IBM

House of Thinking Big: Ideas × Coffee Have you ever dreamed of being part of the early dot-com energy — when ideas were raw, ambitious, and conversations could spark entire movements? Welcome to House of Thinking Big: Ideas × Coffee — inspired by the spirit of early founder circles, when bold ideas spoke louder than decks. We gather a small circle of creative and tech leaders who think beyond borders, value authenticity and intelligent dialogue, and believe that growth begins with people and their ideas. No presentations. No ads. Just caffeine-fueled thinking. ☕ When: 6:30 PM 📍 Where: Starbucks, Emirates Towers Boulevard, Dubai 🎙️ Host: Kate Adiyak — Founder of House of Thinking Big Join the House and think bigger — together. Thinking Big Strategy Timeline 6:30 PM — Arrival & Networking 7:00 PM — Personal Problem Statement 7:30 PM — Resource Mapping 7:50 PM — Action Planning 8:00 PM — Closing No rush — Dubai traffic does Dubai traffic things. Join whenever you manage to escape the roads You will find me with a laptop and a cup of coffee [To keep in touch join my WhatsApp group ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Lnu5UhRArdXJTengnhqLhB?mode=hqrt3)

IMPORTANT: If you RSVP, it is essential that you attend or update your RSVP status at least one day before the networking session. For an optimal networking experience, we need at least 20-25 participants. If you RSVP and do not attend, it is not fair to those who are punctual and turn up as they said they would. Please be mindful and only RSVP if you are confident you can attend. 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM (PLEASE, BE ON TIME!) Concrete Restaurant Burj Daman Tower DIFC, Dubai Located on Ground Floor (VIEW MAP - https://maps.app.goo.gl/3u5DZgQrvJPLrv1U6) **Parking:** 2 hours of free parking are available in the building. It's fast, it's fun, and the best thing about it is that you get to pitch to many different people within a short period. All that you need is your business cards (not compulsory) and your presence. Typically, you would meet many different people, spending only 2 - 3 minutes with each, and it's a great way to meet others. You speak to the person in front of you, and when the bell rings, you move to your left to speak to the next person. View Video of past events (https://youtu.be/ImZAe4OQ1qg). This gives you a great chance to network with business owners and decision-makers to find the clients, vendors, and professionals you need most. **Cost: AED 70 cash** (Includes Coffee, Tea, Soft Drinks or Water) Remember to tell your friends, colleagues and associates and bring lots of business cards! How to get there: (VIEW MAP - https://maps.app.goo.gl/3u5DZgQrvJPLrv1U6) IMPORTANT RULES ON TIMING, NO-SHOWS AND CANCELLATION: 1. Please, be on time, so that we can start promptly at 7.30 pm. 2. If you have never been here before, then arrive early, so that you can find us. 3. If you have RSVP'd as "YES" and then do not show up, you will be removed and banned from this group, as it shows you are not professional enough to be a part of this group. You can easily change the status if you know that you may not make it. This is important as we have to make prior reservations at the venue. 4. People arriving late may not be able to join in if we have already begun, as that ruins the flow and transitions around the tables. By allowing people to join late results in meeting the same person twice and missing out on others, which is unfair for those who arrive on time. Any questions, please call OR WhatsApp Vlad on +971 56 693 0866. About the Organisers - Vlad Tashakov and Oksana Tashakova are organisers of this successful event and also founders of [QPQ International](https://qpq.international/), Wealth Dynamics Unlimited and Millionaire Summit. Vlad and Oksana are brother and sister from New Zealand, with a business background and have solid experience from various types of businesses in New Zealand, and now they have shifted their focus to Dubai. Warmest Regards, Vlad Tashakov

