Management

📚 #InPursuit is a book club for entrepreneurs, creatives, and curious minds who know personal growth fuels business growth. **See a lot of RSPVPs and wonder how it works? We'll break up into groups of 6-8 to share our insights, then swap groups after 30-45min so you can maximise learning from everybody!** *Note: this even is not organised by or affiliated with The State Library of Victoria* **That's what #InPursuit is all about** It’s not a traditional book club, it’s a space for people who are actively designing a better life through the pursuit of business, creativity, and personal growth. This event is for anyone #InPursuit of better business, life and relationships. Instead of reading the same book, we each come prepared to share one powerful insight from something we’ve read in the past 3-months. Anything non-fiction that’s moved us forward. Whether it’s a mindset shift, a productivity system, a new philosophy, or just a truth that punched us in the gut. This is a place to unpack it together and hear what others are learning too. We’re not just here to *read*. We’re here to *integrate*. Because when we grow, our business and our lives grow too. **🔍 Why Join? You'll leave with:** * 5–10 fresh insights from books you may never have picked up * Deeper awareness of how others think, lead, and evolve * New connections with people walking a similar path toward purpose, results, and impact This isn’t a lecture. It’s a room full of people building themselves while they build the thing. **📖 How It Works** First time? No pressure to share, just come curious. We'll break up into groups of 6-8 and share our insights, then swap groups so you can maximise the learning! Returning? Bring one idea you’ve read about in the last 3-months and be ready to speak on: 1. What did you learn? 2. How did it shift your perspective about the world or yourself? 3. How has it changed the way you show up or behave? We keep it structured, but flexible. After sharing, we open up to Q&A, personal stories, challenges, and deep dives. Some of the best insights come from the conversations *after* the share. **🧠 Who This Is For** * Entrepreneurs or side-hustlers finding their footing * Business owners, and doers building toward better * Curious minds who love ideas but care more about action * People tired of shallow conversations and hungry for growth If you’re working on something—or becoming someone—this space is for you. It’s a practice ground for people who want to grow forward. We’re all #InPursuit of mastery, momentum, and the kind of success that starts from within. **Map on how to get there** We're in the Create Quarter on the ground level (back right of the Quad as you enter from Swanson St). We'll likely be on a long table together. https://www.slv.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/SLV-EnglishMap_Jan25.pdf

**Nirvana Shatakam – Shankara's Six Verses on Freedom** Most spiritual paths tell you to become something. This teaching does the opposite. Through six ancient verses by Adi Shankara, you discover who you are by removing what you're NOT – the body, mind, and roles you play. What remains is your limitless nature that was always here. Over seven months, we'll unpack these verses line by line, transforming how you see yourself and your life. **What You'll Learn** * How you mistake yourself for body, mind, emotions, and roles * Why self-knowledge differs from self-improvement * Why you've never actually been bound – and what keeps that recognition hidden * What it means to recognise yourself as the sought, not the seeker **About the Teacher** Andre Vas teaches Vedanta full-time under the Swami Dayananda (Arsha Vidya) lineage. As a former business owner, he relates deeply to householders juggling work, family, and inner growth. Known for making knowledge stick through lived experience, not just concepts. **Who This Is For** No prior background needed. For anyone noticing that acquiring more, achieving more, or becoming better doesn't stick. For those with burning curiosity and a hunger to know, understand, and live this wisdom. **I'll set up group discussions also to help us make new friends.** **When & Where** 📅 2:00-4:00pm Melbourne time 📍 3 Anjaya Court, Blackburn, Melbourne **More info: [YesVedanta.com/nirvana](https://YesVedanta.com/nirvana)**

**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? **Wellness** — think deep discussions about tips and tricks, what keeps us motivated, and how we'd like to improve more. 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.

Join us for a relaxed, family friendly picnic at Fairfield Boathouse and Tea Gardens 🌿 This is a collaboration between NeuroSparks and Pawshare Club, bringing together people who value genuine connection, community, and time outdoors. Expect a casual, welcoming space to meet others, spend time with pets, and enjoy low pressure social connection by the river. Come solo, with family, as a carer, or with a pet. All ages are welcome 🐶 No structure, no pressure. Just good people, fresh air, and space to connect. **Date:** April 18 **Time:** 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM **Location:** Fairfield Park Boathouse and Tea Gardens 🎟️ **Free Event** No cost to attend. Just bring yourself. 🐕 **Guidelines** Dogs must remain on leash at all times Do not bring dogs with aggressive behaviour 🌧️ **Weather** If weather is poor, the event will be rescheduled and updated here ⚠️ **Liability** You attend at your own risk You are responsible for yourself and any pets you bring **Co Hosts** 🐾 Pawshare Club [https://pawshareclub.com](https://pawshareclub.com) ✨ NeuroSparks [https://www.meetup.com/neurodivergent-sparks/](https://www.meetup.com/neurodivergent-sparks/)

