1-8 June CESTThe island of Ekskäret

You’re Invited to Elevate!

🌟 What is Elevate? Elevate is a week-long co-living retreat on a private island in the breathtaking Stockholm archipelago. Together, we will dream, create, and hold space as one vibrant community.

This is not just a retreat—it’s a collective experience where everyone is a co-host. Together, we’ll share meals, care for the space, and co-create workshops and activities.

✨ Why Join Elevate? Elevate is a gathering of committed co-creators, facilitators, dreamers, and changemakers. Our shared goal? To craft a radically open, brave, and inclusive space where every participant feels a profound sense of belonging and safety—because true growth and transformation happen when we feel fully seen and supported.

In this state of relaxation, connection, and presence, we’ll open ourselves to being both mind- and heart-blown. Elevate is about shifting perspectives, deepening meaning, and inspiring personal and collective wellbeing that ripples far beyond the island.

🌱 The Experience Inspired by the values of  participation and exploration, Elevate balances the individual and the collective, seamlessly blending being, thinking, and doing. This is not just a weeklong escape—it’s an experience that will integrate into your everyday life, sparking meaningful change for you and the world around you.

At Elevate, everyone contributes. As co-creators, we’ll prepare meals, host activities, and care for the island together. This is a space where you are both a participant and a host—a beautiful experiment in shared responsibility and connection.

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The Ripple Effect

🌊 Elevate isn’t just a retreat; it’s a movement. It’s about raising consciousness, fostering deeper connection, and inspiring a ripple effect of positive change in our communities and beyond.

This is your opportunity to:
🌟 Reframe your sense of meaning and purpose.
🌟 Deepen your connection with yourself, others, and nature.
🌟 Be inspired by what’s possible—for your life and the world.

And the best part? What you take from Elevate doesn’t end with the week. It’s something you carry forward—a lasting shift that can transform your everyday life.

🌸 Why You Belong Here  Elevate is an open, inclusive, and curated space for exploration and growth. It’s for anyone ready to ignite inner transformation, build deeper connections, and bring something new and meaningful to the world.

We also aim to connect diverse sub-communities, welcoming those who may not have previously participated in events like this.

Will you join us?

You are warmly invited to be part of this extraordinary journey. Let’s create something unforgettable together.

💌 Sign up now and let the adventure begin!


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Elevate Retreat Essentials

    • This is a non-profit event: There are no producers and consumers.
    • This is a sober event: No drugs or alcohol.
    • We cook vegetarian meals: Once during the week, your food team will prepare a vegetarian meal for the whole group.
    • Cleaning is shared by all participants: Daily cleaning tasks are done on a rotational basis by everyone.
    • It is an English-speaking retreat: You will be kindly asked to speak in English always.
    • Co-working is optional: You will have a dedicated space for it.
    • Spots are limited to 40 people: You will have your own bed in a shared room with one other participant.
    • It is an 7 days long event: We will prioritize those who stay the full week.
    • We look for actively engaged attendees: The willingness to contribute to prior, during and after will also be prioritized.
    • It is multicultural: Everyone is welcome from any part of the world.
    • This is an immersive experience: It holds the potential to shift the way you see reality, others and the community.
    • It is a consensus-driven culture: we make decisions together.

    Elevate Themes

    In 2025, Elevate offers four unique gatherings, each centred around a distinct theme corresponding to the rhythm of nature. These themes are designed to inspire participants and provide a lens through which to explore and fully immerse themselves in the Elevate experience.

    Elevate Initiate: March 30– April 6, 2025
    In the season of new beginnings, we gather to explore what lies hidden beneath the surface, waiting to sprout and grow. This is a time to plant seeds of intention and nurture new possibilities.

    Elevate Celebrate: June 1–8, 2025
    Unde
    r the warmth of the sun, we come together to embrace joy, connection, and abundance. It’s a time to fully immerse ourselves in the vibrancy of life, gratitude, and shared experiences to honor life and each other.

    Elevate Integrate: September 14–21, 2025
    With the changing of the  leaves, we reflect on what we’ve cultivated and harvested, weaving these experiences into the fabric of who we are. This is a season of grounding and balance - and letting go of that which is no longer serving us.

    Elevate Hibernate: November 23–30, 2025
    As nature slows down, we pause to rest and restore. This is a season for reflection, honoring the stillness, and preparing for the renewal ahead as the year comes to a close.


