TEDx

Make A Robot with MicroPython In this hands-on session, you’ll learn the fundamentals of robotics using MicroPython and an ESP32 microcontroller. We’ll guide you through building a simple robot that can light up LEDs and move a handmade part. The workshop covers wiring, coding, and basic motion control principles, which you can later expand to include sensors or APIs. **Important** We will provide all required components for in-person participants. Remote participants will receive a shopping list of components and setup instructions in advance. **Agenda:** 18:00-18:30 - Registration, food 18:30-20:00 - Workshop 20:00-21:00 - Networking **GitHub Repo** [https://github.com/pyladiesams/robotics-with-micropython-jan2026](https://github.com/pyladiesams/robotics-with-micropython-jan2026) **Stream** [https://www.youtube.com/live/6u5wlQamD9E](https://www.youtube.com/live/6u5wlQamD9E) **Speaker** [Josefine Quack](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jquack/) Josefine is an experienced Forward Deployed Robotics Engineer at Monumental, where she hacks and plays with robots all day. As a result those robots have already built over 30 houses. Please don't leave any chocolate around her unattended. ​**📧 Contact** Are you interested in speaking at one of our events? Do you have a good idea for a Meetup topic? Get in touch with us at [amsterdam@pyladies.com](http://amsterdam@pyladies.com/). ​💬 Find us on the PyLadies Global workspace: 1. ​[https://slackin.pyladies.com](https://slackin.pyladies.com/) enter your email address and accept the email invitation 2. ​Go to workspace [https://pyladies.slack.com](https://pyladies.slack.com/) 3. ​Join channel #city-amsterdam

**Welcome to our January UX Beers in Antwerp!** This time, we will host our event on Tuesday the 27th of January at [Made](https://www.made.be) in Antwerp. [Ariad](https://www.ariadgroup.com/) and [Creative Skills](https://www.creativeskills.be/) sponsor our events. 📺 Follow the event online? We stream live via [Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBqyTDAyQBw) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \#\#\# UX TALKS **Talk 1: Misaligned expectations, endless revisions and design hangovers?** [Martin Lambeau](https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-lambeau/), Healthcare Lead @Made It often starts with a vague or uncertain brief. This talk explores how co-defining the brand and design strategy leads to stronger ideas, faster decisions, and better design outcomes. **Talk 2: How to survive the UX job market in 2026?** [Marjan Geerts](https://www.linkedin.com/in/marjanatsrimigeerts/), UX researcher, UX designer & trainer @uxcoach.be While UX design was booming in Belgium a couple of years ago, the past year it became more difficult then ever to land a job or assignment in UX. How does that make us feel? What are the questions we all want to get answered? And how to position ourselves in the uncertain UX job market? This talk contains lessons learned from UX designer and coach, Marjan Geerts. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \#\#\# SCHEDULE 18:00 - Doors open. Drinks & snacks 19.00 - 19.15 - Introduction to UX Belgium Meetup, announcements 19.15 - 19:45 - Talk #1 19:45 -20:15 - BREAK 20:15 - 20:45 - Talk #2 20:45 - 21:30 - Socialize \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \#\#\# SLACK CHANNEL We have our own UX Belgium slack channel. [Come join us and say hi!](https://join.slack.com/t/ux-belgium/shared_invite/zt-1bjpnuiog-T4Di4flXYPWgbT9KrZ53CA) \*\*\* \#\#\# YOUTUBE CHANNEL All our livestreams and talks are recorded and available on our [UX Belgium youtube channel](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCno7V18T-EglYXprgrUZQ7A). \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \#\#\# ABOUT UX BELGIUM UX Belgium is a growing community of User Experience (UX) professionals in and around Belgium. Look for these types of events: UX Beers Periodically, we gather at a different agency or venue to drink beers, network and listen to speakers on various themes in the world of UX and digital design. UX Antwerp: Each last Tuesday of the month UX Brussels: Each second Tuesday of the month, 4x per year UX Hasselt: 4x per year UX Workshops Now and then we organize events to dive deeper into specific skills and techniques in UX. These are smaller, hands-on workshops designed to boost your UX toolbox. \*\*\* The UX Belgium Meetup Team

