How to Grow Your Business

This International Women's Day Weekend, you’re invited to an afternoon that goes deeper than “I’m fine.” Most women’s lives look full from the outside - there's work, kids, school pick‑ups, caring for everyone else - but underneath there’s often a quiet ache for real conversation and real connection. If that’s you, this gathering is for you. The Next Chapter High‑Tea is a two‑hour, intimate and luxurious high‑tea experience by ticket only ([book here](https://events.humanitix.com/the-next-chapter-high-tea?_gl=1*1bppxdk*_gcl_au*MjU2NDY2MTg3LjE3NzAwODA2Mjk.*_ga*MTQwNTQ3MDc4NC4xNzYyMjk2NDg0*_ga_LHKW5FR9N6*czE3NzA2MDQzMDQkbzI0JGcwJHQxNzcwNjA0MzA0JGo2MCRsMCRoMA..)) at Mámor Chocolates & High Tea Szalón in Collingwood, Melbourne, hosted by Life and Confidence Coach Kara De Kretser. It’s for women who are ready to stop skimming the surface and start talking about what’s actually on their hearts: identity shifts, motherhood and ambition, boundaries, self‑trust, desire, and the next chapter that’s quietly calling. What to expect: * A small group of like‑hearted women (this is intentionally intimate, not a huge crowd) * A short, grounding talk from Kara * Gentle but powerful guided conversation prompts to move beyond small talk * Space to exhale, be honest, and feel truly witnessed * A delicious high‑tea spread, bottomless tea and a glass of sparkling This isn’t a networking event where you swap business cards and rehearse your “I’m so busy” speech. It’s a warm, held space to come home to yourself, in the company of women who are doing the same. You’ll leave with: * A deeper sense of self‑connection (that feeling of “Oh, there I am again”) * Fresh insights from questions you rarely give yourself time to sit with * The beginnings of a new circle of women who see *you*, not just the roles you play * A gentle but real activation of your next chapter: more courage, more self‑trust, and more permission to want what you want If you’ve been craving depth, honesty and nourishment (for your nervous system as much as your body), there is a seat at the table for you. NOTE: This is a **ticketed event** – for full details and to secure your spot, [please book via the event page here](https://events.humanitix.com/the-next-chapter-high-tea?_gl=1*1bppxdk*_gcl_au*MjU2NDY2MTg3LjE3NzAwODA2Mjk.*_ga*MTQwNTQ3MDc4NC4xNzYyMjk2NDg0*_ga_LHKW5FR9N6*czE3NzA2MDQzMDQkbzI0JGcwJHQxNzcwNjA0MzA0JGo2MCRsMCRoMA..). DRESS CODE: Come as you are, however you are comfortable. Because that is what true confidence is all about. Leave feeling less alone, more grounded, and clearer on what’s next.

Is your identity truly yours? Your parents handed you a name before you could speak. Society assigned you roles before you could choose them. TV & Internet sold you an identity built from expectations and manufactured desires. But what if this entire construction of "me" is the primary obstacle to spiritual awakening? **What You'll Discover:** * The manufacturing process behind "me". Once you see the mechanics, you cannot unsee them. * The maintenance cost of this "me"—Fear, Doubt, Anxiety, Depression * The conformity trap. **How to break Free** This session reveals that real freedom begins when you understand the entire mechanism. Not by replacing one identity with another, but by recognising that what you are is vaster than any identity. **Why It Matters** The cost of maintaining your prison increases every year you inhabit it. It also keeps feeding a dysfunctional society. **Schedule** * Talk by Rajiv followed by open Q&A * Guided Meditation * Spiritual networking to connect with others. **About Rajiv** Rajiv dedicated years of his life seeking enlightenment. His pursuit for truth, reality, emptiness and self-discovery took him through the profound depths of mysticism. He meditated 14 hours a day, stayed with monks, lived in the Himalayan caves, learned from wise sages and researched every major spiritual system, including Zen, Non Duality, Yoga, Buddhism etc. Then one momentous morning in 2005, he experienced his first shift into higher states of consciousness, an inner spiritual awakening. This was followed by days of infinite ecstasy and bliss. Finally, the years of seeking culminated and he realized his own true nature. He now shares his deep insights to help seekers progress on the path of awakening & meditation. His approach is secular, based on personal experience. You can read about his spiritual journey here- [https://innerspiritualawakening.com/rajiv-agarwal/my-journey/](https://innerspiritualawakening.com/rajiv-agarwal/my-journey/) **Venue** Kathleen Syme Library 251 Faraday Street , Carlton, VIC We will be in Multipurpose Room 1 We may take some photos to capture the moment. If you prefer not to be photographed, please let the organiser know at any time. This event is free and open to all adult seekers (18+). For inquiries please email Manpreet- mysteriousmk@yahoo.com