**[REGISTER HERE TO GET THE LOCATION](https://www.ae.kovalys.com/events/networking-events-dubai/)** **Business owners, Freelancers, Decision-Makers and Business Developers... are you looking for new contacts, referrals, and opportunities?** **Here is THE event you were waiting for…** **___** **WHAT?** AN EXCLUSIVE SPEED NETWORKING 🔥 🔥 90+ minutes of networking ✔️ 10+ referrals 🤝 1:1 sessions to create connections that make the difference 👋 a final group session to meet everyone **Meet qualified contacts face-to-face. Generate leads, referrals and create game-changing connections. Experience a new way of networking!** 🔥 🔥**More than just an event, our Dubai Speed Networking is the gateway to our worldwide private community of 50,000 business owners…** 😉 **___ WHEN?** Wednesday, April 08, 7:30 PM in Dubai. **___ WHY YOU NEED TO BE THERE?** ✔️ Generate referrals and leads and seize new opportunities ✔️ Find trusted professionnal suppliers to help you take your business to the upper level ✔️ Build a collection of game changing connections around the world Experience a new way of networking! **___ ABOUT US?** KOVALYS CONNECT International business accelerator for companies and entrepreneurs Kovalys Connect is where business gets done! Over 50,000 business owners, ceos, experts and professionals in over 20 countries, connect to sell to the right customers, buy from the best suppliers, invest or raise money to grow their business. Be part of a global and qualified network and develop trusted relationships to grow your business online and in-person. **Our Dubai Community operates under the name "Dubai Elite Business Circle," and we will be thrilled to meet you and learn more about you.** 👉 Join us, relax & grow your business ! Experience a new way of networking. 🤝🚀 RSVP Now! ⚠️ Limited access. Great Profiles. For sure, you won’t want to miss it. **___ WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO ATTEND** ⚠️ **Private event**. By Reservation only. **📍 Location** To ensure a top-tier networking experience with QUALIFIED contacts, all participants will need to fill out a form to confirm their reservation. The event address will only be shared with attendees who match the required profile. 👥 **Who Will Be There?** Entrepreneurs, Business Owners, Solo Entrepreneurs, Decision-Makers, Business Developers, Startup Founders, and Investors. This event is exclusively for these attendee profiles, to guarantee meaningful connections and a premium networking experience. ⚠️ **Important Notes** * Maximum **2 representatives per company** are allowed. * Punctuality is essential. The Speed Networking format depends on precise timing to ensure smooth one-on-one meetings. **Please arrive on time** to avoid any disturbance in the one-on-one meetings. 😊 🗓️ **Cover Charge** * AED 55 for **online booking: ae.kovalys.com/speed-networking/ - Use the coupon MEETUP at checkout.** * AED 80 for cash payment at the door - **FILL UP THE FORM** on **ae.kovalys.com/speed-networking/** and pay at the door ***Drinks are not included, so online payment is highly suggested.*** 😊 👀 **[REGISTER HERE TO GET THE LOCATION](https://www.ae.kovalys.com/events/networking-events-dubai/)** ℹ️ **Have Questions?** Feel free to reach out to us anytime!

**Strong Business Leads Coffee Networking Event (6:00 PM – 8:30 PM)** **Job seekers are not allowed.** This is a business-focused gathering for peer-to-peer discussions, collaboration opportunities, investment conversations, and solving real business challenges together. It is not a job fair or recruitment event. **Event Schedule & Agenda** * **6:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Welcome & Introductions** (30 minutes) Arrive, settle in, and join quick introductions. Everyone gets 30–60 seconds to share their name, business/role, and one key focus right now. * **6:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Coffee & Light Refreshments** (30 minutes) Enjoy coffee and snacks while connecting casually with others at your table. * **7:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Problem Discussion** (30 minutes) Interactive discussion on real challenges business owners face today and practical solutions. Bring one real issue you are working on and get quick input, ideas, and proven approaches from the group. * **7:30 PM – 8:30 PM: Networking & Connections** (60 minutes) Open networking time! Exchange contacts, explore collaborations, meet partners/suppliers/investors, and build strong business relationships in a relaxed atmosphere. **Why join?** * Get fresh perspectives on solving everyday business hurdles * Meet like-minded business owners, investors, freelancers, and consultants * Leave with 2–3 valuable contacts, potential collaborations, or actionable ideas Spaces are limited — RSVP early! Looking forward to seeing you there and making meaningful connections. **Our WhatsApp group:** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/EAYWgmpDGM296DoDvhn54I](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EAYWgmpDGM296DoDvhn54I) **For any questions, please feel free to contact:** Mr. Ibrahim +971 54 330 7993 Mr. Abdurrahman +971 58 571 2590

