We live in a paradox. Billions of us are more connected than ever through apps, platforms, and now AI – yet loneliness is at an all-time high. Nearly half of adults worldwide report feeling disconnected from others. If technology connects us, why do so many of us feel so alone?
I believe the answer is simple: real connection doesn’t happen on a screen. It happens when we share experiences – when we laugh, learn, and grow together. That belief has guided my journey for more than a decade as the Head of Flagship Events at Mindvalley, where I lead Mindvalley U, Future Human, and other large-scale events. These are not ordinary conferences – they are immersive gatherings that transform cities like Tallinn, Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Dubai into living classrooms. I’ve seen strangers arrive unsure and disconnected, and leave with lifelong friendships, new businesses, and even life partners. Those are the moments that change lives.
And these moments aren’t random. They follow a pattern. In The Power of Moments, authors Chip and Dan Heath describe four elements that make experiences transformative: Elevation, Insight, Pride, and Connection. This is exactly what we design into our events. We create elevation – experiences that rise above the ordinary. We spark insights that shift perspectives for life. We celebrate pride – courage, progress, and achievement. And most of all, we cultivate connection – the kind of bonds that dissolve loneliness and foster a sense of belonging.
My path to this work wasn’t straightforward. I started in law, but I quickly realized that my passion wasn’t in contracts or courtrooms. What lit me up was creating spaces where people could connect. Over the years, I’ve produced award-winning events in 18 countries and pioneered hybrid formats that have reached hundreds of thousands worldwide. Beyond Mindvalley, I co-founded Kohin, Estonia’s largest women’s community, dedicated to helping women connect, grow, and thrive together.
As a mother, this mission has become even more personal. I want my son to grow up in a world where technology empowers, but community sustains. AI can personalize your learning – but it cannot replicate the goosebumps of standing in a room with thousands who share your vision. It cannot replace the pride of watching your child shine. And it cannot give you the warmth of being truly seen, heard, and supported.
Estonia has long been celebrated as a pioneer in digital innovation. But our next chapter is to lead in human innovation. The future of education, work, and society will not be defined solely by how smart our technologies become, but by how deeply we remain connected as human beings.
