Women's Business Networking

Doing Great Work Isn’t Enough Grinding away quietly won't get you the leadership impact you deserve, we're going to talk about what to do instead. We'll break down how influence actually works: it's not just about authority or French & Raven power plays. It's mapping your allies and advocates, boosting visibility without the cringe, and taking those "do hard things" steps like leading meetings or connecting with tricky stakeholders. **Agenda (time in Melbourne/AEST)** * 5:30pm Networking * 6:00pm Welcome * 6:05pm Main Presentation * 6:35pm Q&A * 7:00pm Networking * 7:30pm Close **This will be a HYBRID event:** **Zoom link -** will be posted 1hr before event starts. **In person attendees -** head up straight up to level 2 via the lift and a volunteer will greet you at the office entrance **Our Speaker** **Gretchen Scott** Gretchen Scott is CEO of Kaleida, helping organisations grow high-performing, inclusive tech teams. A former Cloudflare Community Manager and Linc.sh COO, she specialises in leadership development, influence, and career growth. Gretchen is a regular speaker and emcee across Australia’s tech community.

🇦🇺 **HELP AUSTRALIA WIN THE COMMONWEALTH SONG CONTEST!** 🇦🇺 Dear Meetup friends, I’m excited and honoured to share that my song *“Should Words Fail”* (performed by Gentmuse Souls) has been selected to represent AUSTRALIA as a GRAND FINALIST in the Commonwealth Song Contest! 🎶✨ Voting is NOW OPEN until **31 MAY**, and I would truly appreciate your support. I created this event for the votes. ✅ PLEASE VOTE FOR AUSTRALIA ✅ SHARE THIS EVENT WITH FRIENDS ✅ HELP US SPREAD THE WORD Every single vote can make a difference! 🗳️ VOTE HERE PLEASE: **[commonwealthsongcontest.com](https://www.commonwealthsongcontest.com)** 🎵 SONG: *Should Words Fail* 🎼 Songwritten by Jacques Mario Gentil 🎤 Performed by Gentmuse Souls Thank you so much for supporting Australian music on the international stage. Your encouragement means more than words can say. If each and every one of you follow the link and put a vote for AUSTRALIA, we will be in great standing of winning. I have been there for helping you with your music, the least I am asking in return here is to put a vote for Australia. Thank you so very much. 🇦🇺 Let’s bring this home for Australia! 🇦🇺 ***Jacques*** (Organizer, Mentor, Awards-Winning Songwriter)

✨ Step into a midweek reset for the mind, body & soul at Boho Lounge & Boutique. ✨ Join us every Tuesday evening for a deeply relaxing Guided Meditation & Shamanic Sound Healing Journey designed to help you unwind, reconnect and recharge in a safe, welcoming and soulful space. Through guided meditation, grounding energy work, shamanic drumming and frequency healing, this experience supports emotional release, nervous system reset, inner clarity and deep relaxation. Perfect for anyone feeling overwhelmed, stressed, emotionally blocked or simply needing time to pause and reconnect with themselves. What to expect: 🌿 Guided meditation 🌿 Shamanic sound journey 🌿 Frequency healing & deep relaxation 🌿 Intention setting & energetic reset 🌿 Calm, supportive community atmosphere Private readings are also available before and after the session (bookings essential). 📍 Boho Lounge & Boutique 171 Jasper Rd, Bentleigh 🗓 Every Tuesday ⏰ 7pm – 8:30pm 💫 Investment: $30 Come as you are. Leave feeling lighter, calmer and renewed.

