7 Proven Secrets to Planning Corporate Dinners in Kenya

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Planning Corporate Dinners in Kenya: Elevate Every Moment with Peak Audio

Planning corporate dinners in Kenya is an art that blends strategy, creativity, and precision. These occasions go beyond fine dining — they are powerful opportunities to build corporate culture, strengthen partnerships, and celebrate milestones. A well-executed dinner leaves a lasting impression, not only on your guests’ minds but also on your company’s reputation. From the theme and ambiance to sound clarity and lighting design, every detail matters. This guide walks you through the essential steps of creating an elegant, memorable corporate dinner in Kenya — and reveals how Peak Audio brings professional finesse to every event.

In the following sections, we’ll explore everything you need to know to make your corporate dinner a success. You’ll learn how to choose the ideal venue that matches your brand identity, plan a flow that keeps guests engaged, and incorporate visual and audio elements that captivate the audience. We’ll also discuss décor, entertainment, and technical setups that elevate the overall experience. Whether you’re hosting a board-level gala, a client appreciation night, or a company awards dinner, this guide will help you plan with purpose and sophistication.

At Peak Audio, we understand that flawless execution is the heartbeat of every successful event. That’s why we provide end-to-end audio-visual solutions tailored to your unique needs — from stage design and lighting ambiance to sound engineering and visual displays. Our mission is to ensure every speech is heard clearly, every performance dazzles, and every moment feels unforgettable. With our cutting-edge equipment and experienced event team, we help you transform your corporate dinner into a seamless, polished production that reflects excellence at every turn.

1. Understanding the Purpose of a Corporate Dinner

Corporate dinners are more than just formal meals—they are strategic events that strengthen relationships, celebrate achievements, and enhance a company’s professional image. Proper planning ensures that these dinners leave a lasting positive impression on employees, clients, and stakeholders.

1.1 Celebrating Milestones and Recognizing Employee Contributions

Acknowledging Achievements: Corporate dinners provide a platform to honor team accomplishments, project successes, and annual milestones.
Boosting Morale: Recognizing individual and team contributions fosters a sense of appreciation and motivation.
Ceremonial Elements: Award presentations, speeches, or highlights of accomplishments make the celebration structured and meaningful.

Celebrating milestones reinforces a culture of recognition and encourages continued high performance.

1.2 Building Stronger Relationships with Clients and Stakeholders

Networking Opportunities: Corporate dinners create a relaxed setting for meaningful conversations with clients, partners, and investors.
Relationship Strengthening: Sharing a meal fosters trust, collaboration, and goodwill.
Brand Representation: Professional hosting demonstrates reliability and attention to detail, enhancing the company’s reputation.

Well-executed dinners can turn business interactions into long-lasting partnerships.

1.3 Enhancing Company Culture and Boosting Team Morale

Team Bonding: Employees interact outside the usual work environment, encouraging camaraderie.
Positive Workplace Culture: Celebrating together reinforces company values, shared goals, and a sense of belonging.
Motivation and Retention: Recognizing hard work during these events boosts engagement and employee loyalty.

Corporate dinners serve as morale boosters, strengthening internal cohesion and collaboration.

1.4 Reinforcing Brand Image Through Professional and Memorable Experiences

Event Presentation: Elegant décor, lighting, and AV setups reflect the company’s professionalism and attention to detail.
Memorable Moments: Thoughtful planning—such as thematic elements, entertainment, or speeches—leaves a lasting impression.
Brand Consistency: Integrating logos, color schemes, and messaging reinforces the company identity.

A well-executed corporate dinner elevates the company’s image, demonstrating sophistication and care for both employees and clients.

Corporate dinners in Kenya serve a strategic purpose beyond dining. They celebrate achievements, strengthen client and stakeholder relationships, enhance team morale, and reinforce brand identity. By planning with attention to recognition, networking, culture, and presentation, companies can create professional and memorable experiences that leave a lasting positive impact on all attendees.

2. Defining the Theme and Objectives

Defining a clear theme and objectives is crucial for a corporate dinner to achieve its purpose. A well-chosen theme not only reflects your brand identity but also guides every aspect of the event—from décor and entertainment to AV setup—ensuring a cohesive and memorable experience.