    The Elevate Values

    Co-creation - “We are all hosts” - You acknowledge that you are an organizer as much as you are a participator. You are part of creating the experience for yourself and everybody else. You will cook and clean, but are also encouraged to contribute in your own way.

    Self-reliance - “Only you know your needs" - You are responsible to be aware of, honor and either communicate or take care of your own needs.

    Radical inclusion - “Everyone is welcome” - You will not know everyone there but you are expected to welcome and respect the stranger and meet them with kindness.

    Active participation - “You are not an observer" - You have the courage to challenge yourself and be an active participant, in your own way.

    Community - “One group” - You share the intention of being part of the community .It's of course okay and necessary to also take time for yourself.

    Responsibility - "Leave a better trace" - means not only to clean up after yourself, it’s a mindset of always considering how you can leave things/places/situations/people better than how you found them.

    Retreat Costs 

    Elevate Retreat is a non-profit and independent event supported by the Ekskäret Foundation. There are no paid staff, everything is voluntary and co-created. The co-creation fees are solely based on the cost of the event.

    Elevate Retreat Co-creator Options:

    • High Income co-creator: 4500 kr
    • Standard co-creator: 3000 kr
    • Sponsored co-creator: 1500 kr

    By choosing the High Income co-creator fee, you help make the retreat accessible to others. The full amount directly supports  sponsoring those in need, with none of it used for costs such as salaries or administration- as there are no paid roles. This ensures that Elevate Retreat remains a non-profit event.

    Sponsored co-creators are intended for those who truly need financial support. If you decide to apply for a sponsored co-creator space you will be asked to provide the reason for your application in the application form.

    Additional Costs to Consider:

    • Cooking: You will be part of a cooking team that will cook once for all attendees. Your team will need to self-organize prior to the event and buy the food as a gift to the group. We recommend a budget of 300-500 SEK per person
    • Transportation: Estimated at 200-300 SEK per person (bus and boat).

    Application opens now!

    Ekskäret Island is modern and well-equipped facilities, optimized for retreats
    and gatherings. 

    Retreat Dates: June 1st to June 8th, 2025

    Application opens:  April 6th, 2025

    Applications closes: April 20th, 2025

    Selection process finishes: April 25th, 2025

    Save your spot by paying before: April 30th, 2025

    Kick-off meeting: May 15th, 2025

    *We will inform you if you've been offered a spot. You will then have a few days to confirm your spot, so please keep an eye on your inbox. 

    We will provide information on how to get to the island. 

      Apply

      Suggested Schedule 

      Monday to Friday: 

      Co-working sessions during the days, giving everyone time to focus on their own projects or simply relax on the island. 

       Communal meals twice a day,  where we cook as teams. 

      Eevenings are for shared activities that we co-create.

      Additionally, there will be optional workshops throughout the week, allowing you to choose what interests you based on your schedule, needs and energy levels. 

      Saturday to Sunday : Community gathering with co-created workshops, activities, and shared meals.

      Once you save your spot, you will be sent all the information: cooking teams, cleaning teams, workshops/activities application, how to get to the Island, etc. 

      FAQ about Elevate

      Is Elevate a non-profit?

      Yes, Elevate is soon going to operate as a non-profit initiative.

      Can I work and have meetings at Elevate?

      Yes, you can work and have meetings while at Elevate. There are common spaces for co-working. However, if you need to have a private meeting, there is no designated space for it. You will need to coordinate with your roommate and use your room.

      I am coming from abroad. Can I get support?

      Yes. The community can provide guidance on travel logistics, grocery shopping, and general preparations for your stay. Please reach out to the chat group created for your group.

      What is the kickoff call?

      The onboarding call is a virtual meeting before your arrival to provide essential information, answer any questions, and ensure you are prepared for the experience. 

      What are the cooking teams?

      Cooking teams are small groups of participants who take turns preparing meals during the program. This is part of the shared experience, fostering collaboration and connection. No special cooking skills are required, and guidance will be provided.

      Do I need to bring my own soap, towels, or bedding?

      Basic bedding and towels are not provided; you must bring a single bedding set, including a bottom sheet, a duvet cover, and one pillowcase. It can get cold at night, so if you are sensitive to the cold, we recommend bringing warm pajamas. Some participants have used thermal wear and kept the heater on max but still found it chilly.

