Esports Toronto

Conor Hoekstra - Parrot : Array GPU Programming

**Abstract:** This talk introduces a new high-level CUDA C++ library that brings functional, array-style programming to GPUs - without compromising performance. With a fluent API that slashes boilerplate and minimizes kernel launches, it enables you to write expressive, high-performance GPU code with up to 10× less code. This talk explores how functional patterns can unlock both clarity and speed in GPU development. **Speaker: Conor Hoekstra** Research Scientist at NVIDIA working on array programming models and languages. Creator of the [Parrot](https://nvlabs.github.io/parrot/) library (a high-level, array-based library with implicit GPU fusion). Extremely passionate about programming languages, algorithms, and beautiful code. Founder and organizer of the [Programming Languages Virtual Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/Programming-Languages-Toronto-Meetup/). Host of four podcasts and an avid conference speaker.

Portfolio Session - TECHNO MUSIC

For the next week’s portfolio sessions, we are doing a techno night. We’ll be starting off the night with hypnotic techno and ending it with bounce. We're also debuting B4Ts. Come by support homegrown talent! For this weeks line up we have: [@nate_spins](https://www.instagram.com/nate_spins/) [@bynozmusic](https://www.instagram.com/bynozmusic/) [@b4ts.mp3](https://www.instagram.com/b4ts.mp3/) [@delecdoper](https://www.instagram.com/delecdoper/) Can wait to see everyone there! Sunday April 129h, 2026 Doors at 5PM \| Free Entry All Day Location: Sound Machine - 178 Bathurst St This Portfolio Session is brought to you by [@bnbhurtspodcast](https://www.instagram.com/bnbhurtspodcast/) [Youtube FREE](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaNYL3z7CSAZNN1PRrHT0Ow/ "https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaNYL3z7CSAZNN1PRrHT0Ow/") [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/portfolio.sessions/ "https://www.instagram.com/portfolio.sessions/")

From Tests to Trust: How QA Creates Value Outlasting Tech Shift | Toronto Meetup

The Test Tribe 13th Toronto Meetup – From Tests to Trust: How QA Creates Value That Outlasts Technology Shifts Tools change. Frameworks evolve. AI reshapes workflows. But one thing remains constant: the expectation that QA delivers value. In a world of rapid technological change, the real question isn’t what tools we use - it’s how QA creates trust, clarity, and better decisions across teams. At the 13th Toronto Meetup, we step back from tools and trends to explore a deeper question: What does quality really mean to the business - and how can QA deliver it consistently, regardless of technology shifts? **Event Details** * **Date: April 29th, 2026 (Wednesday)** * **Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM ET** * **Venue: Tribal Scale** * **Maps Link:** https://maps.app.goo.gl/hqUyAVXKLQhPFsUK6?g_st=ic **Session: From Tests to Trust: How QA Creates Value That Outlasts Technology Shifts** **Speaker: Youssef Menkhour** **About the Session** Technology in QA is evolving rapidly - but expectations from stakeholders often remain unchanged. In this session, Youssef Menkhour brings a QA Director’s perspective to explore: * What different roles (engineering, product, business) actually expect from testing * How QA creates value indirectly, beyond test execution * Why traditional outputs - tests, reports, meetings - often fail to drive real decisions * How to simplify QA practices to better support clarity, alignment, and impact This talk challenges conventional thinking and focuses on how QA can move beyond activity-driven work to become a driver of trust and decision-making within organizations. **Key Takeaways** * Understand what stakeholders truly expect from QA * Learn how QA delivers value beyond test cases and execution * Simplify testing outputs to better support real decisions * Shift from activity-driven QA to impact-driven quality engineering * Build practices that remain relevant across changing technologies **About the Speaker** Youssef Menkhour is a Director of Quality Assurance with 15+ years of experience leading enterprise and SaaS-focused QA organizations across industries including insurance, banking, media, and telecommunications. At Alithya, he advises clients on quality modernization, helping organizations adopt automation-first strategies, shift-left testing, and CI/CD-aligned delivery models. Youssef is passionate about redefining QA’s role - from a supporting function to a strategic contributor that drives trust, alignment, and long-term value. **Why You Should Attend** * Gain a leadership perspective on the future of QA * Learn how to create value beyond tools and frameworks * Understand how to align QA work with business outcomes * Rethink how testing supports decision-making * Connect with Toronto’s QA and tech community **About The Test Tribe** The Test Tribe is the world’s largest software testing community, empowering testers globally since 2018. With 700+ events and 150K+ members across 130+ countries, we bring testers together to learn, grow, and connect through meetups, conferences, cohorts, masterclasses, and more. By RSVPing, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy and consent to be contacted by The Test Tribe and our event partners.