The group offers convivial conversation in German for both native speakers and those wishing to practice and improve their skills. Meetup will be outside or inside depending on weather. We meet the 1st, 3rd and 5th Saturday of each month. Please pay $2 via a coin contribution, which helps our group to remain viable. Thanks! If you are planning to attend, please consider registering for it.

Join us for a family and pet-friendly Neurosparkles picnic at the Fairfield Boathouse and Tea Gardens. Come down, and make the most of the autumnal weather. Likely to be the last picnic for a few months *🥶* Come solo, with family, as a carer, or with a pet. All ages are welcome 🐶 No structure, no pressure. Just good people, fresh air, and space to connect. **When:** Saturday 18th April **Time:** 12:30pm to 4:30pm **(come and go anytime)** **Where:** Fairfield Park Boathouse and Tea Gardens, the closest street is Heidelberg Rd **Feel free to bring a picnic blanket, board/card or garden games, food/drinks to share - but this is entirely optional.** 🐕 **Guidelines** Dogs must remain on leash at all times Do not bring dogs with aggressive behaviour You are responsible for yourself and any pets you bring If you have issues finding us feel free to comment below or message an event host via Meetup or post in our WhatsApp community. Location is here: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/NE8AEc9kjrc4aARF8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/NE8AEc9kjrc4aARF8) What to bring (optional): * Picnic mats, foldable chairs, or blankets * Snacks or drinks to enjoy or share * Games or cards if you’d like to keep things lively Remember to stay hydrated, wear a hat and apply sunscreen and stay warm as it will be a cold day. If weather is poor, the event will be rescheduled and updated here Nearest transport: • Route 250 or 251 bus then short walk • Route 546 bus on Heidelberg Rd • 15 minute walk from Dennis Station **The event is open to all neurodivergent people, their families, carers and pets and anyone who values a friendly, inclusive space. Many attendees come on their own, so if you’re feeling a bit hesitant, know you’ll be in good company and warmly welcomed.** If at any point you have concerns or feel uncomfortable about any group member, please notify one of the organisers. Disclaimer & Safety Notice By attending this Meetup, you agree: • Participation is voluntary and at your own risk. • Organisers are community volunteers, not medical or professional providers. • You are responsible for your own safety, choices, and belongings. • Organisers are not liable for injury, loss, or damage at any time. • If you have health or access needs, please make your own arrangements. • In an emergency, call 000 immediately. By joining, you accept full responsibility for your actions and well-being.

