Preferred by Nature General Assembly 2026 brings global members together in Bangkok
Today, 26 April 2026, more than 300 Preferred by Nature members gathered in Bangkok, Thailand, for our annual General Assembly, marking the first time in recent years that the event was held fully in person.
The gathering brought together members from across regions and disciplines, creating a rare opportunity for face-to-face dialogue, collaboration and shared decision-making. The strong turnout reflected the organisation’s global nature and the importance of member engagement in shaping its future.
A democratic organisation in action
At the heart of the General Assembly is a simple but powerful principle: Preferred by Nature is a member-based organisation where members have a voice in key decisions.
“Regardless of how much we grow, we must always remember that we are a democratic organisation, owned and shaped by its members. Bringing more than 300 colleagues together in Bangkok was a powerful reminder of that foundation, and of the shared responsibility we all carry in shaping the organisation’s future.” Saúl Blanco Sosa, Preferred by Nature’s staff elected Board Member and Chair of the General Assembly, noted as he opened the session.
Staff are actively involved in this process and participate as members with voting rights on important organisational matters. During the General Assembly, members exercise these rights, ensuring that decisions reflect shared priorities and perspectives from across the organisation.
This democratic structure reinforces transparency, accountability and shared ownership – values that are central to Preferred by Nature’s identity.
“In this organisation, we can easily come up with ideas and propose improvements, especially during the General Assembly,” said Rafał Sawicki, Supply Chain Manager at Preferred by Nature. “Even if the changes are tough at first, they take our organisation to the next level.”
Kiswara Santi Prihandini, our Senior Program Manager, added, “I love being part of this organisation because every individual can make change, especially bringing a real future to the people.”
“If there is one takeaway, it is that our strength as a democratic organisation lies in how we listen and respond to our members. The feedback shared, including more critical perspectives, is not something we take lightly, but something we must build on to continue strengthening the organisation over time,” Saúl remarked.
Strengthening connections through in-person engagement
Holding the General Assembly in person created space for meaningful conversations that are difficult to replicate online. As an organisation that values openness and inclusion, the session encouraged participants to share perspectives, raise questions, and contribute to the direction ahead.
The discussion also welcomed critical reflection regarding how discussions are shaped and how decisions are made. By addressing complex topics, including concerns around inclusivity and the election process, the assembly reinforced a culture where continuous improvement and transparency are part of the process.
This honest engagement reinforces the accountability and shared ownership that are central to Preferred by Nature’s identity, strengthening relationships that underpin the organisation’s collaborative culture.
