THE LEADERSHIP PILGRIMAGE: A JOURNEY TO SECLUDED MONASTERIES AND HIGH-ALTITUDE LAKES.
Sacred Peaks, Timeless Wisdom: Join The Pilgrimage to reimagine your life and leadership.
Throughout history, pilgrimages have been a way to explore the inner world by journeying to sacred sites. The Mount Everest region, steeped in Tibetan Buddhist traditions, is home to caves where spiritual masters spent lifetimes in meditation and secluded monasteries where monks and nuns continue their daily practices.
Kenshō & Kin offers an authentic leadership pilgrimage to the highlands of the Everest region, where Tibetan Buddhism is preserved and practiced in its most genuine form. It’s a journey that goes beyond the physical climb - It’s a deep dive into rethinking leadership, challenging your norms, and connecting with authentic, timeless wisdom.
We emphasize an immersive experience where transformation happens through active engagement, not just learning from slides in a conference room. On this trek, we focus on the following pathways of transformation:
Four Pathways of immersive Learning
CEREMONY
In Tibetan Buddhist culture, ceremonies hold a profound significance, especially when it comes to seeking protection and blessings. Just as the Icefall Doctors, who ensure safe passages through the perilous icefalls on Everest, request a protective puja from the sangha (Buddhist monastic community) for the safety of climbers, guides, and workers, we will also embrace this sacred tradition. By engaging in this ceremony, we connect deeply with the local culture and reinforce our commitment to safety, mindfulness, and the shared human experience of navigating life’s peaks, both literal and metaphorical.
CONTEMPLATION
As we trek through the mountains, visiting ancient sacred caves and secluded monasteries, contemplation will be a central focus of our journey. Guided sessions led by our faculty will explore a diverse range of topics, from the teachings of Buddhist mind science to insights into local Sherpa culture and climate change. These sessions offer more than just knowledge—they provide deeper insights that spark personal reflection and inner discovery. It's an opportunity to break free from old narratives, disconnect from daily life, and explore your inner landscape, strengthening your connection to yourself and the world around you.
CLIMBING
While the main goal of the pilgrimage isn't the physical challenge, we will face a one as we summit Gokyo Peak after eight days of trekking. At an altitude of 5,400 meters, both your mind and body will need to adapt to the thin air and demanding conditions. This climb will encourage you to push your boundaries and strive for greater heights. It’s an opportunity to test your resilience and gain new perspectives on overcoming obstacles. We will begin the climb at night, reaching the summit in time to witness the sunrise over the stunning blue mountain lakes—a moment that symbolizes the rewards of perseverance and embracing new challenges.
COMMUNITY
In Tibetan Buddhist tradition, the community and Sangha are crucial in our pursuit of becoming better versions of ourselves. They offer essential guidance and support, and their example of compassion and wisdom serves as an inspiration for others. Throughout the pilgrimage, we will focus on strengthening bonds within our diverse group of leaders, fostering lasting connections. This effort will begin before the trek, continue during our journey, and persist afterward, acknowledging that a trek of this nature can be vulnerable and that safety with like-minded individuals is crucial..
Gokyo: A trek to the roof of the world
Upcoming Enrollment for The Pilgrimage
16 April - 30 April 2025
NEPAL
The Pilgrimage provides a deeply transformative journey, demanding both mental and physical endurance, and culminating in the ascent of a towering peak. We are looking for a small, dedicated group of individuals eager to embrace a challenge unlike any other. To discover how this unparalleled experience can meet your current needs, please schedule a consultation with us.
It doesn’t get more authentic.
At Kenshō & Kin, we guide you toward becoming the best version of yourself, enriching your wisdom in ways that seamlessly apply to modern life while delivering a truly authentic experience. During our trek through the Mount Everest region—where many Buddhist masters have lived and meditated—you’ll explore sacred sites off the tourist path, including places where our valued team member, Charok Lama, grew up and was recognized.
Charok Lama was identified at the age of three as the reincarnation of the renowned hermit-yogi Kusho Mangde, who meditated in the Charok Cave. After beginning his monastic education at Kopan Monastery, he excelled in debate and philosophical inquiry for 19 years at Monastic University Sera je. With his deep understanding of both Eastern and Western cultures, Charok Lama will guide you through the places that shaped his spiritual journey, offering rare insights into these sacred landscapes.
If we want to improve ourselves, we must begin by reducing our ego. On a basic level, reducing our ego is achievable—it's not as hard as it seems.
Charok Lama Rinpoche
The motivation to share this path.
More than eight years ago, while studying the Dharma at Namgyal Monastery, the Temple of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, I was already working in leadership development. At the time, the mindfulness movement was thriving, but I found it a great loss to see such a rich body of wisdom reduced to mindfulness alone. As one of my teachers put it, "Even thieves need mindfulness." I hesitated to bring Buddhist teachings into my work, not wanting to convert anyone or introduce the religious side of Buddhism to my clients. But immense value in the mind science, logic, and practical methods these teachings offer was undeniable.
Then I heard His Holiness the Dalai Lama say, "Don't use Buddhism to become a Buddhist. Use Buddhism to become a better version of what you already are." That was exactly what I needed to hear. Nearly a decade later, I’m grateful to serve as a bridge between this ancient wisdom and modern leadership, witnessing how leaders and their organizations become powerful agents of change. This pilgrimage, visiting places close to my heart, combines sacred sites, the physical challenge of altitude, and a leadership program designed to foster deep, inside-out transformation.
Michelle de Bruijn
The Phases of the Journey
This phase is crucial for ensuring you have a meaningful and transformative experience. We offer both individual coaching and group sessions to help you get ready and establish the right group dynamic. You'll engage in reflective exercises designed to prepare you for the journey's challenges and insights as wel as the essential information help you manage logistical details and ensure your physical readiness. This comprehensive preparation will equip you to make the most of your pilgrimage.