Join the Melbourne TED Talk Community for an engaging session and meet people who like being an ideator, who want to bring their voice to a larger community. In contrast to a typical public speaking training event, where you receive feedback on your amms and aas and the way you present, this goes beyond that. **The objective of this community is to get inspired by some of the best ideas serving humanity, find your own calling and voice, be an ideator, and share your ideas clearly and persuasively.** The talk we will play is one of the amazing talks from the TED Library. In this session, we will delve deeper into the topic and gain perspective, and learn from each other. Be prepared to network, engage in meaningful conversations, and embark on a journey of professional development and leadership growth. **Mark your calendars and don't miss this opportunity to refine your public speaking abilities with the Melbourne TED Talk Community!** **TED Talk link to watch together:** **How to break through fear and become a leader** https://www.ted.com/talks/valerie_montgomery_rice_how_to_break_through_fear_and_become_a_leader **Agenda (as a guide)** 6.00 PM Registration 6.10 PM Introduction by Attendees 6.20 PM 10 min talk on screen (optional) 6.30 PM Breakout session (Group / Individual) based on topic 6.45 PM Individual / Group shares their takeaways 7.00 PM Practice the Art of Public Speaking - 2-3 talks of 2.5 minutes 7.10 PM Feedback to the Presenters and overall session 7.20 PM Event Concludes & floor opens for Networking **Fees: The event has a $5 contribution towards hiring the hall and Audiovisual. This can be paid through PayPal at the time of registration.** Looking forward to seeing you there. The Organizers Raj

The QR code is meetup reservation and not entry ticket. There is an Entry. Ask at the flag desk for help.

### ☕ Common Grounds Melbourne *Come for the coffee, stay for the connections.* **Common Grounds Melbourne** has become a true home for connection, and we’re thrilled to keep the coffee and conversations flowing at, **Mr Sister Café in Malvern East**. With its warm, welcoming vibe, consistently great coffee, and an incredibly supportive team, Mr Sister Café is the perfect setting for our community to gather, connect, and thrive. If you’ve joined us before, you already know the magic. If not, consider this your official invitation. Co-hosted by the fabulous **Sandra and Eva**, our **FREE monthly morning meetups** are your go-to mid-month energy boost — a chance to step away from the hustle and reconnect with women who truly *get it*. ### What to Expect ✨ Relaxed, genuine conversations with like-minded women ✨ No pitches, no pressure — just real connection ✨ Inspiring stories and shared experiences ✨ A supportive space to network, share, and grow together We believe the most powerful connections are made over coffee, not in boardrooms. Our meetups are about celebrating the journey, not just the milestones. You’ll leave feeling energised, supported, and part of something truly special. ⏰ *Event time is **9:30am start (Melbourne local time)** — please allow for time zone differences in the Meetup App.* If you would like to book this event in your Calendar - [Click Here](https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/2?cid=Y184NWQ5YmM4NGVmZjlhNWRiNGE0YjgxOWY5NjMxOTgwN2I4NGNkZGY2NjRlMWRiZmRhZGExZDYyZDcyNTc1OWYzQGdyb3VwLmNhbGVuZGFyLmdvb2dsZS5jb20)

TO MAINTAIN A GENDER BALANCE ALL MALES MUST ATTEND WITH A FEMALE FRIEND, NO EXCEPTIONS. All females are welcome to attend alone but encouraged to attend with a female friend too for free drinks and food! MUST TAP “ATTEND” and include all guests. UNLIKE other meetups which are overwhelmingly male dominant, we provide ONLY gender balanced events where females also have a chance to meet other females, not only men. 8PM EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY (LAST ENTRY STRICTLY 8.30PM) AT 215 QUEEN’S

TO MAINTAIN A GENDER BALANCE ALL MALES MUST ATTEND WITH A FEMALE FRIEND, NO EXCEPTIONS. All females are welcome to attend alone but encouraged to attend with a female friend too for free drinks and food! MUST TAP “ATTEND” and include all guests. UNLIKE other meetups which are overwhelmingly male dominant, we provide ONLY gender balanced events where females also have a chance to meet other females, not only men. 8PM EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY (LAST ENTRY STRICTLY 8.30PM) AT 215 QUEEN’S

