Agile Project Management

**Dear RPBO members,** We hope we find you well. We are thrilled to bring to your attention the third-party event organised by Future Romania, which is set to arrive in **London** between 8 and 10 May 2026. Over three intensive days, participants interested in Romanian public sector leadership will engage in high-level lectures, practical workshops, crisis simulations, public speaking training, and policy debates, led by top experts and international faculty. The program is completely free for selected candidates. If you are a young leader aged 18–32 or 33+ with potential and ambition to shape Romania’s future, don’t miss this opportunity! Registrations: [https://inscrieri.futureromania.ro/formular](https://inscrieri.futureromania.ro/formular) More info about Future Romania: https://futureromania.ro/en/

## From Zero to AI App: A Hands-On Meetup for Data Professionals Curious about AI but tired of the hype? This beginner-friendly, practical meetup is designed to help you **actually understand and use AI in data roles**—not just talk about it. We’ll break down the core ideas behind modern AI systems in a simple, no-jargon way—then bring everything together by **building a real AI app live**. Whether you're a student, aspiring analyst, or working professional, you’ll leave with **clarity, confidence, and practical skills you can apply immediately.** *** ## 💡 What You’ll Learn In this session, we’ll go from fundamentals to real application: * What *Agentic AI* really means (and why it matters) * A simple breakdown of *LLM architecture* * What vectors are and why they power modern AI systems * What *RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation)* is and how it works in practice * How all these pieces connect in real-world data workflows And most importantly… 👉 **We’ll build a working AI app live—so you can see exactly how it all comes together.** *** ## 🎤 Talks ### 1️⃣ From Concepts to Creation: Understanding & Building with AI A practical walkthrough of key AI concepts—followed by a **live app build** where we turn theory into something real. ### 2️⃣ CV Blueprint * **The Perfect CV Blueprint:** Stop making the top 5 mistakes that lead to automatic rejection. Learn how to transform your experience into **quantifiable achievements** that hiring managers love. *** ## 👥 Meet Your Speakers **[Nitish Galat](https://www.linkedin.com/in/nitish-galat/) – BI Analyst & Gen AI Specialist** Nitish works at the intersection of data automation and generative AI, with a focus on simplifying complex systems and making AI accessible to everyone. **[Abhishek Gadve](https://www.linkedin.com/in/abhishek-gadve-8010a2119/) – Senior Product Analyst** Abhishek specializes in turning data into business impact, helping teams make faster, smarter decisions using analytics and AI. *** ## 🎯 Why You Should Attend This isn’t another theory-heavy AI session. You’ll walk away with: * A clear understanding of how modern AI actually works * Practical knowledge you can use in data roles right away * Exposure to real tools and workflows used today * The confidence to start building with AI yourself *** ## 🎟️ Free Event – Limited Spots We’re keeping this meetup **small and interactive** to encourage discussion, questions, and hands-on learning. If you're serious about understanding how AI fits into data and analytics, this session will give you a real edge. 👉 **Reserve your spot now**

**UNIQUE COMBINED PROCESS RETREAT** **March \| April \| May \| June \| Sept \| Oct \| Nov 2026** Dear Constellation Explorer, We’re delighted to invite you to a unique 3-day retreat that brings together two powerful healing modalities: **Systemic & Family Constellations** and **Ceremonial Plant-Spirit Work**. This immersive experience is designed to support deep emotional healing, release of trauma, and reconnection with your inner wisdom. Whether you are seeking **personal growth**, **support of your spiritual awakening journey** or **facing emotional challenges**, even if they are life-long, participants in the Combined Process are **reporting major shifts and breakthroughs** in many aspects of life. ✨ **What Awaits You:** • **Healing Fusion** – Masterfully facilitated constellation sessions alongside traditional plant-spirit ceremony • **Trauma Release** – Space to address long-held emotional imprints, PTSD, depression, and complex trauma • **Small Group Setting** – Intimate circle of max 8 participants held by 4 experienced facilitators • **Sacred Integration** – Deeply guided work and personal support throughout the process • **Nature Immersion** – Held in beautiful, sun-drenched natural locations across Europe This retreat is not just a healing space — it’s an invitation to **transform your life** by reconnecting with what’s real, raw, and ready to be released. 🌀 **Who is it for?** • Those committed to their inner work • Seekers ready to open to new levels of self-awareness and growth • Professionals looking to deepen their own process in a safe, sacred setting 📩 **Enrollment is by application only**, to ensure the retreat is aligned with your needs. Attending is subject to a personal interview via Zoom. **Retreat Price is €895** (£777) including all **3-day sessions, ceremony, medicine and 3 meals a day** \- not including flights or accommodation\. £200 enrolment deposit is required to reserve your place\, the remaining fee will be paid onsite in Euros\. 👉 To request full retreat details and apply, email us at: **nature@earth.is** Are you ready to take the next step on your healing path? We would be honoured to hold space for you.

