At TryHackMe, our annual retreat is more than a getaway; it’s a chance to connect, grow, and spark ideas that fuel the future of cyber security training at TryHackMe. With our team spread across the globe, these rare moments together are where innovation and culture collide.
This year, 90 of us gathered in the historic city of Athens, Greece, surrounded by ancient history and modern energy. From thought-provoking sessions to adventurous activities and heartfelt celebrations, the retreat left us inspired, motivated, and closer than ever as a team.
Day One: Arrival & Welcome Presentation
The retreat began with excitement as everyone landed in Athens, reconnecting with colleagues and welcoming new faces to the team. Our founders, Ben and Ashu, opened the retreat with a powerful welcome presentation reflecting on how far we’ve come, the impact our platform is having worldwide, and where we’re headed next.
The evening unfolded over a Greek tapas dinner, where lively conversations and laughter set the tone for the days ahead. It was the perfect reminder that beyond the screens, we’re part of a community with shared purpose and ambition.
Day Two: Inspiring Stories & Survival on the Beach
Day two brought learning and inspiration. One of the highlights was hearing from Addison Hall, a dedicated TryHackMe user, who shared how our platform helped him break into cyber security and stay current with his skills. His story reminded us why we do what we do, empowering individuals to transform their careers and lives through hands-on learning.
In the afternoon, we switched from cyber skills to survival skills with a team-building challenge on the beach. Creativity, communication, and problem-solving were put to the test as we worked together in the sand and sea.
We closed the day with dinner at Lagoon Kitchen Beach Bar, where we enjoyed a relaxed evening of food, sea views, and team bonding in an exclusive setting.
Day Three: AI with Kelly Goss & Exploring Athens
If day two looked back on what we’ve built, day three looked forward to the future. We were joined by AI specialist Kelly Goss, who led a thought-provoking session on how artificial intelligence is reshaping industries and the opportunities it opens up for innovation.
But Kelly didn’t just talk about AI she made us experience it through vibe coding. Teams were challenged to design and ship mini-apps that could make TryHackMe better or help us in our own roles. The energy in the room was electric, as ideas sparked, prototypes took shape, and people tapped into creativity they didn’t know they had.
Later, we stepped out of the modern world and into the ancient one with a visit to the Acropolis. Walking through the ruins with sweeping views of Athens, we were reminded of the power of human creativity and resilience across history. The day concluded in Plaka, the oldest neighbourhood of Athens, where we shared a traditional Greek dinner in cobblestone alleyways full of warmth and authenticity.
Day Four: Team Brainstorming, Unique Activities & Celebrating Success
The final full day of the retreat was all about collaboration and recognition. In the morning, we split into teams for department-led brainstorming sessions, giving us the chance to tackle challenges, share ideas, and strengthen the way we work together.
In the afternoon, we broke off into groups for tailored activities. Some tried their hand at a Greek cooking class, while others visited an olive farm to experience the heart of local tradition and even went on a photo scavenger hunt through the town!
The evening marked a highlight of the entire retreat: our awards ceremony. More than just recognition, it was a celebration of the passion, creativity, and resilience that make TryHackMe what it is. From manager-nominated awards to peer-recognitions, the night was filled with gratitude, music, and plenty of cheering for the incredible work our team puts in every day.
Day Five: Farewell & Looking Ahead
On the fifth and final day of the retreat, we gathered for a final breakfast before embarking on our journeys home, excited for the next time we’ll be together again!
At TryHackMe, these retreats aren’t just about bringing the team together. They’re about building a culture of growth, curiosity, and collaboration, the same culture we aim to share with every learner on our platform.
Who knows, next year, you might be part of the journey too!
Carah Els