De 35ᵉ monthly meetup van [Nimma.codes](https://www.nimma.codes/). Elke laatste dinsdag van de maand. Een cross-language user group voor software developers in de regio Arnhem-Nijmegen. Let op: het eten is er om 17:30. We starten om 18:00 met de opening. *We houden er niet van om eten te verspillen. Ben je verhinderd? Geen probleem, maar meld je uiterlijk een dag voor de meetup af.* **Programma** * 17:30 - 18:00 Inloop + food/drinks * 18:00 - 18:45 **Webbeveiligingsstandaarden: Wat, Waarom en Hoe? - Arjan Eising** * 18:45 - 19:00 Pauze * 19:00 - 19:30 **Django And Its Ecosystem - Quint Wessels** * 1930 - 20:00 **Professional Django Development - Kees Hink** * 20:05 - 21:00 Netwerken en gezelligheid In deze editie hebben we één wat langer praatje en twee korte. In de eerste talk van **Arjan** gaat hij ons wat vertellen over webbeveiligingsstandaarden. Moderne browsers gebruiken een scala aan technieken om websites en gebruikers te beschermen tegen kwaadaardige aanvallen. Deze standaarden zijn cruciaal om de integriteit van gegevens te waarborgen en het vertrouwen van gebruikers te behouden. Ze voorkomen dat gevoelige gebruikersgegevens op ongewenste plaatsen belanden of dat ongewenste code wordt uitgevoerd. Voorbeelden zijn Cross-Origin Resource Sharing (CORS) en Content Security Policy (CSP) voor het veilig aanroepen van externe content en API's. Deze presentatie behandelt de belangrijkste webbeveiligingsstandaarden en de bescherming die ze bieden. Daarnaast krijg je praktische tips voor het opzetten van veilige API's en het effectief aanroepen daarvan vanuit de front-end. **Quint** gaat ons een kijkje geven op Python, waar het staat, en zijn (open-source) ecosysteem. **Kees** gaat ons meenemen in hoe Four Digits Django en WagtailCMS projecten ontwikkelt, implementeert en onderhoudt zonder gek te worden.

**3D Workshop** * **Ontwerpen met Fusion360** * **Scannen in 3D** * **Het gebruik van 3D printers** **Je bent nu welkom in de nieuwe locatie NewTechPark** Je kunt ook online aan deze fysieke bijeenkomst deelnemen. De bijeenkomst is dan op de locatie te volgen. Als je [hier](w.j.put@hccnet.nl) vooraf een mailtje stuurt kun je dinsdagavond tussen 19.00 en 20.00 uur inloggen met Jitsi voor vragen, of ter kennismaking met hcc!3D. Online neem je deel aan de bijeenkomst met [https://wij.hcc.nl/3D](https://wij.hcc.nl/3D) [(Alleen toegang als je zichtbaar bent met voor- en achternaam. )](https://wij.hcc.nl/3d)

#### Level: Everyone welcome Musical theatre is improvisational theatre where music and sound take the lead. This does not mean you have to sing or perform improvised songs, although that can happen. Instead, musicality in its broadest sense becomes the starting point for scenes. Sound, rhythm, tempo, and tone guide what unfolds on stage. In this course, music is not decoration or background. It becomes an active scene partner. A rhythm can create a character, a sound can set a mood, and a musical impulse can shape the entire direction of a scene. The module is inspired by the work of companies and makers such as Orkater, Monty Python, Het Amsterdams Bostheater, and the Ashton Brothers, where musicality, playfulness, and theatrical imagination meet. #### What will we do Throughout the course, you will explore how sound and music can drive improvisation in different ways. Sometimes a scene will emerge purely from a sound, rhythm, or musical texture. At other times, music will support and deepen an existing scene, strengthening emotion, atmosphere, and timing. You will experiment with how musical choices influence pace, tension, and emotional impact. By treating sound as a creative force rather than an extra layer, you will learn how music can provide structure and momentum, even in scenes without words. #### Who is this course for This course is open to everyone. You do not need to be a musician, play an instrument, or feel confident about singing. Curiosity and a willingness to experiment are far more important than musical skill. The course is built on the belief that everyone has enough musicality to create meaningful and powerful improvised scenes. To make sure the group feels safe and comfortable, there may be a short intake beforehand. This is not about judging musical ability, but about checking whether you feel excited to explore sound, voice, and music in a playful way. #### What will we work on During the course, we will focus on four core elements. 1. Voice use * Exploring the musical possibilities of the voice, from raw sounds and textures to rhythm and melody. 2. Making music * Creating music with simple tools and everyday objects, learning how even the most unexpected sounds can strengthen a scene. 3. Scenes born from music * Discovering how music itself can generate characters, relationships, and structure without starting from text or narrative. 4. Music supporting scenes * Using music to enhance emotion, atmosphere, tension, and transitions within scenes. #### Why take this module This course invites you to experience improvisation from a completely different angle. By starting from sound and feeling instead of words and ideas, you open up new creative pathways and deepen your connection to instinct, timing, and emotion. Many participants find this approach both liberating and surprisingly moving. #### Review “My other improv group, with 20 to 30 years of experience, were moved to tears by what Iwan achieved in his lessons. Two members who had always been told they could not sing and should not use their voice were suddenly singing freely and effortlessly. Iwan opens up new possibilities of how to use music and voice.” *Marieke van Laar* #### About the teacher Iwan Dam is a highly sought after improvisation actor with extensive experience on stage and screen. He has been teaching improv for many years and is known for his open, playful teaching style, combined with a strong focus on technique and personal growth. Iwan studied at the Academy of Performing Arts in Amsterdam, the Central School of Speech and Drama in London, and trained with well known Dutch theatre makers. His work includes youth theatre, musical theatre, television, and many years performing with the improv comedy group Op Sterk Water. He also performs regularly at corporate events and public shows. #### Course details Location: [Buurthuis De Jager](https://maps.app.goo.gl/BvprqXJvWN3GJbPV7), zaal 6, Teun de Jagerdreef 1, Utrecht Free parking and close to Utrecht Overvecht station Dates and time: Tuesdays 20:15 to 22:15 27 January, 3, 10, 17, 24 February, and 10 March 2025 Show date to be confirmed Teacher: Iwan Dam Seven lessons, including a show Price: €185 including 21 percent VAT Improv Utrecht offers one or two funded places per course with a 20 percent discount for people with limited financial means. You can contact Marieke van Laar to discuss this option. Tickets are available via improv-utrecht.weticket.io.

