When I recently travelled from South Africa to Glasgow to attend the Africa Scotland Business Network (ASBN) Member Gathering, I didn’t just cross continents, I travelled with purpose, curiosity, and a vision for InovaArch’s future. What followed was far more than business networking; it was an experience that inspired deeper reflection on how we serve our clients, the strength of global partnerships, and the beauty of new landscapes that spark creative thought.
The Voyage & Encounters
The journey began in South Africa, the long flight, the first breath of crisp Scottish air, and then a scenic train ride north. Along the way, I met inspiring business leaders from diverse sectors, each sharing stories of growth, resilience, and innovation. Conversations flowed easily, about trade, sustainability, and the evolving face of cross-border collaboration.
And in true local spirit, I couldn’t resist the simple pleasure of traditional fish and chips, perfectly golden and best enjoyed after a day of travel. To complete the experience, and with absolutely no regrets, I added a slice of chocolate cake and a cup of freshly brewed Scottish tea. After all, some business trips just happen to involve dessert! It was a moment that perfectly blended culture, comfort, and a touch of humour, a small but memorable pause in an otherwise full and purpose-driven journey.
Glasgow’s train stations themselves were part of the experience, timeless architecture, the interplay of old and new, and a rhythm that reflects both history and progress. Gazing out at the rolling hills and lively platforms, I reflected on how our surroundings shape our mindset and how InovaArch can continue to design forward-thinking, human-centred solutions for clients by viewing the world through a broader lens.
The ASBN Gathering: A Celebration of Purpose & Partnership
The ASBN Member Gathering, held on 25 September 2025 in Glasgow & Strathclyde, in partnership with Barclays International Banking, was a powerful reminder of how purposeful networks can uplift entire industries.
It was an honour to engage not only with the ASBN Board Members but also with the wider ASBN member community, whose openness, professionalism, and commitment to collaboration make this network truly exceptional.
Through engaging discussions, business leaders, both established and emerging, explored transformation, governance, and global growth. These conversations reinforced how shared experience fuels innovation and how InovaArch can draw from this collective energy to strengthen the value we bring to every client relationship.
Beyond the formal sessions, it was the genuine conversations and sense of shared purpose that stood out most. The warmth of the Scottish welcome, paired with the energy of the ASBN community, made this gathering not only insightful but deeply memorable.
Reflections for InovaArch
Client solutions shaped by global perspective
The journey reaffirmed that innovation thrives when we look beyond the familiar. Just as the Scottish landscape offered new perspectives, broadening our frame of reference allows us to design adaptable, future-fit solutions for clients across borders.
Strength in community and collaboration
The ASBN community’s greatest strength lies in its members’ willingness to collaborate and share ideas. This spirit mirrors InovaArch’s commitment to building trusted partnerships that deliver meaningful outcomes for our clients and communities.
Inspiration through experience
Sometimes, it’s the quiet moments, a train window view, the hum of a station, or even a cup of tea and cake shared in good humour, that ignite the brightest ideas. This journey reminded me that creativity often begins with observation, openness, and a genuine curiosity about the world around us.
A Note of Thanks
A heartfelt thank you to the Africa Scotland Business Network for hosting an exceptional gathering and for fostering a spirit of collaboration that bridges continents. Special appreciation goes to the ASBN Board Members, Claire Alexander and Laura Ferguson, for their continued leadership and support, and to the wider ASBN member community for the warmth and insight shared throughout the event.
Sincere thanks also to Barclays International Banking for your valued partnership and for championing meaningful global connections.
At InovaArch, we return inspired, ready to continue building smarter, more sustainable solutions for our clients and to keep learning from the global community around us.
This was more than a trip; it was a journey of growth, perspective, and purpose, one that continues to shape how we think, build, and collaborate.
— Cathleen Gultig
