Australian Culture

'HOMEGOING' by Yaa Gyasi 'Two sisters with two very different destinies. One sold into slavery; one a slave trader's wife. The consequences of their fate reverberate through the generations that follow. Taking us from the Gold Coast of Africa to the cotton-picking plantations of Mississippi; from the missionary schools of Ghana to the dive bars of Harlem, spanning three continents and seven generations, Yaa Gyasi has written a miraculous novel - the intimate, gripping story of a brilliantly vivid cast of characters and through their lives the very story of America itself. Epic in its canvas and intimate in its portraits, Homegoing is a searing and profound debut from a masterly new writer.' ***Please read the book and join us for a lively discussion (in English) about the contents during our afternoon book club meeting.*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **PLEASE NOTE:** This is an IN-PERSON event in Amersfoort, The Netherlands. Please cancel your attendance in advance if you are unable to join, so that those on the waitlist can participate. Looking forward to seeing you all IN REAL LIFE then! Best regards, Sandra

A moment where Chinese culture is increasingly visible worldwide also raises deeper questions: who gets to define it, and how is it represented? You can be your ticket at: [Ticket link](https://apps.ticketmatic.com/widgets/amerpodia/addtickets?event=12417&extraproducts&skinid=10006&returnurl=https%3A%2F%2Ffelixmeritis.nl%2Fvo-ticketmatic%2Fhandle-return%3Fevent_id%3D12417&flow=basketwithcheckout&edit=yes&oncompletion=return&accesskey=10b85907d7b0014a63af0898&signature=43146dd0ec349a51bb78af445eb22f4f3078174861bb245f350a02f78b09121d&l=EN&_gl=1*batb3w*_ga*NzI0NjQwMTY1LjE3NzgyNDY3MzE.*_ga_E14BWH6MQV*czE3NzgyNjc0NTQkbzIkZzEkdDE3NzgyNjc3MDgkajU4JGwwJGgw#!/addtickets) on June 6, Felix Meritis x YIQI Collective opens a space for a critical and open conversation on soft power, cultural identity, Orientalism, and the tension between appreciation and appropriation. For many in the Chinese diaspora, today’s “Chinamaxxing” trend contrasts sharply with lived experiences of past stigma and misrepresentation. In our Chinese language exchange community, we’ll go beyond aesthetics and trends to explore Chinese culture as lived experience—rooted in memory, resilience, and connection. A space to reflect, share, and reclaim meaning together

Do you love books, or have you been wanting to get into reading more? Then this might just be the event for you! At this book swap everyone brings one or a few books they no longer need. We put them all out on the table and from there it's up to you, see if something catches your eye and take home whatever you'd like to read next. Any language is welcome, so bring whatever is sitting on your shelf! At the end of the meetup you can take back the books you brought that weren't picked up, or leave them with the organiser who will donate them to a local secondhand shop. ⚠️ If you're unsure whether you can make it, please free up your spot for someone else.

Join me for a relaxed sketch walk through the beautiful estates and parks around Hilversum. 📍 Meeting: 11:45 inside Hilversum Station, near AH to go 🥾 Full walk: ~12 km 🚌 Short option: ~7 km with bus back to Hilversum Station after Proeflokaal Serre We’ll make several 20–30 min sketch stops along the way, with time to enjoy the scenery and draw at a relaxed pace. Expected return to Hilversum is around 17:00–18:00 for the full route. Highlights include: * Gooilust park & 17th-century mansion * possible visit to the Siertuin decorative garden (open 13:00–16:30) * horses and farm scenery * local farm shop with fresh dairy products * Jagtlust estate and pond * coffee/tea/food stop at Proeflokaal Serre ☕ Bring your sketchbook, drawing materials, comfortable walking shoes, and something to sit on during sketch stops. All skill levels welcome! In case of heavy rain, the event may be rescheduled.