#### Level: Everyone welcome \*\*Voice Training for Improvisers\*\* Discover the power and possibilities of your voice. In this masterclass, we dive into the fundamentals of healthy and expressive voice use — essential for every improviser. You’ll learn how your voice works, how to use it effectively in scenes, and how to gain more freedom and control in both spoken text and singing. We will explore: \* how to warm up your voice effectively \* how to sing in tune (and why you sometimes think you’re singing off-key) \* how to play with volume, tone color, and dynamics \* how to use your voice to carry, color, or surprise within a scene This training is practical, playful, and immediately applicable on the improv floor. You’ll go home with concrete tools, greater confidence, and a voice ready for any improvisation challenge. Review “My other improv group, with 20 to 30 years of experience, were moved to tears by what Iwan achieved in his lessons. Two members who had always been told they could not sing and should not use their voice were suddenly singing freely and effortlessly. Iwan opens up new possibilities of how to use music and voice.” Marieke van Laar About the teacher Iwan Dam is a highly sought after improvisation actor with extensive experience on stage and screen. He has been teaching improv for many years and is known for his open, playful teaching style, combined with a strong focus on technique and personal growth. Iwan studied at the Academy of Performing Arts in Amsterdam, the Central School of Speech and Drama in London, and trained with well known Dutch theatre makers. His work includes youth theatre, musical theatre, television, and many years performing with the improv comedy group Op Sterk Water. He also performs regularly at corporate events and public shows. contact Marieke van Laar to discuss this option. #### Review “My other improv group, with 20 to 30 years of experience, were moved to tears by what Iwan achieved in his lessons. Two members who had always been told they could not sing and should not use their voice were suddenly singing freely and effortlessly. Iwan opens up new possibilities of how to use music and voice.” *Marieke van Laar* #### About the teacher Iwan Dam is a highly sought after improvisation actor with extensive experience on stage and screen. He has been teaching improv for many years and is known for his open, playful teaching style, combined with a strong focus on technique and personal growth. Iwan studied at the Academy of Performing Arts in Amsterdam, the Central School of Speech and Drama in London, and trained with well known Dutch theatre makers. His work includes youth theatre, musical theatre, television, and many years performing with the improv comedy group Op Sterk Water. He also performs regularly at corporate events and public shows. #### Course details Location: [Buurthuis De Jager](https://maps.app.goo.gl/BvprqXJvWN3GJbPV7), zaal 6, Teun de Jagerdreef 1, Utrecht Free parking and close to Utrecht Overvecht station Dates and time: Tuesdays 27 Jan 20:15 to 22:15 Teacher: Iwan Dam € 27 [improv-utrecht.weticket.io](https://improv-utrecht.weticket.io/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHn6bHEhGuas9BhtmjLB71zR-_Zhe1qrWRDZuL8ES1xaliDT22W07lyLKw6Gk_aem_3nkOKQIJZdAYhRuRx_zktg) language English, and Dutch when needed There is also a **7-week course** by Iwan on the next Tuesdays [https://www.improvutrecht.nl/music-iwan/](https://www.improvutrecht.nl/music-iwan/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHjCQzBpaNGtF4LXB0g--C5TIglyIjB8LKaEhmzOGTOjlU2mnfi31YSFmmu7t_aem_mGjrvGWlqA0R8Rzd01HLNA) Improv Utrecht offers one or two funded places per course with a 20 percent discount for people with limited financial means. You can ask marieke Tickets are available via improv-utrecht.weticket.io.