Inviting creatives, entrepreneurs, mastermind groups, or anyone interested in networking with other likeminded or different minded individuals to bring your creative ideas and businesses to life. Come as a group or individual and connect with others. This is a showcase of our restaurant for you to consider us for your group meetings or getaway to think and build your business. Our place is a quiet luxury tucked away in the heart of Dubai in Healthcare City. The staff is guaranteed to give you and your colleagues a great experience and you won't get enough of our amazing dishes. We would like you to see our meeting space option. Our projector available for your meetings. Taste our mouth watering international cuisine with a quiet escape to the Caribbean without leaving your seat.

This event is designed for founders, where[ Ajinkya Tanpure](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajinkyatanpure/), Founder & CEO- [CrossVal,](https://www.crossval.com/) [Levi Lewandowski](https://www.linkedin.com/in/levilewandowski/), Head of UAE of [Brinc ](https://brinc.io/) and [Zohare H](https://www.linkedin.com/in/zohare/), Founder of [Jalebi.io](https://jalebi.io/) come together to tackle the two most critical areas when markets shift: financial preparedness and resilience. This focused, practical session will equip you with actionable frameworks you can apply immediately and offer the chance to connect with fellow founders navigating the same headwinds. Walk away sharper, steadier, and ready to lead your business through all business cycles.

📆 **Every Wednesday**, join an exclusive table of ambitious founders in a handpicked venue. 💡 *You are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with.* **Choose your circle wisely — it will shape your future.** 🔗 Application required: [thefiveclub.co/en](thefiveclub.co/en) *** 🥂 **Every Wednesday**, join a table of **6 inspiring founders**, carefully selected for you. 😌 A relaxed atmosphere, no pressure. 🤝 The goal: build genuine affinities, friendships, and long-lasting connections. *** 🔍 **How it works:** 🔴 Sign Up & Apply on : [thefiveclub.co/en](thefiveclub.co/en) 1️⃣ Pick a Wednesday and confirm your **membership** to join the club 2️⃣ Invite members you've previously met at afterworks or dinners 3️⃣ 24h before, you’ll receive the 📍 **restaurant address** and 🧑‍💼 **participant list** (bios + LinkedIn) 4️⃣ On the day: come as you are — we handle the 🍽️ booking, 🛠️ logistics, and ✨ ambiance 5️⃣ After the dinner: Add to your circle the founders you connected with most, 6️⃣ Reinvite them to future dinners or reconnect via curated events in the app 📲 ***

