Embracing Change (2022-2025): A Journey of Growth, Curiosity, and Connection

Change is a constant in life, nature and business, and it often leads us to places we never imagined. As we navigate these transformations, we grow, connect, and redefine our purpose. Over the past few years, I have embraced change in profound ways, both personally and professionally. Let me take you on a journey through my highlights and lessons from 2022 to 2025, showcasing the power of curiosity, learnings, collaboration, and innovation.

2022: This was the year of courageous beginnings. Leaving behind a 20+year career, I embraced a life aligned with my passions. From guiding tours on historic tugboats to volunteering at a local cookie shop, I stepped into the unknown with an open heart and a sense of adventure and curiosity.

2023: A year of discovery and connection. Through coaching, I delved deeper into my deeper purpose. I was connecting people and embracing AI in Fashion as a transformative tool for a more sustainable industry. Partnering this with VMI (Vendor Managed Inventory), I worked to bridge the gap between fashion brands and retailers. Hosting VMI think tank events and the first Retail Captain's Dinner, I united professionals and entrepreneurs to foster collaboration and innovation. With brands like OPUS, State of Art, PME Legend and My Jewellery and retailers like Dill & Kamille, Berden and Rituals.

2024: A year of milestones. My first trip to #NRF2024 in NYC marked a pivotal moment in connecting with global retail tech leaders. Launching The WAIR Journey, an expertise and experience tour on AI, VMI, and Amsterdam’s history, was a resounding success. With partners like Steve Madden, Ralph Lauren, and VF Corporation, this initiative expanded to Germany, uniting brands like s.Oliver and Ceceba and retailers like OFM. and Shoeby. A personal retreat to Zanzibar at year end offered nature’s profound lessons on change, from butterfly metamorphosis to the adaptive colors of chameleons and octopuses. Nature, like life, teaches that transformation is both beautiful and necessary.

2025: This year is already brimming with potential. My upcoming trip to NRF2025 in NYC promises to deepen connections and set the stage for new ventures. With the overwhelming success of The WAIR Journey, we plan three additional editions with our partner SPH-AG, including a VIP special during Amsterdam’s SAIL750 celebration. This initiative, blending history and future-forward thinking, reflects the essence of change over time. Geographical expansion and new collaborations are also on the horizon.

Reflections on Inner Change

True change starts within. It’s about tuning into your inner drive, aligning with your authentic self, and allowing that to shape your actions and goals. Over the years, I’ve cultivated a deeper sense of gratitude—for family, for opportunities, and for the ability to inspire and be inspired. This inner transformation has made life richer and more meaningful.

As I move into 2025, I’m committed to sharing this journey more openly. My vision is to inspire others—through high level experience events, a closed LinkedIn group about VMI & AI in Fashion, and personal connections—to embrace their own potential for growth and change.

Why Change Matters in Fashion

The fashion industry, much like life, thrives on transformation. By combining AI and VMI, we’re paving the way for a more collaborative, efficient, and sustainable future. The key is to balance the richness of history with the promise of innovation—a philosophy that guides The WAIR Journey and our broader efforts.

Upcoming Highlights:

• VMI Group on LinkedIn: Continuing to unite thought leaders.
• Expanded WAIR Journeys: Bringing fashion brands and retailers together.
• SAIL750 Special: Celebrating the history of maritime Amsterdam and the future of fashion.

An Invitation to Curiosity and Change

Life is short, but curiosity and change make it endlessly inspiring. Whether it’s embracing new technology, exploring uncharted territories, or simply reflecting on your inner journey, there’s always room to grow. Let’s connect and step into 2025 with open minds and bold hearts.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on change and how it’s shaping your journey. Feel free to reply or connect with me on LinkedIn for more insights and updates.

* Steven Witteveen, #TourGuide, #SoulCaptain, Initiator of The WAIR Journey, AI & VMI-evangelist in Fashion, Angel Investor in circular fashion brand MARTAN, co-founder of FashionUnited.

Quote of fashion icon Ralph Lauren: "Be anything you want to be and be many things."

Ralph Lauren's quote encourages people to embrace their individuality and explore different facets of themselves.

It suggests that:

• You are not limited to a single path or identity. You can be anything you aspire to be.
• Life is about growth and change.? You can explore different interests, passions, and careers throughout your life.
• Embrace your potential. Don't limit yourself to just one thing; try many things and discover who you truly are.

Essentially, it's a call to live a full, authentic, and multifaceted life.

This weekend, Mr. Ralph Lauren received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from current US president Joe Biden. During a prestigious ceremony held in Washington D.C., Mr. Lauren received the nation’s highest civilian honor, recognizing his extraordinary contributions and influence on American style, culture, and society–marking Mr. Lauren as the first fashion designer to ever receive this historic distinction.