Biotechnology

In this format, the audience is informed of the motion ahead of time, allowing for a more strategic and engaging discussion. Eight participants, selected at the start of the evening, will engage in the debate while the remaining attendees act as the audience. Debaters will have the opportunity to state a preference for either side of the motion. The debate will still require 4 speakers on each team regardless of personal preference, however. Each debater will have approximately 45 minutes to prepare an 8-minute speech. At the conclusion of the debate, the organizer will evaluate each team's strategy and declare a winner. The motion we will debate: **This House believes that current investments in AI are a waste of resources.** Earlier this year, a study revealed that CEOs say the word "AI" more often than "earnings" during an earnings call, a regular event when top level executives discuss the financial results for the reporting period to shareholders and other stakeholders of a company. That talk about AI has surpassed talk about money in these types of meetings is an emblematic symbol of our day and age: AI is taking the world by storm, and if the hype is to be believed, we are entering into a revolutionary period that will see society fundamentally shift, probably in the next decade or so. Proponents of AI state that AI will be able to do much of the work that humans currently have to do, essentially replacing human labor at a level equivalent or perhaps even exceeding that of industrialization. The efficiency benefits, the potential for new breakthroughs, and the inherent advantages that computers have over humans (such as requiring much less downtime, for example by not needing to rest or eat), all of this means that the nature of how we work, and by extension, live, would be fundamentally changed. Investors have, for several years now, been putting their money where their mouth is, pouring huge amounts of money into the AI sector in the hope of achieving phenomenal profits. For all the hope that business has in AI, however, the future is far from certain. Voices have risen up that state that much of the potential of AI is overblown, and that AI is a bubble that will pop sometime in the next few years. They do not believe the hype around the technology reflects the reality of how it works, and that the money being poured in is therefore being misattributed. The AI sector is also very resource-intensive. The amount of energy, water, microchips, and other resources that AI data centers require is very high. If the AI breakthroughs that are promised come to fruition, then perhaps this might be worth it, but if AI is indeed a bubble, we are using up a lot of precious resources at a time of geopolitical and environmental precarity. Depending on your position, the societal debate around AI leaves a very different impression. While only time will tell where the chips actually land, in the meantime, come join us at Brussels Debaters for a lively discussion on where all of this may be heading.

**Sommes-nous devenus les simples managers de notre existence ?** Courir après le temps, cocher des listes de tâches, jongler entre les responsabilités professionnelles et les impératifs familiaux... Notre quotidien ressemble souvent à une course de fond où chaque minute est rentabilisée. Mais au milieu de ce tourbillon, une question finit par surgir : **où est passé notre esprit ?** À force de répondre aux besoins des autres et aux urgences du calendrier, nous risquons de devenir étrangers à nous-mêmes. Est-il encore possible de cultiver une vie intérieure quand l'agenda est complet ? La philosophie est-elle un luxe réservé à ceux qui ont du temps, ou une nécessité vitale pour ne pas s'oublier ? **Lors de ce dialogue philosophique, nous ferons une pause pour explorer ensemble :** * **La dictature de l’utile :** Pourquoi nous sentons-nous coupables dès que nous ne "produisons" rien ? * **Retrouver son centre :** Comment l'esprit peut-il rester libre au milieu des contraintes ? * **La quête de sens :** Comment transformer nos obligations quotidiennes en une vie qui nous ressemble vraiment ? Nul besoin d’avoir lu tous les classiques. Venez simplement avec votre fatigue, vos interrogations et votre envie de redonner une place à la réflexion au milieu du chaos. ✨ **Offrez-vous une parenthèse pour respirer et remettre l'esprit au cœur de votre vie.** *** **Infos pratiques :** * **Tarif :** 5€ (boisson comprise) * **Esprit :** Un moment d'échange pour déconnecter du "faire" et se reconnecter au "penser".

