Consulting

To secure your spot, purchase your ticket from the Eventbrite link (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/international-development-affairs-and-ngos-virtual-hour-tickets-148671196551). RSVPing only on the Meetup page, doesn't allow you to attend the Event. ABOUT THE EVENT This Happy Hour is devoted to professionals in the International Affairs and Development community, to grow, interact, and learn from each other. It is designed to provide a professional environment to meet other International Affairs professionals to broaden one's career. It is also for those interested in International Affairs and Development careers and are studying or intend to enter the dynamic world of global development. HOW IT WORKS : We will try to assign Breakout Rooms for each represented INDUSTRIES/SECTORS/SPECIALIZATIONS and will direct attendees to their respective rooms accordingly. All are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular experience, you would like to exchange. Space is limited and advance ticket purchase is required. NOTES : 1. Sign up on Eventbrite for FREE . 2. When you purchase a FREE ticket, you will be emailed the Event ID and Password, on the day of the event. 4. As we try to make it a live event, you can't turn off your camera. 5. We have limited spots and RSVP at your earliest convenience. 6. Bring Your Own Beverage (BYOB - Alcoholic/Non-Alcoholic). **FOR FURTHER INFO, REFER THE EVENTBRITE TICKET LINK**. IT RULES.

***“I am struck with how rare it is to find a few good friends on the path. It is easy to find people who simply want to sit and be entertained by teachers, or who want to sit and entertain by playing the role of teacher. In other words, the quest for affirmation often outweighs the quest for truth.*** ***Yet you may have one or two good friends, and definitely have one or two waiting to be discovered. Find them; be thankful.”*** ***— Shawn Nevins*** 'What will make me happy in life?' ... 'Am I my thoughts?' ... 'What is Enlightenment?' ... We meet every week to ask questions like these in the pursuit of Self-Knowledge and Truth. We are interested in topics like: Zen, stoicism, spirituality, psychology, mindfulness, Nisargadatta, non-violent communication, Socrates, existential philosophy, Alan Watts, taoism, Eckhart Tolle, meditation, Ramana Maharshi, etc. But we are not affiliated with any dogma, philosophy, or religion. Our goal each meeting is to serve as mirrors for one another using question-based inquiry in a safe environment. In a session, every participant takes turns discussing the week's question or topic, and the group asks reflective questions without any agenda besides trying to understand the person's beliefs. A few other guiding principles of our group: * No one is obligated to share * Be honest with yourself and others * Do not try to convince others to believe or think as you do * Keep the focus on the person being questioned We meet at the [Bethesda Library](https://maps.app.goo.gl/GWMozF8zpY1m1PY26) every Monday. The library is a 5 minute walk from the Bethesda Metro on the Red Line, approx 25 minute Metro ride from Metro Center and Gallery Place stations. The library has a a parking lot with metered parking for $1/hour. \*\*\* WE WILL BE IN MEETING ROOM 3 UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED ----- THE MEETING ROOM IS IN THE BACK OF THE LIBRARY \*\*\* Please contact us with any questions!

Tally Ho Toastmasters meets regularly on the 1st and 3rd Monday each month. Our friendly club offers great opportunities to improve communication and leadership skills while providing excellent evaluations by the members. Learn more on our website at http://tallyho.toastmastersclubs.org/. Please, do not get discouraged by the number of members signed up on this MeetUp. Most of our active members do not use MeetUp to RSVP. We usually have around 10-15 members attending our meetings. Come check it out yourself!

PLEASE RSVP FOLLOWING THIS LINK: [REGISTER](https://whitleyparksportsclub.playbycourt.com/programs/adult-spark-co-ed-copy-b36af4) Your spot won't be secured until you've booked your spot on the link above. #### **LEVEL:** Beginners (co-ed) Ready to build on the basics? Adult Spark is the perfect place to start. Whether you are just picking up a racquet or brushing off the rust, this co-ed program is all about learning proper technique, gaining confidence, and having a blast on court with others at a similar beginner level. Expect fast improvement, lots of movement, and a great workout — all in a supportive, fun environment. #### **SEASON (15 WEEKS)**: March 7 to June 13, 2026 * 8 weeks INDOORS (March 2 to April 26) * 7 weeks OUTDOORS (April 27 to June 14) **DAYS & TIMES:** * **Mondays:** 11am-12:30pm * **Tuesdays**: 1-2:30pm * **Thursdays**: 7-8am * **Fridays:** 10:30am-12pm * **Fridays:** 8:30-9:30pm * **Saturdays:** 10-11:30am #### **LOCATION**: Whitley Park Sports Club **[Address](https://www.google.com/search?sa=X&biw=1366&bih=657&q=the+beach+tennis+%26+pool+%40+east+gate+potomac+address&ludocid=14802468310463342416&ved=2ahUKEwjuyejfgcX8AhWJLFkFHTl-Cv0Q6BN6BAhkEAI):** 5450 Whitley Park Terrace, Bethesda, MD 20814