🇳🇱➡️🇧🇪 Brugge Day Tour from Amsterdam \| Discover the Venice of the North Join us for a magical day trip from Amsterdam to the fairy-tale city of Brugge, Belgium — famous for its medieval charm, canals, cobblestone streets, chocolate shops, and beautiful historic architecture. Explore Brugge at a relaxed pace with plenty of free time to wander through the picturesque old town, enjoy Belgian waffles and fries, shop for handmade chocolates and lace, or simply soak in the romantic atmosphere along the canals. ✨ Tour Highlights: • Comfortable round-trip transport from Amsterdam • Visit the UNESCO-listed historic center of Brugge • Scenic canals, medieval squares & charming streets • Free time for shopping, food & photography • Small-group experience with friendly atmosphere Perfect for travelers, expats, photographers, and anyone looking to experience one of Europe’s most beautiful cities in a day. Price: €129 pp incl. returned trip in a private Mercedes minivan, guided tour. 📍 Departure: Amsterdam (pick up in Utrecht is available for more than three participants) ⏰ Full-day tour 🎟 Come explore Belgium with us and make unforgettable memories in Brugge!

**⚠️ Ferry tickets are limited and can sell out quickly. Please book your ticket in advance. Only sign up if you have already reserved your ticket.** Join us for a unique nature experience at the **Marker Wadden**, one of the newest and most extraordinary landscapes in the Netherlands. These man-made islands in the Markermeer are designed to restore nature and biodiversity, offering peaceful scenery with birdlife, open horizons, and walking trails far from the busy city atmosphere. 📅 **Sunday, June 7** 🕧 **Meeting Time:** 12:30 **Meeting point:** Ferry departure point at Bataviahaven, Lelystad Official website: [https://www.natuurmonumenten.nl/projecten/marker-wadden](https://www.natuurmonumenten.nl/projecten/marker-wadden) *** ### 🚤 Ferry & Planning We will take the **13:00 ferry to Marker Wadden**. Please make sure to **arrive on time**, as the ferry operates on a fixed schedule. * Departure: 13:00 from Lelystad * Return: 17:00 from the island * Travel time: approx. 45 minutes *** ### 🌿 Experience details This is a relaxed and flexible gathering. Marker Wadden is a **walking-only nature island**, where you can explore: * Wide open landscapes and newly created nature * Birdlife and observation points * Beaches, dunes, and quiet walking paths We will explore the island **at our own pace**, enjoying the calm and natural surroundings. *** ### ☕ Optional There is a simple **island pavilion** where you can get drinks or light food. *** 🎟️ **Tickets:** * **Ticket purchase is your own responsibility.** * Please book your ferry ticket individually via the official website in advance. *** 📱 **Communication:** Further details and updates will be shared after participation is confirmed. our whatsapp community [https://chat.whatsapp.com/Dazeqe7fRulIz6ui6ixF9F?mode=hq2tcla](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Dazeqe7fRulIz6ui6ixF9F?mode=hq2tcla) the group for this event https://chat.whatsapp.com/KpiMXyHQEI9AhZZmxn1DJI?mode=gi_t If you enjoy nature, quiet landscapes, and unique places that feel far from the city, you’re very welcome to join.

* We **start at 11:10** in front of Hotel Restaurant de Loenermark: Eerbeekseweg 4, Loenen https://maps.app.goo.gl/4W6e27ij3aqjQnFg6 * Length: \~16 km (4 - 5 hr hiking) * What to bring: lunch, water, snack. * For whom: As always, sporty folks that like to combine social event with being active in nature. **Getting there by bus:** * Bus stop: Loenen, Bruisbeek https://maps.app.goo.gl/863vGKfe8nqBvZfw7 **Getting there by Car:** * Free parking opposite of Groenendaalseweg 15, Loenen https://maps.app.goo.gl/W6213M7LwEQv8PMg6 or Free parking in the streets, close to: Eerbeekseweg 4, Loenen https://maps.app.goo.gl/awWbkpVZJVzxmX859 **Note:** * Please **pay a small fee (3 euro)** to help us cover the (increased) yearly Meetup contribution of 240 euro. We'll ask you to pay before the start of the hike (can be on the day itself). No refunds, but in the unlikely event that hike would be cancelled and you already paid, you don't need to pay for your next hike. Thank you so much! Use the **safe link** here: https://betaalverzoek.rabobank.nl/betaalverzoek/?id=eSkpxZf7TymaoFsvJkBCKQ * Keep in mind that the hike can be canceled when the weather is very bad (**always check the event before you go**). * If you RSVP 'yes' we expect you to show-up. Please do not cancel less than 24 hours before the hike. **No-shows** will lead to your removal from the group. Thanks for the understanding. * By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves.