We are holding accessible and confidential Systemic & Family Constellations group workshop. Systemic constellations are an embodied and experiential method for the respectful exploration of difficulties across multiple areas of life. Attendees up to 16. One of three facilitators will facilitate two to three issues. Fee: Flat fee of £45 for both issue holders and representatives payable prior to the event. More information on our website https://cityconstellations.com/ or upon request londoncityconstellations@gmail.com

**🎭 Friendly Group Improv in Clerkenwell, London 🎭** Come and join a relaxed, playful **group improvisation session** in the heart of London! We’ll dive into **theatre games**, **acting warm-ups**, and **icebreakers**, followed by short, light-hearted scenes — spontaneous fun! 💥 🎯 **Our aims**: * Build **self-confidence** in social settings * Make **new connections** 👋 * Push your **comfort zone** 💪 * Explore **self-expression** 🎨 * Release **social inhibitions** * Sharpen **communication skills** 🗣️ All through **fun, interactive, and communal play!** 🧩 Whether you're looking to **laugh**, **connect**, or **unleash your creativity & inner child**, you’re welcome here! 😄✨ **Pay on Eventbrite here:** [Improv-eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/improv-for-well-being-confidence-and-fun-tickets-1982624895433?aff=oddtdtcreator) \*with discount code JU6F for the amount of £12.65 **or in-person when you arrive.** 🍽️ **Stick around after?** Feel free to join us for a **drink or dinner** afterwards — we do this occasionally depending on end time and interest 🥂🍕 *** 📍 **Location:** Peel Institute Three Corners Centre, Northampton Rd EC1R www.thepeel.org \* This venue is wheelchair accessible 🚪 **Finding the Peel:** The Peel is situated on the corner of Northampton Road and Corporation Row. Please note; Northampton Road is a sort of U shape so if you find yourself at the other end of the U, and are confused you probably need to walk to the other end - just a few mins. 🚇 **Tube:** Farringdon or Angel *** 💷 **Payment:** **£12.65 pay when you arrive and RSVP now.** Pay by **Card**, **Cash**, or **Contactless** on arrival. Or via eventbrite [here](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/improv-for-well-being-confidence-and-fun-tickets-1982624895433?aff=oddtdtcreator) 📞 If you get lost, call **07841 456974** – but note: my phone will be **off once the session starts**, so try to arrive **on time or a little early!** ✅ **Please RSVP** — or you may be refused entry, thanks! 👕 **What to wear:** Anything you like! There’ll be some movement, so **looser/comfy clothing** is ideal — but there’s **no dress code**. *** 🕗 **Schedule (approx.):** 🕣 19:00 – 19:15 \| Arrivals & Payments 🔥 19:15 – 20:00 \| Warm\-ups & Games 🧘 20:00 – 20:05 \| Short Comfort Break \(if needed\) 🎬 20:05 – 21:00 \| Scene Games\! I’ll arrive after **18:40** – please aim to be on time for **19:00**, thank you! *** 📢 This group is also listed on **Eventbrite** – so we’ll have friendly faces from there too! 😊

We playtest all sorts of games - strategic, silly, creative, or whatever. Some games are almost done. Some are very early ideas. We test anything that will fit into 90 minutes. You don't need to bring a game - we always love to have new playtesters! Please let us know in the comments when you plan to arrive/leave and whether you are bringing a game or not. This helps us to plan the day better. The schedule is: 10am onwards - gathering, chatting 11am sharp - playing for 90 min ('slot 1') 12:30ish - break for food/chat 1pm sharp - playing for 90 min ('slot 2') 2:30ish - break for food/chat 3pm sharp - playing for 90 min ('slot 3') 4:30ish - finish up Often, we might hang around afterwards, to play some already-published games. We are strict on timings, so please try to arrive a few minutes before the session to limit disruption. You can just come for part of the day if you wish. The reason we have fixed timings for the 3 'slots' is to make it easier for folk to do so. Designers of all levels of experience are welcome! But if it's your first time, we ask that you don't bring a game and just spend some time learning how the group works. The group works based on reciprocation. If you expect to test your own game, make sure stay for long enough to play other games. As a general rule of thumb, you can expect to play one of your own games every third 90-minute session. So if you stay a whole day (3 sessions), you can expect to have one session to play your game(s). A good rule of thumb is that if you come all day, you will have one 90 minute session with two other playtesters in which to test your own games. It is sometimes possible to test games with more players. If your game requires 4 or more, please note that as standard you will be allocated half of a session (45 minutes). Pre-covid, we were getting unmanageable. As a result, we may have to limit attendees. This is a free-to-use venue, and we have to be mindful that other folk want to use the same space. Please note: This is an adults only event. We look forward to seeing you!

