Iraq Veterans

Salam, I have enrolled on this film studies course run by City Lit on Tuesday evenings from 6th January to 10th February 2026 in Covent Garden at a cost of £149. Come and join me! It’ll be the beginning of building a Persian community in London. [https://www.citylit.ac.uk/courses/iranian-cinema](https://www.citylit.ac.uk/courses/iranian-cinema) It explores an overview of the specific historical, cultural, artistic, and industrial currents which shaped the history of Iranian cinema. We will examine the development of a film industry in Iran, before looking more closely at the emergence of specific genres in Iranian cinema in the 1960s. We will see how major historical events, such as the totalitarian regime of the Shah, the 1979 Islamic Revolution, and the Iran-Iraq war (1980-88) left an indelible mark on Iranian society which was reflected through Iranian films in various ways. We shall also consider the different cinematic ‘new waves’ which emerged out of Iran, in the late 1960s and early 1970s, and in the 1990s, and attempt to analyse and theorise what it was about their style and themes which made them so remarkable. We will also examine theoretical frameworks to study why it is that some Iranian films can travel abroad and connect with international audiences, while others remain for domestic audiences. Furthermore, other issues such as the representation of gender (of masculinity in 1960s genre films, or of female protagonists in the ‘New Iranian Cinema’ of the 1990s/2000s) will also be considered, both in terms of the specific Iranian context and wider gender theories. ### **What will we cover?** * An historical overview of the origins of cinema and a film industry in Iran * The context of cinema under the Shah’s regime and the emergence of an Iranian New Wave in the 1960s and 1970s * The impact of the 1979 Iranian Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War on cinema and the film industry * The ‘New Iranian Cinema’ of the 1990s, its stylistic traits and themes, its cultural roots, as well as some critical perspectives on its international success * The representation of women characters and their narratives in Iranian cinema * Transnational Iranian cinema: some Iranian directors like Abbas Kiarostami and Asghar Farhadi have become global filmmakers, but in what ways are their films still Iranian? * Diasporic Iranian cinema: many films made by Iranian filmmakers or about Iranian society are now being made outside Iran. We shall consider the reasons for this and examine the consequences of such films ### **What will I achieve?By the end of this course you should be able to:** * Assess a range of key Iranian films and filmmakers * Situate a range of Iranian cinema within historical, social and cultural contexts * Identify and assess recurring themes and stylistic traits of a range of Iranian filmmakers * Evaluate Iranian cinema from various critical frameworks and perspectives ### **What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?** The course is suitable for all levels and you do not require any particular skills, just an interest in Iranian cinema and Iranian history. ### **How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?** Short clips from the films will be provided, as well as reading materials. The class will be structured around a combination of PowerPoint presentations, film clips and class discussions. ### **Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?** The tutor will show extracts from films and you do not have to obtain them. Join me on: English reading club: [www.meetup.com/persian-culture](www.meetup.com/persian-culture) Spanish reading club: [www.meetup.com/gaia-libros](https://www.meetup.com/gaia-libros) French reading club: [www.meetup.com/gaia-livres](https://www.meetup.com/gaia-livres) Instagram @persian_culture_

Please meet on the ground floor of 184 Shepherds Bush Road just before 6pm and we will escort you to the 1st floor where our secret cinema is!