Are you a board game enthusiast or just looking for a fun way to spend your time? Join us at the library for our monthly board game event! Whether you’re a seasoned player or a complete beginner, everyone is welcome to join in the fun. ### Where do we play? We play in the Watsonia Library foyer. ### What do we play? There will be a range of games available, from beginner to more experienced. We play modern board and card games that are fun and relatively easy to learn. We are more than happy for new people of all experience levels to come and we are always eager to teach. ### How about Food and Drinks? Enjoy some tea or hot chocolate on the house. Or bring in your own meal or grab one from one of the fine local places in the neighbourhood. ### Do I have to be a Melbourne Meeples Inc. Member to attend? No. We are running this event in partnership with Watsonia Library. It is free for everyone to attend.

**\*\*\*RSVP PROCESS - CRITICAL INFO\*\*\*** Please be aware, we don't use the Meetup website to take RSVPs, so you will need to register on this link to lock in your place (bookings essential) - [https://propdev.info/uMKh](https://propdev.info/uMKh) We run events most weekends around Australia so you can attend either physically in your local area, or live-stream to any event around the country. **In-Person:** 1:30pm (Melbourne time) to 'Mingle With The Expert' **Virtual:** 2pm (Melbourne time) **INTRODUCING THE INDUSTRY EXPERT:** *Turn Victoria’s New Codes Into Better Yield! JESSE ANT Architects (𝘈𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘺 𝘓𝘢𝘶 & Jessica Wang)* Are You Missing Out on Victoria’s New Untapped Development Potential? Victoria quietly rewrote the rulebook for multi-unit developments, and most mum-and-dad developers haven’t caught on yet. New planning codes. Clearer standards. Faster pathways. Less discretion. Less guesswork. More certainty. And here’s the kicker If you’re still designing projects the old way, you could be leaving yield, time and profit on the table without even realising it. That’s why this month’s Industry Expert, **Jessica Wang** from **JESSE ANT Architects**, is a must-see. Jessica is working daily with the new Victorian Townhouse & Low-Rise Code, the changes that are unlocking approvals for duplexes, townhouses and low-rise multi-unit projects that previously would’ve struggled. At this session, Jessica will show you: • How the new deemed-to-comply standards can actually work in your favour • Where extra yield and smarter layouts are now possible under the updated rules • How to design multi-unit projects that councils must approve if you hit the benchmarks • What savvy developers are doing right now to turn planning reform into real opportunity This isn’t about fighting council. It’s about understanding the new rules and using them to your advantage. If you’re developing (or planning to develop) in Victoria, this session could completely change how you look at your next site. Because the opportunity is there. The question is… are you set up to take advantage of it? **INTRODUCING THE REAL DEAL:** *3 Townhouses (Xavier Rigney)* *820m2,GRZ, Bendigo, Victoria* Turning Challenges into Multi-Unit Success You’ve found a promising development site. Numbers look good. The dream of building townhouses or duplexes seems achievable. Then reality hits. Permits drag. Engineering submissions take months. Banks and utilities slow the process. And suddenly, what should have been a smooth journey becomes a minefield of delays, extra costs, and last-minute hurdles. This is exactly the type of challenge **Xavier Rigney** faced on his latest multi-unit development and he’s coming to the next Property Developer Network Meetup to share the inside story. From keeping the existing dwelling tenanted throughout construction to navigating stormwater setbacks, Section 173 Agreements, and even last-minute easement oversights, Xavier’s project had it all. There were lessons in timing, sequencing, negotiation, and patience. Yes, a few expensive “oops” moments along the way. But here’s the good news: despite every obstacle, the project succeeded, showing exactly how mum-and-dad developers can turn complex hurdles into profitable outcomes. At this session, Xavier will reveal: • How to generate income during construction by keeping existing dwellings tenanted • The importance of early engineering coordination to avoid costly delays • How to manage banks, utilities, and councils when timing isn’t on your side • Real-life lessons from subdivision, civil works, and construction, and how to prevent the mistakes he made If you’re developing or planning a multi-unit project in Victoria, this session will give you the practical insight, hard-earned strategies, and confidence to avoid the pitfalls that derail so many deals. Because in property development, it’s not about luck. It’s about knowing the process, navigating the hurdles, and getting the job done right on time and on budget. ***This is your chance to talk property with other enthusiasts!*** See you all soon!