**The theme for this our next meeting is:** **Loneliness** Welcome to our friendly and supportive Community. Where do we meet and really connect with other gay men in London? We Do in Covent Garden! # **New Year - new version!** **Our discussion themes would always be advertised in advance.** We are not only changing our name, we will also from now on advertise the topic we’ll be discussing before each meeting, so that you know exactly what to expect before signing up for each particular meeting. Please see the list on our MeetUp profile for potential universal themes relevant to gay/bisexual men, to be covered in our sessions. Ideas are always welcome! *We offer workshops unlike other gay/bisexual men's therapeautic discussion groups.* **A Speaker** We will at times provide a Speaker for our meetings kickstarting interesting and stimulating discussions. The Speaker can be an expert in their field such as for example an author, a therapist or a philosopher but we are welcoming any of our members to be a Speaker or a demonstrator of exercises such as massage, pilates or yoga. Or perhaps you would want to talk about your profession, if you feel it has relevance to our group. You would just have to contact Dan first for a discussion and planning. **Frequency of meetings / fee** In 2026 we’ll only have one meeting per month in person at the City Lit College in Covent Garden and one meeting online. If there is a demand for more in person meetings we’ll consider having more. We are happy to confirm that our entry prices won’t be raised and that in person meetings remain at £10. Online meetings will be FREE in January and February after which it will be £5 to attend. **Walks / museum visits** We will continue offering our occasional walking trips and also now include gay/bisexual themed history walks and visits to Museums. WHAT WE ARE: We are a group of supportive and insightful great men and we are looking forward to including you - this is what we do: CONNECTING - It is a place where you will be able to connect with other gay and bi-sexual men and where you can exchange your life experiences with them and your everyday feelings, no matter what those feelings may be - and also a place where you will be able to just be with others who live similar lives to you. EXPLORING SAFELY WITH SUPPORT - It is a place where you will experience support and growth and where you can feel safe enough to explore and reflect your feelings and life stories. Sharing is at the heart of the group but you share however much you are comfortable with - you're in charge. CREATIVE STATE REGISTERED THERAPY - It is a therapeutic discussion group which at times offers workshops and borrows elements from Creative Arts Psychotherapies. The group is based on the Creative Arts Psychotherapy/Dramatherapy and counselling work I provided ongoing for the charity Positive East in London. WHO IS IT FOR: This group is for men over 18 years old who either identifies as gay or bi-sexual or men who has sex with men - or feel emotionally connected to other men. SOCIAL OPPERTUNITY: We offer a social oppertunity in the local pub after the meetings. New members are always welcome as as well as our much appreciated familiar faces! Address: City Lit, 1-10 Keeley St, London WC2B 4BA Time: 6:30 - 8:00 PM The social part: There is certainly an opprtunity for social drinks after each meeting. Cost: £10.00 **PayPal:** **[https://www.paypal.me/wellnesssupport](https://www.paypal.me/wellnesssupport)** **Credit card:** \*\*card payment with SQUARE online: \*\* **[https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLG8ZV8FJJDYS/checkout/DK4VVAQGAV3LIM2K5V4JIX2Y](https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLG8ZV8FJJDYS/checkout/DK4VVAQGAV3LIM2K5V4JIX2Y)** WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU WHETHER YOU ARE A BRAND NEW TO THE GROUP OR A FAMILIAR FACE :) YOU WILL ALWAYS BE MADE TO FEEL WELCOME. Ask to join our WhatsApp group, if you liked and enjoyed your experience with us, for regular updates and social interactions. All the best, Dan

A regular meetup for those committed to practising and improving their Arabic. It is designed for those who know the very basics and want a structured opportunity to practise reading, listening, speaking, and building confidence. If you're still learning the very basics but want some motivation to keep going, you're very welcome to join. Note: This is a practice group facilitated by a native speaker - not a formal teacher or taught class, and not a Quran teaching session. 📚 SESSION FORMAT: ⏱️ 30 mins Intro & Social: We'll go around and introduce ourselves in Arabic. Feel free to prepare 2-3 sentences beforehand if you don't like being put on the spot! 🗣️ 60 mins Structured Practice: A focused session practising together with guidance : ◾ Taking turns reading passages aloud ◾ Listening to excerpts from an audiobook ◾ Working together to translate and understand the text 💬 Continued Socialising: Feel free to stick around afterwards for more informal chat and connection. ✊ Note: Active Muslims is equally about focusing on the actual activity, in this case, it is a practice session requiring mental engagement and active participation (and not just a social), therefore it is advised to approach and attend these events with that mindset, intention and purpose. 📍 LOCATION: Barbican ⌚ MEET: By the cafe G Level (Benugo) ⏱️ TIME: Meet from **11:00am** for intros and socialising. The practice session starts promptly at **11:30am** insha'Allah. 🎒 What to bring: 📚 Any Arabic texts you would like to read 🎧 Headphones (optional, if you prefer listening privately) ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ If you can no longer attend, please update your RSVP to free up your spot for someone on the waiting list. ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🌐 **[@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims)** *(Follow for latest events updates)*