**Venue**: Riverbank House, 2 Swan Ln, London EC4R 3AD **Please note**: 1. 🚨🚨🚨A valid photo ID is required by building security. 🚨🚨🚨 2. This event follows the **[NumFOCUS Code of Conduct](https://numfocus.org/code-of-conduct)**. Please familiarise yourself with it before attending. If your RSVP status says "You're going" you will be able to get in. No need to show your RSVP confirmation when signing in. If you can no longer make it, please unRSVP as soon as possible. \*\*\* **Code of Conduct**: This event follows the **[NumFOCUS Code of Conduct](https://numfocus.org/code-of-conduct)**. Please get in touch with the organisers with any questions or concerns. \*\*\* As always, there will be free food and drinks, generously provided by our host, Man Group. \*\*\* **Main Talks** **1\. AI Agents as Multipliers: What They Improve and What They Don’t** - [Alper Nebi Kanlı](https://www.linkedin.com/in/alpernkanli/overlay/about-this-profile/) **2\. The lifetime of a write\, 3 ways: in Postgres\, Kafka and Flink** - [Celeste Horgan](https://www.linkedin.com/in/celeste-horgan/) In this talk we’ll take a step back to look at three data services: Postgres, Apache Kafka and Apache Iceberg, and how they each handle writes. In doing so, we’ll trace a history through how data services have evolved in the world of distributed systems and big data. We’ll understand the key differences and similarities between these services. Finally, we’ll take a look at what’s coming next in the world of open source data, from Postgres and beyond. **⚡ Lightning Talks** **Why are LLMs Challenged by Chess?** - [Ian Ozsvald](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianozsvald/) **ITables: Zero-Dependency Interactivity for Python DataFrames** - [Marc Wouts](https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-wouts/) **Logistics** Doors open at **6.30 pm** (get there early as you'll need to sign in with building security). Talks start at **7:00 pm**, with drinks afterwards from **9:00 pm** at The Banker (EC4). We have reduced capacity for this event, but there will be plenty of people to discuss data science questions with! Please unRSVP in good time if you realise you can't make it. We're limited by building security on the number of attendees, so please free up your place for your fellow community members!

*This event is supported by [languagecalendars.com](https://www.languagecalendars.com/)* Get **£5 off** their language calendars, posters & tees 👉 use code **HOLA5** or click this link: [https://www.languagecalendars.com/discount/HOLA5](https://www.languagecalendars.com/discount/HOLA5) **🌍 Connecting locals and internationals in London 🌍** Join us every Tuesday evening in Holborn for the London Language Exchange, where over 60 people gather each week to practice new languages, share cultures, and make new friends. See pics of our previous events on our [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/babblelondon), and chat to other members who are coming via our [whatsapp group](https://languagexchanges.com/whatsapp/). **🙋 Who is this for?** All languages and levels are welcome, and we are inclusive of all ages, races, religions etc. Whether you're a polyglot, a beginner just starting with Duolingo Spanish, or you just want to come and socialise, you will be welcomed to our community of language learners and international friends. **🙌 What to Expect:** * **Language Practice:** Whether you’re fluent in Spanish, Italian, English, Arabic, Russian, Mandarin, or any other language, our hosts will help you connect with people who match your language interests. * **Friendly Hosts:** Our hosts will greet you at the entrance, give you a label where you can write the language(s) you speak and the ones you’d like to learn or practice. * **Inclusive Atmosphere:** We welcome all languages and levels, and make sure everyone feels comfortable—especially if you're coming alone! It’s a relaxed environment perfect for making new friends and practising languages at your own pace. * **Socialising:** Coming alone or with friends, this is a great opportunity to meet new people in the city. Unlike some other meetup ‘groups’, we do not fill our events with fake members, and you can check how many people attend each week via our [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/babblelondon). **👋 How does it work?** * **Arrive!** No need to register, just come to our event any time between 7-9pm and our event host will welcome you. They will have an orange lanyard and will be sitting next to our sign. * **Write your ‘Language Label’.** Here you can write your name, the languages you are learning, and the languages you can help others with. * **Pay.** Our £1 event fee pays for our lovely event hosts and keeps the event going. Card only please. * **Get talking!** With the help of our host you will be able to find other people attending the event with compatible language interests - we are all very friendly and the majority of our attendees come alone, so there’s no need to worry about getting involved! **📌 Where are we?** We’re normally located in the downstairs room of The Penderel's Oak Pub, 283-288 High Holborn, London WC1V 7HP [https://g.co/kgs/57H1Wbr](https://g.co/kgs/57H1Wbr) However, always check the location on this meetup event and in our [WhatsApp Group](https://languagexchanges.com/whatsapp) just in case there is a change. **💡 Important Info:** Please disregard the attendee numbers shown on Meetup or Facebook. Because we meet at the same time and place every week, many regulars do not sign up beforehand, but we always have a great turnout, often exceeding 70 people. We also have many more participants who join through other platforms. **🔗 Connect With Us:** Stay updated by joining our WhatsApp and Facebook groups or following us on Instagram. You’ll get event updates and stay connected with the community! [https://linktr.ee/londonlanguageexchange](https://linktr.ee/londonlanguageexchange) **FAQ:** **Who is this for?** Anyone interested in languages, from complete beginners to fluent speakers! We welcome all levels and languages. **Do I need to sign up?** You don’t need to sign up, but feel free to join our WhatsApp group for updates and announcements. **Can I come alone?** Absolutely! Many people come solo, and it’s a great way to meet new friends in a relaxed environment. **How does the event work?** When you arrive, you’ll get a sticker to write your native language and the one(s) you’d like to practice. Our hosts will help you find people to chat with based on your preferences. **What if I don’t speak multiple languages?** No problem! Whether you’re fluent or just starting out with a new language, everyone is welcome. **More Questions?** Check out our [full FAQ here](https://languagexchanges.com/what-is-a-language-exchange/) **💛 WHAT THEY SAY** **🗣** “It's so great that people are very friendly and nice here. I practised my English speaking and listening.” - Gerome 🗣 “The language exchange events are a really great way not just to practise languages but also to meet new people in your area. I’ve made many local friends since I moved to the area” - Monika 🗣 “Everything was perfect. The host was so friendly and wonderful!” - Mojtaba 🗣 "It was a lovely language exchange, with lovely people. I practised so much German!" - Sara **About Languagexchanges:** We started in Leeds back in 2014 with the desire to provide a welcoming space that brings people together from all different walks of life, with a shared love of learning languages and culture. We now have communities across the UK including Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, London, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle, Sheffield and York - [see all our locations.](https://languagexchanges.com/product-category/events/) 👔 Interested in working with us? [https://languagexchanges.com/work-with-us/](https://languagexchanges.com/work-with-us/) ✍️ Feedback form: [https://languagexchanges.com/events-feedback](https://languagexchanges.com/events-feedback) 📩 Email: [info@languagexchanges.com](mailto:info@languagexchanges.com)