      How do I get to the island?

      Detailed travel instructions will be shared upon confirmation of your participation. Typically, participants travel by ferry or boat, and we can provide guidance on schedules and booking options. Some participants self-organize and travel by car.

      What happens if I miss the boat?

      There is a private taxi boat service available at a cost of 150 EUR.

      Can I propose a workshop?

      Yes, Elevate encourages participants to bring their expertise and ideas. If you would like to propose a workshop, you need to include it in the master document.

      What is the master document?

      The master document is an Excel sheet that contains all the information regarding the co-created event.

      Can I cancel my ticket and get a refund?

      Cancellation is possible after consultation. 

      What are the dates for the event?

      The event is scheduled from June 1st to June 8th.

      What is the address?

      The event will be held at Ekskäret Island ("Norra Ekskäret" in SL app); Google Maps Link.

      What are the Elevate Values?

      Elevate is built on values of co-creation, self-reliance, inclusion, and responsibility. These serve as a compass for how we wish to come together on the island, emphasizing active participation, awareness of personal needs, welcoming all attendees, and improving our surroundings collectively.

      How is the event organized?

      The structure and preparations of the event are created by a small group of initiators on a voluntary basis. Once on the island, the experience is co-created by all participants.

      How can I contribute to the event?

      Contributions can be made through membership fees, shifts in cooking and cleaning, or by holding workshops. Your presence and personal engagement are the most significant contributions.

      Who facilitates the workshops?

      Anyone interested in hosting a workshop can list it under the "workshop" tab on the masterdocument. The initiators will compile these into a schedule to be released shortly before the event.

      What are the guidelines for consumption of alcohol or recreational drugs?

      This is a sober event; no alcohol or drugs.

      What is "Island Reset"?

      Island Reset is a daily communal cleaning activity where participants clean facilities together according to assigned groups.

      Who will make the food?

      Participants make both lunch and dinner in food teams, with everyone required to take at least one shift as a chef.

      What is available for breakfast?

      The breakfast selection varies and includes items like oats, bread, vegan spreads, yoghurt, eggs, oat milk, orange juice, and fresh fruits.

      Who will do the cleaning?

      Participants are responsible for cleaning dishes and kitchen areas during "Island Reset" and maintaining the cleanliness of toilets and showers in shifts.

      Do I have to participate all days?

      Full participation is encouraged to create psychological safety within the group. Changes in attendance must be communicated to the initiators.

      What should I bring?

      Recommended items include bedding, comfortable clothes, a bathing suit, rain gear, musical instruments, work materials, snacks, and personal items like earplugs and an eye mask.

      Why is all this written in English?

      English is used as the common language to ensure inclusivity among a diverse group of participants.

      Where can I see more important info about the facilities & instruction videos about the kitchen?

      Additional information and instructional videos can be found here.

      Can I get there by car or leave a car at Åsättra brygga for a week?

      You can only arrive at the island by boat. Long-term parking is available at Åsättra brygga where the boat departs.

      Is it possible to use the kitchen when not occupied to cook some of my own food?

      Absolutely! You are welcome to use the kitchen for your own needs, especially if you have dietary restrictions.

      Is it possible to wish we all bring non-sprayed food to the extent available?

      Participants are encouraged to bring organic food as much as possible.

      Would it be possible to have everyone do at-home COVID tests before coming to the island?

      Currently, there is no requirement for COVID tests, but participants are encouraged to use their best judgement to minimize health risks.

      Are there yoga mats there or should we bring our own?

      Yoga mats are available on the island for use.

      Maybe redundant question, but will there be wifi?

      WiFi is available, though the signal may not be strong enough for video calls. Using a phone hotspot is an alternative.

      Initiated and Supported by

      Ekskäret Foundation

      The mission of the Ekskäret Foundation is to both make sense of the world we create and allow brave spaces for people to explore and work on their inner growth. Studies show that having a "safe place” in connection to nature, where we dare to challenge ourselves, can act as an important catalyst for the process of personal development. We support and contribute to these brave places by creating contexts for transformative learning, where skills can be developed to better handle the constantly increasing complexity of our world. 

      K9 Co-living

      An Ekskäret initiated and funded "conscious co-living community" with 50 young professionals from all over the world living and thriving together under one roof in central Stockholm. Started with the aim to support the development of a more conscious society.