If you already know the basics of Sevillanas and you’d love to feel more confident, expressive and fluid when dancing, this course is for you! Join a warm, supportive group and continue your Sevillanas journey with rhythm, joy and authentic Spanish flair. Over this course we will: ✨ Refine coordination and technique ✨ Improve styling and posture ✨ Build musicality and confidence ✨ Work on smoother transitions and partner awareness ✨ Dance with alegría, expression and connection This is ideal for dancers who: ✔️ Have previously learned Sevillanas basics ✔️ Want to polish, strengthen and feel more natural dancing ✔️ Enjoy Spanish culture, music and community spirit ✔️ Love learning in a friendly and uplifting atmosphere 📅 **Sundays – 19 April to 31 May** ❗ No class on 3 May ⏰ **13:00 – 14:00** 📍 **Danceworks London** 🎟️ **Limited spaces – booking essential** https://www.danceworks.com/courses/ Whether you want to dance socially at ferias, cultural events or simply enjoy dancing for yourself, this course will help you dance with greater elegance, confidence and joy. Come dance with us and feel the spirit of Spain in London! 🌺 If you have any questions, feel free to message.

Kon’nichiwa! Finally a chance to explore Japan for an amazing 2 week experience of futuristic and ancient cities with activities which will blow your mind. Experience the ancient temples, shrines and traditions which add to the culture of the country and indulge in all of the food and arcade fun as we get the best out of Japan seeing the key sights in a 2 week (14 Night) Trip. What’s included in the package: \*Accomodation - Shared Room/Own Room for 14 night stay across 4 different hotels \*All Breakfasts \*Airport Pickup and Transport around Japan and Cities \*All 18 activities as listed below (Including guided day trips to Nagano, Mt Fuji and Nara) What’s not included: \*Flights to Japan \*Other Meals and Expenses \*Optional activities not listed below **18 Activities Included and more:** \*Tokyo Guided Tour with local: Temple, Shrine Visits, Key Areas \*Sushi Making Class \*Team Lab Planets Immersive Experience \*Nagano Day Trip - inc Snow Monkeys, Hot Springs and more \*Mt Fuji and Hakone Day Trip - Many Views of Mt Fuji and more \*Osaka City Tour - Osaka Castle Tour and more \*Karaoke Night \*Universal Studios Entry Ticket and Travel \*Tea Ceremony X 2 in Osaka and Kyoto \*Mino Forrest Walk with Waterfall \*Overnight stay in Buddhist Temple with meditations, night temple walk and morning prayer meditation \*Geisha night tour of Kyoto \*Bamboo forest trip \*Golden Pavilion temple visit \*Bowling Night \*Nara Daytrip - Nara Park, Temples and Shrines \*Fushimi- Inari Visit \*Samurai Sword Weilding Experience \*NOTE - We will have 3 X Day Trips as above so a total of 7 locations in Japan we will visit **7 Places we will visit in Total** **TOKYO** \- 5 Nights \(Including Day Trip to **NAGANO** and **HAKONE**), **OSAKA** \- 3 Nights\, **KOYOSAN** temple stay - 1 Night, **KYOTO** \- 5 nights \(Including Day Trip to **NARA**) We will arrive in Tokyo and check into our hotel with some time to rest after the long travel, we will then check out the local area and head to Asakusa to experience the old Tokyo atmosphere immersing ourselves in some Tokyo Culture and grab some food. **Day 2 - Tokyo Day Tour: Temples and Key Areas** We will do a day tour starting late morning by a local guide who will take us to see the sights such as: Senso-ji Temple, Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Shibuya Crossing and after head to Shinjuku for some food and checking out one of the tiny bars. **Day 3 - Sushi Class and Electric CIty** Today we will head to a Sushi Class to make our own Sushi we can have for lunch and after that we can check out the fabulous Team Lab Planets immersive experience. After that we will check out the Electric City to experience the arcades, maid cafes and Japanese phone booths. **Day 4 - Nagano (Day Trip)** Our first full day out as we check out the amazing Nagano, where we will see the famous snow monkeys of Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, Visit the Zenko-ji Temple, explore the charming hot spring towns of Shibu Onsen and Yudanaka and take a dip in the many hot springs and more. **Day 5 - Mt Fuji/ Hakone (Day Trip)** A memorable day trip as we head to the Majestic Mt Fuji on a private tour as we stop at various spots for the best views of Mt Fujia and lakes including in front of the iconic Chureito Pagoda. We will also explore the many amazing landscapes in the town of Hakone. **Day 6 - Arrive in Osaka - Mino Forest Walk and Tea Ceremony** Our final morning in Tokyo before we head to our next destination by Bullet Train to Osaka. After dropping our bags off we will head to Mino Forest for a trail walk and to see an amazing waterfall, on our return we will finally embark on the popular tea ceremony. Then explore the area which is known for it’s food and nightlife where can do some Karaoke in the evening! **Day 7 - Osaka Tour** Today we will have a guided tour of Osaka including the famous Osaka Castle with a tour, Markets with time for shopping. Later heading to the canal area of Dotonbori known for some of the best food in the country. **Day 8 - Universal Studios Japan** Today is a day of fun as we head to one of the worlds famous theme parks Universal Studios, with the recent addition of Super Mario World, in the full day we will explore all the areas such as Jurassic Park in this Hollywood Themed theme park to ride the