Building on the magic of **DDX Dubai**, the Human Centred Design UAE Meetup is bringing together a special evening of lightning talks from some of the standout voices from the conference. DDX has quickly become one of the region’s most important gatherings for **design, product thinking, and innovation**. For those who attended, you know the energy. For those who missed it, this is your chance to experience some of that thinking and inspiration. This edition will also be **broadcast live internationally**, allowing the global design community to join the conversation. We are also excited to host the meetup in a **new venue for our community: Dtec at Dubai Silicon Oasis**, one of the region’s leading hubs for startups and innovation. 📍 Dtec, Dubai Silicon Oasis 🗓 9 April ⏰ 6:30 PM 🎥 In-person + Live Broadcast * Google Meet joining info * Video call link: https://meet.google.com/uij-fzca-ebu * Or dial: ‪(US) +1 408-909-8769‬ PIN: ‪588 196 874‬# * More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/uij-fzca-ebu?pin=8224850544892 ## What to Expect Across a series of fast-paced lightning talks, our speakers will explore a shared theme that runs through DDX: **How design is evolving in an era of AI, startups, complex systems, and new forms of leadership.** From product research and venture design to philosophy, enterprise design, and UX leadership, the evening will explore how designers can: • Shape better products and services • Navigate uncertainty and emerging technologies • Influence strategy and decision making • Design responsibly for people and society Each speaker will deliver a concise version of their DDX talk followed by networking with the community. ## Speakers **[Ana Sofia Gonzalez](https://www.linkedin.com/in/anasofiagonzalez/)** Principal Product Designer, Microsoft **[Leopold Ajami](https://www.linkedin.com/in/leopoldajami/)** Chief Influence Officer, Novel Philosophy Academy **[Joumana Mahmoud](https://www.linkedin.com/in/joumana-mahmoud/)** Head of Design, frog **[Chris Downes](https://www.linkedin.com/in/crash-s-downes-009852113/)** CoFounder, Scaleable Capital **[Arya Dris](https://www.linkedin.com/in/arya-d-s/)** Lead UX Designer, Mashreq Together, they bring perspectives from **big tech, fintech, venture capital, philosophy, product research, and design leadership**. ## Why Attend • Learn from leading designers and thinkers shaping the region • Get a taste of the ideas presented at **DDX Dubai** • Connect with the growing **UAE design and startup community** • Meet designers, researchers, founders, and innovators • Experience the HCD UAE Meetup community in a new venue ## Hosted by **Human Centred Design UAE Meetup** ## Venue Partner **Dtec – Dubai Technology Entrepreneur Campus** One of the largest tech startup campuses in the region. ## Sponsor Proudly supported by **aspexx.** ## Join Us Whether you are a designer, researcher, product manager, founder, or simply curious about the future of design, this will be a fantastic evening of learning, conversation, and connection.

### **Where Dubai’s AI Innovators, Operators, and Talent Meet to Build the Future** Are you building in AI? Launching a tech startup? Exploring how AI can transform your business or job? Or looking to join the next big thing in AI? Join **AI Builders & Business Connect**, a **founder-first, operator-focused meetup** for Dubai’s tech and AI community. This isn’t your typical networking mixer—it’s a room full of **people building**, **people hiring**, and **people looking to grow**. *** ## **🗓️ Event Details** **When: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM (Sharp) - Every Thursday** **Where:** Coffee & Sundries, First Floor (Above Carrefour), DIFC, Dubai **Entry: FREE**— we just ask that you support the venue by purchasing a coffee or some food. *** ## **🚀 What to Expect** This is for **doers, decision-makers, and tech talent ready to build:** ### **🔹 AI 60-Second Spotlight** Founders, job seekers, and partners get **60 seconds to introduce themselves**—no slides, no fluff. ### **🔹 Speed Collaboration Rounds** Quick, curated connections between **builders, investors, operators, and AI talent**. ### **🔹 Real Conversations, Real Opportunities** Whether you’re hiring, raising, building, or job hunting—this is where partnerships start. ### **🔹 Dubai & UAE Playbook** Hear practical tips from locals on how to **launch, hire, and scale tech ventures in the region.** *** ### 📋 Agenda * **7:30 – 8:00 PM** Introductions * **8:00 – 8:45 PM** Market research using different AI tools * **8:45 – 9:15 PM** Prototyping session on one selected idea * **9:15 PM onward** Networking ## **💡 Who Should Attend?** * **AI Founders & Startup Builders** * **Tech Entrepreneurs & SaaS Leaders** * **Investors scouting AI deals** * **Engineers, Developers & Product Leaders working in AI** * **Job Seekers & Operators looking to join AI and tech startups** * **Enterprise Innovators exploring AI use cases** *** ## **⚠️ Important** * **Your RSVP is a commitment**—let us know 24 hours in advance if plans change * **Doors close at 7:30 PM sharp**—no late entries *** ## **🌍 Hosted by Pradeep Valat** Startup advisor, investor, and AI business strategist helping founders unlock growth. LinkedIn: [linkedin.com/in/ivallat](https://linkedin.com/in/ivallat) WhatsApp: +971 529503315 *** ## **🔥 Why This Event?** Dubai’s AI and tech scene is booming—but it’s still about **who you know and who you build with.** This is where **startups meet talent, investors meet ideas, and builders find partners.** **Spots are limited. If you’re serious about AI, this is your room.** **By participating in AI Builders & Business Connect \| events\, you consent to the use of photos and videos captured during the event for promotional purposes\.**

