Experimental Archaeology

Map the World, Change the World. Join Our Mapathon! Got a laptop? Ready to make a difference? 💥 We're on a mission to create life-saving maps for disaster response, and we need YOU. No experience? No problem. Whether you're a mapping newbie or an OpenStreetMap Pro, you'll learn, collaborate, and help create maps that matter. What to bring? Your laptop (mouse = bonus points!) Why join? Learn cool mapping skills Make a real impact in crisis zones Meet like-minded change-makers Ready to map for good? Let’s do this.

A decade. Hundreds of conversations, ideas, and inspirations. And we're celebrating with a meetup that truly delivers. Three exceptional speakers, topics that matter, and plenty of room for what has made this meetup special for 10 years: real people, real conversations, real networking. **The Evening at a Glance** 17:30 Doors open, first drinks, familiar faces and new ones 18:00 Welcome and a brief look back at 10 years of DevOps Meetup Zurich 18:15–18:45 **Claws in the Dark: Bringing DevSecOps to Legacy Hardware with Robotics and Playwright** by Alexander Friesen 18:45–19:15 **Beyond Agile: Structuring Organizations for Real Autonomy** by Lea Düker 19:15–19:25 Short break 19:25–19:55 **From Bottlenecks to Flow: OKRs, Value Stream Management, and Governance Done Right** by Vasileios Konofaos 19:55–20:15 Panel discussion with all three speakers 20:15 Networking, Open Space, snacks, drinks, and anniversary cake 🎂 **Claws in the Dark: Bringing DevSecOps to Legacy Hardware with Robotics and Playwright** What do you do when your software’s "deployment target" is a piece of security hardware embedded in a concrete wall for 20 years? In the world of access control, we don't have the luxury of "move fast and break things"—if the integration fails, the door stays locked. For decades, hardware development at Primion relied on manual bit-shifting, incomplete specifications, and the "read, write, and pray" method. When the pandemic decentralized our R&D department—scattering 60 developers across Europe—the traditional model of physical bench testing collapsed. We couldn't send a lab to everyone’s home, so we brought the developers to the lab through robotics. In this session, we deep-dive into how we bridged the physical-digital divide by building a fully automated hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing farm. We will explore: * The Architecture: How we orchestrate GitLab CI, Azure ephemeral environments, and Playwright to drive physical interactions. * The Hardware Hack: How a 200 CHF robotic claw replaced manual testing, allowing developers to "touch" hardware from anywhere in the world. * The Shift-Left Strategy: Moving from "praying for compatibility" to robust integration testing that catches bit-level errors before they ever hit the factory floor. * Scaling on a Budget: How a single working student scaled our setup to 20+ (and rising) automated test cells. Join us to see how "claws moving in the dark" turned hardware debugging from a nightmare into a breeze, and learn how to apply DevSecOps principles to the most stubborn, physical environments. **Alexander Friesen** Aexander is a **Lead IT Architect** with over a decade of experience in software architecture and technical leadership. He specializes in building and scaling modern ecosystems for major enterprises like **Swisscard** and **Siemens**. DevOps & Platform Engineering Highlights * **Platform Leadership:** Directed technical strategy for Siemens’ IoT flagship "BuildingX" and managed multi-million dollar budgets for large-scale SAFe trains. * **Automation & Compliance:** Expert in **DevSecOps**, achieving ISO27000 compliance through automated CI/CD pipelines and security scanning. * **Efficiency Gains:** Improved software team productivity by **30%** through the implementation of AI Ops and Internal Developer Platforms. * **Cloud Native Stack:** Certified **AWS Architect** with deep expertise in Kubernetes, Terraform, Serverless, and **Data Mesh** architectures. * **Global Teams:** Proven track record of leading cross-functional engineering teams across Switzerland, Germany, the USA, and India. **Beyond Agile: Structuring Organizations for Real Autonomy** Many organizations invest in agile methods, DevOps, and new technologies, and yet the desired impact on collaboration, accountability, and decision-making often fails to materialize. A key lever for change lies in how organizations are structured. This talk provides an introduction to Holacracy as a model for radical self-organization and places it within the broader landscape of organizational development. It explains what defines Holacracy, the principles behind it, and the problems it aims to address. The focus, however, is not solely on the organizational model. The talk also presents concrete tools and practices of self-organization, such as clear role definitions, structured decision-making processes, and transparent governance, that can be applied regardless of the organizational structure in place. **Lea Düker** * Since 2024: IT Project Manager and Scrum Master at digital agency Unic AG * 2021–2024: Project Manager and Deputy Head of IT at the Building Department of the City of Zurich * 2018–2021: Consultant for Process Management at Join GmbH * 2016–2018: Master's degree in Business Management with a specialization in Process Management **From Bottlenecks to Flow: OKRs, Value Stream Management, and Governance Done Right** In our session, we'll be delving into the advanced flow engineering practices we've implemented at KPMG CH for our Cloud Platform. These methods have truly transformed how we deliver outcomes—faster, safer, and with an even greater level of satisfaction. During the session, we'll take a closer look at how we leverage OKRs to align teams and drive strategic goals, and how Value Stream Management helps us optimize workflow and eliminate bottlenecks. Our robust Governance model will also be discussed, highlighting how we maintain compliance without sacrificing agility. Beyond sharing the technical details, we'll reflect on the lessons learned and valuable insights we've gained throughout our journey. Our goal is to provide actionable takeaways that will benefit the DevOps community and inspire organizations seeking to enhance their delivery pipelines and nurture a culture of continuous improvement. **Vasileios Konofaos** Head of Business Services CH Group Digital Vasileios Konofaos is a seasoned technology leader with more than 20 years of experience driving large‑scale software engineering, cloud infrastructure, and digital transformation initiatives. As Director of Business Services CH Group Digital at KPMG Switzerland, he leads high‑impact programs that advance innovation, operational excellence, and AI‑enabled capabilities across the organization. His career spans senior roles in global financial institutions and consulting firms, where he has successfully delivered complex projects in software development, automation, DevOps, and machine learning. Certified in Azure, ITIL, PMP, PRINCE2, and Scrum, Vasileios is recognized for his strategic mindset, strong leadership, and ability to empower teams to achieve exceptional results. He brings deep expertise in systems analysis, project delivery, and process improvement, consistently enabling organizations to scale technology solutions with quality and precision. Many thanks to our **sponsors**: * Catering and Location Sponsor: **KPMG** https://kpmg.com/