People often complain about politicians - but what does an "ideal" politician look like? What are the good traits and behaviours we hope to see in someone who can lead a country? Is it all about not being corrupt, being able to keep promises, and acting as role models in society? Or does making unpopular decisions for the greater good matter, too? *Join us for a relaxed group conversation where we explore the real life, the grey areas, and how our different cultures and backgrounds shape our views about key topics.* *Expect real talk, no judgment, and a chance to hear how others see it.* **\*Come for the discussion, stay for the friendships. Our weekly discussion series brings together thoughtful people for honest conversations on relationships, life, and society—with warm social vibes before and after.\*** **WHAT TO EXPECT:** * Good vibes only: we chat big topics in a chill, respectful way. No arguing - just open-minded exchange. * We warm up with casual socializing (come solo or with friends!) * The topic starts around 7:45/8pm, wraps around 9:30. * 🍕 There's pizza, drinks, milkshakes and snacks available at the bar (incl plant-based options) * And most people stay until late for drinks and mingling! **DISCUSSION FORMAT:** **Our group conversations are open and flexible - there is a very soft guided flow to ensure we focus on the main questions, and to ensure that everyone gets a balanced opportunity to speak. Here's a typically structure, but we adjust on the day depending on the turnout:** \- Introductions and thoughts *(\~5 mins).* \- Group breakouts per question *(\~20 mins x 3).* \- Final round of opinions *(\~10 mins)*. \- Mix and mingle\, make new friends\, get drinks etc *(\~until late)* **EVENT ETIQUETTE (Rules & expectations)** \- Debate the topic\, not the participants \- no personal attacks\! \- No phones\, no interrupting\, no bystanding \- Always follow the moderator/host instructions and guidelines **WHAT IS WORLD CITIZENS?** We're one of London's longest-running and largest communities. Since 2012 we run socials, cultural activities and stimulating discussions to foster meaningful exchange and learning among London's global professionals. They are inspired by MUN (Model United Nations) and salon discussions and offer a more relaxed and social evening version. **LOCATION DETAILS** What: Discussion session followed by social/networking When: Tuesday, 7:30pm until late. Where: Curzon Aldgate (bar area), 2 Canter Way, E1 8PS Closest stations: Aldgate East, Aldgate, Tower Hill/Gateway Cost: Pay for your own meals or drinks Hosts: We have a rotating team and the actual host of each event varies. Our regular members can also help you out with basic matters. *NOTE: like most guests, our volunteer hosts also attend after work and may happen to arrive after the start time. If you are punctual or earlier than our hosts, we highly appreciate this! Please feel free to start socializing already and/or get something to eat or drink - that’s the point of our events anyway. Our regular members can also help you out with any basic matters.* **\*Our other weekly events\*** \- Friday evening socials every week \- Saturday afternoon cafe in Chelsea \- Canary Wharf socials every other Wednesday \- Outdoor fun \(hiking\, kayaking\, etc\) every weekend \- Dining\, cultural and travel activities on\-demand **JOIN OUR TEAM!** We're all volunteers, so if you enjoy organizing activities or events in your spare time, while meeting great people every week, send a message to our team account "TP"! **DISCLAIMER** We are a 100% volunteer-run team. Though we have high standards in planning, this is a private informal activity so we cannot be liable for any damage or inconvenience. However, we put safety and comfort first. We take all complaints seriously, and take severe action against any harassment, verbal or non-verbal, and anti-social behaviour, towards our guests or team members. We collaborate with the police when needed. We take photos and videos which may include you to help promote the community in line with GDPR Data Protection law, as well as stock photos from Pexels or Unsplash. We may restrict or prioritize guests at our own discretion for safety, quality and logistics reasons. While our team's decisions may not be perfect we ask that you follow our decisions first and raise any disputes to discuss with us later and privately. By attending you understand, agree with and respect all terms of this disclaimer.