* Join us for an evening of professional networking and valuable insights at our Entrepreneur & **Small Business Networking Mixer**. Connect with fellow small business owners, entrepreneurs, and like-minded professionals to share business strategies and exchange ideas for startup success with a drink. * * We have carved a deal with the restaurant of 10% Discount of all Menu items & drinks if you mention the staff "**Friday Business Meetup Deal**" * * We will delve into the power of integrating feminine wisdom with masculine energy for enhanced business strategies and entrepreneurial success. Discover the importance of positive human collisions in fostering innovation and growth, while expanding your network in a dynamic and supportive environment. * * Don't miss this opportunity to meet new contacts, exchange knowledge, and take yourself to the next level! * * **About Host:** Host of the event Sash (Sachin) is qualified accountant in practice. Mostly he is present in the event but it is subject to his prior commitment. However everybody is still invited to chat & socialise whether he is present or not. The place is a platform for everyone to gather,meet & help each other. * * **Address & Timings :** from **6-8 PM** at **500 Victoria Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051 (This event will be on every Friday same time same day unless otherwise advised)** * * Join us to meet new friends, hang out and have some laughs. New people are always welcome 😊🍺🍺 * * Come along to meet new people and see the familiar faces of the regular members. This is a regular weekly group for socialising and unwinding for the weekend. * * **Liability Waiver:** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your safety and well-being.

**Find Your (Business) Tribe -** *Because no great business is built alone.* (Please note we are collecting RSVPS through multiple platforms for this event, expected attendance is approx 20 people) They say, *“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”* And in business, this couldn’t be more true. Whether you’re just starting out, growing something exciting, or dreaming up your next big move, this event is about finding the right people to walk alongside you. Think of it as a curated networking night for entrepreneurs, creatives, and business-minded doers who are looking for more than surface-level connections. Maybe you need a co-founder. A photographer. A mentor. A tech-savvy mate. An accountability partner. Or simply a community of like-minded humans who *get it*. Whatever you’re building, this night is about helping you find your *people*. Your collaborators, supporters, and sounding boards, the ones who help you stay grounded *and* move forward. Expect meaningful conversations, interactive connection activities, and a space where you don’t have to “pitch” yourself, just show up authentically. Because business gets a whole lot better when you’re surrounded by the right energy. So, bring your ideas, your questions, and your dreams. You never know who you’ll meet. **Your ticket will cover a basic beer, wine, spirit or soft drink on arrival.** Remainder of your ticket will be split to cover costs of running FYT and also charity donation to Sisterworks. Tickets are required to attend this event. Please note: This is not an event for selling, for business cards, or recruitment for direct sales or MLM models. This is an event for genuine connections, friendships, collabs, business partners, business networking, when equally reciprocated on both sides!

**We're bringing you a new series in 2026: *Depth, Discovery and Discussion*.** Girls Who Boss Melbourne is creating a space for real talk, shared wisdom and genuine connection — and you’re invited. This new series is all about coming together as a community to explore meaningful topics in a way that feels safe, intentional and refreshingly honest. This month's theme? **Ambition** — think deep discussions about tips and tricks, what keeps us motivated, and the conflicts we have to work through in order to find balance. This isn’t a speech, seminar or expert-led workshop. It’s a guided conversation shaped by all of us. Girls Who Boss will bring a set of thoughtful prompts and questions to spark dialogue, but the insight will come from the stories, perspectives and lived experiences we each bring to the table. Expect a day of: ✨ Deep chats without the pressure ✨ Discovery through shared perspectives ✨ Discussion that feels grounding, supportive and fun ✨ Connecting with women who want to grow, reflect and boss up together Whether you come with something on your mind or simply want to listen and connect, this is a space for curiosity, vulnerability and community-led learning. Come join the conversation — we can’t wait to dive deeper with you.