Join us, once a month, on a Wednesday afternoon for an easy-paced walk by the lake — a midweek pause to breathe, move, and connect. We’ll meet in front of the Opera House and take a walk along the lake, letting conversation flow as naturally as the path. These walks are about more than slowing down — they’re a way to clear the noise and make space for new perspectives. Sometimes it’s in motion that the mind finds its calm and ideas come into focus. A simple hour to refresh, connect, and perhaps see something familiar in a new light.

Ohne Vorkenntnisse / Solo-Anmeldung möglich Kursstart: Mittwoch 25. Februar 2026 Kursdauer: 25. Februar - 08. April 26 (7 MAL) Kurszeit: 19 - 21h Leitung: Juliette & Patrick Kurskosten pro Person: CHF 280.- / 14h Anmeldung unter: [https://salsarica.ch/kurse/salsa-cubana-anfaenger.html](https://salsarica.ch/kurse/salsa-cubana-anfaenger.html?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBEwYUtJTHdWekhnWnViZGJ3QnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR7FWtSxA9DGr6dYpcOqqHy6swXdUDpHR-JqwJhkPE-xQFy4L0uX6aYp3QsX1w_aem_uqaRvBUiTt6oovZXYX-Hxw) Wir freuen uns auf euch! Ergänzende Infos: Salsa! Kein anderer Tanz hat in den letzten Jahren eine derart steile Erfolgskurve aufs Parkett gelegt. Die Salsa weckt Sehnsüchte nach der Karibik und versprüht wahre Lebensfreude. Salsa wird paarweise getanzt. Ein Partner führt, der andere wird geführt. Bei uns werden hauptsächlich Kurse im kubanischen Stil unterrichtet, der Salsa Cubana, welcher seinen Ursprung in Kuba hat. Die kubanische Salsa wirkt eher spielerisch, rhythmisch und lebendig und setzt sich aus unterschiedlichen lateinamerikanischen Rhythmen und Tänzen zusammen. Das wesentliche Merkmal des kubanischen Stils sind die Drehungen des Tanzpaares um einen gemeinsamen Mittelpunkt und das Kernstück des Salsa Cubana, die Rueda de Casino. Der Name Rueda rührt daher, dass alle beteiligten Paare einen Kreis bilden, wobei sie jeweils synchron die gleichen Figuren tanzen. Bedingt durch Partnerwechsel, die jeweils zu den getanzten Figuren gehören, dreht sich die Rueda bzw. das Rad. Der Kurs für blutige Anfänger oder für Leute, die sich mit den Basic-Elementen noch unsicher fühlen.