Welcome to Gaslighting Recognition & Recovery Group. **This is a peer-to-peer support group dedicated to recovery from emotional abuse.** **\*\*FOR ESTABLISHED MEMBERS \*\*** Imagine this scenario: Suppose your partner, parent or friend made a little joke at your expense, and it hurt your feelings. Perhaps you thought to yourself “I’ll let it slide because they probably didn’t mean it. Or maybe I just misunderstood. It’s just not worth the consequence of having this argument.” But as days and weeks pass, the buried emotions resurface, demanding to be dealt with. So you decide to express your feelings to this person, only to hear this response: *"Wow, you're so sensitive that I can't even joke with you anymore. I didn't mean it like that, but of course you need to make me look like a jerk. Why are you bringing this up NOW? I've moved on, but I guess you just can't let go of the past. I don't understand why you get offended so easily. You said you loved my sense of humor, but I guess my jokes just aren’t funny anymore. I mean, I could sensor myself for you, but how sad it is to be silenced and forbidden from being myself? You must not love me for who I am. You have sloppy habits and mental health issues, but I love you anyway. So why can't you just accept me for who I am? Maybe I should just go away. If you want me to go away, just tell me, and I will. Free yourself and finally be rid of me.”* This is a DARVO, and it's also gaslighting. It is word salad nonsense designed to leave you feeling confused, tongue tied and self-blaming. Although subtle and difficult to detect, gaslighting can present this way. Perpetrators are skilled in evading detection, and nearly impossible to identify without external support. Gaslighting isn’t “just a pop psychology term.” It’s a very real form of emotional manipulation that often flies under the radar because we’ve been conditioned to see it as normal. This is especially true if we grew up amidst toxic family dynamics. We’ve learned to doubt ourselves before questioning someone else’s behavior. We say, *“Maybe I’m just too sensitive.”* Or *“Maybe I’m overreacting.”* And that’s exactly how gaslighting works — it teaches us to question our intuition, doubt our own emotions, silence and shrink ourselves, making us more digestible for the other person. But no — you are not “too sensitive.” You are not “being defensive" or "unable to handle constructive criticism.” You are having a normal human response to emotional abuse. Gaslighting thrives in the disguise of normalcy, often framed as “care and concern” or “just trying to help”. And the first step in dismantling it is naming it for what it is: emotionally abusive. It’s not your fault, not imagined, and definitely not normal. This group is a safe space dedicated to supporting one another as we confront the faulty, gaslit self-concepts imposed upon us by others. Together, we can practice self-compassion, reclaim our voices and empower ourselves. This group offers support for every stage of recovery. This group runs 6PM EST- 7:30PM EST (5PM-6:30PM CST, 3PM-4:30PM PST AND 11PM-12:30AM BST) **every other Saturday** I did schedule this group with the assumption that those attending are well-versed in gaslighting but would still like to provide a brief definition for anyone who may be uncertain; *Gaslighting is an intentional, subtle, psychological manipulation tactic where the perpetrator plants seeds of doubt in the victim's mind. This leads the victim to question their perceptions, memories, feelings, abilities, and even their mental health. The perpetrator is often a person with high narcissistic **and*** *sociopathic traits. It’s designed to evade detection and is therefore one of the most insidious tools in the pathological narcissist's arsenal.* \*Important Notes\* ***If this is your first time here, please sign up for a First Timers event.*** ***This event is for established members only. You must have attended a First Timers event prior to signing up for this one. If you have not attended a First Timers event, you will be removed from the meeting.*** These meetings are to ensure the safety of our members and our hosts as we share sensitive details about our experiences. We also do this to ensure all new members will get a chance to share and introduce themselves right away, this is a way for us to properly meet each of you. Instructions are posted in the **First Timers** events and we appreciate your cooperation in advance! Please Review The Following Before Joining: I am a peer supporter, not a mental health professional, physician or attorney. Information shared in these groups is not to be construed as professional advice. * **Cameras must be ON.** If you need to briefly turn your camera off, please inform the host. If your camera remains off after being asked to turn it on, you will be removed from the meeting. * **Mute your microphones** unless it is your turn to speak. * **Raise your hand to share.** Shares will be heard in the order hands are raised. * **Offer advice ONLY when it’s explicitly asked for.** Supportive words of validation, understanding, and affirmation are encouraged. Unsolicited advice and tangential rants of personal opinions are not. * **If your think your share might trigger others, please advise the group with a trigger warning and wait a moment.** This moment of pause allows members the chance to mute their speakers. * **Manage triggers by muting your speakers** or taking a break from the meeting as needed. If you need to leave, the host will re-admit you as many times as necessary, no questions asked. * **Solicitation is prohibited.** Please refrain from pedaling products or services. * **Please refrain from contacting or DMing other members without prior approval from an organizer.** If you’ve connected with someone and would like to exchange contact information, reach out to an organizer, and we’ll facilitate the exchange. \*\*Although we care deeply about the safety and wellbeing of our members, we are not equipped to intervene in crisis situations. ***IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU CARE ABOUT FEELS SUICIDAL OR UNSAFE, PLEASE DIAL 911 (US & CANADA) OR 999 IN THE UK. OR SEEK CARE AT YOUR NEAREST EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT.\*\**** Crisis Hotline: 988 (US)