🌙 Evening Hike – Hallerbos (Start: Parking at ’t Kriekske, 18:45) This evening hike begins at 18:45 from the parking area right next to restaurant ’t Kriekske, perfectly timed to enjoy the soft light as the forest transitions into dusk. The route covers a maximum of 8–10 km, making it an accessible and relaxed walk suitable for all levels. From the parking, wide forest paths lead you straight into the heart of the Hallerbos. As the sun lowers, the beech trees filter the last warm light, creating long shadows and a calm, almost cinematic atmosphere. In spring, the fading daylight highlights the purple-blue carpet of bluebells, giving the forest a magical glow. The trail is mostly flat and easy to follow, ideal for unwinding after a busy day. You’ll hear the forest slowly quiet down while birds settle for the night and the evening breeze moves through the tall trees. After completing the loop, we return directly to ’t Kriekske, where we end the evening together with a drink or meal — the perfect way to wrap up a peaceful walk in one of Belgium’s most enchanting forests. What to bring Hiking shoes 👞 for the muddy paths 😅 Some cash and cards for drink at the restaurant

Join us every Wednesday for an authentic Korean experience in the heart of Brussels! 🇰🇷✨ Let’s share Soju, delicious Korean food, fun karaoke sessions, and plenty of good vibes. Don’t miss our photo booth moments and the chance to meet amazing new people from all over the world! 🎉 Free entry, just order at least one drink to support the venue. 📍 Gyosang, Rue Sainte-Catherine 8, Brussels 🕢 Every Wednesday, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM Come for the language exchange, stay for the laughter, food, and Soju! 🍶🎤

Wil je sterker leren spreken voor een groep? Meer zelfvertrouwen krijgen tijdens presentaties, vergaderingen of sociale situaties? Welkom bij de eerste bijeenkomst van **De Sprekersclub Brussel** – de enige volledig Nederlandstalige Toastmastersclub in Brussel. Dit is geen cursus met theorie, maar een praktische en interactieve bijeenkomst waar je leert door te oefenen, te observeren en feedback te krijgen in een veilige en positieve omgeving. *** ## Wat kan je verwachten? Tijdens deze bijeenkomst ervaar je hoe mensen hun communicatievaardigheden ontwikkelen door: • korte voorbereide speeches • spontane spreekmomenten (vrijblijvend) • constructieve feedback • een gestructureerde maar ontspannen sfeer • kennismaking met het Toastmasters-concept Je hoeft geen ervaring te hebben. Veel gasten komen gewoon kijken tijdens hun eerste bezoek. *** ## Wat is Toastmasters? Toastmasters is een wereldwijd netwerk dat mensen helpt groeien in **publiek spreken, presentatievaardigheden en leiderschap**. Door regelmatig te oefenen en feedback te krijgen, bouwen leden stap voor stap meer zelfvertrouwen op. Meer dan een opleiding is het een leercommunity waarin iedereen elkaar vooruithelpt. *** ## Voor wie is dit? Deze bijeenkomst is ideaal als je: ✔ beter wil leren presenteren ✔ zelfverzekerder wil spreken in het Nederlands ✔ spreekangst wil overwinnen ✔ communicatievaardigheden wil verbeteren ✔ persoonlijke of professionele groei zoekt Introvert of extravert? Iedereen is welkom. *** ## Praktische info 📍 Locatie: GC Den Dam, Waversesteenweg 1741, Brussel 🕒 Start: 19u (kom gerust iets vroeger voor kennismaking) 💶 Deelname: gratis en vrijblijvend Je mag deelnemen wanneer je wil, maar observeren is perfect oké. *** ## Nieuwsgierig? Klik op **“Inschrijven”** en ontdek hoe oefenen in een ondersteunende omgeving het verschil maakt. Misschien is dit wel de plek waar spreken plots natuurlijk begint te voelen.