To secure your spot, purchase your ticket from the Eventbrite link ([https://www.eventbrite.com/e/australia-9-days-highlights-cairns-barrier-reef-sydney-tickets-499023441547](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/australia-9-days-highlights-cairns-barrier-reef-sydney-tickets-499023441547)). RSVPing only on the Meetup Page doesn't allow you to attend the Event. ADVANCE TICKET PURCHASE IS REQUIRED TO RESERVE YOUR SEAT. ABOUT THE EVENT Marvel on these 9 days of adventure to explore the highlights of Australia’s east coast from Cairns to Sydney. Explore the beautiful Cape Tribulation and Daintree Rainforest which gives you the chance to learn more about the fascinating history, culture, and nature of the region. Snorkel and scuba into Great Barrier Reef, the best spots at one of the world’s most incredible natural wonders. Explore the stunning sprawl of the Blue Mountains and the tour can not be complete without visiting Sydney, the capital city to soak up the vibrant culture and laidback lifestyle. **Inclusions** **Ticket Price Includes :** **Airport pickup and transfers** **7 Breakfasts** **2 lunch** **1 Dinner** **8 nights of hotel accommodation** **One way flight (Cairns- Sydney)** **Transportation in A/C bus / Van (shared)** **Excursions and activities as per the itinerary** **Tour leader** **Ticket Price Excludes :** **International Flights** **Meals (other than those mentioned above)** **Personal Expenses** **Tips and gratuities** **Transfers other than those mentioned in the Itinerary (available at extra cost)** **Travel insurance / Visa** **Highlights** **Visited Places:** Cairns Cape Tribulation and Daintree Rainforest Great Barrier Reef Bondi Beach Sydney Blue Mountains Kiama South Coast **Travel Experience:** • Cairns city • Sydney Harbour Cruise • Daintree Rainforests • Snorkel / Scuba in The Great Barrier Reef • Blue Mountains tour • Cuddle up to Koalas • Hand-feed baby Kangaroos Reasons To Book This Trip 1\. Affordable Adventure – Traveling with a like\-minded group is not only fun but also it’s cost\-effective instead of traveling solo\. 2\. Forget About The Planning – We take care of permits\, transportation\, and logistics\, so all you have to do is show up\. 3\. Make New Friends – On every trip you will meet new people\, it’s a good opportunity to make friends for your life while enjoying the group event\. 4\. Group Leader – Event organizer will be there every step of the way\, making sure that the trip goes as smoothly as possible\. 5\. Unforgettable Memories – All events are designed keeping in mind to have an unforgettable memory of your lifetime\. ***Notes*** ***Tour Start*** ***CAIRNS*** ***Tour End*** ***SYDNEY*** ***Destination*** ***AUSTRALIA*** ***Flights*** ***Arrival: Day01 before 3pm*** ***Return: Day9 anytime after 12pm*** ***FLY IN Airport: Cairns Airport (CNS)*** ***FLY OUT Airport: Sydney Airport (SYD)*** ***Meeting Point*** ***The group meets at the arrival airport or at the hotel on Day01.*** ***More details will be provided via group chat on WhatsApp*** **Itinerary** **Day01 : CAIRNS** Description: Welcome to Cairns, Australia. On arrival get transferred to the hotel. Today is a free day to explore the Cairns city. Cairns considered the gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, is a city in tropical Far North Queensland. Its Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park tells the stories of indigenous Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with music and dance. Cairns Esplanade, lined with bars and restaurants, has a swimming lagoon. Northwest of the city, Daintree National Park spans mountainous rainforest, gorges and beaches. Activities Included: Airport transfer Free day to explore the city Accommodation: Hotel – Cairns City Centre or similar . . . . . . . **FOR FURTHER INFO, REFER THE EVENTBRITE LINK AND PURCHASE A TICKET. IT RULES.** Travel insurance : WE HIGHLY ENCOURAGE TO GET A TRAVEL INSURANCE.

