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Sep 26th 2025
AFAS Live

Amsterdam Business Forum:
Optimistic Leadership

Tickets are selling really fast — secure your spot today!Rewatch our webinar with Peter Hinssen 👀Randstad joins as Deep Dive Partner during the breaks!Congratulations to our lucky 250 VIP ticket holders 👏
Tickets are selling really fast — secure your spot today!Rewatch our webinar with Peter Hinssen 👀Randstad joins as Deep Dive Partner during the breaks!Congratulations to our lucky 250 VIP ticket holders 👏
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randstad partner logo
2
+
World-class speakers
7
+
Countries represented
1
K+
Attendees
Discover the power of optimistic leadership at the Amsterdam Business Forum. A transformative conference designed for business leaders ready to embrace challenges as opportunities, build resilient teams, and lead with confidence in today’s ever-changing world.
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Speakers at abf 2025:
The visionaries reshaping the future of business leadership

Simon Sinek
Author of 'The Infinite Game'
Neil Pasricha
Author of 'The Happiness Equation'
Sanna Marin
Former prime minister of Finland
Dr. Eliza Filby
Leading expert on generational change
Peter Hinssen
Author of 'The Uncertainty Principle'
Ikenna Azuike
Moderator

Five reasons to join Amsterdam Business Forum in 2025

If you dedicate just one day a year to your professional growth as a leader, ... make it this one.

1. World-Class Speakers
Experience insights from a lineup you won't find anywhere else. No stress or FOMO with our single-track headline only program.

2. Expand Your Network
Connect with over 2,000 like-minded leaders and entrepreneurs. Engage in vibrant conversations, forge impactful relationships, and build a powerful network that acts as your ultimate mastermind community.

3. Premium Experience
Enjoy an event crafted to perfection, marked by exceptional production standards, outstanding hospitality, and an unforgettable atmosphere.

4. Actionable Insights
Walk away equipped with at least five powerful ideas you can immediately implement at your workplace, enhancing your leadership effectiveness.

5. Inspiration High
Gain inspiration and motivation to consistently evolve as a leader. The ideas you absorb will fuel your professional journey, every single day.

What’s new

Insights
September 11, 2025
3 Must-watch Simon Sinek videos

We’ve selected three of our favorite Simon Sinek videos. Each one is a mini masterclass in leadership.

Insights
September 9, 2025
How to make a leadership event 'rock'

Amsterdam Business Forum takes place in an unusual venue: one of Amsterdam’s most famous concert halls, AFAS Live. This choice comes with big advantages, a few challenges, and - perhaps most interestingly - a remarkable backstory

Insights
September 8, 2025
New at ABF2025: Deep Dive Sessions

A brand new addition to the program during the breaks.

Insights
August 13, 2025
Rabobank brings its leadership talent to ABF

Using Amsterdam Business Forum as a leadership refreshment day: Learnings from Rabobank

Insights
May 30, 2025
How to be happier and more productive

Neil Pasricha shares his 2-minute morning routine and the powerful reverse success formula

Insights
April 9, 2025
Rewatch the best speech of ABF 2024

We reached out to Joseph, and he gave us permission to share his powerful talk.

Insights
March 20, 2025
Storyline behind Optimistic Leadership

Discover the curators’ vision for this year’s theme and how we selected our speakers.

Updates
February 2, 2025
What you will learn at ABF2025

You’ll walk away with clear insights for your biggest leadership questions and tools to apply the very next day.

Updates
February 2, 2025
Audience profile: who you will meet at Amsterdam Business Forum 2025

From boardroom leaders to bold startup founders – you will meet leaders from the right levels.