The Preparation Phase
During this phase, you will transform by immersing yourself in the Four Pathways of Experiential Learning. Over 14 days, with the stunning landscape of the Mount Everest region as your backdrop and exceptional facilitators guiding you, you will engage deeply in this transformative experience.
The Pilgrimage Phase
Just as preparation is essential, the integration phase is crucial for maintaining your transformation and avoiding a return to old habits. We offer individual coaching and group sessions to support you in this process. We understand how challenging it can be to sustain a contemplative or meditative quality once you return to your daily routine. Our goal is to help you seamlessly integrate the insights and practices from your journey into your everyday life, ensuring lasting change and continued growth.
The Integration Phase
The Core Team
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Michelle de Bruijn
FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE ADVISOR
Michelle is a dedicated lifetime student and practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. Her journey began in childhood and has led her to study under esteemed teachers like HH Dalai Lama, Ganden Tri Rinpoche, and Lama Zopa Rinpoche.. She is particularly intrigued by the fusion of Buddhist principles with science and technology to empower leaders in becoming their best selves. Michelle has furthered her expertise by learning from renowned scholars like Professor Robert Thurman, PhD, and Dr. Joseph Loizzo, MD.
As a passionate facilitator,, Michelle leads participants through the trek, guiding them to connect to their inner world.. She helps you integrate these insights into both personal and professional growth, ensuring a profound and impactful experience
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Charok Lama Rinpoche
BUDDHIST TEACHER & SCHOLAR
Born in 1992 in the Everest region of Nepal, Charok Lama Rinpoche was recognized as the reincarnation of the revered Nyingma yogi Kusho Mangden at just two years old. His spiritual journey began early, and by the age of eight, he moved to Sera Je Monastery in southern India. There, he dedicated himself to 19 years of rigorous Buddhist education and spiritual development.
Charok Lama is celebrated not only for his deep understanding of Buddhist philosophy but also for his remarkable insights into psychology. Known for his empathetic approach, he addresses the complexities of the mind and contemporary life with profound wisdom. His teachings make him a valuable resource for those seeking inner development and mental well-being, reflecting his commitment to bridging ancient wisdom with modern psychological understanding.
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Venerable Kalden
PILGRIMAGE LEADER
Venerable Thubten Kalden, a Brazilian monk, transitioned from a successful career as a lawyer and accountant with an MBA in corporate finance to embrace the monastic path. Raised in a small mountain town outside Rio de Janeiro, he left Brazil to travel and delve into Dharma studies.
Having completed numerous retreats and studied under revered teachers like His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Lama Zopa Rinpoche, and Khadro-la, Venerable Kalden was ordained by Lama Zopa Rinpoche. His high emotional intelligence and welcoming nature make him an exceptional retreat leader. He dedicates his life to coordinating The Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition projects globally and guiding individuals in applying Dharma to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings.
FutureGen Scholarship
We believe that investing in the leaders of tomorrow is a key responsibility. The FutureGen Scholarship is crafted to support emerging leaders who already exhibit a deep commitment to driving impactful change.
Are you, or do you know, a young leader who fits this description and is eager to join our pilgrimage? Contact us to explore this opportunity and become part of a transformative journey towards a brighter, more equitable future for all.
What's Included in The Pilgrimage
Included during the Pilgrimage
14 Nights of Accommodation: Comfortable stays throughout the journey.
Educational Sessions: Engage in insightful learning experiences during the trek.
Flight: From Kathmandu to Lukla.
Helicopter Ride: From Gokyo Ri back to Kathmandu.
Porter Services: For luggage transport along the trek.
All Meals, Excursions, and National Park Fees: Fully covered throughout the pilgrimage.
Guest Speakers: Interact with Mount Everest climbers, spiritual leaders, and environmental advocates.
Tips for Guides: Gratuities are included.
Donations: Support for monks and monasteries along the route.
Altitude Sickness Check-Ups: Access to a Western-trained altitude sickness doctor who’s part of the team.
Future Leaders Scholarship: Contribution included to support emerging leaders.
Massage: Relax and rejuvenate with included massage services.
Included Pre and Post Pilgrimage:
Executive Coaching Sessions: Two personalized sessions—one before and one after the Pilgrimage.
Group Coaching Sessions: Two group sessions to support your journey—before and after the Pilgrimage.
Altitude Sickness Workshop: Learn essential tips to manage high-altitude conditions.
Digital Learning Platform: Access Kenshō & Kin’s learning platform to dive into the unique wisdom, available both before and after the experience.
Checklist of Necessary Items: A comprehensive checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared for the trek.
Participant Requirements
Travel and Health Insurance: Mandatory, including coverage for high-risk activities.
Physical Fitness: Participants must be in good physical condition.
Return Flight: Arrange your round-trip flight from your home country to Nepal.
Visa: Obtain a valid visa for Nepal.
Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is up to date.
Trekking Gear: Required gear as outlined in the checklist we provide.
Additional Nights: Any extra nights before or after the trip (if applicable).
FAQs
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The pilgrimage is open to founder, executive and investors who are interested in personal and professional transformation. Participants should have a willingness to engage deeply in both physical and introspective challenges.
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Participants should be in good health and prepared for moderate to strenuous physical activity. The trek involves hiking at high altitudes, so a baseline level of fitness and stamina is recommended.
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The package covers most costs, but does not include personal expenses, optional activities, return flights home, visa and passport fees, and other items not specified.
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We keep our group size intimate, with a maximum of 14 participants.
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The FutureGen Scholarship is designed to support exceptional young leaders by providing them with the opportunity to participate in this transformative experience. It's our way of empowering the next generation of changemakers who demonstrate outstanding potential and commitment to making a positive impact