Why I Love Agile Coach Camps: A Deep Dive into Community and Connection

There’s something uniquely magical about Agile Coach Camps. Maybe it’s the open-space format, where the agenda is driven by passion, curiosity, and real-life experiences. Or perhaps it’s how seasoned Agile practitioners come together to talk and truly listen, learn, and evolve.

One memory that stands out is from a small Agile Coach Camp in Norway, where just 12 people focused on learning more about ourselves and our work. We spent hours in deep discussions, but it wasn’t just the conversations that left an impact—the connections we made. Late into the evening, we sat together, enjoying a beer, and something shifted. We weren’t just professionals anymore; we were a community bound by a shared purpose and the space to be ourselves. The cold outside contrasted with the warmth we created, solidifying bonds I still cherish today.

Another highlight for me was in the UK, where cheese and port have become the unofficial symbols of connection. After long days of diving into complex topics, we’d gather, enjoying rich conversations over a glass of port and bites of cheese, celebrating the shared experience of learning and growing together.

There was also “Sign”, a game we played for two hours in complete silence. Where else can you connect so deeply with others without saying a word? It was a surreal experience, stripping away the need for verbal communication and relying purely on trust and understanding. By the end, it felt like we had communicated on a level beyond words, something that has stayed with me ever since.

But it’s not all about intense discussions or profound silence. There’s also something about simple pleasures—walks in nature, saunas to unwind after a long day, and sharing meals. The food is always an event in itself. These moments outside of structured sessions are often where the real magic happens, where you build friendships, share stories, and learn from one another in unexpected ways.

Then, there was Agile Coach Camp Barcelona, where I brought my daughter. It was an incredible experience, not just for me but for her. The sun was shining, and the energy of the camp was contagious. What stood out was how everyone there embraced her as an equal. She wasn’t just the teenager in the room—she was part of the conversation and respected for her thoughts and contributions. It was a powerful reminder of the inclusivity and respect that Agile Coach Camps foster, no matter your age or background.

For me, Agile Coach Camps are about professional and personal connections. It’s where deep learning meets genuine camaraderie, where you’re as likely to find yourself debating Agile frameworks as you are bonding over a game, a meal, or a shared silence. It’s where I can step back from the hustle and reflect on who I am as a coach and a leader in the company of those who are just as passionate about this work as I am.

These experiences inspired me to bring Agile Coach Camp to the UK. I wanted to recreate that sense of connection and deep learning on home soil. And it’s been incredible to see the community grow over the last two years. Next year, we’re moving to a bigger venue because the demand has been so high. It’s a testament to the power of these camps and the genuine need for spaces where coaches can come together, learn, and build lasting connections.

Whether it’s quiet moments of reflection, long walks, relaxing in the sauna, or simply sharing a meal, these camps offer a chance to connect deeply with like-minded professionals as passionate as you are. Agile Coach Camp is where learning meets true community, and I find the space to reflect on my role as a coach and a leader.

Agile Coach Camp UK will be held again next year on the 4th and 5th of October at Centre Parcs Woburn. If this resonates with you, I hope to see you there, ready to connect over cheese, port, and powerful conversations. 

Click here for more details: https://agilecoachcamp.co.uk/