Gain access to world-class speakers, exclusive insights, and invaluable connections

Amsterdam Business Forum brings together world-class speakers and industry leaders for a day of powerful insights, practical strategies, and high-level networking with 3,000+ executives.

a woman on stage presenting
AGENDA AT
A GLANCE
9:30 am
Opening
by our host Ikenna Azuike

Opening

9:45 am
Block 1: The Optimistic Future
Peter Hinssen (BE)

Optimism unleashed: harness the power of AI-driven change

10:30 am
Block 1: The Optimistic Future
Sanna Marin (FI)

Our turn: fearless leadership for a new generation

11:15 am
Networking break

Connect with industry leaders and participate in Deep Dives

12:45 pm
Block 2: The Optimism Mindset
Eliza Filby (UK)

Intergenerational teamwork

1:30 pm
Block 2: The Optimism Mindset
Neil Pasricha (CA)

The happiness equation: building stronger teams

2:15 pm
Networking break

Have lunch and join our deep dive sessions

3:45 pm
Simon Sinek
Simon Sinek (US)

Leading with (a bit of) Optimism: day in day out

5:15 pm
Reception & drinks

Time for drinks and networking

Get your tickets

Join a day of
inspiration and
leadership

Most chosen
Regular ticket
Perfect for ambitious professionals
ready to dive into the full experience.
€1195
Access to all keynote sessions, panels, and workshops
Networking opportunities with 3,000+ business leaders
Complimentary lunch, coffee, and refreshments
Post-event access to session recordings
Smart choice
Group ticket
Perfect for teams who want to learn
together and save while they’re at it.
up to
20% off
Everything in a Regular ticket – access to all keynotes, panels & workshops
Group lunch options available
Discounted rates:
• 5 – 9 seats – 10% (€ 1075,25 per ticket)
• 10 – 19 seats – 15% (€ 1015,75 per ticket)
• 20+ seats – 20% (€ 956 per ticket)
Exclusive experience
VIP ticket
An exclusive package designed for
people who want front-row inspiration.
€1795
Access to VIP front-row seating at the main stage and our VIP lounge
Private VIP session with Sanna Marin on Leadership Insights
Private VIP session with Neil Pasricha on Team-Building Strategies
VIP dinner and drinks to close the day
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Amsterdam Business Forum brochure

Discover which companies are attending abf 2025

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AFAS Live Amsterdam offers the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable event. With state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s where inspiration comes to life.

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15
+
Sponsors over the years
logo of Rabobank
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55
%
Return rate for sponsors
Position your brand as a thought leader in a community of innovators

Network directly with C-level executives and senior decision-makers, and showcase your brand to 2,000+ influential attendees.

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HEAR FROM
PAST ATTENDEES
mieke-van-hoydonck
Play video
|
Mieke van Hoydonck
Mieke van Hoydonck
The inspiration and knowledge gained at ABF will not only make me a stronger leader, but also a better person in general.
Play video
|
Bas van der Veldt
Bas van der Veldt
Amsterdam Business Forum is an event where I connect and meet with fellow leaders, get surprised and inspired to make my company better! It's a day well spent.
Play video
|
Noreen Lanigan
Noreen Lanigan
Hands down, the best conference I've ever attended.
mieke-van-hoydonck
Play video
|
Mieke van Hoydonck
Mieke van Hoydonck
The inspiration and knowledge gained at ABF will not only make me a stronger leader, but also a better person in general.
Play video
|
Bas van der Veldt
Bas van der Veldt
Amsterdam Business Forum is an event where I connect and meet with fellow leaders, get surprised and inspired to make my company better! It's a day well spent.
Play video
|
Noreen Lanigan
Noreen Lanigan
Hands down, the best conference I've ever attended.

Frequently asked questions

Clear answers to your top questions about tickets, travel, and your Amsterdam Business Forum experience.

What's included in my ticket to Amsterdam Business Forum?

Your ticket gives you full access to the Main Stage program on the day of the event, plus a bundle of post event materials and onsite benefits so you don’t miss a thing.

Main Stage access

→ All keynote talks, panels and sessions on the Main Stage are included.

Recordings

→ Access to on-demand recordings of all Main Stage talks for 30 days after the event. Access details will be provided to ticket holders after the event.

Catering

→ General catering is included for all attendees (all inclusive catering, and unlimited tea/coffee/soft drinks). Plenty of vegetarian options are available.

Bonus materials

→ We’ll share additional resources where possible: blog summaries, visual recaps and slides or handouts.

