Not Your Average Monday: Inside the Magic of Tribe Space

Every company has its rituals — the standups, the all-hands, the newsletter wrap-ups. But at Mercedes-Benz.io, Mondays start differently.

We call it Tribe Space — a 35-minute, company-wide moment that blends information, inspiration, and sometimes imperfection in the best possible way. It’s not just where we share updates. It’s where we welcome new joiners, dialogue, and occasionally improvise live in front of hundreds of people when the tech gods betray us. And we wouldn’t have it any other way.

What Is Tribe Space, Really?

“It’s the newscast of Mercedes-Benz.io,” says Andreia dos Reis. “It collects the most important and current information people need to hear about the company and our culture — and we all hear it directly from the source.”

For Bruno Morais, it’s a powerful way to start the week: “It gives you overarching context before you get laser focused in your teams’ quests.”

“It’s a symbol and a metaphor for our company,” adds Simon Truckenmueller. “No matter if we were a small company, or growing, or in lockdown — Tribe Space was always there. A reliable source of connection.”

And it's also a space for dialogue, as Mafalda Manso highlights: "It’s also a space where we can ask questions and receive feedback. It’s very important because it brings us close together."

Patricia Fernandes puts it beautifully: “It’s that little pause in our workday where we get to reconnect as humans. In a hybrid company, having intentional moments to feel part of something bigger is essential.”

Behind the Mic: The Role of the Tribe Space Drivers

If you’re an MB.ioneer who ever watched Tribe Space and thought, “That looks fun — I could do that!”, just know: there’s more going on than meets the eye.

“You really have to be prepared,” says Simon. “It’s only 35 minutes but so many things can happen, from technical issues to unexpected comments. It looks easy, but it’s not. No matter what happens, you have to continue.”

Bruno breaks it down:

“What’s the next topic? Someone wrote in the speakers chat, is it urgent? Mute, unmute, queue video, next animation… Time is running out — better pick up the pace.”

He adds, “Even if you juggle all of that smoothly, there’s always the chance of a random glitch in Teams or the broadcast tool… and suddenly 400+ people are silently judging as you improvise.”

Despite the chaos, the role comes with a unique kind of joy. “I like the challenge and to be outside of my comfort zone,” says Andreia. “It’s great to build confidence and resilience with the entire company looking at you.”

And for Mafalda Manso, it’s been transformative: “It helped me improve my communication skills and my confidence. Tribe Space is perfect for that.”

Lessons, Laughs, and Live Learning

Being a Tribe Space driver isn’t just about delivering content — it’s about holding space. And that comes with powerful lessons.

“It taught me how to deal with difficult or sensitive topics in the best way,” says Andreia. “And how to be clear in our speech so everyone understands.”

Patricia shares a more poetic insight: “That silence can be as powerful as words. Sometimes the best thing you can offer is space — and trust that people will fill it in their own way, when they’re ready.”

If We Could Invite Anyone…

We asked our drivers who they’d bring to Tribe Space if they could choose anyone in the world. Their answers? Iconic:

• Simon Sinek, for his powerful insights and clarity of thought — Bruno
• Taylor Swift, because she has so many facets and isn’t afraid to have an opinion — Simon
• Susie Wolff, because she’s a total boss — Mafalda
• Ola Källenius, to bring the big picture of the automotive world — Andreia
• David Bowie (if time travel were real) or Harry Styles, for his softness, presence, and how he leads with authenticity — Patricia

Why This Tradition Matters

Tribe Space isn’t just a calendar event. It’s an anchor.

It’s where culture gets airtime, not just KPIs. Where leadership meets authenticity. Where someone new joins the call — and immediately feels like they belong.

And sure, there might be the occasional technical hiccup, or a rogue video that won’t work. But at the heart of it, Tribe Space is a weekly reminder that we’re not just coworkers — we’re a tribe.

One that shows up. Listens. Learns. And laughs a little, too.