2024 has been a year of shifts, expansion, and growth for us here at Natural Pod. As we pause to reflect on the year’s highlights, it is clear that this was a year that renewed our steady rhythm of purpose, connection, and collaboration—the very heartbeat that inspires and enlivens our work as a mission-based, impact-driven organization.

To the educators and decision-makers who embraced Natural Pod solutions this year, we see you and hear you. It’s your dedication and vision that directly supports our mission to ensure that every learner has the opportunity to learn and play in healthy, beautiful, and inspiring environments. We’re filled with gratitude to have had the opportunity to serve you and your communities.

We also want to recognize the invaluable support of our industry friends, partners, and advocates. Your friendship, commitment and advocacy means the world to us. Thank you for being an essential part of our journey. We look forward to building even more transformative connections in 2025!

Here are a few highlights from our year

Connecting with our community: We engaged with educators through inspiring and fun interactive experiences at Education focused conferences in British Columbia and California, where we learned how our Natural Pod elements continue to shine—even after decades of use. A highlight was our decision to support a “Pop-Up Childcare” space at the Vancouver B Corp Champions Retreat last March in partnership with the Pacific Immigrant Resource Society. As the conference was scheduled over Spring Break (a time when many daycare centers and schools are closed) our joint offering allowed working parents the ability to attend the conference at no additional cost.

“A year that renewed our steady rhythm of purpose, connection, and collaboration.”

–Marianne Hoonakker-Kelly, President, Natural Pod

Innovating for sustainability: Our fulfillment team completed the “Natural Pod Boxing Project,” simplifying packaging, reducing plastic use by 70%, and moving closer to our goal of 100% sustainable packaging.

“We’ve also made significant strides in reducing plastic in our packaging, using more sustainable materials without compromising on protection.”

–Dalynn Wingard, Fulfilment Manager, Natural Pod

Designing for the future: We expanded our product lines with the introduction of a new Junction Project Table, more adjustable table heights, and created bespoke concept drawings for new learning spaces, always staying true to our ethos of multifunctional, innovative and sustainable design.

Learning and growth: We participated in conferences, sharing insights from innovative learning spaces that we have collaborated with, and observed first hand how educators use our furniture elements in creative and exciting ways.

Expanding our reach: We strengthened relationships with architects, designers, and distribution partners, while receiving valuable and positive feedback from educators we have the privilege to collaborate with.

“We expanded our network by making real connections, as well as maintaining close ties with dealer partners who support our work.”

–Tania Crosbie, Solutions Manager, Natural Pod

Supporting new projects: Our solutions team supported new projects, not only locally here in British Columbia, but throughout North America and beyond, expanding our network and making meaningful connections.

“Your company has outstanding customer service due to the amazing team you have.  It is always such a pleasure to work with you and I appreciate your vision, recommendations, and the willingness to also go the extra mile. I will always recommend the Natural Pod product!”

–Cathi Wetsch, Owner/Operator North Shore Berry Community

Sharing insights: Our Founder and CEO, Bridgitte Alomes, spoke on numerous topics ranging from connecting with nature to future-proofing learning environments at conferences from Victoria, British Columbia, to Houston, Texas.

“What stands out for me this past year are the times I spent in learning environments, with educators and students, really connecting with people and hearing, listening and feeling into the opportunities and challenges of each unique space—and dreaming about the future. It’s this connection that helps me remember why the work we do together is so meaningful.”

–Bridgitte Alomes, Founder + CEO, Natural Pod

Deepening our expertise: We continued learning from thought leaders such as Dr. Kathryn Murray, Dr. Sandra-Lynn Shortall, and our in-house educator, Kelly Rosensweet, who shared insights on meeting current educational trends.

As the year comes to a close, we are filled with gratitude for having played a role in the educational community’s commitment to fostering inspiring learning environments. We’re also reflecting on the incredible growth in the field of learning space design and the strong collaboration we’ve witnessed among stakeholders. I can share that it is truly inspiring!

On behalf of the entire Natural Pod team, we wish you a wonderful close to the year and look forward to continuing our work together in the future.

Marianne Hoonakker-Kelly
President, Natural Pod