2.1 Choosing a Theme that Aligns with Your Corporate Identity and Occasion

Brand Reflection: Select a theme that mirrors your company values, colors, and personality. For example, a luxury-themed dinner may reflect a premium brand image, while a casual elegance theme can emphasize approachability.
Occasion Appropriateness: Align the theme with the purpose of the dinner, such as celebrating milestones, hosting clients, or announcing new initiatives.
Consistency: A well-defined theme creates a visual and experiential consistency across invitations, décor, and AV elements.

A carefully chosen theme ensures that attendees instantly connect with the company’s identity and the event’s purpose.

2.2 Setting Clear Objectives — Whether to Reward, Network, or Announce

Rewarding Employees: If the goal is recognition, structure the program to highlight achievements with awards, speeches, or presentations.
Networking with Clients: For relationship-building objectives, create spaces and activities that encourage interaction and meaningful conversations.
Announcements or Launches: If introducing a new product or service, objectives focus on maximizing attention and delivering a memorable reveal.

Clear objectives guide the event’s flow, resource allocation, and choice of AV, entertainment, and program elements.

2.3 Balancing Professionalism with Creativity to Set the Right Tone

Professional Tone: Maintain corporate standards in attire, program structure, and presentations to reflect the company’s credibility.
Creative Touches: Add innovative elements like themed décor, interactive experiences, or light shows to make the dinner memorable.
Audience Engagement: A balance ensures guests feel both respected and entertained, fostering positive impressions and long-lasting memories.

This balance is key to creating an event that impresses without compromising professionalism.

2.4 How Your Theme Influences Décor, Entertainment, and AV Setup

Décor Alignment: Color schemes, table settings, and centerpieces should reflect the chosen theme.
Entertainment Selection: Live bands, DJs, or cultural performances can be matched to reinforce the theme.
AV Setup: Lighting, projection, and sound design should complement both the ambiance and functional needs of the dinner.

When theme and objectives guide planning, all components of the event come together cohesively.

Defining the theme and objectives is the foundation of a successful corporate dinner in Kenya. A well-aligned theme reinforces brand identity, sets the appropriate tone, and guides all elements of décor, entertainment, and AV setup. Coupled with clear objectives—whether to reward employees, strengthen client relationships, or announce key milestones—the event becomes a structured, engaging, and memorable experience for every attendee.

3. Choosing the Perfect Venue in Kenya

Selecting the right venue is critical to the success of a corporate dinner. The venue sets the tone for the event, affects guest comfort, and influences the effectiveness of décor, entertainment, and AV setups. A carefully chosen location ensures a seamless, professional experience that aligns with your objectives.

3.1 Factors to Consider: Location, Capacity, Parking, and Ambience

Location Accessibility: Choose a venue that is easy for employees, clients, and stakeholders to reach, minimizing travel stress and maximizing attendance.
Capacity: Ensure the space comfortably accommodates all guests, including dining areas, networking zones, and stage or presentation setups.
Parking and Transport: Adequate parking and access to public transport or shuttles enhances convenience for attendees.
Ambience: The overall atmosphere should match the event theme, whether elegant, formal, relaxed, or celebratory.

These factors directly influence guest satisfaction and the overall perception of the company.

3.2 Top Venues for Corporate Dinners in Kenya

Nairobi Luxury Hotels: Venues like Villa Rosa Kempinski, Sarit Expo Centre, and Radisson Blu offer professional service, AV-ready halls, and sophisticated décor options.
Naivasha Retreats: Scenic lakeside resorts provide serene outdoor experiences, perfect for team celebrations or client gatherings.
Mombasa and Coastal Options: Tropical beachfront venues allow for relaxed, memorable dinners with stunning natural backdrops.
Other Retreats and Conference Centers: Exclusive lodges or country estates provide privacy, elegance, and flexibility for custom AV setups.

Choosing a top-rated venue ensures high-quality services and the infrastructure needed for a professional dinner.

3.3 Importance of Acoustics, Lighting Options, and Technical Compatibility

Acoustics: Proper sound quality ensures speeches, announcements, and entertainment are clear and engaging.
Lighting Options: Adjustable lighting allows you to set the right mood and highlight décor or presentations.
Technical Compatibility: Check for AV infrastructure, power supply, and internet connectivity to support presentations, projections, and live streaming if needed.

Technical readiness is essential for delivering a seamless and professional event experience.