Join us to see Melbourne Museum’s special exhibition ‘ROME: Empire, Power, People’ followed by lively discussion about the relevance of themes such as power and human dignity, over lunch in Lygon Street. Please scroll right through to end to see discussion points for lunch AND suggested prior reading link. Meet at museum: 11.45 am Exhibition: 12.00pm - 1.15pm Walk to restaurant: 10min Lunch: 1.30pm @ Il Gambero 166 Lygon Street Indicate in comments if you are coming to exhibition and / or lunch. ***New Members:*** New members are more than welcome, we are a good-natured bunch who value friendship and exploring the realm of next wave humanism. Interested? Come and join the conversation! ***Cost:*** $35 adult, $30 senior, $30 concession **PLEASE PURCHASE TICKET DIRECTLY ON MUSEUM WEBSITE FOR ROME: EMPIRE, POWER, PEOPLE FOR 12.00PM 19 APRIL AS SOON AS POSSIBLE TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT** [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/tickets/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/tickets/) $5 CONTRIBUTION (IF YOU CAN) TOWARDS ONGOING OPERATIONAL COSTS ***About the exhibition:*** From the fall of Julius Caesar to the power and ambition of an Empire, the exhibition showcases the luxury of Imperial Rome, the spectacle of the gladiator arena, the bustling marketplaces and the everyday experiences of Romans. Explore Ancient Rome’s political, social and spiritual worlds through over 180 objects dating from the Imperial period 1st Century CE to the 3rd Century CE, with all of the objects on display in Melbourne for the first time ever. The splendour, drama and humanity of Rome is brought to life in detail with scenography and multimedia, giving visitors an immersive experience and vivid portrait of a civilisation that continues to shape our world today. ***Link with modern humanism and points for discussion over lunch:*** **🏛 Power, Citizenship, and Human Responsibility** Rome’s political system—centralised under the emperor yet still tied to republican ideals—invites reflection on **human agency**, **leadership**, and **ethical governance**. * The emperor’s authority shows how power can stabilise or destabilise societies, prompting questions about **justice**, **accountability**, and **the common good**. * The expansion of citizenship, culminating in the *Constitutio Antoniniana* (212 CE), highlights evolving ideas about **belonging**, **rights**, and **inclusion**. * The Senate, magistrates, and local elites demonstrate how communities negotiate **shared responsibility** and **public service**. Humanist connection: Studying these structures encourages us in the 21st Century to consider what fair leadership looks like, how societies might distribute power, and how individuals contribute to civic life. **🎨 Culture, Creativity, and the Value of Expression** Roman cultural life—its literature, architecture, philosophy, and public entertainment—reveals a civilisation deeply invested in **human creativity** and **shared cultural identity**. * Writers like Seneca, Pliny, and Juvenal explored moral questions, emotions, and the human condition. * Monumental architecture expressed collective values: memory, pride, identity, and aspiration. * Religious and philosophical traditions (Stoicism, mystery cults, local deities) show humans searching for meaning and ethical frameworks. Humanist connection: These cultural expressions affirm the humanist belief that creativity, reflection, and intellectual inquiry enrich both individuals and communities. **🏺 Social Life, Dignity, and the Human Condition** Roman society was hierarchical, unequal, and often harsh—especially for enslaved people, women, and the poor. Yet it also reveals universal human experiences: family, work, belonging, resilience, and aspiration. * The *familia* structure shows how people sought stability, identity, and continuity. * Urban life—baths, markets, forums—demonstrates the importance of **community spaces** where people meet, talk, and coexist. * The presence of slavery and inequality invites ethical reflection on **human dignity**, **freedom**, and **justice**. Humanist connection: By examining both the achievements and injustices of Roman society, we can reflect on the importance of empathy, moral reasoning, and an understanding of how societies can uphold—or violate—human dignity. **🌍 Why This Link Matters for Learning** Connecting Rome to humanist values helps us: * see history as a lens for understanding ethical questions; * recognise the continuity of human concerns across time; * reflect on how societies shape and are shaped by human choices; * develop critical thinking about power, culture, and identity; * understand that studying the past is ultimately about understanding people. It turns the Roman Empire from a distant civilisation into a mirror for thinking about what kind of world we want to build today. ***Suggested prior reading:*** In preparation for the exhibition it is recommended to read about the events of Rome during this time period of 1st Century CE to the 3rd Century CE, and the philosopher Seneca. [https://www.britannica.com/place/ancient-Rome/The-transformation-of-Rome-and-Italy-during-the-Middle-Republic](https://www.britannica.com/place/ancient-Rome/The-transformation-of-Rome-and-Italy-during-the-Middle-Republic) [https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/seneca/](https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/seneca/)

**Register here: [https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1546728](https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1546728)** Ready to strengthen your presence and sharpen your communication impact? Speechcraft is a program designed specifically for people who want to refine their speaking skills, enhance communication, and deliver clear, persuasive messages with confidence. Hosted by Alex Stemate and other experienced speakers from Southbank Toastmasters, this focused workshop series provides structured, practical training in speech organisation, delivery techniques, and persuasive strategy, all in a supportive, feedback-rich environment. Who is this for? * Professionals seeking stronger presentation, leadership, and stakeholder communication skills * Job seekers who want to improve their interviewing skills * Toastmasters members working toward Pathways goals or aiming to elevate their speaking impact * Leaders, managers, and business owners who want to communicate with clarity and authority **Program Sessions** April 19, 10 am to 1 pm Organising Your Speech , Vocal Variety & Body Language Learn how to structure compelling speeches and enhance delivery through vocal control and confident body language. April 26, 10 am to 1 pm Speaking with Purpose , Giving & Receiving Feedback Develop intentional messaging and master the art of constructive, growth-focused feedback. May 3, 10 am to 12 pm Persuasive Speech & Motivational Strategies Craft influential speeches that inspire action and apply proven motivational techniques to engage any audience. This series is practical, interactive, and results-focused, equipping you with tools you can immediately apply in professional settings, presentations, and Toastmasters meetings. **Pricing:** $297 for the entire program Are you a Toastmasters member? Reach out to Alex at [education@d73toastmasters.org](mailto:education@d73toastmasters.org) for a **generous** discount Location: Boyd Library, 207 City Road, Southbank Register here: [https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1546728](https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1546728)