We’re still working to get more people into these Meetups, but our goal is to give PlayYourCourt members a few social tennis outings each week in addition to your practice sessions and Challenge League matches. These Meetups are co-ed, super laid back, and all skill levels are welcome. Post your skill level and a suggested court in the comments section so we can round up as many players as we can for some tennis fun! Also, if you’re looking to meet new practice partners or play some matches and you aren’t already in the PlayYourCourt Community, you can go here to see what we’re all about and sign up: https://www.playyourcourt.com/tennis-community/melbourne-vic/meetup/ If you love tennis, we’d love to have you! Be sure and watch the quick video that explains how everything works. Happy hitting! - Scott

Join us for a friendly and relaxed English meetup in South Melbourne! This gathering is perfect for anyone who wants to practise English, meet new friends, and feel part of a welcoming community. Whether you’re an international student, new to Melbourne, or simply looking to connect with others, you’ll find a supportive space to learn and grow. Each week, we run **two simple sessions**: **Daily English**, where you learn useful everyday vocabulary, and **Learning English from the Bible**, where we explore short passages in clear, beginner-friendly English. You’ll also meet people from different cultures and enjoy meaningful conversations in a warm, inclusive environment. Come along, make new friends, and enjoy learning English in a place where everyone is welcome. We’d love to meet you!

Our favourite day of the year is almost here - and in honour of a day that's all about celebrating women's achievements, we're bringing you our biggest event yet. A mixture of social and inspiring, this is an event in three parts that combines all our favourite parts of Girls Who Boss. **Here's the agenda:** 2pm - Arrival 2.30pm - Fireside chat with three women who inspire 3.15pm - Activities, including the trivia and board games you've loved this year 4pm - General mingling, friend-making and networking *About the fun, social side* As with all our events, our focus is still on allowing new friendships to develop, and we'll be running some of our signature activities to help you meet new people. We're bringing along board games, icebreakers, trivia and more to help you move around the room with confidence and make new friends. *About the fireside chat* Our fireside chat is themed "Women Who Inspire", and you'll hear from the following women. **Kathy - Thankly** Kathy is the Re-Founder and Creative Director of Thankly, a Melbourne-based online card and gifting business making gratitude simple, personal, and part of everyday life through handwritten-style cards and thoughtful curated gifts. After 13 years in management consulting and advisory across Deloitte, Accenture, and Microsoft, Kathy stepped away from large-scale transformation and change to question what success, impact, and connection really mean. In 2023, she took a career break to reimagine what truly matters and re-launched Thankly as a part-time, purpose-led venture alongside a co-partner, focused on making “thank you” feel human and easy again. Shaped by personal loss and loneliness, Kathy lost both parents by the age of 21 – experiences that deeply inform her mission. In a country where 1 in 3 Australians report feeling lonely, she believes gratitude can be a powerful bridge back to belonging. At the start of 2025, Kathy became the sole owner of Thankly and stepped into founder life full-time, committing fully to re-imaginig a scalable and sustainable, purpose-led brand founded on gratitude and real human connection in the modern world. **Zoe - Owner and Organiser of Girls Who Boss** Zoe's career has spanned more than a decade of charity work (alongside international diplomats and on her own projects), study in five countries, advocacy for safer cities for women, an ongoing career as a lawyer and community building through Girls Who Boss. You'll likely have met her at one of our events - read more about what this event means to her [here](https://open.substack.com/pub/girlswhoboss/p/why-international-womens-day-2026?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=4apm4h). **Julianne Valles - Identity and Decision Authority Coach** Having rebuilt her identity and life from scratch multiple times - across different countries, career pivots, and seasons - Julianne understands the grit required to choose yourself when there are no guaranteed outcomes. She helps women break free from the "work-hard" trap and stop waiting for the "perfect moment" to act by tapping into **unapologetic self-trust.** By anchoring into their own authority, her clients move from paralyzing overthinking into a life defined by purpose and freedom of mind. Julianne works with women who are ready to stop seeking permission and start owning their power, creating a reality that is as bold as their ambitions - no matter their circumstances. Through a facilitated discussion, we'll learn about twists and turns in each panellists journey and take inspiration from how they went about building lives they love. *Come solo, or bring a friend* Guests are welcome at this event - but as with all of our events, friend-making remains central and you are more than encouraged to come alone and meet some new incredible people. *Who is this event for?* In short, this event is for anyone looking for inspiration and to grow in themselves - whether that's in business, career or just life generally. There is no "one size fits all" description of our members and we look forward to the diversity in the room at this event.