Step off the usual path and explore one of London’s most fascinating areas with a friendly group of fellow Christians. This guided walk will take us along the Thames through the Docklands and Wapping—an area rich with stories, character, and some of the oldest taverns in the city. It’s a fun and social outing, perfect for meeting others, enjoying good company, and discovering a part of London full of hidden history. As we stroll by the river, we’ll learn about the people who once lived and worked along these docks: sailors, merchants, shipbuilders, and communities from all over the world. Our guide will share light, engaging stories from London’s maritime past and point out landmarks that reveal how life along the Thames has shaped the city across the centuries. We’ll pass historic waterside pubs, atmospheric old streets, and riverside viewpoints that offer a unique glimpse into London’s past. This walk brings history to life in a relaxed and enjoyable way—no need to be a history buff to appreciate the journey! Whether you’re new to the group or already connected, this is a great chance to meet others, chat as we wander, and enjoy a gentle, meaningful afternoon together. We will meet outside Rotherhithe Overland Station at 3.50pm for a 4pm start. Please call +447909544553 if you are running late. This is a tip-based tour for the guide, who can accept cash or card. ### **What’s Included** * A guided walk through London’s riverside and Docklands * Stories and highlights from the city’s rich maritime history * Stops by some of the oldest and most atmospheric taverns * Beautiful views along the River Thames * A chance to explore hidden corners of Wapping and the surrounding area * A friendly, welcoming environment to meet others in the group