many rides and see as man shows as possible and ending with the firework show. **Day 9 - Koyosan Temple Stay** We head to the mountains to beautiful Koyasan, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience - staying overnight in a 1,000-year-old Buddhist Temple! We will be taught meditation by the monks, served their traditional food. The temple is set in beautiful grounds and Japanese style accomdation. Spend a peaceful night here bathed in the tranquillity of the temple. **Day 10 - Kyoto and Geisha Night Tour** Start the day with most Zen experience ever - watching the Buddhist monks perform their morning prayers and fire ceremony. After the ceremony the monks serve us breakfast, before we travel to the spiritual heart of Japan – Kyoto. We head to our final destination stay in Kyoto, this evening we head on one of Japan’s mysterious Geishas with a tour of the Gion district. **Day 11 - The Bamboo Forest and Kyoto Landmarks** Today is the day we check out the incredible Bamboo forest and other Kyoto sights such as the Golden Pavilion and Monkey Park. After that we can head to a sushi restaurant and check out the arcades in Kyoto. **Day 12 - Nara (Day Trip)** Today we had to Nara to see the famous Nara Park with the sacred deers, you can feed them and they also bow to you. We will also visit Kofuku-ji Temple, Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Grand Shrine to see they key highlights of Nara. **Day 13 -FREE DAY in Kyoto** Today you will be able to spend the day as you please to do what you wish in Kyoto or if you wanted to visit one of the surrounding areas or day tour in Japan. **Day 14 - Fushimi-Inari and Samurai Experience** Today we will head to the Fushimi Inari Shrine surrounded by its endless red Torii gates. Then the unique experience of being trained by a Samuarai Master. The sensei will teach you how to wield a traditional sword and then slice through bamboo mats like a real warrior. **Day 15 - Travel Home** We will check out of the hotel and catch the Bullet Train to Tokyo Airport where we will get our flight back home. **Accomodation** You will be staying at 4 different hotels, all breakfast included and you will have a room to share or own room at additional cost in a mixture of 3 star and 4 star hotels. You will be staying at: *APA Hotel Asakusa Eikme - Tokyo (5 Nights)* *Hotel Brighton City Osaka Kitahama -Osaka - (3 Nights)* *Temple Stay - Koyosan Shukubo Saizenin -Koyosan (1 Night)* *\*Note this will be only accommodation which will be sharing as a two only due to availability, we will aim to put people together same sex and someone can always sleep in the lounge area also so can keep sleeping rooms separate.* *Sometsu Fresca Inn -Kyoto (5 Nights)* **Visa and Entry Restrictions** No Visa needed from UK (Please Check if you have a different country of origin) **Requirements for trip** * In line with the values of the group, taking responsibility for themselves and ability to step out their comfort zone to learn new skills and give things a go, punctuality and to go with the flow of the group, whilst being able to do your own thing on free days without depending on others * Moderate levels of fitness for a couple of nature trail walks which are not challenging * Open minded and willingness to try new activities and experience a new culture **Flights** You will need to get your own flights to Japan, we recommend British Airways (only company who fly direct). We can head together on this one, but feel free to get your own flight and we can see you in Tokyo at the hotel (let me know flight arrival). **Outbound** \- Saturday 9th May \- British Airways LHR 09:20am -> HND 7:00am (Tokyo on Sunday 10th May) **Inbound** \- Sunday 24th May \- British Airways HND 1:05pm -> LHR 7:55pm (UK on Sunday 24th May) Approx cost ***-*** £1,100 (July 2025) Please wait until deposit sent, place confirmed and the minimum deposits for trip before buying flights. Also feel free to buy a flight to Tokyo, and heading back to Osaka on final day as alternative as we will be near that airport on final day **Other** * There will be an option to do Optional Activities such as Sumo wrestling, Go Kart street race (driving license), spa/ massages, other tea ceremonies and more. * Please note that the schedule may change slightly, an activity may change, also hotels depending on availability but expect activities and hotels of similar value. Expect up to 20% of trip to change at most - due to availability issues or to improve the trip * Full Documentation on every day will be provided a 2 - 3 weeks before the trip as well as a group Zoom call a week before to go through all the info. We will also provide a breakdown of activities and approx agenda 1 month before as well as set up a whats app group after the zoom call. Following the deposit feel free to email me for any questions about the trip. **COST** Total cost for the trip is **£2,050 ONLY** \- Option for your own Room is £300 extra \(Depending on availability \- also note for Koyosan Temple overnight stay you will share with one other\) Deposit of **£450** to hold your space, with final payment due 6 weeks before the trip. In order to come on this trip/pay the deposit you will need to drop me an email and we will need to either have a quick chat on the phone/ apply for the trip to check this trip is right for you (unless you have been on one of the trips before). For more details and to register email me at yourlondonlifecoach@gmail.com or message me on Meetup Messenger.

