Table of Contents
- Day 1: The Journey and a Warm Welcome
- Day 2: A Well-Deserved Rest
- Day 3: Farm Tour and a Night of Fun
- Day 4: End-of-Year Meeting and Relaxation at Ojaja Resort
- Day 5: Shopping, Waterfall Adventure, and the All-White Party
- Day 6: Departure and Final Reflections
- Our team’s feedback
- Final Thoughts
As the year 2024 came to a close, HTSF Global gathered her team for an unforgettable end-of-year retreat in Osun State, where her head office is situated.
The retreat, which ran from December 15th to December 20th, brought together staff from Abuja and Osun, providing a perfect blend of relaxation, reflection, and celebration.
Day 1: The Journey and a Warm Welcome
On December 15th, our Abuja team embarked on the journey to Osun State. After hours on the road, we finally arrived in the evening, welcomed by the cool Osun breeze. Our CEO, ever the gracious host, ensured we settled in comfortably, setting the tone for an exciting retreat.
The night kicked off with a heartwarming welcome dinner, filled with delicious meals, laughter, and camaraderie. Being in his hometown, the CEO was in his most relaxed and friendly element, engaging warmly with everyone. It was a fantastic start, setting a positive and welcoming atmosphere for what was to come.
Day 2: A Well-Deserved Rest
After the long journey, the second day was dedicated to rest and unwinding. The morning began with a sumptuous breakfast, followed by a day of leisure. Some of us caught up on movies, thanks to Netflix, while others simply enjoyed the serenity of the environment.
One common sentiment among staff was the chilly Osun weather a refreshing change from Abuja’s climate. And if there was one thing in abundance, it was food! There was plenty to eat and drink throughout the day, ensuring everyone remained energized and satisfied.
Day 3: Farm Tour and a Night of Fun
The third day started with a hearty breakfast, yam and egg for some, tea and bread for others. Then, we set out for a farm tour to explore our poultry farm. It was an insightful visit, especially for the Abuja-based staff who got to see firsthand the scale of our agricultural operations.
Next, we visited Bricks Farm, which is currently under construction. The vision behind this project is ambitious, and seeing it take shape left everyone excited about its future potential.
After returning from the farm visits, we were treated to a traditional Yoruba delicacy for lunch amala and ewedu which many described as “heavenly.”
The evening was nothing short of spectacular. A mini party was organized with drinks, grilled chicken, palm wine, and an assortment of food. We danced, played some cultural games, and bonded in ways that made the team feel more like family than colleagues.
Day 4: End-of-Year Meeting and Relaxation at Ojaja Resort
December 18th began with a significant event, the HTSF Global End-of-Year Team Meeting. The session, which was both reflective and forward-looking, included presentations of the 2024 General Annual Report by Blessing and Victoria. Key highlights included:
- The growth and impact of all HTSF Global divisions, including HTSFarms, HTS Plus, and HTS Logistics.
- Plans for 2025, particularly in training and farmer engagement strategies.
- The introduction of a new policy requiring departments to present their individual annual reports for better accountability.
Following the townhall meeting, the team headed to Ojaja Resort for a well-deserved relaxation session. The evening featured karaoke, games, and bonding activities that strengthened the team spirit even further.
Day 5: Shopping, Waterfall Adventure, and the All-White Party
The excitement continued on December 19th, starting with a shopping spree! In a generous move, the CEO allowed everyone to pick whatever they desired at the supermarket with no limits! This act of kindness left a lasting impression.
Next came the Erin Ijesha waterfall experience, a breathtaking adventure described by staff as refreshing, then a ride to the famous OAU university, rounding off with a sumptuous meal of Ewa Agoyin. Of course, we couldn’t visit the West without savouring their indigenous delicacies.
The final night of the retreat was marked by an all-white party and bonfire night. The setting was nothing short of magical, with great music, games, an abundance of food and drinks, and endless dancing.
Day 6: Departure and Final Reflections
On December 20th, we bid farewell to Osun State and embarked on our journey back home. The retreat had been more than just a getaway; it was a period of bonding, reflection, and celebration of our collective achievements.