Personal program & floorplan

→ Your badge contains a QR code linking to your personal program; the venue floorplan will be uploaded to the website once its available, and linked in your personal program.

VIP differences

→ VIP tickets include reserved seating and VIP catering.

Side events

→ Some side events (e.g., Learning Circles, Deep Dives) require separate pre-registration via My ABF; they are not automatically covered by a standard ticket unless stated.

Need help or missing your e-ticket? Email customercare@denkproducties.nl or find us at the information desk.

Pro tip: save your e-ticket to your phone wallet or screenshot it. Makes entry seamless.

How and when will I receive my e-ticket, and can I transfer my booking?

E-ticket delivery

→ After you complete your registration you’ll receive a confirmation email. Your e-ticket (with QR code) is sent by email a few days before the event; keep an eye on the email address you used to register.

Didn’t receive it?

→ First check your spam/junk folder. If it’s not there, email customercare@denkproducties.nl
and our team will resend your e-ticket.

Transferring your ticket

→ You may transfer your ticket to someone else. Please email us the new name and email adres in advance so we can update the ticket (customercare@denkproducties.nl). This makes check-in faster.

Changing or cancelling

→ Need to change or cancel your booking? Contact customercare@denkproducties.nl
for assistance. Any changes or refunds are subject to the event’s terms and conditions.

Need urgent help on the day? Find us at the information desk at the entrance (see floorpan).

How do I get to AFAS Live and where can I park?

Best way to get to the venue
→ The easiest option is public transport. AFAS Live is a 2-minute walk from Amsterdam Bijlmer ArenA station. Trains, metro and local buses all stop nearby.

By car & where to park
→ If you drive, we recommend parking in P6 (best option), followed by P4, P5 and P10. These lots are the most convenient for AFAS Live.

Parking machine event button
→ When leaving the car park, press the ‘event’ button on the parking machine to activate the reduced event rate.

Parking reimbursement
→ We encourage public transport and do not reimburse parking costs.

Arriving from further away / directions
→ Use your preferred navigation app and search “AFAS Live” or “Amsterdam Bijlmer ArenA”. If you’re coming by train, follow signs from Bijlmer ArenA station. It’s a very short walk.

Need help on the day?
→ Need urgent help on the day? Find us at the information desk at the entrance (see floorpan).

What time should I arrive, where do I sit, and can I leave and return?

Doors & program times
→ Doors open at 08:00. The Main Stage hall will be open from 08:30, and the Main Stage program starts 09:30 (sharp).

When to arrive
→ We recommend arriving between 08:00 and 09:00 so you have time to check in and grab coffee before the program begins.

Seating
→ General admission is free seating in the stands. VIPs have reserved seats. Some pre-registered groups will also have clearly marked reserved seating. If you’re attending with a colleague, try to enter the Main Stage together to find seats next to each other.

Where is the VIP Stage?

→ The VIP Stage is located in the VIP area. You can find this on the floorplan. Our hosts will guide you if needed.

Leaving & re-entering
→ You may leave the venue during breaks. To re-enter you must show your badge; staff may also ask to see your e-ticket. Keep your badge handy to avoid delays.

Cloakroom & luggage storage

→ Lockers are available inside AFAS Live for coats and small bags. For larger items (luggage), use the storage corner in the tent on the square. Space is limited, so please use only if necessary. You’ll receive a numbered tag to collect your items. This service is free of charge.

Your personal program
→ Your badge has a QR code linking to your personal program and the floorplan. Scan it at arrival or anytime during the day.

Need help on the day?
→ Need urgent help on the day? Find us at the information desk at the entrance (see floorpan).

Pro tip: arrive early to claim the best seats and avoid queues. Coffee is waiting.

Do you cater for special diets and accessibility needs?

Dietary options & allergies
→ We provide a wide selection of food with plenty of vegetarian options. If you have allergies, submit them via My ABF up to two weeks before the event. You can also email customercare@denkproducties.nl and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.