**Attention attendees!** **To register, use** [Luma](https://luma.com/0xx7zeel) Warning: The meetup is not a platform for RSVP registration; for this, you need to follow [thisLink ](https://luma.com/0xx7zeel)to purchase a registration ticket. The meetup is one of the platforms through which we offer participation in our events. **Startup Valley — Melbourne** A curated pitch night for startup founders, operators, angels and VC partners. We design these sessions to help founders sharpen their thinking through direct, candid feedback — and to give strong investors access to serious teams. **What happens:** • 4-8 startups pitch live and receive feedback from angels and VC partners • Feedback focuses on real decisions and next steps — not surface-level opinions • Investors stay in the room before and after pitches • The format leaves space for real conversations, not rushed networking • Attendance is limited to keep the room focused Designed for clear thinking, not noise. **Who you’ll meet:** * Startup founders * Angel investors and VC partners * Operators in marketing, sales, and tech * AI engineers * Local and international founders * AI Experts * Founders from Europe, Asia, and the United Kingdom **Practical details** **For investors:** We invite angel investors and VC partners to participate as judges and contributors. **To become a judge,** and get early access to our startups database, please fill out th[ the form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8CVqvhQJu-AcclIF6PCuwjL4YpQt4w0FchGSoutRkt58v4g/viewform). Join the judge table, meet other investors, and see what teams are building early. Founders need your experienced view. **For pitching startups:** Startups selected to pitch will present live on stage and receive feedback from investors. **After purchasing a ticket:** Please[ submit your pitch deck](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSchcZr9gCNJh0RLiKBgbdbDBKEOc-92LNySkzHf8qGPHg5Wpg/viewform) and ensure it is open for viewers. **Agenda** **18:00 – 18:30** **Registration** Guests register, receive badges, and event programs. This is an opportunity for casual networking, making first connections, and preparing for the event. **18:30 – 19:30** **Event Kickoff & Interactive Networking** Official welcome from the organizers with a brief overview of the event goals and schedule. Interactive networking helps participants set their objectives and connect with key contacts. **19:40 – 20:20** **Startup Pitch Session** Startups present their projects to investors and experts. Each team has 5 minutes to pitch, covering the project's core idea, business model, and target market. **20:20 – 21:00** **Chill & Networking** Participants enjoy casual conversations with investors, discuss collaborations, and exchange ideas over refreshments.

Free monthly networking for Columbus business owners. Real conversations, real connections, no forced formats. Space is limited. RSVP now. Good marketing starts with good relationships. That is what this event is built around. Networking Night is a free monthly event for local business owners in Columbus who want to build real connections with other serious operators in their market. No structured rotations. No forced elevator pitches. Just a room full of local business owners who are worth knowing, in a space that makes it easy to have an actual conversation. Register here: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/local-marketing-networking-night-tickets-1988510112275](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/local-marketing-networking-night-tickets-1988510112275)

[ECDI Pop-Up Market Official Registration Site --> https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ecdi-pop-up-market-tickets-1986071755083](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ecdi-pop-up-market-tickets-1986071755083) Celebrate Small Business Month by shopping local for food, drinks, and handcrafted gifts! Join us for the ECDI Pop‑Up Market, a celebration of local entrepreneurs during Small Business Month. Explore delicious food and drinks, discover handcrafted goods, and shop unique items from small businesses in your community. Whether you’re looking to support local makers, discover new favorites, or pick up a thoughtful gift, this market has something for everyone. **What you’ll find at the market:** * Local food and beverage vendors * Handcrafted goods and unique gifts * A chance to meet and support small business owners in your community * An easy, fun way to discover new local favorites [SCORE Central Ohio](https://www.score.org/ "https://www.score.org/") will also be on site to talk about their small business mentorship program. **Market Vendors:** Baked Goods * Shante Makes Body Care * [Bellas Natural Beauty Products](https://www.facebook.com/Bellasnaturalbeautyprod/ "https://www.facebook.com/Bellasnaturalbeautyprod/") Clothing & Accessories * [The Krafted Kollection](https://www.thekraftedkollection.com/ "https://www.thekraftedkollection.com") * [Loayza Elegant Jewelry](https://www.loayzaelegantjewelry.com/ "https://www.loayzaelegantjewelry.com/") * [Swahili House 254](https://www.swahilihouse254.com/ "https://www.swahilihouse254.com") Food/Beverage * [Aqua Pure Central Ohio](https://aquapurecentralohio.com/ "https://aquapurecentralohio.com") * [Better Beverage](https://betterbevshop.com/ "https://betterbevshop.com") * [Cherays Banana Pudding](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567527322952 "https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567527322952") * [Dr. May's Thai Kitchen](https://www.drmaysthaikitchen.com/menu "https://www.drmaysthaikitchen.com/menu") * [Kronchy LLC](https://www.kronchys.com/ "https://www.kronchys.com") * [Terra Mezcal Mexican Grill](https://terra%20mezcal%20mexican%20grill/ "https://Terra Mezcal Mexican Grill") Packaged Food * [Grow to Eat, Eat to Live](https://growtoeattolive.com/ "https://growtoeattolive.com/") * [Underworld Feast](https://underworldfeast.com/ "https://underworldfeast.com/")  Since 2004, ECDI has assisted Ohio’s entrepreneurs through their one-stop-shop business services model, suited to meet the needs of all entrepreneurs, regardless of what business stage they’re in. From providing capital to entrepreneurs looking to expand their businesses, to providing focused, business-specific educational opportunities to enhance entrepreneurial skill sets, ECDI works with their clients to meet their specific needs. Whether you merely have a business idea or are opening up your fifth location, we have helped more than 15,000 entrepreneurs to take advantage of the services we provide.