☕ **Girl Who Boss Spontaneous Coffee Catchup!** ☕ Join us for a relaxed and casual coffee catchup, where like-minded women come together to connect, chat, and share ideas! Whether you're a career professional, entrepreneur, or creative, this is the perfect chance to meet other inspiring women in a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. No formalities, no pressure—just a space to enjoy great company, share experiences, and make new connections over coffee. ☕💖 These meetups are a great way to ease into networking while building friendships in a laid-back setting. And as an added bonus, we are having a discussion series based around wellness right after this event at the same venue, for those who would like to join. Looking forward to catching up with everyone! 🌟 Feel free to message me if you have any questions. See you there! 😊 Wondering why our events are sometimes ticketed, or have questions about our pricing? We've written about it [here](https://open.substack.com/pub/girlswhoboss/p/accessibility-sustainability-and?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=4apm4h).

**Tickets (SOLD OUT):** [https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/gay-mens-speed-dating-tickets-1985428071809](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/gay-mens-speed-dating-tickets-1985428071809) With dating apps linked to stress, anxiety, poor body image, and low self-esteem, it's no wonder more and more people are looking to make connections in the real world - that's where we come in! If you're a gay man looking to meet some new people, whether it's for romantic or social connections, this could be the opportunity you're looking for. This is for gay men of all ages (18+). The event will be organised by a mental health professional, and aims to provide a safe place for everyone; bullying, discrimination and harassment will not be tolerated. **How It Works** \- An experienced host will provide structure\, and will be available for queries throughout the event \- Attendees are divided into two groups and cycle through 10 minute dates at random \- Some short breaks are provided in between batches of dates to give people the chance to mingle and reset \- We don't do scorecards; attendees are encouraged to create their own opportunities \- A list of prompt questions will be available to keep the conversation flowing If you have any questions, accessibility concerns, or are experiencing financial hardship, please reach out to us to discuss!

Join other experienced and aspiring agile coaches and professionals to: * develop and practice your coaching skills in a peer-to-peer environment * share current successes and challenges in your work environment and get support from each other * learn from each other, build better relationships and experiment with new ideas ***NOTE:*** Pre-registration is required for this event. **Please arrive 10 minutes early** to check in at the security desk.

Couldn't make Knowledge? Or want to debrief with fellow attendees? Join us for a Knowledge '26 recap, insights sharing, a couple rounds of golf, and fun at Topgolf. As always, drinks and food will be provided. More details to come — mark your calendar, RSVP, and save your spot today!

Our next much-awaited **COLUMBUS** meetup is **Tuesday April 21 from 7-10 pm EST at ACE OF CUPS**. Meet patients, cultivators, processors, dispensary managers/staff, physicians, home growers, educators, activists, nonprofits, artists, attorneys, business owners, writers, students, and supporters to network, share our knowledge, collaborate, support each other and make new ones! Hope you will be there too! Save the date and pass the word. **Please RSVP** so we know who is coming and how many to expect. Find us to say hi and we will introduce you to others. We should be easy to spot. (The happy-looking group wearing cool nametags! See photos from our past events.) Sign in, grab a name tag, start your own bar/food tab, meet old friends and make new ones! Everyone is welcome. SEE YOU THERE!

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!