A low cost, 6-week beginner-level **ESL** (English as a Second Language) course with the non-profit organization, the Global Language Network. \#\# ESL Frequent Flyer Language Class **Details:** \#\#\#\# ESL Frequent Flyer with Caroline Mondays from 6:30pm - 8:30pm ET Apr 6th to May 11th In-person, Farragut Square DC * GLN classes are open to everyone over 18 years of age. * Have a credit or stipend to apply to your payment? Learn more about our credit, stipend, and refund policy on the [Pricing & Course Levels page.](http://%5B%5Bhttps://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D%5D(https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D)(%5Bhttps://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D(https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels))) Ready to learn? **Register [HERE](http://%5B%5Bhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D%5D(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D)(%5Bhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform))).** **About GLN** We are a Washington, DC-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to "Use Language as a Tool to Help Fix Our World." Since 2015 we have been rated #1 Best Language Classes in Washington, DC by Yelp! We are so happy and grateful to have you join our network and we appreciate your support of our mission.

**[In-person workshop this Sunday April 12 from](https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tealcenter.com%2Fclasses-and-events%2F&data=05%7C02%7C%7C5e545437b3164b8784ce08de9353ce80%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C639110185315023244%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=0DG2Bv%2BbsMUN8NHyiauE%2FiR24l5nlOhmqcgeG%2F5iN18%3D&reserved=0 "Protected by Outlook: https://www.tealcenter.com/classes-and-events/. Click or tap to follow the link.")**  **[1 to 5 pm ET at the Teal Center, Arlington VA.](https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tealcenter.com%2Fclasses-and-events%2F&data=05%7C02%7C%7C5e545437b3164b8784ce08de9353ce80%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C639110185315042488%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=19OJz3FqqTNPxU3bALNuaFRFifrBQL0s9khVo8VLdjQ%3D&reserved=0 "Protected by Outlook: https://www.tealcenter.com/classes-and-events/. Click or tap to follow the link.")** *Systemic constellation* work explores the path of inner freedom and fulfillment by uncovering and releasing trauma. Harrison is honored to be the guest facilitator (standing in for Randy) at the Teal Center for this monthly event. As pointed out on the Teal website the constellation process: *"...doesn’t just uncover wounds; it reconnects you to inner resources—strength, belonging, dignity, ancestral support—that were always present but obscured.* *From this place, genuine movement becomes possible. The work tends to feel less like “fixing” and more like remembering who and what you already are, creating conditions for profound healing, clarity, and moving forward."* **[The course is 65 USD](https://www.tealcenter.com/classes-and-events/)** Your workshop facilitator is **[Harrison Snow.](https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchangedynamicsinternational.com%2Fharrison-snows-bio%2F&data=05%7C02%7C%7C5e545437b3164b8784ce08de9353ce80%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C639110185315067681%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=U34UZK3UfL0AfKBHYY6HZwbr5rA89wu9PanJgcVjdk8%3D&reserved=0 "Protected by Outlook: https://changedynamicsinternational.com/harrison-snows-bio/. Click or tap to follow the link.")** He has over 20 years in depth experience **[facilitating systemic constellation work](https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchangedynamicsinternational.com%2Ftestimonials%2F&data=05%7C02%7C%7C5e545437b3164b8784ce08de9353ce80%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C639110185315079992%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=nLsKclGAVsoDg%2B%2FZJyffkPuCpZmXeB5qHzch92nJTVs%3D&reserved=0 "Protected by Outlook: https://changedynamicsinternational.com/testimonials/. Click or tap to follow the link.")** as a coach and group facilitator and 50 plus years of meditation practice. Check out his book on systemic work for leaders, ***[Confessions of a Corporate Shaman: Healing the Organizational Soul.](https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fa.co%2Fd%2FgVeGu1S&data=05%7C02%7C%7C5e545437b3164b8784ce08de9353ce80%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C639110185315092457%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=xzboJJW8zTPgNOX8b4ZaRj99BnxK59g5xZFm%2ByA0EzA%3D&reserved=0 "Protected by Outlook: https://a.co/d/gVeGu1S. Click or tap to follow the link.")***