Here our staffs feedbacks
Blessing Egbe, Research and Grants Intern
The retreat was such a beautiful and fun experience! It was my first time in Osun State, and I honestly won’t forget it anytime soon. Finally meeting in person the people I had been working with online made everything feel more real. The team bonding, the games, and just the general vibe made it all worth it.
The food? Amazing! The hospitality? Top-notch! But what surprised me the most was our CEO, I always thought he was a very serious and distant person, but seeing his friendly side firsthand changed my perspective completely. The farm visit was great, and the brick factory visit made me appreciate what a visionary leader we have.
And let’s not forget the waterfall visit! That was a whole experience on its own, so much fun! Overall, the retreat was everything and more. I absolutely loved it!
OGUNWALE FEMI, POULTRY FARM PRODUCTION MANAGER
It was a great adventure and fun filled experience of a lifetime. The visit to Ojaja Resorts was an exciting experience. From day 1 till the last day, was a learning and multitude of love among the teams both Abuja and Osun state.
More so, it also showcases how the CEO of HTSF Global Limited loves and cares for his workers, a selfless and a great leader.
Jonah Juliet Ochanya, Data Entry Team Lead
The Retreat was indeed a fun and delightful one for me. From the trip to Osun state to our departure was lovely and not one to forget in a hurry. One thing I loved most about the retreat is that it gave me the opportunity to get to know my colleagues outside of the office area and I got to understand them even more.
My highlight of the retreat was our trip to the Ijesha Waterfall. WOW! I have never been to anything like that before and going into the water and playing just activated my inner child and I loved every bit of it. It also showed us how beautiful and unique God’s creation can be. It was really a sight to behold indeed.
I also appreciated how much our MD/CEO made our stay in Osun very relaxing and enjoyable for us. I fed my fill each day! At one point, I started running away from food! hahahaha….I had a wonderful time and I look forward to another one!
Ola Victoria Onyelu, Research and Grant Intern
The experience was truly wonderful. I had a great experience bonding team members, more knowledge about the company’s vision, and its mission. Visiting the Bricks Farm was a highlight, and more insight of the company’s future plans for the year 2025.
We also took a moment to reflect on the accomplishments of 2024 through the presentation of the year in review for 2024. Additionally, I enjoyed participating in recreational activities, such as visiting the Ijesha waterfall and the evening fun games.
The exceptional hospitality, care and adequate feeding and Christmas chicken package.
Odeyemi Abimbola, Secretary/sales representative
The retreat was amazing! One of the highlights for me was the trip to Erin Ijesha Waterfall and the team bonding dinner we had every night. The trip was incredible and the dinner was amazing.
I was so proud of myself for winning one of the games we played after dinner. It was so great to meet with my colleagues and form a meaningful connection with them. I hope we do this again.
Ifunanya Ifebi, Sales Manager
Our end-of-year company trip was an incredibly fun memory that I’ll always remember. Visiting our poultry farm in Ile Ife for the first time was such a great experience, especially since I had only heard stories about it since starting with the company.
I was impressed by our MD’s vision for expanding the company, and seeing the new site that will house both our crop farm and large-capacity poultry farm was truly exciting.
We also explored some fascinating places in Osun state, including the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University and the breathtaking Olumirin Waterfall. And the food? Let me not even start, I ate till I was tired, it was that good
Overall, the experience was fantastic, and I’m so grateful to our MD for giving us this opportunity. Remembering these memories makes me wish I could go back again! Lol
Mary Innocent, Customer Representative
The highlight for me was the Ijesha waterfall. It was my first experience and truly a memorable one. I enjoyed every bit of it.
Also I loved the team bonding moments. I got to know and understand some of my colleagues better.
The hospitality from MD was a beautiful and unforgettable experience especially the food. God bless our MD.
Jaleena Ngozi Jarrell, Sales and Human Resources Officer
It was my first time in Osun State, and it turned out to be the best experience ever. I met and bonded with other team members, creating unforgettable memories.
My favorite part of the retreat was visiting the Bricks Farm and the water fall as well. The entire experience was truly amazing, exciting, and one to remember forever.