#### **A Transformative Half-Day Event** Welcome to Confidence Lab, the ultimate experience designed to help you step into your most confident self. This half-day event is packed with actionable strategies, inspiring sessions, and opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals who are ready to invest in their personal and professional growth. Whether you’re looking to advance in your career, deepen your self-belief, or simply embrace new challenges, Confidence Lab is your starting point. #### **What You’ll Experience** **Your Confidence Lab ticket includes:** * **Engaging Speaker Sessions**: Learn from experts about harnessing confidence in your career, relationships, and everyday life. * **Interactive Experiences:** Participate in dynamic activities designed to help you step into your most confident self. * **In-Depth Audience Q&A:** Get direct insights from speakers as they answer your most pressing questions about building confidence and stepping into leadership. * **Networking Opportunities**: Connect with a supportive community of professionals and confidence enthusiasts. **2026 Speaker Sessions:** * **Seeing Clearly** Understand how you show up - and what’s been getting in the way. * **Confidence in Relationship** Communicate, navigate conflict, and build trust more effectively. * **Sustainable Agency** Learn how to lead without burning out. Your energy is part of the strategy. * **Confidence in Service** Align how you show up with the impact you actually want to have. **This Is For You If…** * You’re ready to take up more space in your work or life * You want to communicate with clarity and confidence * You’re stepping into (or preparing for) leadership * You’re done second-guessing yourself #### **Our Speakers** **Lachandra Baker** Founder of LBB Edutainment and the kind of person who makes you realize you’ve been confusing confidence with performance your whole life. Lachandra blends psychology, research, and radical humanity to help individuals and teams stop code-switching their way through the day and start showing up as someone they actually recognize. Expect to be challenged, affirmed, and genuinely seen - sometimes all in the same breath. **Annette Santiago Reyes** Annette has a rare talent: she makes the way you communicate feel like a discovery, not a critique. A connection catalyst and culture strategist, she helps people understand why they show up the way they do, and how to bridge the gap between intention and impact. Whether you're navigating change, life’s challenges, or simply trying to better understand yourself and others. Annette gives you the language and the lens to get there. **Elizabeth Wangugi** Creator of The Nap Concert and the RESTOR™ framework, Elizabeth is here to tell you that rest is not a reward - it’s a strategy. Rooted in neuroscience and restorative practice, her work helps high-achievers stop running on fumes and start leading from a place of actual capacity. If your calendar is full and your tank is empty, Elizabeth might be the most important person you hear from at Confidence Lab. **Stephanie Andrews** Founder of Social Black Butterfly Training & Consulting, Stephanie knows what it takes to lead through complexity because she’s done it across social services, healthcare, and operations. She specializes in succession strategy and leadership development, equipping leaders to build trust, navigate the hard moments, and leave something worth inheriting. Stephanie doesn’t just develop leaders. She develops the kind of leaders people actually want to follow. **Lillian Morales-Laster** SVP Human Resources Director at United Midwest Savings Bank and Executive Director of the Empowering Latinas Leadership Academy (ELLA). Lillian has spent her career combining her passion for equity and inclusion with her experience in human resources to lead teams and organizations in the development of supportive work environments. She leads with a vision of ensuring Latinas' voices are included in crucial decision-making processes, because for Lillian, ELLA is more than just a program. It's a vibrant community of hermanas supporting and uplifting each other as they navigate their paths to leadership. A Columbus Business First Community Champion and Distinguished Hispanic Ohioan, her commitment to empowering others shows up everywhere she goes. **Rachyl Kershaw** Founder of Greater Columbus Consulting and the architect behind the Confidence Lab Annual Summit, Rachyl has a gift for cutting through the noise, helping high-achievers stop performing success and start living it. She asks the questions most people are afraid to, creates space for honest reckoning, and somehow makes the hard work feel energizing. If you’ve ever wondered why doing everything right still feels like something’s missing, you’re in exactly the right room. #### **Why Confidence Lab?** Confidence is the foundation for success in every area of life. Whether you’re navigating a career change, launching a business, or striving for personal growth, building your confidence is the key to unlocking your higher purpose. This is your chance to invest in yourself and start living boldly. #### **Join Us on May 4** Confidence Lab is more than just an event - it’s a movement. Step into your power, embrace your potential, and make this the year you thrive. Secure your spot today and take the first step toward a more confident YOU. Cost should never be a barrier to growth. If you'd like to request a complimentary community ticket, reach out to us at [hello@confidencelab.org](mailto:hello@confidencelab.org), no explanation needed. Read more and see additional ticketing options at https://confidencelab.org/

We're working on some great speakers for the April meeting. Agenda TBA: 11 Welcome 11:15 Michael Franchino - Using MCP in BC: Turning AI from Novelty into Tooling Noon - Networking Lunch 12:30 Dan Gianguilio - From complex to configured: making advanced warehousing work for you 1:25 Mark Zerr - Ohh, Cool Button's 2:00 Closing Remarks You're invited to Indiana D365 April User Group Meeting Wed Apr 22, 2026 11:00 AM—1:30 PM (EST) [https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NDQ3M2ExZWMtNzg5YS00N2M3LTkyNTItZmY0M2Q2NWFmYzBl%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22b4c9f32e-da17-4ded-9c95-ce9da38f25d9%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2267db4a27-1865-4ea7-bb20-a28137a8aa56%22%7d](https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NDQ3M2ExZWMtNzg5YS00N2M3LTkyNTItZmY0M2Q2NWFmYzBl%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22b4c9f32e-da17-4ded-9c95-ce9da38f25d9%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2267db4a27-1865-4ea7-bb20-a28137a8aa56%22%7d) Tap on the link or paste it in a browser to join.

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)