**Personal & Professional Visioning in Uncertain Times** *with Jeanette Passons* When development programs disappear, the need for direction doesn’t. In this interactive NOVA Scribes session, Jeanette Passons shares a flexible, visual framework for personal and professional planning designed for people navigating change, reduced support, or shifting priorities. Using a large-format visioning map, you’ll move through four phases: * Assess your current state * Clarify your why (including what to do less of) * Imagine who you are in one year * Identify small, meaningful actions This is not hustle culture goal-setting. It’s structured reflection with choice. Prefer a SWOT? Do that. Want a word of the year? Go there. Need brass tacks next steps? You’ll leave with them. Come ready to think, write, and talk. Leave with clarity, focus, and a visible next step. No big “next huge thing” required. ‼️ - This will be **IN-PERSON at Brian's home studio in Franklin Farm in Herndon, VA.** Meetup isn't letting me include the exact address in the location. When you register, you'll get a pop up with the exact address. *Jeanette is a serial doodler and recovering doom-scroller, who likes long walks in the woods. Middle age has gifted her with a greenish thumb (formerly black) and a yearning to identify bird calls. Professionally, she is a graphic recorder, facilitator, coach, and now a graphic designer (a career goal 30 years in the making!). She has worked in the federal government for 26 years and believes public service rocks.* *This session was inspired by her own experience navigating career transition during a time of uncertainty, and by conversations with others seeking different paths to clarity. For this session, she has brought together a range of reflective tools to support individualized exploration. Think of it as "choose-your-own-adventure" visioning.* Anyone who wants to connect can email Jeanette at [jeanette.passons@gmail.com](mailto:jeanette.passons@gmail.com). She is always happy to chat/brainstorm/ideate 

Greetings, **BlackGovTech** will be hosting another of their monthly networking mixers at **12 Stories Lounge** at the Wharf in SW DC Thursday April, 9th, 2026 from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. This mixer--Spring Fling Edition, is **free and open to individuals of various backgrounds** (not exclusive to those in tech or of ethnicity minority) and features Hip Hop, R & B, contemporary, and classic music. Feel free to sign up individually or bring friends to enjoy food, drinks, and rooftop views of the 20+ restaurant waterfront. For those interested in attending **feel free to RSVP and see link below** for additional event information and registration details. **Event includes:** * Tech representatives from companies such as Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Meta, Accenture, and consulting firms (historically) * Networking, mixing, and mingling with industry/community leaders and advocates of various backgrounds If there are any questions regarding this mixer feel free to reach out to **BlackGovTech** on their event page. Also feel free to contact them at info@blackgovtech.com for partnership opportunities. Additional comments may also be added to the meet-up event chat/comment section at anytime, thank you. **Link to Register:** https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-gov-tech-spring-fling-tech-mixer-12-stories-come-join-us-tickets-1985445353499?aff=ebdssbdestsearch \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Alicia (202) 627-0361 Sunday April, 5th, 2026 3:45pm (update)

Title: Agentic AI Masterclass for Leaders, Managers & Founders Date: April 12 2026 8:00 am - 10:00 am EDT Abstract Agentic AI is the next evolution of artificial intelligence—where AI systems don’t just respond, but plan, decide, act, and collaborate autonomously. This course is designed specifically for leaders, managers, founders, and senior professionals who want to understand, evaluate, and deploy AI agents in real business environments—without needing a technical background. You will learn: \- What Agentic AI is \(beyond ChatGPT and copilots\)\. - How AI agents reason, plan, use tools, and work together . \- Real\-world business use cases across operations\, HR\, finance\, marketing\, healthcare\, and supply chain\. - How to design AI agent workflows using no-code / low-code tools . \- Governance\, risk\, ethics\, and ROI of autonomous AI systems The course includes hands\-on demos\, live agent builds\, and executive\-level frameworks so you can confidently lead AI adoption in your organization\. By the end of this course, you will be able to think like an AI architect, talk confidently with technical teams, and make strategic decisions about Agentic AI. Target Audience: CXOs, CTOs, CIOs, COOs, business leaders & managers, startup founders & product managers, consultants & strategy professionals ,academicians & researchers, MBA / Executive. education learners. Course Learning Outcomes -Clearly explain Agentic AI vs Generative AI -Identify where AI agents can replace or augment teams - Design multi-agent workflows for real business problems - Build working AI agents using no-code tools - Evaluate risk, governance, and ethical implications - Create an AI Agent roadmap for their organization. Speaker: Prof. Snehal Laddhaa is a dynamic and results-driven professional with a strong background in Electronics and Computer Science, specializing in AI, data analysis, and IoT applications. With over 17 years of teaching experience at reputed institutions, both in India and internationally, including Australia and the UK, Ms. Laddhaa has made significant contributions to academia through research publications and patents. She currently serves as an Assistant Professor at Ramdeobaba University, Nagpur, where they lead innovative academic programs and foster student engagement. Her work spans product development, project management, and cross-functional collaboration, with notable achievements including the grant of a utility patent for "An IoT-Powered Smart Trash Bin" and 17 design patents. She has also received accolades such as the Best Paper Award at Cardiff Metropolitan University and is a certified Australian Qualified Professional Engineer. She is a reviewer of reputed international journals. Her Google Scholar profile highlights a strong publication record in embedded systems, AI, and IoT applications. Moderators: Dr. Pawel Gora, CEO of Quantum AI Foundation [https://www.qaif.org/](https://www.qaif.org/) Dr. Sebastian Zajac, member of QPoland [https://qworld.net/qpoland/](https://qworld.net/qpoland/)