Join us for an evening of good vibes! Whether you’re a local or an expat, Mingle Mania is the perfect place to socialize and make friends or even to practice languages. 🤝🤼‍♂️💬🙋‍♂️🫂 👉 Join [https://chat.whatsapp.com/GopSuzuFKRBKeYVKQrX4pE](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GopSuzuFKRBKeYVKQrX4pE) The group has many regular members, we intend to do various type of events, the goal is to build a strong community for all sorts of activities. If you have an event idea that you would like to see happen, let us know. We generally have about 20 participants, the age is between 20 and 60 averaging somewhere around 30, language exchange is not strictly enforced, culture exchange happens naturally. **mingle** (verb, intransitive): to move among people and talk to them, especially at a social event. 📍 **What We Are:** * A diverse group of locals and expats * ...going out at least every Tuesday 😊 🆓 **Event Details:** * It is free to join and operated on a voluntary basis! * Please honor the bar by ordering at least one drink.

OPA programmeert in 2026 rond een positieve toekomst waarin mens, natuur en techniek elkaar versterken: DARE. Voor OPA staat DARE voor Solar Punk, de hoopvolle tegenhanger van cyberpunk: een praktische ontwerpvisie die aansluit bij wie we zijn als platform dat ontmoeting, inspiratie en samenwerking organiseert. Tijdens de Arnhemse Uitnacht 2026 trappen we ons nieuwe jaarprogramma af met een nieuwe editie van **Bring Your Own Beamer** in de **Eusebiuskerk.** Dit jaar delen wij de Eusebius met Mode Partners 025. Naast toffe videokunst, gebeurt er dus ook van alles op gebied van mode. De afgelopen edities van BYOB trokken ruim 3000 bezoekers.

Hi✋ At[ Data Tribes ](https://www.datatribes.nl/)we organise Meetups because we truly care about sharing knowledge both inside and outside the organisation. We believe that it is beneficial to us and to the market as a whole to connect, create, learn and grow together! **The agenda** // Doors open 6.00pm // Drinks and Pizza’s 6.30pm // Start presentations 7.00pm // **Longhow Lam Snowflake Intelligence — Enterprise AI Agent** // Start networking 9.00pm // End Meetup 9.30pm Greetings, Data Tribes Inc.

Donderdag **29 januari 2026** is het weer tijd voor onze **Techday**: hét vaste moment waarop we kennis delen, elkaar inspireren en nieuwe ideeën direct in de praktijk brengen. Deze Techday is niet alleen voor developers, maar juist ook voor collega’s uit HR, Sales, Marketing, Operations en andere disciplines. Deze editie pakken we het aan als een **conferentie in het klein**. Drie sprekers, drie verhalen, één middag – *drie verhalen voor de prijs van één*. **Wat kun je verwachten?** • **Idzard** neemt je mee in **Product Goals** Waarom zijn ze zo belangrijk? En waarom zou elke product professional ze moeten kennen (en gebruiken)? • **Dave** laat je ervaren wat **Storytelling** doet Waarom onthouden we verhalen beter dan feiten? En hoe kun je storytelling inzetten in je dagelijkse werk? • **Jeroen** duikt in **Prototyping met AI** Hoe gebruik je AI om sneller ideeën te verkennen, testen en aanscherpen?Alle talks zijn **interactief**: geen achteroverleunen, maar meedoen. Je wordt uitgedaagd om de ideeën **direct toe te passen**, zodat je na afloop niet alleen geïnspireerd bent, maar ook echt iets nieuws kunt.Neem mee: goede zin en je laptop voor het maken van een prototype. **Wanneer:** Donderdag 29 januari 2026 **Wat:** Techday RE – conferentie-editie “Verhalen en beelden” **Voor wie:** Iedereen (!) die nieuwsgierig is en wil leren **Agenda** 14:45 - 15:00 - Inloop 15:00 - 15:45 - Product Goals 15:55 - 16:30 - Storytelling 16:35 - 18:00 - Prototyping met AI 18:00 - 19:00 - Eten We zien je graag op de Techday!

