Sometimes, meaningful team moments start with a simple idea.
For our Meeting Planning Team Event end of 2025, Araya, inspired by her connection to Thailand, proposed something different: creating a blanket from recycled fabrics for a baby elephant at an elephant rescue and rehabilitation centre in Northern Thailand.
The idea immediately resonated with the team. Instead of a traditional activity, we chose to create something with purpose.
Supporting Elephant Rescue in Northern Thailand
Our contribution will go to an elephant sanctuary in the Chiang Mai region, the first of its kind in Asia, which rescues and rehabilitates elephants previously subjected to practices such as street begging, elephant riding, and circus performances.
In Northern Thailand, temperatures can drop to 5°C during the colder months, and heavy rainfall and floods are common. Providing additional warmth and protection is a small but meaningful gesture for young elephants in recovery.
From Fabric Pieces to a Shared Effort
The blanket measures 2.5 x 2 metres and was created using:
- 20 fabric pieces (50 x 50 cm each)
- Additional larger pieces for lining and reinforcement
- A reinforced inner layer for durability and comfort
Over approximately three hours, the Meeting Planning team worked side by side, cutting fabric panels, arranging patterns, stitching strips together, and assembling the final blanket.
To ensure quality and durability, we collaborated with a local atelier in Basel to bring the final product to life.
What We Learned
Expectation management
We initially considered creating a larger blanket. Scaling back was the right decision, it allowed us to complete the project thoughtfully and within the time available.
Teamwork in action
Sewing a large blanket is true teamwork. Cutting, stitching, arranging, adjusting, every step required coordination. Bit by bit, the pieces came together. And so did we.
In the end, the blanket became more than fabric and thread. It became a reminder of what can happen when a team works with care and shared purpose.
A Warm Welcome in Northern Thailand
Shortly after sending the blanket, we received wonderful news from the sanctuary, along with photos showing the young elephant wearing it.
Seeing the colourful patchwork blanket in its new home was a special moment for the team. What started as fabric pieces in Basel is now part of daily life at the sanctuary in Northern Thailand.
It reminded us that even small, local initiatives can travel far, and make a tangible difference.
A few stitches in Basel. A bit of warmth in Chiang Mai.