Greetings, For those interested, the Next Gen Leadership Counsil (presented at last year's NAACP Conference in Charlotte, NC) will be hosting a leadership and advocacy discussion panel this Friday and Saturday April 10th through the 11th (reception on Friday from 4:30pm to 7:30pm; feel free to message the organizers for more information on Friday's meeting location; see link below). Saturday's events will include discussions, starting from 8:00am to 4:00pm, on policy, bridging the gap between various minority/underserved communities, community campaign strategies, legal advocacy, and collaboration between various advocacy organizations. Speakers include local DMV Civil Rights Attorney Chavis Jones, Director of African American Affairs for the New York State Executive Chamber--Jessica Mireya Douglas, and the Managing Director of Bold Justice Consulting--Kolbey Gardner. Feel free to RSVP, message, or call at anytime if there are any questions about this event (NextGen event organizers can be messaged directly on their page, see link below). Updates may also be added to the event chat at anytime, thank you. **NAACP NextGen Leadership Summit: Friday April 10th, 2026 to Saturday April, 11th 2026** https://www.nextgenalumni.com/summit (pay as you wish options) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Alicia (202) 627-0361 Sunday April, 5th, 2026 4:45pm.

🍻 **Post-Event Happy Hour — Tech Fluent** 📅 April 10 \| 🕠 5:30 PM 📍 Gordon Ramsay Street Pizza After a full day of building, learning, and experimenting with AI, join us for a **casual happy hour** to unwind, connect, and keep the conversations going. This is open to: * Tech Fluent attendees * DC Legal Tech Meetup members * AI-curious professionals who just want to join for drinks + conversation No agenda — just good people, good pizza, and a chance to meet others exploring AI across legal, business, and beyond. *** 💡 **Why come?** * Meet others who are actually *doing* something with AI * Continue conversations from the workshop in a relaxed setting * Join even if you couldn’t attend the full event *** RSVP appreciated for the happy hour.

## Is your cybersecurity about "fixing tech," or about protecting the reputation you’ve spent years building? Cybersecurity isn't just a technical expense or a concern for giant corporations—it’s the foundation of your clients' trust. If you want to move from feeling vulnerable to being digitally resilient today, not just "someday," this training is for you. Join us for **Cybersecurity: Protecting your business and your clients!** with Arian Mohammadi. **What you will learn:** * How to decode modern digital threats and identify your business's hidden vulnerabilities. * Practical, high-impact strategies to secure sensitive data and client information. * The essential steps to build a "protected environment" so you can focus on growth, not risks. Stop worrying about the "what ifs." Start building digital resilience. [\[](https://bnicentralmaryland.com/en-US/eventdetails?eventId=PBeOOx2GfolDaJlkw%2BhgTQ%3D%3D)**[Click Here to Register](https://bnicentralmaryland.com/en-US/eventdetails?eventId=PBeOOx2GfolDaJlkw%2BhgTQ%3D%3D)**[\]](https://bnicentralmaryland.com/en-US/eventdetails?eventId=PBeOOx2GfolDaJlkw%2BhgTQ%3D%3D)