**Modern and Authentic kintsugi workshop in Utrecht.** Choose from three options: * 1-Day Modern Kintsugi workshop-€60 * 2-Day Modern Kintsugi workshop-€96 * 4-Day Authentic Kintsugi workshop -€180 For all details, please visit my website. [https://japanworkshopnet.com/upcoming-workshops/](https://japanworkshopnet.com/upcoming-workshops/) Location: **CLAY TO PLATE** [Biltstraat 55, 3572 AG, Utrecht](https://www.claytoplate.com/) **Booking is essential**. Please contact me if you would like to participate in the workshop. Email: info@japanworkshopnet.com Mobile:0616059840

Maki-e is a traditional Japanese lacquer decoration technique. Techiniques are involved drawing pictures, patterns, and letters on the surface of lacquerware using lacquer, and then sprinkling and fixing metal powder, such as gold or silver, onto the surface. In our workshop, you have the opportunity to create maki-e designs using traditional Japanese patterns (wagara) or your own original designs. Then your canvas can be a glass cup or a glass picture frame. Join us for this unique Japanese art workshop in Utrecht. * Place: CLAY TO PLATE Biltstraat 55, 3572 AG, Utrecht * Price: three options you can choose from €56 pp(for a glass cup) €60 pp (for a glass picture frame) €76 pp (for a lacquerwares) Limited seats available. **Booking is essential for adequate preparations. If you've enrolled/registered on the Meetup app, we'll contact you through the app message. Kindly communicate with us accordingly, and refrain from showing up without prior contact. We appreciate your understanding** Website:[https://japanworkshopnet.com/ ](https://japanworkshopnet.com/) [MAKI-E workshop info](https://japanworkshopnet.com/maki-e-workshops/) Email: info@japanworkshopnet.com Mobile:0616059840

Wil jij met mij op een culinaire reis door rouw? Ik nodig je van harte uit voor de Troost Tafel – Lunch Editie. Een intieme middag waar we samen aan tafel gaan om de smaken van rouw te verkennen. Wat is pittig in jouw rouw? Welke herinnering smaakt nog steeds zoet? In een klein gezelschap van maximaal 8 mensen nodig ik je uit om mee te gaan op mijn culinaire reis door rouw – een reis die ik ooit begon na het verlies van mijn moeder. Eerder organiseerde ik diners, maar deze keer kies ik bewust voor een lunch. Waarom? Omdat ik weet dat het soms spannend kan zijn om over rouw te praten. Met deze kortere, laagdrempelige editie wil ik juist ruimte creëren voor wie dat spannend vindt, maar toch nieuwsgierig is naar verbinding, troost en smaak. 🕰 Indeling van de middag 12.30 – 13.00 Inloop & ontvangst 13.00 – 13.15 Welkom & introductie 13.15 – 15.00 Aan tafel – 3-gangen lunch 15.00 – 15.15 Afronding 15.15 – 15.30 Tijd om rustig naar huis te gaan. 🌿 Wat is de Troost Tafel? De Troost Tafel is een plek waar verliezen, herinneringen en smaken samenkomen. Een culinaire reis door rouw – waarin we onderzoeken hoe emoties en herinneringen zich kunnen vertalen naar smaken. Wat is licht in jouw rouw? Wat voelt zwaar? Wat smaakt bitter of juist zoet? 🌟 Voor wie is de Troost Tafel? Voor iedereen die verlies heeft ervaren – groot of klein. Of je nu net een dierbare bent verloren, of al jaren een gemis met je meedraagt: alle vormen van verlies mogen er zijn. Bij de Troost Tafel leggen we de rouw op tafel, in plaats van hem eronder te schuiven. 🍽 Wat kun je verwachten? Een driegangenlunch, met ruimte voor stilte, gesprek en verbinding. Je zit aan tafel met een kleine groep mensen, ieder met hun eigen verhaal. Bij elke gang staan we stil bij een ander aspect van rouw en smaak – zodat we samen verdieping kunnen vinden in wat ons raakt en verbindt. 💛 Waarom ik de Troost Tafel organiseer? In het laatste jaar van mijn koksopleiding verloor ik mijn moeder aan longkanker. Het was mijn eerste diepe ervaring met rouw, en het bracht me op een intense spirituele reis. In die zoektocht vond ik uiteindelijk rust en acceptatie. Helaas verloor ik recent ook mijn stiefmoeder. Na een zeer kort ziekbed werd ik opnieuw geconfronteerd met het verlies. De Troost Tafel is ontstaan uit mijn verlangen om anderen ook een plek te bieden – een veilige, warme tafel waar verlies ruimte mag krijgen, en waar troost mag ontstaan. Schuif je aan? Als je vragen hebt mag je me ook altijd een bericht sturen.

