Hintsala, Frederik Melchior, and Alice Muurlink. Their sharp creative minds have been an invaluable asset to our company. We have also received tremendous support and trust from valued clients such as Abum, Alfa Accountants, Alpokron, Dierenbescherming, Dröge & van Drimmelen, DR2 Consultants, Kalkman, Kinderpostzegels, NRG, Positron, Powered by Meaning, Thorizon, Quinso, and Vintura. We are grateful for the opportunity to work with such inspiring clients and positively impact the world.

But it is not just our clients who have provided us with motivation and inspiration; we have also had the privilege of collaborating with our friends at Misteli, Blyde, Rainbow Collection, and B Lab Amsterdam on a joint initiative to promote justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion through serious gaming. This vital work will continue in 2023, raising awareness of JEDI issues in the business world.

In 2022, we saw the sustainability movement continue to grow, with more and more companies and organizations joining the cause. There are now over 200 B Corps in the Netherlands, with around 1,000 in Europe and 6,000 worldwide. The European Green Deal and Fit for 55 initiatives will be crucial in encouraging companies to be more socially and environmentally responsible.

It is not just about individual companies making a difference; we must also collaborate to tackle the world's challenges in radical collaboration. By coming together, rather than competing against each other, we can create a regenerative economy that benefits both the planet and its people.

At BR-ND People, we are committed to continuing our work in 2023 to accelerate the impact of our clients by aligning transformative strategies with a positive culture and appealing branding. Our sustainability practice will receive extra focus as we work as B Corp Way consultants, further developing and innovating with positive impact roadmaps, impact policies, procedures, and reporting. We also plan to set up and organize more radical collaborations with like-minded companies in Amsterdam and possibly abroad to serve more international and corporate clients.

On a personal note, I want to apologize for my impatience and stubborn behaviour in the past. I will do my best to be more patient and less conflict-seeking in 2023.

Here's to making even more impact in 2023 and beyond.

Amsterdam, January 3, 2023

Alexander Koene