2,100 Starbucks district managers from around the world united in the company’s home city of Seattle for a series of meetings to build upon past success and lead the brand to new heights in the years to come.

Starbucks unveiled to its district managers several ways the company will transform and elevate the Starbucks Experience during the upcoming holidays and beyond, and shared this statement after the leadership event.

In addition, here are some of the highlights from the 2014 Starbucks Leadership Experience:

Carrying the Dreams of Starbucks China Partners on Her Shoulders

Video: A Starbucks Partner’s Personal Story of Courage and Leadership

For Partners, From Partners: The First Crop of Coffee from Starbucks Costa Rica Farm

Photos by Francisco Ramos-Sabugo Rodriguez