Sunday rehearsal with Castellers of London. Meet us at the OBC Community Centre to help build human towers! This get together is a great opportunity for you to meet new friends, socialise and have a go and explore your abilities as a human tower builder a.k.a Casteller! For newcomers we have a team of trained Castellers who will introduce you to the group, guide you through the activity and help you safely take part in this unique Catalan tradition. When you arrive just approach us as we are really friendly! If in doubt ask for Cuss! Please let us know if you are bringing guests. After the rehearsal we go to a nearby pub for social drinks where everyone is welcome :) What do you need? 1. Ideally a cotton shirt: to protect your neck and shoulders, the more durable the shirt/top the better. We do not recommend any thin items of clothing! 2. Jeans: allowing you to move freely without breaking. 3. Mask: We still require the use of a mask as you will be very close to your fellow Castellers - basically you will be hugging people! The rest of the equipment is on us! We take health and safety very seriously, both in relation to COVID-19 and also the activity- please be assured that the safety of all participants is of the utmost importance to us and we take all necessary precautions to minimize the risk, ensuring we all have a great time! Our regular members won't be filling in the Meet Up to say they are going 🙂 So don't be put off if you see only a handful have said they are going. A minimum of 25 on the day is normal. What the Meet Up may show is how many new people like yourself are going.