Anxiety and Depression Peer Support 20s, 30s

Join our anxiety and depression peer support group where we'll: 1. Share experiences about anxiety and depression 2. Hear others' struggles with anxiety and depression, so you don't feel alone 3. Hear victory stories, feel inspired that healing is possible 4. Build connections based on the common experience of mental illness and anxiety Positive social interaction, supporting others, and sharing our thoughts, all associated with positive mental health outcomes.

Sunday Gayme Brew

*Physically Accessible Venue* This is an opportunity to meet up for some LGBTQ2IA-flavoured gaming and socializing—allies also welcome. Come for the gaming, socializing, not to mention the draft! :) Be sure to invite friends and such, too. Although Fred, your amiable host, starts the event at 3pm, feel free to drop in when you are able, Steadfast opens at Noon! You'll have access to a robust library of board games, and attendees are welcome to bring their own games. There is no event fee. Instead we ask attendees to purchase beverages or food from the venue, Steadfast Brewery, conveniently located at Lansdowne and Dundas, 301 Lansdowne Ave. Of course, since they are offering us their space for free, please consider buying a drink if you can. Note - Sunday's is usually Miguel's day off, he may or may not pop in to cook up his amazing tacos, if the kitchen is closed, Steadfast welcomes outside food should you be hungry. We provide nametag stickers with a pronoun field; we want this to be a comfortable environment for everyone, kindly respect people's listed or stated pronouns. * If you are unsure of someone's pronouns, don't assume: Ask, Respect and Practice * Definitely ask before taking pictures/videos Steadfast Brewery is an accessible space with a smooth entrance and large single stall washrooms available on the main floor. For those with sensory concerns, there may be possible loud noises. Steadfast offers an annual Brew Membership called **The Mug Club** that offers the following: Your own mug! It has your name on it and is reserved for you. A larger pour-19.5 oz vs 16 oz 1$ off pours in that mug (if you do the math, this sums to about a 40% discount on beer to stay, I think) 1 free growler fill a month (15$ value each, so $180 value for the year) 30% off merch. It costs $150 year one, $100 every year after that.

PORTFOLIO BUILDER w/ WILLA

Magic the Gathering: Going Commander

Every Wednesday Night! Free Magic The Gathering Commander games at Hairy Tarantula, hosted by Toronto Gaymers! Please note: Masks are required in store! For more information and to RSVP please over to harryt.com/events

TPP Spring Series Event#1: Opener DeepStack $200/30K NoLimit Hold'em

Saturday DeepStack NLHM $300/30k - 30mins/level Single Re-Entry

🎱 learn to play pool and make new friends in toronto (Junction) 🎱

🎱 **New Year, New Events, TBC Tuesday Socials Are Back for 2026!** 🎉 Kick off **2026** by getting out of the house, meeting new people, and enjoying a relaxed night of pool with **Toronto Billiards Club** at **Shoxs**. This Tuesday evening social is all about **good vibes, community, and accessible pool**. Whether you are brand new to the game or have years of experience, you will feel comfortable here. **What to expect:** ✅ friendly, inclusive, and welcoming social atmosphere ✅ beginners welcome ✅ instruction and guidance from TBC hosts ✅ casual pool games, conversation, drinks, and food ✅ no pressure, no leagues, no egos if you have ever thought *“I want to play pool but don’t know where to start”* or *“I don’t want to walk into a pool hall by myself”* this event is made for you. many of our regulars first showed up solo. 💬 **First time attending?** Our hosts will introduce you, help you get a game going, and make sure you are comfortable throughout the night. 💵 **Event Fee:** $15 per person Payable by cash or e-transfer (dean@tbcpool.org) Please contact the event organizer if you have payment questions 📋 **House Rules:** All attendees are expected to follow TBC Meetup Rules during the event. If you have questions about rules, fees, or the format, feel free to message an organizer. 👉 **Call to action:** Bring a friend or come solo. show up curious. Leave with new connections and more confidence at the table. See you Tuesday and welcome to the TBC community! **TBC Admin**

Wednesday Turbo -Freezeout!! $125/15k + $15/10k

TPP Spring Series Event#2: TurboMadness $110/12K + $10/8K NLHM 15mins/level