NIBAF Pakistan organized a distinctive team retreat titled “Rise As One: Beyond The Desk” for officers of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on 17 September 2025 at Turtle Beach in Karachi. The retreat was designed to create an engaging environment outside the traditional office setting, combining professional growth with opportunities for relaxation and personal reflection.
The event was conducted under the guidance of trainer Tanzeel Raza and arranged by NIBAF’s Karachi Campus. The choice of Turtle Beach, with its calm surroundings and private hut, provided an ideal backdrop for a day focused on collaboration, learning, and rejuvenation.
The one-day program featured a series of interactive activities that encouraged teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. Officers were able to step away from their usual workplace responsibilities and engage in exercises designed to strengthen relationships and foster a greater sense of unity among colleagues. Activities blended fun with purpose, allowing participants to build trust and improve coordination in ways that are directly relevant to their professional roles.
In addition to structured exercises, the retreat also emphasized the importance of stress-free personal time. Participants were given the opportunity to relax by the sea, enjoy recreational moments, and recharge in a peaceful and refreshing setting. This balance between professional development and leisure made the program particularly impactful, ensuring that officers returned to their roles energized and better connected to their peers.
NIBAF, as the training and capacity-building arm of the State Bank of Pakistan, continues to explore creative approaches to professional development. Through initiatives like “Rise As One,” the organization aims to go beyond conventional training methods by integrating experiences that build leadership, teamwork, and resilience. The retreat reinforced NIBAF’s commitment to cultivating well-rounded professionals who can thrive in both individual and collective capacities.
The program also highlighted the growing recognition of employee well-being and engagement in Pakistan’s corporate and financial institutions. By offering offsite learning opportunities, organizations like NIBAF are aligning with global best practices that view team building, mental wellness, and leadership development as key drivers of long-term institutional performance.
For SBP officers, the retreat was more than just an offsite gathering; it was a reminder of the importance of collaboration and adaptability in today’s dynamic financial environment. The informal setting provided space to exchange ideas, share experiences, and strengthen networks in ways that a conventional office environment often cannot provide.
As NIBAF Pakistan continues to design and deliver impactful learning initiatives, programs like “Rise As One” stand as examples of how professional training can extend beyond the desk, creating lasting value for individuals and institutions alike.
Follow the PakBanker Whatsapp Channel for updated across Pakistan’s banking ecosystem.