To secure your spot please register on the official registration site here --> [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/building-opportunities-government-contracting-construction-panel-tickets-1988031527816](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/building-opportunities-government-contracting-construction-panel-tickets-1988031527816) Part of the Pathways to Procurement series. Hear from construction and government leaders, followed by networking. Join us for an engaging panel discussion designed to connect businesses within the construction and government ecosystem. We're bringing together experienced professionals from local government, construction, and related industries to share insights on upcoming projects, procurement processes, and what businesses need to know to successfully engage in public-sector opportunities. Panelists will discuss trends, expectations, and real-world considerations when working with government entities. Following the panel conversation, attendees will have the opportunity to **network with panelists and fellow business owners**, build relationships, and continue the discussion in a relaxed setting with light food and refreshments. **Event Highlights** * Networking * Light food and drinks * Panel Discussion: Expert guidance on upcoming city projects and opportunities Whether you are actively pursuing government contracts or looking to better understand the landscape, this event offers valuable perspectives and meaningful connections.

**[Official registration site --> https://luma.com/du41v0tg](https://luma.com/du41v0tg)** **[You must register and will receive an approval/confirmation](https://luma.com/du41v0tg).** We’re taking HustleBus from Columbus to **Black Tech Week in Cincinnati** for a high-signal, founder-only experience focused on community, collaboration, and momentum. ​ **Why Black Tech Week?** ​Black Tech Week is one of the best rooms in Ohio to meet builders, operators, investors, and ecosystem leaders. Expect meaningful connections, great energy, and programming that spotlights founders and what’s being built. ​ What’s included (thank you to our sponsors Huntington Bank, Burton D Morgan Foundation, and Lightship Foundation) * ​Founder-only HustleBus transportation (free) * ​**Black Tech Week ticket comped** for HustleBus participants (must register with code) * And much more! There are limited seats on the Hustle Bus, so if this sounds like something you want to get in on, register today * Learn more and Register here --> [https://luma.com/du41v0tg](https://luma.com/du41v0tg)

Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!

**PLEASE BUY TICKETS THROUGH EVENTBRITE. RSVP THROUGH MEETUP IS NOT A TICKET PURCHASE CONFIRMATION.** Strive welcomes you to 'General Business Networking', Columbus' hottest networking event! We are set in the perfect central location in Downtown for all to join. Are you interested in business? Want to elevate your career? Meet Consultants, Analysts of all types, Bankers, Software Engineers, Entrepreneurs, and more who are active in the space or are eager to get started. **\*\*This will be a multi-vertical event\*\*** **There will be professionals with backgrounds in the arts, finance, tech, real estate, healthcare, and more. Come with an open mind, and leave with connections that wouldn't be possible otherwise!** Pack some business cards and come with an open mind! Meet your future business partners, employers, coworkers, investors, and friends. You don't want to miss this opportunity to expand your network and create a brighter future. We will have a space for our event to check-in. The event will go from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (feel free to come at any point in this timeframe). Name tags will be provided. Business casual dress code. Job fair attire. **Remember, it's not who you know, it's who you meet tomorrow!** We look forward to meeting you at the event! Sincerely, Strive Networking Team *Refund requests are permitted up to 24 hours after purchase, so long as we are not within 48 hours before the event start time. Refunds will be made in full and repaid to your method of payment. Note that we are unable to reimburse PayPal fees.* *Disclaimer: By attending Strive Networking events you agree to photos/videos taken during the event being used to promote future events.*