**Context is becoming the missing link that transforms powerful AI models into truly intelligent systems.** In 2026, the next leap in AI comes from understanding *context* \- user intent\, environment\, history\, and goals\. This shift separates generic outputs from meaningful\, real\-world outcomes\. Join this Meetup to explore why context is the foundation of more reliable, human-centered, and transformative AI. We’ll dive into the role of **knowledge graphs** and how they help AI systems make sense of complex information and connect insights the way humans do. **16:30 - Welcome snacks and drinks** #### **17:00 - Talk 1** #### **Why Context Matters in AI – Grounding LLMs** Aniket Mitra will explore how enterprise data captures the *DNA of an organisation*—the what, where, when, who, how, and ultimately the why behind decisions. He will explain why siloed data limits AI-driven decision-making, and how knowledge graphs provide a unified semantic layer that enables trustworthy, AI-powered control towers across the value chain. **Aniket Mitra** – Aniket Mitra is the founder of Computationele Wetenschapsgroep (CW) which is a technology development SME that specialises in designing, building & scaling Knowledge Graphs for enterprise customers across industry verticals like retail, manufacturing & logistics. **17:30 - Talk 2** **Building Trustworthy AI in Regulated Sectors – Moonjelly, Knowledge Graphs, and the Context Layer** Surajeet Bhuinya will share how a dedicated context layer helps AI systems understand how organisations actually work. Using Moonjelly as a practical example, he will show how connecting people, documents, and processes into a living enterprise graph creates context unique to each industry and use case—leading to better decisions, clearer accountability, and real business impact. **Surajeet Bhuinya** – Surajeet Bhuinya is the founder of DataPebbles, a leading Data & AI company in the Netherlands. With 25+ years of IT experience, he operates at the intersection of data, AI, and innovation, building scalable, practical AI systems that deliver measurable business impact. He is also the founder of Moonjelly, a platform that connects people, documents, and processes into a living enterprise graph, enabling teams to understand context, see impact, and act with confidence. **18:00 - Talk 3** **ReviewGraph – Using Knowledge Graphs to Predict Customer Satisfaction and Extract Hidden Insights** Lifeng Han will present ReviewGraph, a graph-based framework that transforms customer reviews into knowledge graphs to predict ratings and uncover hidden insights. He will compare this approach with traditional NLP methods and LLMs, highlighting how knowledge graphs offer strong performance with lower computational cost, greater interpretability, and promising integration with RAG systems. **Lifeng Han** – Researcher, **[4D Picture](https://www.linkedin.com/company/4dpicture/)** Project. Dr. Han has authored 50+ peer-reviewed publications and previously worked at the University of Manchester on Healthcare NLP. His PhD focused on machine translation (ADAPT Centre, DCU, Ireland). **18:30 - 20:00 - Networking, drinks and snack**