How we handle allergy info
→ We forward allergy details to our catering partners (and to external side event providers when relevant). Please be as specific as possible about ingredients and severity so we can communicate it correctly.

VIP & side event catering
→ VIP meals are served in the VIP area. For side events with separate catering (e.g., Group Lunch, Learning Circles), we forward allergy info to the relevant venues.

Special diet catering pick-up

  • - VIP attendees: your meal will be available in the VIP area.
  • - Non-VIP attendees: you can pick up your meal at the kiosk in the foyer (both locations are on the floor plan).
  • - Attendees of external sessions (such as the Group Lunch or Learning Circles): your allergies will be forwarded to those locations and taken into consideration.

Wheelchair access & mobility needs
→ AFAS Live is wheelchair accessible. If you need reserved seating or assistance on arrival, email customercare@denkproducties.nl in advance so we can reserve a spot and arrange for a crew member to guide you.

Other accessibility needs (visual/hearing/etc.)
→ For support with visual impairment, hearing needs, or other assistance, contact customercare@denkproducties.nl and tell us what would help. We’ll work with the venue to find the best solution.

Need urgent assistance on the day?
→ Need urgent help on the day? Find us at the information desk at the entrance (see floorpan).

Pro tip: submit diet/allergy info early. The earlier we know, the better we can accommodate.

Will all talks be in English, and will I receive recordings, slides or photos?

Language of the programme
→ Yes, all Main Stage talks are presented in English.

Recordings
→ All Main Stage talks are recorded. Ticket holders get on-demand access for 30 days after the event, with the exception of Simon Sinek’s session (available for 7 days). Access instructions will be sent to the email address you used to register.

Slides & handouts
→ We’ll share additional materials where speakers allow it. Expect blog summaries, visual recaps and - if a speaker permits - slides or handouts. Not every speaker grants permission.

Photos & filming
→ Attendees may take photos during the event. Please be considerate of speakers and fellow attendees (avoid obstructing views or using flash on stage). The event also has official photographers/filmers; be aware you may appear in editorial/event images.

Selfies, signings & speaker access
→ Speaker availability for selfies or book signings is not guaranteed for security and schedule reasons. Many speakers do mingle during breaks and some will sign books at the on-site bookstore. Check the bookstore schedule on the floorplan for signing times.

Where to find your personal program & materials
→ Scan the QR code on your badge to view your personal program. Links to floorplans, session pages and post event materials will be available there.

What side events are there and is food included?

Overview of side events
→ In addition to the Main Stage, we run several side events to deepen conversations and make space for networking: Learning Circles, Group Lunch, Work Space & Introvert Lounge, and Deep Dive Sessions. Each event has a short description below.

Learning Circles — ArenA (Glasgow Room)
→ Small-scale, moderated peer sessions with focused discussion. These sessions include their own catering during the break.

Group Lunch — Jinso Restaurant (across from AFAS Live)
→ A shared meal with your group; catering included. Status: FULLY BOOKED.

Work Space & Introvert Lounge — Boulevard Fourteen
→ A quiet spot nearby to recharge, work, or hold a focused meeting. It is ideal if you want a lower-stimulus area. This space includes their own catering during the break.

Deep Dive Sessions — Pathé Arena
→ Short, interactive sessions with speakers to explore specific themes in more depth. These run during breaks: 12:00–12:30 and 15:00–15:30. Good to know: Catering is served in AFAS Live. At Pathé Arena only coffee is available.

Registration & capacity
→ Some side events require pre-registration via My ABF. On-the-day access is only possible if space remains, this cannot be guaranteed.

Not joining a side event?

→ There’s plenty to explore inside AFAS Live during the breaks. Check your personal program (badge QR) and the floorplan for all options so you don’t miss out.

Need help on the day?
→ Need urgent help on the day? Find us at the information desk at the entrance (see floorpan).

Best moments from past conferences

Experience the energy and inspiration that define the Amsterdam Business Forum, from world-class speakers to unforgettable connections.

See more highlights
Hiphop musician and inspirational speaker
Unique musician performances
Founder Hans giving away t-shirts