3.4 Conducting Site Visits to Assess Layout and AV Installation Needs

Layout Assessment: Evaluate dining arrangements, stage or presentation areas, networking spaces, and movement flow.
AV Planning: Identify optimal locations for sound systems, projectors, screens, and lighting fixtures.
Problem Prevention: Visiting the venue in advance helps anticipate challenges, such as lighting adjustments, cabling, or seating configurations.

Site visits provide practical insights to finalize decisions and ensure that the event runs smoothly.

Choosing the perfect venue in Kenya is a foundational step for a successful corporate dinner. By considering location, capacity, parking, ambience, and technical requirements, companies can ensure both comfort and professionalism. Top venues, from Nairobi’s luxury hotels to Naivasha retreats and coastal resorts, offer diverse options tailored to your objectives. Conducting site visits and assessing AV and layout needs further guarantees a seamless, well-executed dinner that impresses guests and reinforces brand image.

4. Planning the Dinner Experience

A corporate dinner is more than a meal—it is a carefully curated experience that engages guests, reinforces company culture, and leaves a lasting impression. Planning every detail ensures the event flows smoothly, reflects the company’s standards, and creates a memorable evening for all attendees.

4.1 Curating a Menu that Reflects Your Guests’ Tastes and Event Tone

Guest Preferences: Consider dietary restrictions, cultural preferences, and popular cuisines to ensure every guest can enjoy the meal.
Event Tone: Match the menu to the dinner’s theme—luxury corporate dinners may feature multi-course plated meals, while casual networking events can offer elegant buffet options.
Local and Seasonal Ingredients: Incorporating fresh, locally sourced produce highlights quality and sophistication while supporting Kenyan suppliers.

A thoughtfully curated menu ensures that the dining experience resonates with guests and complements the event’s purpose.

4.2 Timing and Structure — Cocktail Hour, Speeches, Dinner, and Entertainment

Structured Flow: Plan a timeline that balances networking, recognition, and entertainment without overwhelming attendees.
Cocktail Hour: Provides a relaxed start where guests can mingle and settle in before formal proceedings.
Speeches and Awards: Schedule announcements or recognitions strategically to maintain engagement and avoid interruptions during dining.
Entertainment: Live music, cultural performances, or light shows can be interspersed between courses to sustain interest and energy.

Proper timing and sequencing create a cohesive and enjoyable guest experience.

4.3 Choosing Between Plated Service, Buffet, or Themed Dining

Plated Service: Offers elegance and structure, ideal for formal dinners and smaller groups.
Buffet: Encourages interaction, provides variety, and works well for larger gatherings.
Themed Dining: Enhances the event’s visual appeal and can reflect brand identity or cultural motifs, adding an extra layer of engagement.

Selecting the appropriate dining style supports both guest satisfaction and the event’s overall atmosphere.

4.4 How Lighting, Music, and Ambiance Set the Mood for Elegance and Comfort

Lighting: Use adjustable, warm, or accent lighting to create intimacy and highlight décor or key areas.
Music: Background music should complement conversation, maintain energy, and match the theme or tone.
Decorative Touches: Centerpieces, table arrangements, and subtle branding elements elevate the visual experience.

Together, these elements craft an immersive environment that makes guests feel comfortable while reinforcing the company’s professional image.

Planning the dinner experience for a corporate event in Kenya requires careful attention to menu curation, timing, dining style, and ambiance. By considering guest preferences, structuring the flow, selecting appropriate service styles, and harmonizing lighting and music, companies can create an elegant and engaging evening. A well-orchestrated dinner ensures attendees feel valued, engaged, and impressed, reinforcing company culture and leaving a lasting positive impression.

5. Audio Visual (AV) Setup for Corporate Dinners

Audio Visual (AV) elements are a crucial component of corporate dinners, enhancing communication, creating ambiance, and reinforcing brand identity. A professional AV setup ensures that speeches, presentations, and entertainment are delivered clearly, while lighting and visuals elevate the overall guest experience.

5.1 Why Professional Sound Systems Ensure Clarity for Speeches and Entertainment

Crystal-Clear Audio: Professional microphones and speakers ensure that every speech, toast, or announcement is audible to all attendees, regardless of room size.
Balanced Sound Distribution: Properly positioned speakers prevent dead zones and echo, ensuring a consistent listening experience throughout the venue.
Entertainment Integration: Bands, DJs, or recorded music benefit from high-quality audio, enhancing performances and maintaining audience engagement.