We’re heading into the south eastern Veluwe for a stunning scenic route that stays wonderfully quiet and almost deserted for a big part of the way, before building up to a truly spectacular grand finale! After around 6 km we reach the mysterious “Altar of the Loenermark” (Altaar van de Loenermark). I have no idea what it is, so we’ll discover it together. From there we continue through the beautiful heather and forest landscapes of Loenermark, one of those places where the Veluwe feels wide, wild, and open. Next we pass one of the quirkiest monuments in the Netherlands: the Ijkbasis Loenermark 1957–2007, a tribute to the calibration of measurement instruments from the past. The calibration itself might not sound exciting, but the location absolutely is, right in the middle of wide open heather, with big skies and that endless Veluwe feeling. It also marks about 11 km into the hike, a perfect spot to take our lunch break. After lunch we walk straight through the iconic National Park Veluwezoom, famous for its rolling grasslands and its fluffy semi wild cows. To finish in style, we end at Paviljoen De Posbank for a well earned snack or drink with a view over what many call the most spectacular heather of the Netherlands, complete with rolling hills. From there we head down towards Rheden, where you can easily catch the train or bus home. This is not a loop hike! **📍When and where to meet?** We’ll meet at 10h at busstop Loenen, Leeuwenbergweg. https://maps.app.goo.gl/LC3nNJQo57B5NnSy8 We are leaving a bit earlier otherwise we will find Paviljoen Posbank closed, which would be very sad. ⏰ We **start walking a few minutes after meeting up** — we don’t wait for latecomers, as the forest calls and daylight is short this time of year. **🚗 Coming by car?** This is not a loop hike. If you park in Loenen, you’ll need to make your own way back from Rheden afterwards. **⏸️ Planned Breaks** After **11 km**: Lunch break at **Ijkbasis Loenermark** (bring your packed lunch, this spot is truly in the middle of nowhere) **20 min** [https://maps.app.goo.gl/S5vAEpadAJs93ZrC7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/S5vAEpadAJs93ZrC7) After **19 km**: Snack or drink at **Paviljoen De Posbank** [https://maps.app.goo.gl/wowuqj3sRY5hcid37](https://maps.app.goo.gl/wowuqj3sRY5hcid37) **💸 Payment** Please pay as soon as you sign up: To keep things fair for everyone, if we don’t receive your payment within 48 hours, we will need to remove you from the participant list. If there’s a waiting list, this will happen sooner (in less than 48 hours). If that happens, no worries — you’re always welcome to sign up again if there’s space. 🌟 Early Bird Deal! Join now for just €4 — available for 3 days (72h). After that, the price will be €5. https://tikkie.me/pay/59muhp2djpv45gc6hgh6 **👟 Good to know** * Refund policy: Cancellations are fully refundable up to 1 week before the event (This is Friday 23 January at 23h59). After this period, the fee becomes non-refundable. * Hike difficulty: Our hikes are moderately challenging. Please only join if you’re confident you can keep up with the group’s pace (5 km/ h)— it’s more fun for everyone when we can walk together without long waits. * If the pace is too challenging: We may kindly suggest you continue at your own pace. We’ll give you clear directions to the nearest bus or train so you can return comfortably. * At your own risk: You participate at your own risk, so please make sure you have appropriate insurance coverage for outdoor activities. * Payment note: With Tikkie we only see initials (e.g., J. Doe instead of John Doe). Please include your Meetup name in the payment note so we can match it easily. * Friends joining: If you bring a friend, make sure they also register and pay. * What to bring: Snacks, lunch, and water/ or hot thee/ coffee. * Stay connected: Join our WhatsApp group to be the first to hear about future hikes — ask for the QR code during the hike. * T-shirts: Fairwear-certified organic cotton, eco-friendly inks — €25. Sustainable, odor-resistant, and perfect for hiking. Let us know your size and we’ll bring one for you.

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

Calling all founders, CEOs, lawyers, doctors, and entrepreneurs to join our special *Founder Edition* of Sip & Read meetup event. Let's sip on fine wine and discuss our first book **The 5AM Club- Own Your Morning Elevate Your Life, by Robin Sharma**. We will pair this book with our favorite wine at **Wine on High** and engage in thought-provoking discussions on startup businesses and entrepreneurship, and network with like-minded individuals in a cozy book club setting. *The 5AM Club* by Robin Sharma explores how waking up early and following a structured morning routine can dramatically improve productivity, mindset, and overall life mastery. Through a blend of storytelling and practical frameworks, it teaches high performers how to build discipline, focus, and long-term success by owning the first hour of the day. Come prepared to discuss this month's book. At the end of each book club meeting, we will take next book and venue suggestions from the participants for the next meeting. Whether you are a book lover, women entrepreneur, or a content creator, this event is perfect for sharing ideas and insights with other funders and founders in the entrepreneurial world. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together. Sign up now to reserve your spot! *Fun fact! This meetup was established in 2015 and had over 1,000 members. I had to shut down operations while attending law school, but we're back!!*