**🏛️ WHAT'S PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY ABOUT?** Practical Philosophy is a weekly meet-up that brings critical thinkers together for an opportunity to dive deep on a topic, practice communicating, and building a community. All with no ‘official’ philosophy knowledge required! 😎 Practical Philosophy is based on the idea that philosophy should be accessible to all, and not something reserved only for academics. Each week we choose a topic, and the goal is to use the conversation to develop our critical thinking and communication as we explore that topic. The goal is to help develop our Critical Thinking, Communication, and Community 🙌 📓 **HOW DOES IT WORK?** Each week, we pick one topic and discuss it. The topic for the week is shared, generally in the [Whatsapp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/B6fqS6HGujq8gb3a0kl5pS), along with jump-off points to get the conversation going. When groups get bigger than 7-8 people, it’s important that we break into smaller groups. This way we are able to maintain a conversational flow as opposed to having our meetups feel like a discourse or lecture. **General Meeting Agenda** Each Practical Philosophy meet-up follows this general timeline: * 13:45-14:00 - People arrive and chat, get to know each other before the ‘official' start. * 14:00-14:05 - Meeting introduction, explanation of Practical Philosophy and the topic for the week, read the guidelines and the overview so attendees know what to expect in terms of timelines. * 14:05-14:45 - Break into small groups - introduce yourselves and general thoughts on the topic, open discussion afterwards. At this point the group can review the ‘jump-off’ questions as needed, but they are just there to help guide the conversation. It’s not obligatory to answer them. * 14:45 - We do a group conclusion of the things we discussed, and then we typically take a photo and go on our way :) If you don't want to be in the group photo, there's no pressure, it's just a way to close out the meeting. We occasionally have an unofficial social so the different groups can mingle afterwards too! **🧧PRICING?** Practical Philosophy Club is FREE to attend, and we operate on donations. If you'd like to donate to support our running costs, that helps keep our group self-sustaining. Donations are 100% voluntary, but your contribution is appreciated! QR codes to donate will be present. Tea’s and coffees and are paid by the individual should they wish to have them. **💛 WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY** 🗣 “I feel like Philosophy Club helps someone build their own belief system through a series of perspectives while not promoting what’s right and wrong” - Ekam 🗣 “I got hooked from day 1 (the topic was authority) and felt it was the right place for me. I feel it is a place where people can go to learn and discuss new perspectives and increase critical thinking and community by interacting with people who might challenge your point of views but at the same time encourage you to have openness and mind flexibility.” - Daniel **🤓 FAQ** * What will we talk about? What's the topic? The topic for the week is shared every week in the Whatsapp group before the session. We try to add the topic to the comment section on this event page as well but if you don’t see it, the topic and the jump-off points will be in our [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/B6fqS6HGujq8gb3a0kl5pS). * Do I need to study or read anything to attend? No preparation is necessary. This isn’t a study of other thinkers. We want to know what YOU think about the topic, not what an old philosopher thought. If you have a perspective from a religion or a school of thought to share, throw it on the table and we’ll discuss it, but it's not required. * Is there a specific philosophy that Practical Philosophy is focused on? The goal of our meet-ups is to not have dogmatic discussions, and flex our critical thinking muscles. Because of this, we want to hear from every realm of thought, and don't study a particular school. * Is it mostly men that attend? Surprisingly, no! Although philosophy is seen as a Candelabra affair in a dark room with a bunch of guys, our Practical Philosophy meetups are generally 50/50 between genders, and we don’t meet in any dark rooms. * Can I come alone? Of course you can, we encourage it :) * Can I be late? Please don't be! We do have a 15 minute grace period where we allow people to funnel in while we hang out, but after that if you arrive too late, it disrupts the flow of the conversation. * Where do you meet? The location is posted in Meetup and our [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/B6fqS6HGujq8gb3a0kl5pS) group for this location. It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you join the Whatsapp group! If you want to know what other cities have a Practical Philosophy Club, you can see our chapters on our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club/practical-philosophy-locations/). 🤝**POLICY** To respect our members privacy, we ask that no one privately message a member without first getting explicit consent. (This looks like speaking in person and being asked to message privately.) Contacting or texting other participants without prior consent is not permitted and may result in removal from the group. Practical Philosophy reserves the right to enforce this policy at its discretion to maintain a safe and respectful environment. **PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY - Making Philosophy Available To All.** ✨ Practical Philosophy hosts weekly, in-person meetups in 25+ countries, including Canada, Spain, Japan, Mexico and many more! 🗺️ \*\*\* Join our [Whatsapp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/B6fqS6HGujq8gb3a0kl5pS) 👈 Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/practicalphilosophyclub/?hl=en) 👈 Our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club) 👈

Conflict is inevitable. What matters is how we respond to it. This session will enable you to: * feel more confident to communicate in conflict situations without blame, shame or judgement. * take inner steps to transform conflict * transform enemy images and humanise the other * intervene safely in situations of conflict * be more resourced in tense situations * stay grounded in empathic expression and empathic listening in tense situations The session will involve reflection, discussion, practice and role play. Register [here](https://app.workshop-angel.com/form.php?h=1&t=0&e=a41bb520a02753e7) Please ensure you have completed a Foundation training before attending this session. This session is aimed at those who are interested in finding NVC related ways of intervening in your own conflicts and conflicts around you. It can also be a helpful strategy to take part in a [practice group](https://www.empathymatters.net/deepening-and-practice-groups) or do a course on [self-empathy](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1AqSxwzLcXpX0pCraOptvKinNvwuiIWHNwRu0miPE844/edit) before doing or alongside this training. These intermediate sessions are part of a series organised by London trainers. As we are online, anyone can attend, no matter where you are in the world! Register [here](https://app.workshop-angel.com/form.php?h=1&t=0&e=a41bb520a02753e7)

People matter – we all know that. But understanding others is not just a daily challenge but it’s a tall order, simply because we’re all so different. As we come in all shapes and personalities, getting along with everyone isn’t always easy. It’s a skill we can all improve and better. This session looks at how to: * improve your interactions with the people you live and work with * keep your cool with people who are difficult and critical * take charge of your own reactions and respond positively * strengthen your connections with friends and loved ones **This is a free 60-minute in-person seminar.** **If you would like to make a voluntary donation, please click** [here.](https://www.innerspace.org.uk/donations/ "https://www.innerspace.org.uk/donations/") \* I consent to my submitted data being collected and stored. We will process your personal data in line with the GDPR requirements and always store it securely and use it only for the purpose for which it has been collected. We will not pass on your details to any third parties without your consent.

**Building a great product is one thing—building momentum behind it is another.** Join **Senior Product Manager Adam Solaiman** and **User Experience Manager Tyson Smith** for a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to turn complex ideas into scalable products inside large organizations. In this session, they’ll share how teams move from ambiguity to execution—navigating organizational complexity, aligning stakeholders, and continuously evolving products after launch. You’ll walk away with insights on how to: * Build and sustain momentum across teams * Adapt to changing priorities without losing direction * Scale products thoughtfully in complex environments Whether you're driving a new initiative or growing an existing product, this conversation will give you practical strategies to keep things moving forward. Come connect, learn, and swap stories with fellow product professionals. \-\-\- Food and drinks will be provided by Switchbox, our generous host. Free parking will be available at the front and back sides of the Switchbox Office.