As it is sometimes difficult in Switzerland to practice high german, in 2010 we decided to organize a conversation group that is free to everyone who wants to practice german and socialize. WhatsApp group for easier contact: https://chat.whatsapp.com/KmMkpiQxs291vTPv2RBNm4

### [Info and Registration African Drumming](https://forms.gle/wSUGNXMjHBDSePNaA) ### **African Drumming – Feel the Groove!** Discover the joy of rhythm and community through the vibrant beats of West African drumming. In this course, you’ll learn traditional and modern rhythms on djembes and doundouns (bass drums and bells) — all in a fun, structured, and hands-on way. We’ll explore the essentials of rhythm and groove, from understanding pulse, beat, and cycle to experiencing how different instruments interact in an ensemble. You’ll play, listen, improvise, and even create your own arrangements together with the group. Body percussion exercises help you *feel* rhythm from head to toe, while guided theory inputs deepen your understanding of African musical structures — intros, solos, signals, and more. Our holistic approach connects body, mind, and soul. Through intuitive rhythm games, easy-to-follow exercises, and attention to technique, you’ll build coordination, confidence, and a relaxed, flowing playing style. Structured learning materials (notation and videos) support your practice between sessions — so you can keep the groove going wherever you are! A funny and welcoming group is awaiting YOU! **Reduced rates for holders of IV/AHV and Kulturlegi!** Trial session is possible.

Join the Language Exchange to meet new people, practice your foreign languages and spend a good time together. We will serve free tapas such as Bruschetta, Wedges, Nachos or similar. **How it works**: Choose the country flag sticker of the languages that you speak or want to practice! Seat on the right language table and start your conversation with our conversation topic cards. Average group size: 25 participants **When**: Every Saturday, 20:00 - 22:00 **Where**: 2.Akt Zürich **Price**: 10.- incl. Snacks **Tickets**: https://tinyurl.com/LX-11-04-26 (please buy ticket online) **WhatsApp Group**: https://chat.whatsapp.com/8jkvEUJ5jLp75fYglQFCNJ (join for updates & pics) **After the Language Exchange:** Pub Crawl (optional) For those who want to continue the night, we have a Bar Tour starting from the same place at 10PM. Watch [this video](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/VrBFWgXQNhw) to know what expect! Language Exchange participant get a 10fr discount when buying the combo-ticket online. Your Event Hosts Didem, Sébastien & Katja, Fernando More info: [https://www.pubcrawlzurich.com/languageexchange](https://www.pubcrawlzurich.com/languageexchange) Event pictures? Follow us on [IG](https://www.instagram.com/languageexchangezurich) and [FB](https://www.facebook.com/zurichlanguageexchange)

Hare is Keys to the Treasure. Since Zurich Marathon weekend is approaching, this'll be an easy and short trail with a focus on fluid replenishment :) **Where**: Brauerei Oerlikon, in Oerlikon. Look for English speakers wearing running gear. **When:** We'll meet at 6:50 pm to start at 7:00 pm. There's a charge of CHF 5 for participating, which covers all you can drink beer/cider (and non-alcoholic alternatives) plus snacks afterwards. **All Welcome:** If you are new, curious, and want to get out of the house, stretch your legs, talk shit, enjoy a drink, and hopefully a laugh, then here's what you need to know: • We are a social running/walking group, physical fitness is not required, but a sense of humour is useful. • The aim is to find the '*Beer Stop*' at the end of the '*trail*' and have fun. • 'True Trail' is typically 4-7 km. Some will go less (especially those walking or walk/running), and some over-achieving fast runners will go further. • The '*Hare*', which changes each event (along with location), cleverly lays the trail (typically with flour marks) so that everyone reaches the end at the same time. • There is always a place to deposit your bag and sometimes a place to change. • **After Trail**, we group for \~20-40 minutes for drinks, snacks, and some fun. This '*Circle*' is typically outside, so leave something warm in your bag in winter (and bring a flashlight when it's dark). If you don't want to stand around drinking afterwards, you can head home. We occasionally all go to a restaurant afterwards. **Why bother leaving your warm & dry sofa?** If you enjoy getting outside, being around people, and doing something a bit different, you will probably enjoy hashing. Exercise is important, and this is probably the least boring way to get it. 'Hashing' and the idea of some physical activity to work up a thirst, have been around for almost 90 years and there are groups (*Hashes*) in most major cities. Its humor and 'traditions' can be explored on the internet - **or you can just come along and find out.** *See you there.* We are of many nationalities, all ages, full of misfits and idiots (at least there is no one taking themselves seriously!) and always welcome newbies 'Virgin Hashers' and visitors from other groups. For more about Zürich Hash House Harriers, check out [www.zh3.ch](http://www.zh3.ch/) ( [http://www.zh3.ch/](http://www.zh3.ch/) )