Please join us this Sunday as we discuss how to live the good life. Ilya will be leading this session. **We will meet at the Queensberry Hotel, 593 Swanston Street, Carlton (100m north of previous location) at 2pm for a 2:15pm start sharp.** **We kindly ask attendees to pay $5 to attend to help with MeetUp costs & venue costs. This is not mandatory, but if you are a regular member it would be appreciated. Any extra moneys will go towards buying food and drinks for the table. The venue also expects us to spend money as a group, so grateful if everyone could buy a drink from the venue.** There is no pre-requisite preparation necessary, nor a philosophical background, all that is required is a curious mind. These discussions are both a Socrates Cafe style discussion and lively metaphysical dojo, in the spirit of learning and friendly debate, so please feel free to challenge assumptions and be prepared to have your own assumptions challenged. Find below some questions to consider, however these are free-ranging events and the below serve as a springboard for the discussion: **Happiness: a trap?** 1\. Is being happy the same thing as having a Good Life? 2\. If you could be plugged into a "happiness machine" that gave you nothing but blissful experiences, would you do it? 3\. Is happiness the right goal\, or a side effect of living well? 4\. Can a Good Life include significant amounts of suffering\, if that suffering is meaningful? **Meaning and purpose** 5\. Can a life be good if it is lived pursuing whatever we want in the moment, without a long-term goal or overarching personal narrative? 6\. What makes a given pursuit ‘purposeful’? 7\. Does the fact that we die make life more or less meaningful? 8\. Is the meaning of life to give life meaning? **Being authentic and agentic** 9\. How much of our life and identity is a performance for others and society? Does this inhibit living the Good Life? 10\. Is it important to feel in control of our lives and exercising a high degree of personal agency, rather than following some kind of social script? 11\. Would you feel most fulfilled if you were able to live in a way that is ‘true to yourself’ (without high regard for the expectations of others)? **Keepin’ busy** 12\. Should a Good Life be easy? 13\. Could pure leisure \(no work\, no struggle\) comprise a Good Life? 14\. Does "meaningful" activity have to be productive\, or can hobbies and pursuing individual interests be at the centre of a Good Life? 15\. Are some kinds of leisure inherently more conducive to the Good Life than others (eg. watching Netflix vs reading Dostoevsky) **What about other people?** 16\. Are certain kinds of relationships a mandatory ingredient for a Good Life? 17\. Does having children provide a path to fulfilment and meaning? 18\. Does performing some kind of sacrifice \(time\, effort\, money etc\.\) for the benefit of the community or future generations help us feel that we are living the Good Life? Hope to see you there!

