January 2026: When Screens Turned Into Hugs
As we welcomed 2026, we also welcomed something we had been dreaming about for years — a moment when virtual connections finally became real-life memories.
After nearly four years of working together across screens, time zones, and oceans, our CEO and founder, Brittany Bettini, flew all the way to the Philippines to meet our incredible internal team in person. And what happened next was nothing short of magical.
Our team built strong relationships through online meetings, messages, and shared goals. We supported one another, celebrated wins, and faced challenges, even from miles apart.
Meeting in person felt easy and natural.
When we finally met face to face, something beautiful happened.
There were no awkward moments.
No nervous introductions.
No uncomfortable silence.
Even for teammates meeting for the first time, it felt like a reunion of old friends. We treated each other like family, and the connection was instant, genuine, and deeply emotional.
Cebu Trip Highlights: Our Week Together
Our Cebu trip was filled with meaningful conversations, laughter, cultural experiences, and moments that strengthened our bond as a global team.
Here’s how our unforgettable week unfolded.
Day 1: Welcome & First Meet-Up
The moment we finally met in person.
Our first meet-up was full of smiles, warm hugs, and happy emotions as we welcomed our CEO. Being together strengthened our connection and brought us even closer.
It wasn’t just a meeting. It was the start of new memories, deeper bonds, and an unforgettable journey ahead.
Day 2: Sinulog Festival Experience
Celebrating culture together.
We experienced the vibrant energy of the Sinulog Festival — colorful performances, lively streets, and beautiful traditions that made the day truly special.
Day 3: Team Building Day
Strengthening our bond.
It was a fun, exciting, and inspiring day filled with laughter and great energy. We enjoyed good food, meaningful conversations, shared gifts, and quality time together.
After working together for so long, it felt amazing to finally connect in person. We bonded through games, teamwork activities, and our photoshoot, creating beautiful memories and celebrating the strong connections we’ve built.
One of the most meaningful moments was our CEO’s heartfelt speech, where she shared her vision, appreciation, and encouragement for the entire team. Her words inspired us, reminded us of our purpose, and strengthened our motivation to keep growing together.
The day became even more special with our awarding moment, where everyone’s hard work and dedication were recognized and appreciated. It reminded us that every team member plays an important role in our success.
With teamwork, trust, and support, we lifted each other up and grew even closer. It was a beautiful reminder that when we come together, celebrate wins, and inspire one another, we become stronger as one team.
🌊 Day 4 & 5: The "Say Yes" Challenge and Island Adventures
This part of the trip was all about fun, adventure, and one simple rule: no pass allowed.
We started the “Say Yes” Challenge, where our CEO agreed to try everything. Filipino food? Yes. Drinks? Yes. Jet ski? Yes. Banana boat? Yes. Tattoo session? Why not, yes again.
Brian, Mab's supportive husband, helped document the trip and capture all the special moments. His secret goal was to make Brittany say “no” at least once.
Spoiler: he failed. 😂
Meanwhile, Eman, our photographer, videographer, and unofficial bodyguard, made sure every moment was recorded and everyone was safe.
Somewhere along the way, she even learned a Filipino word that quickly became her favorite (we’ll keep that one a secret 😄), which made everyone laugh even more.
No excuses. Just full “game” energy, lots of laughs, funny reactions, and unforgettable memories. There were lots of laughs, funny reactions, shocked faces, and “I can’t believe I’m doing this” moments.
By the end, she passed the challenge with flying colors. No skips. No regrets. Just great moments and stories to tell.
Sometimes the best trips happen when you say yes and enjoy the ride together. 🌊
Day 6: Farewell & Send-Off
A Leader Who Shows Up
Brittany’s visit reminded us of what true leadership looks like.
She didn’t just manage from afar.
She showed up.
She crossed oceans.
She chose to be present.
Her effort to be with the team in person showed how much she values every individual behind the screens. It strengthened our trust, deepened our bond, and reminded us that we are more than coworkers — we are a community built on respect and care.
We are proud of who we are today because we are guided by a boss who believes in us, supports us, and leads with heart.
Why This Trip Meant So Much
In a remote-first world, it’s easy to think strong relationships stay behind screens. But this experience proved that real connections can grow anywhere when built on trust and care.
We are deeply grateful to every team member who traveled from different places, some from very far away, just to be part of this special moment. Your effort, time, and dedication meant so much and showed how committed and connected our team truly is.
This reminded us that:
Leadership means showing up
Teamwork goes beyond deadlines
Respect creates strong cultures
Distance cannot weaken real bonds
At I Need A VA, we don’t just work together. We grow together. 🧡
🎙Featured Podcast Episode
We’re excited to share that our CEO and founder, Brittany Bettini, was featured on The Career Evangelist Podcast hosted by Bola Alabi.
In “She Delegates: How Letting Go Can Transform Your Leadership and Life,” she opens up about her journey as a leader and entrepreneur. She talks about how learning to delegate changed the way she works, helped her rebuild confidence, recover from burnout, and grow her business in a healthy and balanced way.
The conversation covers leadership, delegation, women in business, building strong systems, and finding balance while managing a growing company. It’s honest, relatable, and full of real-life lessons for anyone trying to do it all.
This feature is especially inspiring for entrepreneurs, leaders, and professionals who sometimes feel overwhelmed. Her story reminds us that trusting your team and taking care of yourself are key to long-term success.
👉Watch and get inspired by her journey.
Looking Ahead in 2026
As we continue this new year, we carry with us renewed motivation, stronger relationships, and deeper appreciation for one another.
January gave us more than memories.
It gave us inspiration.
We are excited for what lies ahead more opportunities, more milestones, and more moments that bring us closer as one global family.
Thank you to our incredible leader, dedicated team, and supportive clients who make this journey possible.
Here’s to more unity, more growth, and more success in 2026 and beyond. 💫