As Arabs living in a multicultural city like London, we are often very aware of our own experiences as a minority. However, this session is about looking outward. How do we show up for other communities? Let’s explore our shared values, our responsibilities to one another, and what it means to stand in solidarity with others. **POTENTIAL TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION:** * **Our Shared Experiences:** Does being part of the Arab community make us naturally more empathetic to other minority groups? Or do we sometimes stay within our own "silo"? * **Cultural Perspectives:** Within our families and social circles, how is allyship viewed? Are there generational differences in how we approach supporting other groups? * **The Challenges of Speaking Up:** What holds us back from being active allies? Is it a fear of saying the wrong thing, feeling like we have enough of our own struggles, or simply not knowing where to start? * **Moving Beyond the Surface:** How can we move past "performative" support and actually show up for other communities in our daily lives? **GROUND RULES:** This is a nice gentle, but thought-provoking, discussion. It's a judgement-free zone where people can air their thoughts on particular issues, and find out about other people's similar and different perspectives. So bring your best opinions and ideas. Everyone is welcome. **LOCATION:** We will meet in the 1st floor area of Coffee Island Edgware Road. There's plenty of space 🛋️, and coffee ☕, tea ☕ cold drinks, and snacks are available. **NEAREST STATIONS:** Edgware Road [Circle, Hammersmith City, District Line] (1 min walk) Edgware Road [Bakerloo Line] (1 min walk) Paddington [Bakerloo, Hammersmith, Circle and Elizabeth Line] (7 mins walk) *** **FOOD AND SOCIAL AFTERWARDS:** Most of us usually go for food afterwards, so feel free to factor in time after for dinner 🍛🍟🍝🍣🍜🍗🍔

🏞️ From the Hollingbourne village in Kent and via moated Leeds Castle built by a Norman knight in 1119. ✊ *Note: Active Muslims is equally about focusing on the actual activity, in this case, it is a paced walk/hike (and not a stroll), therefore it is advised to approach and attend these events with that mindset, intention and [purpose](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBhPWpdIMKq/?igsh=MWVjdnZrdGZwd3dmYw%3D%3D).* 🟠 **HIKE:** 📏22km (13.6 miles) 🏔️ Elev. Gain: 304m 💓 Av. Pace: 5.3 km/h ✊ *Note: Active Muslims is equally about focusing on the actual activity, in this case, it is a paced walk/hike (and not a stroll), therefore it is advised to approach and attend these events with that mindset, intention and [purpose](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBhPWpdIMKq/?igsh=MWVjdnZrdGZwd3dmYw%3D%3D).*. 📍 **London Victoria Rail Station** (opposite platform 12) 🔄 Start: **Hollingbourne Station** ⌚Meet from 8:31am, the train departs at **8:55am** [arrives 10:09 at Hollingbourne \ Return train aimed for 5:17pm] 🚉🚗 All regular walks/hikes are free and you are welcome to purchase your own ticket/make your way to the destination station. It is best to purchase tickets on the day as an open return ideally with a Network Rail card or with a group discount. ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🎟️ **If you would like me to help purchase your group ticket** (3+ must travel together). **On the condition you aim to arrive before the platform is announced.** 💳 **TBC** (by Thursday/\~£17) ⌛ Deadline: Friday 9:01pm *PLEASE MAKE SURE NO FEE IS CHARGED (Send as Friends & Family / otherwise ask for bank details).* **Confirm via below once you've made the payment with your Meetup Name:** 📱 [My WhatsApp](https://wa.me/+447799438148). *ℹ️ I cannot issue refunds once I've purchased your ticket.* ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🚻 Departing Station / On-board train only 🧎 Prayer: If you are praying, please have/keep wudu (make it within other breaks) and be prepared to join at short notice. 🎒 What to bring: appropriate clothing/shoes, packed lunch, water bottle (1.5-2L) & snacks to keep you going. 👕 Advisable to have layers. 🥾 Hiking boots recommended. 🧦 Hiking socks/double socks advised (reduces chance of blisters) 🔦 Headlight (winter) 📱 Fully charged mobile + portable charger 🔔 Emergency Whistle 🗂️ **When there is a waiting list, priority is given by attendance records / new joiners.** 📊 [[why it matters](https://tinyurl.com/28sh83cn)] ⛑️ *Disclaimer: You are solely responsible for your own safety on these events and have the fitness level required for it. That you do not require special attention, medication or additional care. You are also responsible for your belonging at all times.* 🌐 **[@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims)** *(Follow for latest events updates)* 🚦 **[Walk/Hike Levels:](https://www.instagram.com/share/reel/BBxV4zomeZ)** 🟢 Easy 🟡 Average 🟠 Moderate 🔴 Challenging ⚫ Very Challenging ⚫ Very Challenging