**🎨 The Art of You — Creativity, Personality & Human Connection** Looking for a creative experience that goes beyond a typical workshop? Join us for “The Art of You”, a unique 4-hour immersive experience in Utrecht blending: ✨ expressive arts 🧠 personality discovery 🤝 authentic human connection Together, we’ll explore how creativity can help us better understand ourselves and others through a combination of: -interactive group exercises -MBTI & Enneagram-inspired personality profiling -music & movement -intuitive drawing or clay work -reflection & storytelling No artistic experience is needed, this is about expression, not performance. The workshop is designed to be playful, thoughtful, and deeply human. A space to create, reflect, laugh, connect, and leave with: 🎨 your own artistic creation 🪪 a personal #persocard ☕ drinks & light snacks included Hosted at the beautiful UCo Utrecht, a renovated historic railway warehouse and creative community hub. 📅 Saturday 6 June 2026 🕐 13:00 – 17:00 📍 UCo Utrecht — 2e Daalsedijk 6a 👥 Limited to 40 participants 🎟 [Registration and payment page ](https://wellnesspaladins.com/event-art-of-you) If you’re curious about creativity, self-discovery, psychology, or meaningful connection, you’ll probably love this experience ✨ Get 40% off with the code: FRIENDS_AOY REGISTRATION CONFIRMED UPON PAYMENT VIA WEBSITE: [https://wellnesspaladins.com/event-art-of-you](https://wellnesspaladins.com/event-art-of-you) [https://www.wellnesspaladins.com/event-art-of-you](https://wellnesspaladins.com/event-art-of-you)

Zin in een avond vol leuke ontmoetingen? Kom dan naar onze vrouw-vrouw speeddate in hartje Utrecht! Tijdens deze speeddate heb je ongeveer 20 dates van 4 minuten. Iedere ronde schuif je aan bij een andere single vrouw. Klinkt de bel? Tijd om door te schuiven naar je volgende gesprekspartner! Na elk gesprek vul je op je datekaart in of je verder met de ander in contact wilt komen: ja of nee? Binnen een dag na de speeddate ontvang je van ons een e-mail met de voornaam en het e-mailadres van de singles met wie je een match hebt. Heb je bij alle deelnemers ‘nee’ ingevuld? Dan ontvang je een volgende speeddate [gratis](https://aboutlove.nl/geen-klik-volgende-speeddate-gratis/)! Date je mee? >> [https://aboutlove.nl/doelgroep/lesbisch/](https://aboutlove.nl/doelgroep/lesbisch/)

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who enjoy talking to people from other countries, and those who would like to discuss international travel and culture, and who enjoy getting together for good conversations."

Let's stroll the artists' booths and enjoy some of the festival's opening day! The Columbus Art Festival features a wide and vibrant range of visual art from local and national exhibitors, plus, live music, and all kinds of food and refreshments, along the waterfront downtown. (The featured painting is by Columbus Art Festival exhibitor, Joe Engel - joe-engelart.com)

Ciao a tutt\*! Let's meet Monday at 6.30pm at the Upper Arlington Library (Tremont Branch) in **Meeting Room A** to speak in Italian for 1 hour.

June meetup at the Library. We’ll play games and have casual conversation in Japanese and in English. All levels of Japanese ability, from non-speaker to native, are welcome. After the meetup we will go out to eat at a local restaurant.