A reliable sound system is essential for effective communication and a polished, professional event.

5.2 Integrating Lighting Design to Enhance Atmosphere and Décor

Ambient Lighting: Sets the overall mood of the dinner, creating warmth, intimacy, or elegance depending on the event theme.
Accent Lighting: Highlights key areas such as the stage, award tables, or branded décor elements.
Color Coordination: Lighting colors can reflect the company brand or event theme, reinforcing visual identity and creating memorable impressions.

Strategic lighting design transforms the space, complementing décor and supporting the desired atmosphere.

5.3 Using LED Screens and Visual Backdrops for Branding and Presentations

Dynamic Branding: LED screens and digital backdrops showcase logos, videos, and promotional content seamlessly.
Enhanced Presentations: Slides, charts, or live feeds become more engaging and readable for all attendees.
Interactive Experiences: Screens can display live social media feeds, award announcements, or interactive polls to increase engagement.

Visual elements elevate professionalism, reinforce messaging, and make the event more memorable.

5.4 How Peak Audio Delivers Flawless Sound, Lighting, and Visuals for Corporate Dinners

Tailored AV Solutions: Peak Audio customizes sound, lighting, and visuals to match event scale, venue layout, and corporate branding.
Professional Installation and Testing: Equipment is installed, calibrated, and tested in advance to ensure seamless performance during the event.
On-Site Technical Support: Technicians are available to manage live adjustments, troubleshoot issues, and maintain flawless operation.

By combining expertise, high-quality equipment, and hands-on support, Peak Audio ensures every corporate dinner is immersive, engaging, and professional.

A professional AV setup is vital for successful corporate dinners in Kenya. Clear sound ensures effective communication, strategic lighting enhances ambiance, and visual displays reinforce branding and engagement. With tailored solutions, precise installation, and expert support from Peak Audio, companies can deliver an unforgettable and polished dinner experience that leaves a lasting impression on employees, clients, and stakeholders.

6. Entertainment and Engagement Ideas

Entertainment and engagement elements are essential for keeping guests interested, fostering interaction, and creating memorable experiences at corporate dinners. Thoughtfully curated activities ensure that the event is not only professional but also enjoyable and immersive.

6.1 Incorporating Live Music, DJs, or Cultural Performances for Ambience

Live Music: Hiring bands or instrumentalists adds sophistication and sets the desired tone, whether elegant, upbeat, or relaxed.
DJs: Perfect for modern, dynamic dinners where music transitions smoothly between dining, networking, and dance segments.
Cultural Performances: Kenyan traditional music, dance, or drumming adds a unique touch, celebrates local culture, and delights guests with authentic experiences.

Live entertainment creates an immersive atmosphere, energizes guests, and complements the event’s theme.

6.2 Using Multimedia Presentations to Showcase Milestones and Company Stories

Video Highlights: Short videos celebrating achievements, employee contributions, or company growth captivate the audience and reinforce corporate pride.
Slide Shows: Combine photos, graphs, and testimonials to tell your company story effectively.
Interactive Visuals: Incorporate animations, infographics, or live feeds to keep content engaging and professional.

Multimedia presentations allow for storytelling that is informative, inspiring, and visually compelling.

6.3 Creating Interactive Moments Such as Raffles or Award Segments

Awards and Recognition: Publicly honoring employees or clients encourages engagement and strengthens morale.
Raffles or Games: Fun activities like raffles, quizzes, or contests promote participation and maintain energy throughout the dinner.
Audience Interaction: Polls, Q&A sessions, or live voting can be facilitated through AV systems, making guests feel involved.

Interactive elements foster connection, excitement, and a sense of inclusion among attendees.

6.4 How Entertainment Reinforces the Event’s Theme and Keeps Guests Engaged

Theme Consistency: Entertainment should align with the chosen theme, whether formal, cultural, or celebratory, to create a cohesive experience.
Energy Flow: Carefully timed performances or interactive segments sustain interest and prevent lulls during the dinner.
Memorable Experience: Engaging entertainment ensures that guests leave with positive memories, reinforcing the company’s image and values.