After some great discussions using these cards, we just had to continue! "It isn't easy to get into a good conversation. Many of our best ones seem to have happened by chance. Far from it - we believe a great conversation always starts with someone asking a great question.” The School of Life's "Philosophical Questions For Curious Minds" cards contain questions designed to get a group of people into entertaining and meaningful conversations. This is a casual, social and fun event where we share our thoughts and experiences with a group. **Topics covered**: * Is there a God * What is the meaning of life? * What is real? * What is a society? Questions vary depending on the day and the table, based on the cards chosen by the audience. Please arrive hungry and thirsty so we can maintain a good relationship with the venue and continue hosting our events. \*\*\* Meaningful Discussions events take place in 11 countries and this will be our 151st event in Melbourne! :) Please be try to arrive on time if you can. This event will allow a thoughtful, respectful and engaging discussion. So if you're looking for open-minded, friendly and intelligent people, you've come to the right place!

The theme for this week is “*The Courage to Say Hello*.” This week, we’ll have **fun** trying out **simple ways** to **start conversations**, break the ice, and take small social risks that can lead to **real connection**. Through **activities and conversation** prompts, you’ll get to meet others, **share stories**, and see how a tiny moment of **courage** can open the door to something **meaningful**. There’s **no right or wrong** \- just a **relaxed space** to **chat, laugh,** and **connect**. Bring a **pen** and your **journal**, and get ready to meet new people and maybe make a friend or two. We’d love to have you there! Meeting point: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/U3oaqAs5gAoz5EKV6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/U3oaqAs5gAoz5EKV6)

✨ **Do you want to...** * 🫶🏽 Connect with like-minded people in your local community? * 🏋🏽‍♂️ Meet others who are passionate about growing, uplifting themselves, and supporting others? * 🌈 Share insights from your personal journey (or simply listen and learn)? * 🧘🏼‍♂️ Experience a simple yet powerful meditation practice to find calm and clarity? Or maybe you just want to... ☮️💟☯️ **Spend your Sunday evening in a peaceful, zen space and meet some amazing new people?** *** ### **Join us on Sundays!** Let’s come together, share positive energy, and build a warm, supportive local community. **Bring a friend (or two!) and let’s connect.** *** ### **What’s on the evening’s flow?** * **Open meet & greet** – connect and settle in * **Sharing circle** (totally optional!) – share your thoughts or simply listen * **20-30 min guided meditation** – for relaxation and deeper connection *** ### **Everyone is welcome!** All ages (with guardians for under 18), backgrounds, genders, and experiences – no meditation experience needed. The event runs for about **2.5 hours**, but you’re free to come and go as you need. *** ### **What to bring?** * **Donation:** A contribution of **$10 or more is recommended**. Your donations directly help us cover venue costs, provide resources, and keep this meditation community alive and growing. * **Warm jumper/jacket** (just in case!) * **Water** * **Any books/resources/inspiration you’d love to share** *** ### **Where?** 📍 **250 George St, Fitzroy VIC 3065** Enter through the church gates. You’ll see a small garden on the left and stairs on the right leading up to the **Dance of Life Yoga Studio (first door on your right upstairs).** *** ### **Important Notes:** * Spaces are **limited**, so if you can’t make it, please update your RSVP to “Not going” or send us a quick message. * **No-show policy:** To keep it fair for everyone, repeat no-shows without notice may not be able to RSVP in the future. * Attendees under 18 must have a guardian present.

**Sunday Sesh at Boho 🎶** Come and join us at **Boho** this Sunday for an afternoon of **live music from 3–6pm**. ✨ **Happy Hour:** 2–4pm 🍴 **Food available to purchase** Relax, enjoy the music, grab a drink, and soak up the Sunday vibes with us.

Come and grow your business by meeting these other business professionals. We can help you expand your customers.

Come and grow your business by meeting these other business professionals. We can help you expand your customers.

Come and grow your business by meeting these other business professionals. We can help you expand your customers.