We keep it a fun and practical language exchange. First thing you'll notice is we match you with **fluent speakers** in your target language. **Event Flow** **18:45–19:15** → Registration Scan the QR code to tell us your fluent and target languages. **19:15–20:30** → Language Exchange Powered by our **Learn by Flipping** method. **20:30 onwards** → Stay, chat, or head off — totally up to you 😉 **What is "Learn by Flipping"?** **Practical** → You speak with fluent speakers in your target language. **Collaborative** → Every 5 minutes, you switch roles: learner ↔ helper. **Fun** → Small groups, good energy, and a bar atmosphere — without the chaos. Save some time by [Signing up to our web app](https://fliplingoes.com/) beforehand. **Entrance:** 10 CHF (includes a tapa) Please note, event registration closes after 7:15PM

Welcome to the Competitive Play Session. This session takes place every Saturday from 10:45 to 12:15 at the Yonex Badminton Hall Hardbrücke. The number of players on the waitlist one week in advance determines the number of courts booked. If you are on the waitlist but can no longer attend, please remove yourself as early as possible. Players are accepted into the session based on skill suitability. This session is for experienced players looking for quality games. Play is focused on doubles with a competitive mindset and consistent rallies. You should be comfortable smashing, return smashes and keeping up a moderate tempo throughout the session. New players and those who are new to badminton are welcome to join the PM Session (Open Level Play). Payment can be made via TWINT after the session.

**Bachata Fusion Workshop — Social Dancing & Connection** *with Marcel & Jasmin* *Sunday April 12* *3pm–4pm* Join us for **Bachata Fusion!** A hands-on workshop series focused on what actually matters on the social dance floor: **Simple, easy-to-follow moves on the dance floor,** **fluid movement, and dancing that feels good for both partners.** 🎯 **What to expect** We don't just learn new moves; we delve deeply into the underlying technique. 📅 **Dates:** April 12, 19, 26 🕒 **Time:** 3pm – 4pm 📍 **Location:** Fuego Dance Studio (at Ella's Fellas), Hohlstrasse 192, Zürich *(next to Hardbrücke / Hardplatz)* 💸 **Free workshop** Try it for free, no commitment. 👥 **No partner needed** — just show up and dance. 🔥 **Stick around after?** Javier runs his **Salsa Lab** right after at 4pm. Perfect if you want to keep moving and make a full afternoon of it. 📆 **Reserve** your spot in Meetup.com ℹ️ **Website**: https://www.eversports.ch/activity/0f830c9a-7d73-418b-8f4b-b0026b485402 **Level:** Improver, beginner are welcome to try! **Style:** Bachata Fusion with focus on social dancing & connection See you on the floor!

**IMPORTANT: YOU NEED TO BUY A TICKET IN YOUR NOII PROFILE TO GET IN** **Auf Tinder kein Bock mehr, aber für Parship ist es zu früh? We got you!** **Wir organisieren mehrere Real Life Single Events. Jede. Woche.** Lassen wir alle Single Herzen höher schlagen und veranstalten einen legendären noii Event. Vergiss Swipen und Chatten, in diesem Jahr daten wir im echten Leben (we don't make the rules). Mit bis zu 400 Personen pro Event ist immer viel los. Worst case hast du ein geiles noiices Erlebnis gehabt, best case lernst du jemanden kennen, den du daten möchtest **It's a vibe.** Keine Sorge, das wird kein awkward Single Event mit einem sturen Ablauf. Es ist wie ein normaler Bar-Abend mit deinen Friends, wo du aber ganz easy noch andere Leute kennenlernst. **[HERE MORE INFORMATION](https://date.noii.ch/preview)** **So done with tinder but it’s too early for Parship? We got you!** **We organize several real life single events. Every. Week.** Let's make all single hearts beat faster and organize a legendary noii event. Forget swiping and chatting, this year we're dating in real life (we don't make the rules). With up to 400 people per event, there is always a lot going on. Worst case scenario: you have a great noiice experience, best case: you meet someone you want to date **It's a vibe.** Don't worry, this won't be an awkward singles event with a stubborn schedule. It's like a normal bar evening with your friends, where you can easily meet other people. **[HERE MORE INFORMATION](https://date.noii.ch/preview)**