🎉 **Celebrating 10 Years of IAF Belgium (April 2016-2026)** What began with a single conversation has grown into a vibrant and welcoming facilitation community. Over the past decade, together with initiators, board members, facilitators, and the facili-curious, we have co-created more than *100 events* dedicated to learning, collaboration, and meaningful dialogue. To celebrate this milestone, we invite you to join us for a **special anniversary dinner** and an evening of shared memories, conversations, and connection. ✨ **What to expect** The evening will unfold in *two phases*: **1️⃣ Interactive reflection & celebration** We will begin with a short interactive facilitation moment led by *Ralph and Marie,* inviting participants to reflect on and share memories from our journey together. Through a few reflective questions, we’ll revisit experiences from the past 10 years: • What was your **first IAF Belgium experience**? • Which **IAF Belgium event** has stayed with you the most? • Why is **IAF Belgium meaningful for you today**? **2️⃣ Anniversary dinner** After the facilitation, we will continue the celebration with a **shared dinner** and informal conversations. 🍽️ **Please note:** This is a **dinner gathering**, and participants will **order and pay for their own meal**. 🥂 **IAF Belgium will offer the first drink** to celebrate the occasion. 🎶 There may also be **music during the evening** to accompany the celebration & goodies *(to be confirmed)*. Whether you have been part of the journey from the beginning or recently discovered the community, you are warmly invited to join us in celebrating this milestone. 🙏 **With deep gratitude, we recognize the people whose dedication, energy, and generosity helped shape and grow this community over the past 10 years:** * **Identified speakers non-exhaustive list at our meetups until April 2026**: Nathaniel Cadwell, Tanya Van Rompuy, Christopher Malapitan, David Villalobos, Pieter Daelman, Sandrine Grenier, Simon Koolwijk, Jeffer London, Dirk Wouters, Johan Debeer, Ralf Otto, Ana Adzersen, Anita Sheehan, Ana Escarpenter, Bruno Selun, Meghan Kelly, Monica Dimitriu, Marie Dubost, Marc Sonnaert, Hilde Nicassi, Kasia Skuratowicz, April Bilbrey, Lara Donners, Andrew Spireti, Claudia Arena, Andy Whittle, Klaus Niederlander, Anuschka Ruge, Sue Bird, Graziana Lonero, Agnes Gorgemans, Luc de Schrijver, Joost Visser, Jord Rolland de Rengervé, Richard G. Kelly & Ralph Van Crombrugge. * **IAF Belgium Boards since 2016**: Nathaniel Cadwell, Miriam Elst, Dirk Wouters, Tanya Van Rompuy, Bruno Selun, Andrew Spiteri, Sue Bird, Marie Dubost, Sylvain Veyzolles & Ralph Van Crombrugge 😄 During the evening, ***you will discover the 6 supporters of the initiative on 11 March 2016 , the 2 creators of the Facilitator Studio, some special contributors to our events*** .…and many many many others who contributed their time, curiosity, and facilitation spirit along the way.

🌟 Hello Yogis and Future Yogis! 🌟 NEW YEAR - New You ? :-) Maybe you've always wanted to try a Men-Only Yoga class but kept putting it off to January ? :) Well... January is here now - so no more reasons for you not to join our weekly Yoga Class **exclusively for men**. Gay, Bi, Trans, ally, curious, we don't really care... if you identify as male and have friendly vibes - come and join us ! Ladies, unfortunately you'll have to skip this one - but come and join us on Sunday mornings ! :) 🧘‍♀️🧘‍♂️ Class takes place every **Wednesday evening - from 18:30 to 19:45 :)** After class, we can hang around for a cup of tea and a chat, or go for a drink - depending on the energy. No need to worry if you've never tried Yoga before – everyone is welcome, beginners included! 🌈 Just bring yourself in some comfy clothes and let the magic happen :-). 🌿 **Class Details:** * Classes take place [Merci Wellness - Place Dillens 1, 1060 Saint-Gilles](https://www.merci-wellness.be/plan-acces.php). Very easy to get there, either by bike or metro (Hotel des Monnaies). * ⏰ 18:30 to 19:45 (doors will open at 18:15 - **class starts at 18:30 sharp** \- not possible to join after that **as the door will be closed**). 💸 **Cost:** * First class: 10 euros 🌟 * Single class: 15 euros 🧘‍♂️ * 5-class pass: 65 euros (valid for 3 months - a great deal for regular yogis! 🎉) You can pay your class on site either in CASH or through PAYCONIC. For more info - follow us on [Instagram.com/queeryogabrussels](http://www.instagram.com/queeryogabrussels) **Come and try it !** Spend a moment in a nice atmosphere and discover the benefits of Yoga, from increased flexibility, better posture, a stronger body to a calmer mind. See you on the mat! 🧘‍♀️✨ Edson P.S. We also have a "mixed gender" class on Sunday mornings from 11:00 to 12:15 - make sure to check it out on Meetup !