**Connected Westerville Night of Networking** *April Edition: The Introduction Economy* You've been to the networking events. You've done the small talk. Collected the cards. Forgotten the names. And walked out feeling like you just wasted two hours of your life. The problem isn't you. It's the format. Most networking events put you in a room and tell you to figure it out. So everyone defaults to elevator pitches and business talk, and nothing real gets built. Here's the truth about networking that most people miss: Your network isn't just who you know. It's who thinks of you when they're talking to someone else. *That's* The Introduction Economy. And it only works when relationships are real. There's a reason people who come once keep coming back. It starts with seven minutes that feel nothing like networking. Then we open it up. Free networking. More conversations. More momentum. This is a room full of corporate professionals, entrepreneurs, business owners, creatives, and career builders in the Westerville and Columbus area. The mix is the magic. You might never do business with everyone you meet tonight. But someone in this room will think of *you.* **By name**. So, the next time someone needs exactly what you do, you get the recommendation. **April 14th. RSVP now.** **When:** Tuesday\, April 14th \| 6:15 PM \-\- 8:00 PM **Where:** Vineyard Community Center \| 6000 Cooper Rd\, Westerville\, OH 43081

**The Data-Driven Brand: Using Analytics to Shape Perception** Can you use analytics to improve tacos? This being CBUSDAW, we think the answer is probably “yes”, but we’re not sure how to implement or test this theory. For our April meetup we’ve got Sara Kear, CMO of Condado Tacos, to investigate this delicious question. Sara will explore how she blends quantitative data and qualitative customer feedback to shape brand positioning and drive business decisions. We all know that marketing and analytics go way beyond attribution. Sara will show how Condado uses customer insights to inform product and pricing strategy. She’ll also highlight how Condado leverages customer feedback at scale to influence operational priorities, positioning marketing as the voice of the customer across the organization. In the last 12 years Condado has gone from one location in Columbus to 52 locations across 10 states, so we’re guessing there’s more to that growth than really good guac (though the guac probably helps). Ultimately, this talk focuses on the intersection of art and science—using data to inform creativity and build a brand that resonates with customers in a measurable way. **About Our Speaker** Sara Kear is Chief Marketing Officer at Condado Tacos, where she oversees brand, restaurant design, menu and pricing strategy, off-premise including catering, and customer data strategy. Since joining in 2021, she has helped grow the brand from 19 to 52 locations while building a data-driven marketing organization focused on loyalty and customer insights. Condado has since been named to the Inc. 5000, recognized as Breakout Retailer by Chain Store Age, and consistently ranked among FastCasual’s Top 100 Movers & Shakers. Thanks to our 2026 sponsors: [Clarivoy](https://www.clarivoy.com), [What Box Consulting Group](https://www.whatboxconsultinggroup.com), [Conductrics](https://www.conductrics.com), and [Piwik PRO](https://piwik.pro) More info at [cbusdaw.com](https://cbusdaw.com)

Bienvenue! Columbus French Conversation group invites you to our Saturday morning French conversation club. Expect a casual and welcoming atmosphere in which to learn french! I will bring my laptop so we can look up new vocabulary as needed! The venue is a beautiful French restaurant so you can really get into the zone :)

Pay attention! We’re delaying a week for those of you who may be on Spring break and/or celebrating the holiday. Ok, no pancakes, but waffles-a-plenty. Join the local UX and Digital Design community for a casual monthly breakfast. Look for us upstairs!

Feeling down? Sometimes depressed? Can't focus? Negativity & stress? Recent losses? Creativity in career and personal life hindered by mental blocks? Sometimes we never fully recover from traumatic experiences. Whether it was yesterday, last week or a year ago, traumatic experiences - a loss of a loved one, losing a job, a breakup - can leave you scarred. You talk about it and feel a little better, but it never goes away. After you hang up the phone, it's still there; the sadness, the cloud, the over-thinking, the worry, the guilt. You try to focus, but you're blocked. You try to look forward into new experiences, new relationships but a cloud is hanging over you, casting a shadow on what you once considered a bright, cheerful future. What happened to your courage? Your strength of character? You're 'why not' attitude? Whoever said 'time heals' must have had a special time machine, because after weeks, months, years, you're wondering - when exactly does that kick in? Sometimes it seems like drinking or drugs are the way to go. But they wear off, and now the problem is still there with added side effects from the drugs. At this free local Meetup event we will talk about: * What causes grief, anxiety and depression to become chronic. * Is it possible to regain your joy and happiness even after traumatic experiences? * How to break away from negativity and focus on the future * What are the steps to take to get control of your mind and your emotions? Learn about a safe, gentle, do-it-yourself counseling that can be done in the comfort of your own home. Let's explore safe, effective solutions for healing from traumatic experiences. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to the event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is sponsored by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center.

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.

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!