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia

**⚔️ Introduction to Wargaming & Painting Miniature Soldiers at The Arcane Foundry ⚔️** Join me in **The War Room at [The Arcane Foundry](https://share.google/S5i6DYJnJteHWeKtd)** for a laid-back evening of hobby talk and tabletop fun! For just **$25**, you’ll get a **3D-printed regiment of 20 high quality resin models** of your choice to paint — a **$40-$70 value if you were to buy them elsewhere!** (Please look up the price of minis, you are getting a steal). Bring your creativity, relax, and let’s make something awesome together. **Choose one from Below:** * 20 Cathayan Infantry * 20 Dwarf Warriors * 20 Wood Elf Spearmen Step into a world where strategy meets artistry — and where every painted figure tells a story of battle, honor, and imagination. Join **Daclaud** at **The Arcane Foundry** for an evening that introduces newcomers and enthusiasts alike to the timeless craft of **tabletop wargaming** and **miniature painting**. My own journey began with a fascination for fantasy — knights in armor, grim and hardened warriors, and monstrous creatures locked in epic battle. That passion led me to **Dungeons & Dragons**, where I painted my first **Basic Heroes set** and felt the spark that comes from bringing a character to life in miniature form. Not long after, I discovered **Warhammer Fantasy** and **Warhammer 40,000**, and I was hooked. The vision of vast armies clashing across the table — each unit meticulously painted, each story unfolding through dice and imagination — became my creative obsession. During this event, we’ll explore the **origins of wargaming**, from its early military simulations to the richly detailed worlds of modern tabletop battle systems. You’ll learn how to **build and customize your own armies**, paint your first figures, and experience the joy of turning strategy and storytelling into a hands-on art form. Whether you’re drawn by the lore, the hobby, or the thrill of commanding miniature legions, this introduction will open the gates to a world that has captivated hobbyists for generations. **🎨 RSVP today and join us at The Arcane Foundry — where every brushstroke and battle tells a story.**

AI is changing how art is made. But when does it stop being your work and start being the machine’s? This month we're going to be doing a panel with with digital image, music, and written word artists, talking about at what point, while using AI in the creation process, does the work become not the artist creation? We encourage audience participation during this event that will be moderated by Chris Slee. Whether you’re deep in the field or just getting curious, come connect with others building and exploring AI in Columbus. Sponsored by [Transform Labs](https://www.transformlabs.com/services) Sign up also accessible via [Transform Labs Luma](https://luma.com/55umjqta)

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/a/9/6/600_348310902.jpeg Instructor - Crow, HPS Class fee is $30 at the door or approved exchange RSVP with Advance pay of $25 (discounted) by PayPal on the web or by contacting Enchanted Elements (614) 437-2642. Reservations made directly to Enchanted Elements will be added to the class list manually not online. Private Instruction ~ Closed to the Public ~ Initiated Members Only Please come prepared for ritual. Blessings ~ Crow

Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel. Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger. Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life. Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.

Join us for a tour of Brothers Drake Meadery in Grandview, hosted by the owner Oron Benary. He will explain the mead-making process and offer us generous samples of their fine meads. Mead is basically wine that is made from honey instead of grapes. There are many different flavors that range from dry, semi-dry, semi-sweet, to sweet. They are best known for their Apple Pie Mead. Oron has offered us a special price of 5.00 each person for the tour and tasting, which is normally 25.00 per person. I've taken the tour several times, and it's always enlightening and fun. Rebecca will bring a tea that will pair well with the mead for a tea tasting afterwards. Park anywhere around the building. Please avoid parking in front of the houses in the neighborhood behind the Meadery. Please keep your RSVP current. Knowing how many will attend will help Brothers Drake plan accordingly to accommodate us.