♟️ **Rejoignez l’aventure Knight Clubbers !** ♟️ Venez vivre une soirée où l’échiquier devient un champ de bataille, entre bonne humeur et esprit de compétition. 🔗 **Inscription gratuite** : [S'inscrire](https://knightclubbers.com/meetup/663758?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=social) ✨ **Des parties pour tous les niveaux** Débutant curieux ou stratège aguerri, chaque partie est l’occasion parfaite pour progresser et rencontrer d’autres passionné.e.s. 🕒 **Liberté totale – Jouez à votre rythme** Participez aux duels ou observez dans une ambiance conviviale. 🏆 **Défiez vos adversaires et grimpez au classement** Accumulez les victoires pour tenter de devenir Roi ou Reine de l’Arène. 👑 **Prêts pour le défi ?** Rejoignez Knight Clubbers et entrez dans la légende !

Meet and make new Friends after work.

Unlock the secrets of your body shape and morphology and learn how to dress in a way that truly empowers you. In this workshop you will discover how to choose better your clothes and styling techniques that transform your appearance and self confidence . Price : 15€

Switch as many applications as possible (email, calendar, chat, browser, search engine, operating system, etc.) to open-source, privacy-friendly alternatives, moving away from Big Tech monopolies. The workshop is open for both beginners and experts.

Please [register yourself on the website ](https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/booking/7QLiiTnqLMxNg6Bdm5Bm)to receive the details of how to join. This powerful healing technique removes the negative energies and blockages to then nbe replaced by life energy or prana. Organized by Juliana Cruz, a Pranic Healing practitioner for over 10 years. These donation-based sessions are in a group session, done by different practitioners who have learned Pranic Healing. The sessions take from 20 to 30 minutes. * **Sunday** **From 11:30 to 12:50** 20 - 30 min session per person First-come, first-served. This practice comes after a meditation (from 10:30 to 11:30) to receive and share energies of loving-kindness to the entire Earth. You can join by [registering yourself here](https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/booking/j5YTbU6YaGLgGOXyvMNn). With love, Juliana

Join us for a full day of collaborative work at HSBXL! This event is open to everyone who enjoys working in a community environment, whether you're advancing on business ventures, freelance projects, or creative endeavors. Bring your laptops, your enthusiasm, and your projects to collaborate, learn, and share in the main room of our spacious hackerspace. During this **8-hour co-working event**, you'll have the opportunity to work on your project, ask for feedback, offer help to others, and if you wish, share your achievements at the end of the day. **Please Note**: While HSBXL has multiple rooms for various purposes, this coworking event is taking place in the main room. It's important to note that online meetings should be avoided during this event to prevent noise disturbance and to maintain a conducive work environment for everyone. \#\#\# What the day will look like: 1\. Introduction and setting up: Find a comfortable spot in the main room\, set up your workspace and grab a Club Mate\, soft drink\, or a coffee to get your day started\. 2\. Work Session: Dive into your project\, seek assistance\, and collaborate with others\. 3\. Sharing Session: Optional\, but encouraged\! Share what you've worked on\, your challenges\, and triumphs\. \#\#\# How to get to HSBXL: HSBXL is located in Brussels. For detailed instructions on how to get to the hackerspace, please visit [here](https://hsbxl.be/enter/). If you encounter any issues while trying to get in, you can contact us at +32 28804004. Please note that the phone is inside the space. Alternatively, you can also reach out to us in our [Matrix chatroom](https://matrix.to/#/#hsbxl:matrix.org). \#\#\# Requirements Please bring your laptop, and if you have, an extension cord. The space has WiFi, but having your own internet backup solution can also be useful. Join us at this **8-hour co-working day** in the main room of HSBXL, and we hope you'll have made progress on your projects, learned something new, and most importantly, enjoyed the power of community collaboration. Whether you're a freelancer, entrepreneur, or creative, we welcome you to this day of productivity, sharing, and collaboration.