Confidence can be cultivated in many ways—through reflection, conversation, creativity, and practice. In this Confidence Lab session, we’ll explore one powerful pathway: **building confidence from the inside out through physical expression and movement**. This experience is designed to help you reconnect with your body as a source of insight, self-trust, and presence. We’ll begin by grounding into what’s bringing you here, creating space to notice how your body is showing up and what it’s holding. From there, you’ll be guided through accessible movement exercises that invite awareness and choice—isolating different parts of the body, experimenting with movement, and practicing what it feels like to take up space intentionally. Next, you’ll participate in a small-group dance lesson led in a supportive, low-pressure environment. No dance experience is needed. The focus is not on performance or perfection, but on expression, curiosity, and allowing yourself to move with confidence as you are. We’ll close with a reflective group discussion, exploring what emerged during the experience and how these insights can be applied beyond the studio—how you inhabit your body, how you carry yourself, and how you show up in everyday life. **What to know:** * Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that you feel good moving in * No dance experience required * Light snacks and beverages will be provided This session is for anyone interested in deepening their relationship with confidence by listening to their body, expanding their capacity for self-expression, and practicing self-love as an embodied experience. **Featured Speaker: Mary Grace** Mary Grace, the dynamic force behind MG Choreography & Boutique, has been transforming special occasions with her unique blend of artistry and passion for over seven years. As a proud Latina, with Venezuelan and Mexican heritage, Mary brings a rich cultural perspective to every choreography she creates. Her dedication to dance is matched only by her commitment to empowering others through the joy and elegance of movement. Mary’s journey began with a simple passion for dancing, which quickly grew into a thriving business. She specializes in crafting personalized choreography for weddings, quinceañeras, and sweet sixteens, ensuring each event is unforgettable. Determined to make a significant impact in Ohio, Mary established the first-of-its-kind brick-and-mortar location that not only offers a space to practice these beautiful dances but also provides a boutique experience for purchasing or renting exquisite dresses and tuxedos for these special moments. Mary Grace is more than just a business owner; she is a trailblazer for Latina women in the community, dedicated to bringing elegance, joy, and a touch of her vibrant heritage to every event she touches. **What is Confidence Lab?** Confidence Lab is a monthly community experience for bold, thoughtful leaders building confidence from the inside out. Whether you’re launching a business, leading a team, navigating change, or simply striving to show up more fully—you belong here. Our work demands clarity, courage, and conviction—but the pace of daily life can erode our sense of self. Confidence Lab creates space to reflect, reconnect, and grow with others doing purpose-driven work. It’s designed for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, creatives, corporate professionals, activists, and anyone ready to lead with authenticity and impact. ***Please note:*** *All are welcome! If cost is a concern, please use promo code PUBLIC to access a free ticket—we want you to join us.*

Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! For this event, we’ll help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents, wash dishes and clean surfaces at Fath Mission – Grant Kitchen. We have a great little community of Movie Group friends so rather than see a movie this time, we’ll help “Create a better world” by helping serve those in need. Here are complete details and our plan for this event: FAITH MISSION – GRANT KITCHEN: The Faith Mission kitchen and dining room serves residents 3 meals a day, every day of the year. Our group will help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents in the dining room, wash dishes, and clean surfaces. PLAN: We will be preparing / serving / cleaning for BRUNCH from 10:30am to 12:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 10:15am and wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. LOCATION: Faith Mission – Grant Kitchen is located at 245 N. Grant Ave. Enter the kitchen at Dock 1, indicated in the attached map. On-site and street parking are available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details: \* LSS Volunteer Guidelines: Uploaded to photos. \* Parking Map Info: Uploaded to photos. \* LSS Faith Mission Orientation Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bp46_6ay6iA \* Link with Additional Details / Info: https://lss.vomo.org/opportunity/faith-mission-grant-kitchen-2025 IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing all of the volunteers on this day so a firm RSVP count is essential. Please only sign up if you are certain you’ll be able to attend. If something unavoidable comes up, please update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With very few exceptions, no shows or cancelations within 1 week of the event will not be eligible for future CMG Gives Back events. I appreciate your understanding as we try to ensure the agencies have the volunteers needed to provide the essential services they provide to the vulnerable population they serve. THANK YOU: This CMG Gives Back event provides an opportunity for YOU to get involved in helping others! Benefits go well beyond the help we give to others. Volunteering provides a wide range of personal benefits, including positive effects on mental and physical health, reduced stress/depression/anxiety, increased happiness and improved purpose, life-satisfaction and personal well-being! Plus, the opportunity to get involved, connect with others and help those in need. PARTNER AGENCY: This event is hosted by Lutheran Social Services (LSS), which serves thousands of people in need each day in 27 Ohio counties by addressing the four core societal issues of food, shelter, safety and healing. LSS offers food through the LSS Food Pantries, housing and supportive services through LSS Faith Mission and LSS Faith Mission of Fairfield County homeless shelters, domestic violence services through LSS CHOICES for Victims of Domestic Violence, senior living and health care, affordable housing communities, and other services that uplift families and strengthen communities. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