**What this is about?** This is a meetup group focused on AI. We meet every Saturday at 7:30pm at DIFC. Usually there are up to 30 people from different backgrounds, such as AI programmers, rocket engineers, physicists, marketing, designers, investors... But it's also meant for people who have no background in AI and are looking for more insight. This is a very casual group for everyone, no presentations, you can pitch your AI business idea or discuss your favorite Terminator movie. We meet at the Stage Area (next to S&C Music, see directions https://imgur.com/a/QIvYOvT ) above the Carrefour market at DIFC, just look for a group of people there without board games (if you see board games, that's another group). The group is free and there is no requirement to buy anything. There is free wifi. 📣 WhatsApp group for event updates (only mods can post): [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JjrVIJyxHbe9fUWoGLaJsZ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JjrVIJyxHbe9fUWoGLaJsZ) 📍To get there: 🚇 Metro Station: Financial Centre Metro Station, 5 minutes walk, look for the Financial Centre exit sign. 🚗 Parking Options: Gate Avenue Parking is unfortunately under construction. Other options: Gate District Building 2: free underground parking from 6 pm onwards. \* Street Parking near Ritz Carlton: This is a paid parking option, conveniently located. \* Gate Avenue Open Parking: Present a purchase receipt for 4 hours of complimentary parking. 💡 **Note**: *You might see a few other Meetup pages with similar names - this one’s run by the folks actually hosting the weekly meetups and building the in-person community you’ve seen at DIFC.* *PS: We occasionally take group photos to capture good vibes and community spirit, by attending you're comfortable with casual group photos - feel free to step aside if you don't wish to be in them*

**Come for Networking. Stay for the Music 🎶** Join us for an unforgettable evening where innovation meets elegance at our exclusive Tech Industry Night. **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile)](https://jo.my/tech-whatsapp-meetup)** Network with fellow tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders in a sophisticated setting before transitioning into a lively afterparty with a live DJ. **🏛️ Elegant Networking** Step into an ambiance of sophistication and style as we gather in a stunning venue designed to inspire. Enjoy the perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations and professional connections with some of the brightest minds in the tech industry. **[REGISTRATION HERE IS MANDATORY](https://jo.my/tech-event-meetup)** **🤝 Connection Opportunities** Engage in stimulating discussions, share insights, and exchange ideas with fellow tech community members. Whether you're looking to find potential collaborators, seek advice, or explore new opportunities, this event is tailored to foster valuable relationships. **📸 Photo Opportunities** Capture the essence of the evening with professional photo opportunities set against elegant backdrops. Document your night of networking and celebration with fellow tech enthusiasts. **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile)](https://jo.my/tech-whatsapp-meetup)** **🎧 Afterparty with Live DJ** As the evening progresses, transition seamlessly from professional networking to party mode. Our live DJ will set the stage with an electrifying mix of music, ensuring the dance floor stays vibrant and energetic. Celebrate the connections made and enjoy the night in full swing. **👔👗 Dress Code: Smart Casual** Reflect the event's blend of professionalism and relaxation with smart casual attire. Feel confident and comfortable as you network and dance the night away. **[REGISTRATION HERE IS MANDATORY](https://jo.my/tech-event-meetup)** **Join us for a night where technology, networking, and celebration converge in an elegant setting.** Whether you're looking to expand your network, find inspiration, or simply enjoy a sophisticated evening with fellow tech enthusiasts, Tech Industry Night is the event for you. We look forward to welcoming you to a night of innovation and celebration! **[=== <<< REGISTER NOW >>> ===](https://jo.my/tech-event-meetup)** **How many people attend?** We get 100 people on average in all our events and invite our members on Meetup and other platforms. Members of other groups who RSVP are included as guests to give an idea of expected numbers. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Complete your registration HERE](https://jo.my/tech-event-meetup) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Networking 😊 📍 **Get location map and parking instructions** [Join our WhatsApp group (Tech Industry Meetup)](https://jo.my/tech-whatsapp-meetup) 👨‍👧‍👦 **Meet community members** [Join our Facebook group (Cocktails & Connections)](https://www.facebook.com/groups/cocktailsnconnections) **Check our events #InstaPhotos** [📷 Follow us on Instagram (@cocktails.connections)](https://www.instagram.com/cocktails.connections/)