***Enter the live meeting room here: [https://discord.gg/5wgxtr4c2u](https://discord.gg/5wgxtr4c2u)*** ***Download the engine here: [https://www.unrealengine.com/en-US/download](https://www.unrealengine.com/en-US/download)*** Welcome to the **Unreal Engine Workshop!** In each session we'll tackle essential game design discussions, then transition into hands-on project creation. Participants will build and expand their skills continuously as we explore every aspect of game development. From basic blueprints and interactive mechanics, to advanced rigging, animation, environment design, and lighting, we'll work our way up to creating small complete games. We encourage experimentation and peer teaching, so whether you're a beginner or experienced developer looking to deepen your expertise, our sessions provide a supportive environment to learn, create, and innovate together in Unreal Engine 5.

Interested? Contact Preston Moore k.preston.moore@gmail.com 614-300-5989 ———————————— Engaging in men’s work is the new way to forge friendships while being open-minded to personal growth. Many men experience healthier relationships, personally and professionally, by engaging in this work. Open Men’s Group is a container for men to share vulnerably without receiving judgment or feedback. We believe that emotionally mature, powerful, compassionate, and purpose-driven men will help heal some of society’s deepest wounds. We support the powerful brilliance of men and we are willing to look at, and take full responsibility for, the pain we are also capable of creating – and suffering. We care deeply about men, our families, communities, and the planet. Visit ManKind Project USA to discover more. https://mkpusa.org/

WQC has weekly Thursday night social nights at the Westerville Java Central. Come and grab a coffee and connect with the community: low stakes, chill environment, and tasty drinks. No registration is required; come as you are.

Volunteer with Westerville Queer Collective and the Neurospicy Meetup to build care packages for local unhoused folks, which will be distributed throughout local camps and neighborhoods via Heer2Serve (501c3). Will you donate any items? If so, comment what will you bring Please make sure clothing items are clean and if you’re donating food, ready to be eaten without a stove or microwave. We expect to assemble around 50-100 packages, so if you’ll purchase items, please consider that amount (ie bulk individually packaged candies etc.). Fun and interesting book or entertainment item donation also welcome! Package assembly will take place on January 17th from 10-12 am. Location TBA but will be in Westerville, Ohio.

**The idea for this group is to build a community where men can gather together and build connections & learn and grow from each other.** How we start each meeting is by each of us checking in with our "roses and thorns" aka what are the good things and the bad things going on in your life recently? Then we will go into a topic discussion. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **COMMUNITY AGREEMENTS** \*\*THERE WILL BE A ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY FOR NO-SHOWS. IF YOU RSVP TO A MEETING AND FAIL TO SHOW UP WITHOUT NOTICE, YOU'LL BE REMOVED FROM THE GROUP. THIS IS TO PRESERVE THE INTEGRITY OF THE GROUP\*\* 1. Confidentiality - EVERYTHING that is shared NEVER leaves this space so that this space remains safe and sacred. There is a zero tolerance policy for this. If a man is in violation of this, they will be permanently removed from the group. 2. Non-Judgement - we respect and honor every man’s truth so that we may receive the same from others. While we may not agree on everything, we commit to respecting every man’s perspectives and engaging in honorable discussion with one another. 3. Be committed - honor your commitment to this group and to yourself. If you attend a meeting, please commit yourself fully to the meeting. Also be committed to your own journey. When we fail, we own it & clean it up. 4. Speak from the heart - this is NOT a space to “look good”, have the “right” answers, and have it all together. Relax and know you are not alone. Be exactly who you are within the safety of this space. 5. Be supportive - This means always willing to provide encouragement to your fellow men, encourage action and momentum in each other’s lives.. Be willing to challenge each other. Be willing to hold each other accountable. 6. Participation - what you receive from this community will be a reflection of what you put into it. Period. We ask that you share your perspectives, reflect on others, and give/receive support when and where it’s needed.

Join us for lunch and meet our very successful group. We are each others sales team...always looking for referrals for our members. If you are looking for new clients, let us help you out! Bring your business cards and brochures to share with us. We have a speaker each week so that we can learn about their business. Because we have only one member per business, we have many of the spots filled. However, we are specifically looking for an estate attorney, a handyman/electrician, and an event planner. We have referrals for you! All visitors are welcome. Any questions contact [pmarchio@farmersagent.com](mailto:pmarchio@farmersagent.com)