Well-integrated entertainment enhances the event’s overall impact while keeping guests actively involved.

Incorporating entertainment and engagement ideas is a key strategy for successful corporate dinners in Kenya. From live music, DJs, and cultural performances to multimedia storytelling and interactive moments, these elements enrich the guest experience and reinforce the event’s theme. By thoughtfully blending entertainment with professional planning, companies can ensure that every attendee feels engaged, valued, and inspired, creating lasting impressions that strengthen relationships and enhance brand perception.

7. Working with Professional Event and AV Partners

Partnering with experienced event and AV professionals is crucial for delivering a polished, stress-free corporate dinner. Expert collaborators bring technical know-how, creative solutions, and logistical support, ensuring that every aspect of the event is executed flawlessly.

7.1 Benefits of Hiring Experienced Professionals for Planning and Execution

Expert Guidance: Professionals provide strategic advice on event design, flow, and technical requirements based on years of experience.
Time Efficiency: Delegating planning tasks allows company teams to focus on core responsibilities while experts handle logistics.
Risk Mitigation: Experienced partners anticipate potential challenges, from technical issues to scheduling conflicts, and provide solutions proactively.

Working with experts ensures a seamless, high-quality event that meets both objectives and expectations.

7.2 How Peak Audio Collaborates with Event Planners, Decorators, and Caterers for Seamless Delivery

Integrated Approach: Peak Audio coordinates with all stakeholders to align technical requirements with décor, catering, and event flow.
Custom Solutions: AV setups are tailored to complement venue aesthetics, dining arrangements, and entertainment programs.
Communication and Planning: Continuous collaboration ensures that all elements, from lighting to sound cues, are synchronized for a cohesive experience.

Collaboration between AV experts and event partners results in a unified, professional, and visually appealing corporate dinner.

7.3 Technical Support, Setup, and Live Coordination Throughout the Event

Pre-Event Setup: Equipment is installed, tested, and calibrated in advance to prevent issues on the day of the event.
Real-Time Management: Technicians monitor sound levels, lighting cues, and visual displays, making adjustments as needed.
Problem-Solving: Immediate troubleshooting ensures that technical challenges do not disrupt the guest experience.

Having dedicated technical support guarantees smooth execution and a stress-free environment for organizers and attendees.

7.4 Ensuring Safety, Efficiency, and Precision in All Technical Installations

Safety Protocols: Proper cable management, grounding, and secure installations prevent accidents.
Efficiency: Streamlined setups reduce setup and teardown time, optimizing event preparation and execution.
Precision: Every technical element, from microphone placement to lighting angles, is fine-tuned to achieve the best possible experience.

Professional handling ensures reliability, safety, and optimal performance, elevating the overall quality of the corporate dinner.

Working with professional event and AV partners is essential for creating a flawless corporate dinner experience in Kenya. From strategic planning and collaboration with vendors to technical setup and real-time coordination, experts like Peak Audio provide the expertise, equipment, and support necessary to deliver a seamless event. By leveraging professional skills, companies can ensure efficiency, safety, and precision, leaving a lasting impression on clients, employees, and stakeholders while enhancing their brand’s credibility and professionalism.

8. FAQs on Planning Corporate Dinners in Kenya

Corporate dinners require careful planning to ensure a smooth, professional, and enjoyable experience for guests. Here are common questions and detailed answers to guide organizers through the process.

8.1 How early should I start planning a corporate dinner?

Recommended Timeline: Begin planning at least 4–8 weeks before the event.
Benefits: Early planning allows ample time to secure venues, finalize menus, book AV equipment, and coordinate with suppliers.
Avoiding Last-Minute Issues: Advanced preparation reduces the risk of unavailable vendors, rushed setups, or overlooked details, ensuring a polished event.

8.2 What is the average cost of hosting a corporate dinner in Kenya?

Cost Range: Depending on venue choice, menu selection, entertainment, and production scale, costs typically range from Ksh 150,000 to Ksh 1 million.
Factors Influencing Cost: Number of guests, catering style (plated vs. buffet), AV requirements, décor, and location.
Budget Planning: Proper budgeting ensures quality and professionalism without overspending.