**Come for Networking. Stay for the Music 🎶** Join us for an unforgettable evening where innovation meets elegance at our exclusive Tech Industry Night. **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile)](https://jo.my/tech-whatsapp-meetup)** Network with fellow tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders in a sophisticated setting before transitioning into a lively afterparty with a live DJ. **🏛️ Elegant Networking** Step into an ambiance of sophistication and style as we gather in a stunning venue designed to inspire. Enjoy the perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations and professional connections with some of the brightest minds in the tech industry. **[REGISTRATION HERE IS MANDATORY](https://jo.my/tech-event-meetup)** **🤝 Connection Opportunities** Engage in stimulating discussions, share insights, and exchange ideas with fellow tech community members. Whether you're looking to find potential collaborators, seek advice, or explore new opportunities, this event is tailored to foster valuable relationships. **📸 Photo Opportunities** Capture the essence of the evening with professional photo opportunities set against elegant backdrops. Document your night of networking and celebration with fellow tech enthusiasts. **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile)](https://jo.my/tech-whatsapp-meetup)** **🎧 Afterparty with Live DJ** As the evening progresses, transition seamlessly from professional networking to party mode. Our live DJ will set the stage with an electrifying mix of music, ensuring the dance floor stays vibrant and energetic. Celebrate the connections made and enjoy the night in full swing. **👔👗 Dress Code: Smart Casual** Reflect the event's blend of professionalism and relaxation with smart casual attire. Feel confident and comfortable as you network and dance the night away. **[REGISTRATION HERE IS MANDATORY](https://jo.my/tech-event-meetup)** **Join us for a night where technology, networking, and celebration converge in an elegant setting.** Whether you're looking to expand your network, find inspiration, or simply enjoy a sophisticated evening with fellow tech enthusiasts, Tech Industry Night is the event for you. We look forward to welcoming you to a night of innovation and celebration! **[=== <<< REGISTER NOW >>> ===](https://jo.my/tech-event-meetup)** **How many people attend?** We get 100 people on average in all our events and invite our members on Meetup and other platforms. Members of other groups who RSVP are included as guests to give an idea of expected numbers. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Complete your registration HERE](https://jo.my/tech-event-meetup) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Networking 😊

Join us for an inspiring evening dedicated to empowering everyone in the blockchain industry. Our panel of successful leaders will share their insights, experiences, and advice on navigating the world of blockchain technology. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out in the field, this event is the perfect opportunity to network, learn, and be inspired by the incredible women shaping the future of blockchain. This event is open to everyone who is passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. Come connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and contribute to building a more diverse and inclusive blockchain community. Let's work together to create a more equitable future for women in blockchain and drive positive change in the industry!