Olatunji Afolabi Samuel, Agronomist
The retreat brought everyone together to celebrate company achievements, acknowledge employees’ dedication, boost morale, and reinforce loyalty.
Olije Nsisong Raphael, Finance Lead
It was fun, fun, fun. I had a swell time, in fact I didn’t want it to end. It was nice meeting my other colleague from the head office for the very first time.. Amazing people, yeah.
The road trip to Erin Ijesha waterfall was fun, getting to see nature and enjoy nature too.
The food, how can I forget that, there was a lot to eat and drink.
Abayomi Hakeem Oluwo, Project Manager
It was a great experience for me having had the opportunity to meet with a few staff members from the Abuja office, having had the opportunity to visit the erin Ijesa waterfall again for the second time.
It was a great time with lots and lots of fun, music, games, and the presentation.
ALIYU, Ibrahim Hussein, Data Entry
My first trip to Osun State for the first time was an unforgettable blend of adventure, camaraderie, and inspiration. It began with a lively road trip from Abuja, filled with laughter and a thrilling night drive. Upon arrival, we were welcomed with warmth and hospitality that made us feel instantly at home.
The highlight of the trip was exploring the stunning Olumirin Waterfalls Erin-Ijesha, the cascading waters, lush surroundings where the beauty of nature left us in awe, down to the great University of Ile-Ife. Osun’s culinary delights, from plantain flour which was used to make a special kind of Amala with a mix of traditional Ewedu ati Gbegiri soup which left us wanting for more, added a flavorful touch to our experience, especially during memorable dinners where There was an endless variety of chicken to savor, prepared in every imaginable way that was Succulently cooked and smoky flavorful roasted delights shared with colleagues and the boss.
One morning stood out as the boss shared his inspiring journey from idea to reality (in process), fueling our motivation for the future. Visiting The Bricks Farm was a revelation, discussing the potential of precision farming and innovative agriculture through advanced technologies and infrastructure to be built soon. Evenings around the burn fire were moments of celebration, reflection, and unity, reminding us of our collective successes.
The trip concluded with a joyful journey back, filled with laughter, gratitude, and cherished memories. This experience was more than just a getaway; it was a testament to teamwork, innovation, and the power of shared dreams.
This trip was more than just an adventure; it was a reminder of our shared purpose, the joy of connection, and the exciting future ahead. I’ll carry these memories with me, looking forward to the next chapter of our journey together.
Joy Okeke Ify, Business Development Officer
My retreat experience was nothing short of amazing! One of my favourite moments was our trip to the waterfall. The journey there was an adventure on its own, filled with excitement and anticipation. Finally stepping into the waterfall felt so refreshing and surreal, like a scene from a movie.
I also truly enjoyed the variety of delicious food we had throughout the retreat, but the highlight for me was the Amala and Ewedu; it was simply mouth-watering. Beyond that, the entire atmosphere, the laughter, the bonding moments, and the sense of togetherness made the experience even more special. It’s a trip I’ll always cherish.
May Audu, Director of Operations
It was truly an invigorating experience. A trip of many firsts – our first company retreat together, first time in Osun state, first time meeting some colleagues physically, first time visiting our poultry farm, first time seeing the prestigious OAU and first time seeing the extraordinary vision that is Bricks Farms. Following an intensive year of operations, this opportunity to unwind, recharge, and align the company’s vision for 2025 was exactly what we needed.
The team bond was noticeably evident and the carefully structured activities also helped to enhance our collaborative spirit. A major highlight for me was the excursion to Erin Ijesha waterfall – that particular experience was refreshing. Overall, I believe the retreat further positioned us better as a team and as a company.
Final Thoughts
The HTSF Global 2024 End-of-Year Retreat was a testament to the company’s commitment to not only excellence in work but also in team building and employee welfare.
From farm tours to fun nights, from strategic meetings to waterfall adventures, the retreat provided a balance of professional reflection and personal enjoyment. It was a reminder that HTSF Global is not just a workplace but a family.
We look forward to an even greater 2025!