8.3 Can Peak Audio provide both sound and lighting for a dinner setup?

Complete AV Packages: Yes. Peak Audio delivers microphones, background music systems, stage lighting, and LED screens.
Seamless Integration: Sound and lighting are synchronized to enhance speeches, presentations, and entertainment.
Professional Support: Installation, calibration, and on-site management ensure flawless performance throughout the dinner.

8.4 How do I choose the right theme for my corporate dinner?

Alignment with Event Purpose: Select a theme that reflects whether the dinner is formal, celebratory, cultural, or modern.
Consistency Across Elements: The theme should influence décor, table settings, entertainment, and AV design.
Brand Identity: Incorporate company colors, logos, or visual motifs to reinforce corporate identity and create a memorable impression.

8.5 What are the best venues for corporate dinners in Nairobi?

Top Choices: Villa Rosa Kempinski, Serena Hotel, Movenpick, Radisson Blu, and Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club.
Selection Criteria: Accessibility, capacity, ambience, catering options, and AV infrastructure are essential for a successful dinner.
Technical Readiness: Venues with existing AV capabilities or space for custom setups simplify planning and reduce costs.

8.6 Can outdoor corporate dinners be successful in Kenya?

Feasibility: Yes. Outdoor dinners can be elegant and memorable with proper planning.
Key Considerations: Weatherproof AV equipment, strategic lighting, shade or tent options, and contingency plans for rain.
Enhanced Experience: Gardens, terraces, or scenic venues provide unique ambiance that indoor spaces cannot replicate.

8.7 Do I need a professional MC or host for the dinner?

Importance: A professional MC ensures smooth transitions, keeps guests engaged, and maintains the flow of speeches, awards, and entertainment.
Added Value: Experienced hosts can inject energy, humor, or cultural relevance, elevating the overall experience.
Coordination: MCs work closely with AV and event staff to synchronize timing and cues for presentations and performances.

8.8 Can Peak Audio handle last-minute AV requests?

Availability Dependent: Yes, depending on scheduling and equipment availability.
Recommendation: Booking in advance ensures access to the best technology, planning support, and optimal installation time.
Flexible Solutions: Peak Audio can provide scaled or temporary solutions if required on short notice.

8.9 What lighting styles work best for corporate dinners?

Ambient Lighting: Warm, soft lighting creates a comfortable and elegant atmosphere.
Accent Lighting: Highlights key areas such as stages, award tables, or branded décor elements.
Stage or Task Lighting: Ensures speakers, performers, and presentations are clearly visible, complementing background ambience.

8.10 Can I integrate company branding into the visuals and lighting?

Custom Branding: Peak Audio can project logos, company colors, animations, and branded graphics onto screens or through lighting effects.
Cohesive Experience: Integrating branding into AV design reinforces identity and leaves a lasting impression on guests.
Event Personalization: Tailored visuals make the dinner unique and aligned with corporate messaging.

Planning a corporate dinner in Kenya involves careful coordination of venue, theme, entertainment, AV setup, and guest experience. By addressing common questions—from budgeting and venue selection to lighting, AV, and branding—organizers can ensure a professional, memorable, and enjoyable event. Partnering with experts like Peak Audio provides comprehensive support, including high-quality sound, lighting, and technical management, guaranteeing that every corporate dinner leaves a lasting impression on employees, clients, and stakeholders.

Elevate Your Corporate Dinners in Kenya with Peak Audio’s Expert AV Solutions

Corporate dinners offer a unique opportunity to celebrate achievements, strengthen team bonds, and leave a lasting impression on clients and stakeholders. The right combination of ambiance, meticulous planning, and professional audiovisual support ensures that every element—from speeches to entertainment—is delivered flawlessly. Thoughtful lighting, crystal-clear sound, and visually appealing displays transform an ordinary dinner into a memorable experience that resonates with every guest.

Partnering with Peak Audio brings a new level of sophistication to your corporate events. Our expertise in sound, lighting, and visual solutions allows you to craft dinners that are not only elegant but also seamlessly executed. From intimate gatherings to large-scale galas, our professional AV setups ensure that every toast, presentation, and performance is experienced with clarity, style, and impact.

With Peak Audio, your corporate dinners in Kenya become more than just events—they become immersive experiences that reinforce your brand, inspire your team, and delight your guests. Trust our team to handle every technical detail, so you can focus on connecting, celebrating, and enjoying a truly unforgettable evening that reflects your company’s values and vision.