Has it been just you and your phone lately? It’s easy to feel connected yet still feel alone. Digital interactions can’t replace the warmth of eye contact, real laughter, and meaningful conversations. True connection happens when we step away from our screens and show up as ourselves — present, open, and engaged. At Fast Friending, we create spaces where real relationships begin. - just genuine conversations and shared moments. Because nothing compares to meeting face-to-face, discovering common ground, and walking away with a connection that truly feels real. **You will need to buy a ticket for attending -** [https://brussels18thap.eventbrite.co.uk](https://brussels18thap.eventbrite.co.uk) \*You can use any debit or credit card to purchase your ticket at PayPal checkout. It will ask you for your email address but that is only to send you a receipt. You do not need a PayPal account. TICKETS:- Early Bird - €5 per person Regular Ticket - €10 per person Cash at Meetup - If you do not purchase tickets in advance then you can pay €15 cash to your host Katrin when you meet her at the event. \- We will meet at 7\.00 pm when you will be welcomed by your host Katrin She will manage the evening and also help you make connections\. If you are a bit shy or anxious then please come early. Tanya will help you meet other members in a small group and help you settle down and get comfortable. All attendees are also welcome to bring a lady friend along with them for free. This will make it a lot less stressful for you as you will always have your friend alongside. \- From 7\.30 to 8\.30 pm\, we will start 'Fast Friending' where our host will ask you to speak to a different attendee every 3 minutes\. You will be able to meet lots of ladies and gentlemen and not be limited to only those sitting or standing next you\. \- After 8\.30 pm you will have time to interact with those you have met as well as others\. \- We are not a close knit tight group\. Our evenings are warm and comfortable for members attending for the first time and those coming alone\. You will not feel alone\! \- We have many groups in this city\. Members of our other groups who RSVP are included as guests of the organisers in order to give you an indication of expected people\. \- This evening is for ladies and gents in the 21 to 40 age group\. While some will be at the younger end of this range there will also be others at the other end of the range and lots in\-between\! You will naturally gel with others of your own age range and so you will always find many attendees who fit your range\. \- We are not a 'dating' group\. We are focused on helping ladies and gents meet other like minded ladies and gents\. You will generally find a good gender balance \(maybe not perfect\) at all our events\. Why do we have tickets? 1. Cover our costs - Our host is compensated for their time and work. We also pay meetup and have dedicated staff to manage our events, hosts, venues and communication. 2. Group Safety - By securing your ticket we have a record and you contribute to a well organized evening where everyone is more committed and better behaved. 3. Management - Tickets help us better manage attendee group size, book suitable space and activity. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ABOUT [fastfriends.co.uk ](https://fastfriends.co.uk/)- We have connected members successfully for the past 10 years in over 30 cities (operating as Expatsclub, MeetConnectDevelop and fastfriends.co.uk). \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- You can contact our founder Dan on +447715705005 with any questions or ideas. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Here are some videos which will give you some guidance and comfort to make your attendance more productive.** Secrets of socializing at our meetups - [http://bit.ly/secrets-socializing](http://bit.ly/secrets-socializing) How to make new friends - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6GB0Hc_bSs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6GB0Hc_bSs) How to make people like you at our socials -[ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K4guProkKrI](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K4guProkKrI) Why you should attend our evenings - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEjwGBXzJE8](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEjwGBXzJE8) Member feedback -[ https://youtu.be/zHOPHMg_7es?si=kK2A-MjisVue-jdw](https://youtu.be/zHOPHMg_7es?si=kK2A-MjisVue-jdw)