Come for Networking. Stay for the Music 🎶 It's Not What You Know, It's Who You Know or so they say ... your network matters. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-group-meetup)** Connect with business owners, leaders and industry experts in a friendly and fun environment 🤝🏻 **Join an evening where nobody left behind, stand on side or feels lonely.** Have a friendly chat while sipping your favorite drink, and still make meaningful business connections. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-group-meetup)** Dress your best for a fun evening at the best venues in Dubai and get ready to pose for an #instaphoto 📷 **How many people attend?** We get 100 people on average in all our events and invite our members on Meetup and other platforms. Members of other groups who RSVP are included as guests to give an idea of expected numbers. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-group-meetup)** **Network After Work is a great platform, where you can:** * Grow your network and business. * Have great conversations and make new friends. * Meet your next client, partner, vendor, investor, and more. **Who should attend?** * Business owners. * Business Leaders. * Industry experts. *PS. Humble excuse from JOB Seekers.* **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-group-meetup) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Networking 😊

The Fellowship of the Star Schema: Transforming OLTP Data for Power BI One does not simply build reports on OLTP data. Join us on an epic journey from the depths of raw, normalized tables to the shining halls of a well-modeled star schema fit for Power BI greatness. We will demystify the differences between OLTP and OLAP, walk through star schema vs snowflake (and why Power BI has a clear favorite), and show you the compression differences between normalized and columnar storage that will make you never look at an OLTP model the same way again. We will cover the different types of dimensions, when to use them, and how to handle Slowly Changing Dimensions without losing your mind. You will leave knowing exactly how to identify a bad model, how to convert OLTP data into a clean star schema, and how to forge relationships that rule them all. Whether you are a data wizard, a curious hobbit, or somewhere in between, your models will never be the same.

**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)

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!

We're bringing the community together for a casual happy hour with ServiceNow-themed trivia, food and drinks, and great conversation. Details coming soon - for now, save the date and plan to join us for connection and fun.

**Important time note:** Please plan on arriving between 5:30 and 6:00 as the elevators lock after 6 and you'll need to message us and we'll need to come get you. The building address is 4450 Bridge Park The entrance is 6620 Mooney St, Suite 400 You will need to scan your ID at the door to get a visitor badge. **Abstract** GitHub Copilot is powerful, but what if you could scale from a solo AI assistant to an entire team of specialized agents working in parallel? This session introduces Squad: an open-source framework for multi-agent orchestration that lets you define teams of AI agents with specific roles, responsibilities, and expertise. We'll progress from Copilot basics to the Copilot CLI, explore how Agents add autonomy, and see how Instructions and Skills let you customize agent behavior. Then, the climax: a live demo where a Squad team of 3 agents (Lead, Developer, Tester) stands up and builds a working application in real-time, showcasing true multi-agent collaboration. Whether you're new to AI or exploring how to scale your use of Copilot, this session will show you what's possible when agents work as a team. **YouTube Link** TBD

The global Azure community is coming together again, and Columbus is officially on the map. View the session lineup and speakers at [Global Azure Columbus 2026](https://coazure.github.io/cbus-global-azure-2026/) On **Saturday, April 18, 2026**, the Azure Columbus Meetup, DevOps Meetup, and Code and Coffee Meetup are hosting our local edition of Global Azure 2026. This is a free, community-driven event packed with learning, networking, and all things Microsoft Azure. Whether you’re building modern cloud-native apps, experimenting with AI agents, deploying containers, automating infrastructure, or just beginning your Azure journey, this event is for you! **What to Expect** * Engaging technical sessions * Real-world Azure architecture & cloud-native patterns * AI, agents, automation, and modern DevOps * Food and drinks (because learning burns calories) * Time to connect with fellow engineers, architects, and cloud enthusiasts **Who Should Attend?** * Software engineers (any language, any stack) * Cloud architects * DevOps engineers * Data professionals * AI explorers * Platform builders * Anyone who loves solving hard problems with great tools If you build, deploy, automate, scale, monitor, or optimize in Azure, you’ll feel right at home. **Why Global Azure?** Global Azure is a worldwide community event where Azure user groups host learning sessions on the same day across the globe. It’s grassroots. It’s technical. It’s practical. And it’s powered by people who genuinely love sharing what they’ve learned. And yes, it’s free to attend!

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)