Dale Gnidovec, Curator of the Orton Hall Museum of Geology at The Ohio State University, will be presenting a program he has wanted to share with us for a long time: Plate Tectonics. His description of his program: Continents on the move - Nothing in Earth history makes sense without moving continents - it tells us why mountains, volcanoes, minerals, and fossils are where they are. This talk examines the evidence for continental drift, why it was disbelieved, and explains how the more-encompassing theory of plate tectonics was developed and eventually proven. Dale is an energetic, incredibly knowledgeable, and very entertaining speaker and this will be another wonderful program by Dale. Hope to see you there! Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

**Columbus College of Art and Design (CCAD) TEAMS UP with The Central Ohio GameDev Group (COGG) for the 2026 Global Game Jam (GGJ)!!!** **GGJ SITE** [https://globalgamejam.org/jam-sites/2026/columbus-college-art-design-central-ohio-game-group-ggj-2026](https://globalgamejam.org/jam-sites/2026/columbus-college-art-design-central-ohio-game-group-ggj-2026) **REGISTRATION** Fill out this form >>> [https://forms.gle/J6sGDZJFTmZkC6pk7](https://forms.gle/J6sGDZJFTmZkC6pk7) <<< *PLEASE NOTE* \- We have limited capacity so us knowing In\-Person participation early on is critical for us to best accommodate everyone interested in jammin' \- We will also be providing Online teams & support via our COGG Discord bot [Jammio](https://jammio.xyz/)! **Registering for this MEETUP event DOES NOT gain you access to the main Global Game Jam event. Please register officially [here](https://forms.gle/J6sGDZJFTmZkC6pk7).** Every year the game department at CCAD hosts students (and this year local game group COGG!!) in the exciting challenge of developing a theme inspired title over the course of a weekend. The Global Game Jam is a cherished tradition, be it in-person or virtually, we are here for you! This is an excellent opportunity to connect with your peers, make new friends, network with local game makers and try your hand at low stakes game development! Want to know all the details? [Check out the official GGJ site](https://globalgamejam.org/faq) and be sure to use your existing account or create a new jammer [account](https://globalgamejam.org/user/register). \-\-\-\-\- **EVENT DETAILS** Listings subject to change and will be updated so check in periodically! An **[Event Details doc](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SOPkHxpRVD7qrfVnWVMsWPB7zQwC5wtJK51v6T3a2hQ/edit?usp=sharing)** can be read for all your info! **Building Hours + Security** available throughout the event **Parking:** See [parking spots highlighted in blue](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Me_JNpE8YaGqR54KxmJei7w6OZ3rhjeC/view). (see new as of last year) *All Locations:* **DSB 121**, The Game Lounge: informal space for people to decompress. Private bathrooms **DSB126**, Small Classroom / Break-out room **DSB127**, (large multi-use space, tables, projector, couches, bistro tables/chairs, etc) **DSB136**, Flex Space (meals / food, access to refrigerator / microwave, drop-power and tables/chairs). **DSB142**, Presentation room **DSB146**, Cintiq Laptop Docking Lab **VENUE TIME & SPACE** **Friday** 5:00pm - 12am Event launch - *DSB 142* [YouTube Live Stream @6pm](https://youtube.com/live/pV40YzllqoY?feature=share) **Saturday** 7am - 12am **Sunday** 7am - 7:00pm Event closing - *DSB 142* [YouTube Live Stream Ending Ceremony @6pm](https://youtube.com/live/stxxCCPzy2A?feature=share) **MISC. RESOURCES** **Wifi:** We will have access to the GUEST network \- To be provided for login to participants at the event Friday Jan 30th **Map** [CCAD Map](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Me_JNpE8YaGqR54KxmJei7w6OZ3rhjeC/view?usp=sharing) **Wavier** [Sign and Print or Email to info@thecogg.com](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KaKoz5sK5h1PdZ2rGNOCntyUxoXcGLXL/view) **Schedule** [Updated Regularly](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1EONsxtr3S-bRvIp_s12os-JA-M7uEW207bi9MVfrvbM/edit?usp=sharing) **Event Details** [All in one spot for all event details](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SOPkHxpRVD7qrfVnWVMsWPB7zQwC5wtJK51v6T3a2hQ/edit?usp=sharing) **SPONSORS** Global Game Jam ([GGJ](https://globalgamejam.org/)) Columbus College of Art and Design ([CCAD](https://www.ccad.edu/)) The Central Ohio GameDev Group ([COGG](https://thecogg.com/)) [Jammio](https://jammio.xyz/) \- Discord game jam bot [GDEX](https://www.thegdex.com/)/[Multivarious](https://www.multivarious.com/) \- Midwest Premiere Gaming Expo