Join the CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group for a dynamic afternoon of B2B networking! This event is perfect for professionals looking to expand their business connections, share insights, and foster collaboration within the community. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and grow your network in a supportive environment. Connect with like-minded individuals, explore potential partnerships, and discover new opportunities for professional growth. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your business network and take your career to the next level with CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group! We meet the 4th Monday of every month from 11am-1pm. Welcome and general networking from 11am - 11:30am with core meeting 11;30 - 12:30 and a final round of networking from 12:30 - 1pm.

**Confidence in Bloom: How Creativity Builds Confidence** What happens when creativity becomes an intentional practice? In this month’s Confidence Lab, we’ll gather at **Petals That Inspire: The Flourish Studio** for an evening exploring the connection between creativity and confidence. How making with our hands, engaging our senses, and allowing space for expression can shift how we see ourselves and what we believe is possible. Our featured speaker, **Amanda Lorenzetti**, owner of Petals That Inspire, will share how creativity has shaped her own confidence journey and why creative environments play such a powerful role in well-being, resilience, and personal growth. Drawing from her work leading an experience-driven floral studio and a community-centered workforce development program, Amanda will reflect on creativity as both a personal and collective catalyst. Amanda will also guide us through a **hands-on floral design experience**, creating a fresh arrangement in a wide mouth mason jar. No prior floral experience is needed, just curiosity and a willingness to engage the process. This evening is an invitation to slow down, create, and reconnect with the part of yourself that grows through care, attention, and imagination. You’ll leave with a floral arrangement to take home, and a deeper understanding of how confidence can be cultivated through creative practices. **Featured Speaker: Amanda Lorenzetti** Amanda Lorenzetti is the owner and founder of [Petals That Inspire](https://www.petalsthatinspire.com/) and The Flourish Studio, a social enterprise florist based in Columbus, Ohio. She brings more than a decade of experience in wedding and event sales, paired with hands-on expertise in floral and event design. Amanda’s connection to the floral industry began early, spending time alongside her godmother, a professional florist on the East Coast. After earning her business degree, she returned to her hometown in Connecticut to work as a floral and event designer, blending creative artistry with strong operational and client-focused skills. In 2020, Amanda returned to the floral industry with a renewed purpose, driven by a desire to build a business rooted in creativity, community impact, and sustainability. During this pivotal time, she founded Petals That Inspire—an innovative floral concept that reimagines the traditional florist model by combining event florals, workshops, and experiential offerings with a mission-centered approach to workforce development. Today, Petals That Inspire is a thriving social enterprise known for its thoughtful design, educational experiences, and commitment to empowering young adults facing barriers to entry in the workforce. Amanda is deeply passionate about building businesses that are both profitable and purpose-driven, and she leverages her strong business acumen to create a scalable & sustainable model that inspires creativity while giving back to the community. **What is Confidence Lab?** Confidence Lab is a monthly community experience for bold, thoughtful leaders building confidence from the inside out. Whether you’re launching a business, leading a team, navigating change, or simply striving to show up more fully—you belong here. Our work demands clarity, courage, and conviction—but the pace of daily life can erode our sense of self. Confidence Lab creates space to reflect, reconnect, and grow with others doing purpose-driven work. It’s designed for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, creatives, corporate professionals, activists, and anyone ready to lead with authenticity and impact. ***Please note:*** *All are welcome! If cost is a concern, please use promo code PUBLIC to access a free ticket—we want you to join us.*

At Evolve Synergy Sessions, you'll be part of a supportive mastermind where we share challenges, brainstorm solutions, and inspire one another to take bold steps in our businesses. Grow your network, gain fresh perspectives, and build meaningful relationships with like-minded women who are committed to success. Whether you’re looking to move the needle in your business or simply need a space to connect and recharge, this is the perfect place to fuel your entrepreneurial journey. [Add Event to Calendar](https://evolvecolumbus.eventcalendarapp.com/) \*\* Please note, we will be arriving around 8:15a for open networking! Get there early and get connected! Contact Alexis Morley at [alexis.morley@edwardjones.com](mailto:alexis.morley@edwardjones.com) or Terri Lawson at [terri.lawson@e-merge.com](mailto:terri.lawson@e-merge.com) for more information.