This meetup is a beginner-friendly session introducing version control for Unity projects, with a look at three common tools: Git, Perforce, and Unity Version Control. The goal is to help you understand what version control is, why it matters for Unity development, and what options are out there. The format will likely be presentation-style, with live demos and time for questions throughout. You'll see each tool in action and learn how they fit into a Unity workflow. What to Expect: * An introduction to version control and why it's essential for Unity projects * An overview of Git, Perforce, and Unity Version Control * Demos of each tool in a Unity workflow * Tips for getting started * No prior version control experience required * Resources for continued learning All experience levels are welcome. Whether you're new to version control or already using one of these tools, this session will help you understand what each one offers. Food and drinks provided. Join us to learn more about version control options for Unity.

On Thursday, May 21, 2026, we will meet at the 700N Conference Room at 700 N Hurstbourne Pkwy. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m., and the presentations will begin sharply at 6:30 p.m. Along with an excellent presentation, TEKsystems will provide food. Please RSVP so we know how much food to order. Afterward, we will go to Brick House Tavern for drinks and food to continue the conversation. The session will also be broadcast at https://twitch.tv/TaleLearnCode. ### **GitOps: Easy Deploy and Even Easier Rollback** GitOps isn't just for containers. The methodology of deploying from a build is now baked into our culture. Take it a touch farther with infrastructure as code and a few extra techniques, and you can reliably deploy to any platform: cloud, on-prem, container, PaaS, and more. Join us as we learn the methodology of GitOps, the critical pieces you need in place, and the elegance of rollbacks with GitOps. You'll leave with a working repo of deployment techniques that doesn't consume any paid tools or container-specific techniques.

We will show how to build custom agents with Microsoft Agent Framework. Attendees will learn how to build and custom host agents when Microsoft Foundry is not a viable option.

Connected Westerville Night of Networking flips the script on networking, with surprises and connections that'll make you say, "Who knew networking could be this much fun?!"

Practical AI for Power BI Developers A year ago, “agentic AI” was mostly hype for Power BI teams. Today, it deserves your undivided attention. For Power BI pros, there is now a real opportunity to reduce repetitive development work, accelerate delivery, and help developers do more, but only when strong DataOps practices are in place to make AI workflows effective. This session is a no-nonsense introduction to effective AI patterns for Power BI and Fabric development. Along the way, we will make sense of the growing pile of terminology, including skills, plugins, hooks, and MCP. You will see examples of how modern AI tooling can help with development tasks across Power BI and Fabric, along with the prerequisites, guardrails, and DataOps principles needed to use it responsibly. Whether you're burned out on AI hype or already using Copilot CLI daily, this session will show you the foundations that are finally making AI-assisted development genuinely useful.

Customer identity resolution becomes increasingly complex as organizations scale across multiple systems, regions, and data formats. Traditional rule-based approaches often fail to keep up with data variability, require constant manual tuning, and struggle with real-time processing needs. This session presents a practical approach to building a scalable identity resolution pipeline using AWS services and modern AI techniques. The architecture combines data ingestion through Amazon S3 and AWS Glue, transformation pipelines using Spark on EMR, and machine learning models deployed via SageMaker for entity matching and standardization. Graph-based relationship modeling is implemented using Amazon Neptune to improve resolution accuracy by incorporating household and shared attribute context. We will walk through how machine learning models can be used for name and address normalization, how intelligent blocking strategies improve matching efficiency, and how feedback loops can be introduced to continuously improve accuracy. The session also highlights how serverless components such as AWS Lambda can be used for orchestration and real-time processing. **SPEAKER BIO** Mosaic Syed is a Senior Data Engineering and Cloud Solutions Architect with over 20 years of experience designing and delivering scalable, secure, and high-performance data solutions across global enterprise environments. https://www.linkedin.com/in/mosaic-basha-syed-92300856 **CALL FOR SPEAKERS** Learn more: [https://www.awscolumbus.com/get-involved/](https://www.awscolumbus.com/get-involved/) **THANK YOU** *VEEAM* for hosting our meetup! To learn more about *Veeam*, please visit their website: [https://www.veeam.com/](https://www.veeam.com/) **DIRECTIONS** 8800 Lyra Dr #450 · Columbus, OH go to 4th floor. **Want to sponsor the pizza and/or bar tab?** Please contact me if you would like to sponsor this meetup's pizza and/or bar tab: angelo@mandato.com