Most AI meetups end up as just networking. **We’re different.** At **AI Tool Explorers Night \| Connect & Make New Friends**, you’ll: ✨ Walk away with a *real learning nugget* (a tool, workflow, or strategy you can use immediately) ✨ Connect with people who share your curiosity for AI, productivity, and automation ✨ Enjoy a fun, casual setting where new ideas and friendships spark naturally 👉 **Our promise:** every session delivers structure, substance, and takeaways you can use when you get home. ### 📅 Event Flow * **6:00–6:15 PM** → Arrivals & intros * **6:15–6:45 PM** → AI demo / learning nugget * **6:45–7:00 PM** → Q&A and group discussion * **7:00–8:00 PM** → Networking & contact sharing ⚡ Please hold networking until after the presentation so we can all learn together. Plenty of time at the end to connect and exchange cards! **Let's explore AI Tools that actually *work* in our day-to-day life!** *** #ChatGPT #Claude #Grok #Gemini #Perplexity #DeepSeek #NotebookLM #Cursor #GitHubCopilot #Replit #Windsurf #v0dev #Lovable #Zapier #Makecom #n8n #Descript #OpusClip #Synthesia #Runway #Sora #Kling #Veo #PikaLabs #LTXStudio #AdobeFirefly #Vidu #Hailuo #LumaDreamMachine #Wisecut #Elaiio #Capsule #Filmora #Gling #Magisto #AdobePremierePro #ElevenLabs #Suno #Udio #Soundraw #Riffusion #Mubert #BeatovenAI #AIVA #Loudly #SplashPro #Soundful #MagentaStudio #WavTool #MakeBestMusic #BandLabSongStarter #TadAI #EcrettMusic #Midjourney #DALLE3 #CanvaMagicStudio #NotionAI #Gamma #Fathom #FirefliesAI #MLX

The next NoVABeerSec event - "Informal Gathering of Security Minds Over Beer" will be Wednesday, April 29th, 5:30PM til 7:30ish at Aslin Beer Company - Herndon Taproom (767 Elden St., Herndon VA 20170). **Venue for April:** Aslin Beer Company (https://www.aslinbeer.com) - Aslin Beer Co. was founded in 2015 by Andrew Kelley and Kai Leszkowicz. The name, Aslin, comes from the family that connected Andrew and Kai through marriage; they each married a daughter from the Aslin Family. Andrew’s professional background was in finance and consulting, while Kai worked in public service. They bonded over a shared interest of craft beer and home-brewing, which eventually lead to the idea that “We can do this too.” **Additional Info:** We are an inclusive group, so if we missed anyone please let us know or if you want to bring your significant other/spouse please do. We do know there are folks that have changed roles since we last met so please also let us know if we need to add new contact info for people. Have a great week and see you later this month! Cheers, Rinaldi Rampen & Mike McCabe of @NoVABeerSec

Join PSW Science® on April 24 at 8 PM as we welcome Harris Lewin, Research Professor with Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory & Arizona State University. During the question and answer period, in-person attendees and live stream viewers may ask the speaker questions, and in-person attendees may also engage with the speaker during the post-lecture reception. Refreshments are served. For more information on this meeting, please visit: https://pswscience.org/meeting/2535 The meeting will be held in the John Wesley Powell Auditorium, adjacent to the Cosmos Club. The Powell Auditorium is located at 2170 Florida Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20008. Use of the Cosmos Club is restricted to the Powell Auditorium, the entryway to the auditorium, and the restrooms immediately outside the auditorium. Please note there is no onsite parking available. PSW Science, founded in 1871, is one of the oldest scientific societies in Washington D.C. Now, over 150 years later, we celebrate the Society's rich history and contributions to scientific discovery and cross-disciplinary collaboration. For information on how to become a member of PSW Science and membership benefits, please visit https://pswscience.org/join/

Important: Register on [AICamp website](https://www.aicamp.ai/event/eventdetails/W2026043014) is required for admission. **Description:** Join us for a community-led developer event focused on AI-assisted coding with GitHub Copilot. This event brings together developers to explore practical workflows, real-world use cases, and hands-on experiences using GitHub Copilot. Whether you are new to GitHub Copilot or already using it, this event will help you better understand how to apply AI-assisted coding techniques in everyday development. **Speakers/Topics:** \- Reynald Adolphe\, Microsoft\. Stay tuned as we are updating speakers and schedules. If you have a keen interest in speaking to our community, we invite you to submit topics for consideration: [Submit Topics](https://forms.gle/JkMt91CZRtoJBSFUA) **Sponsors:** We are actively seeking sponsors to support AI developers community. Whether it is by offering venue spaces, providing food, or cash sponsorship. Sponsors will not only speak at the meetups, receive prominent recognition, but also gain exposure to our extensive membership base of 5,000+ AI developers in D.C and 500K+ worldwide.

Come the whole time or if you just spend 30 minutes. All are welcome. You are welcome and encouraged to bring your own coloring supplies but, if you don't have any, I will have plenty and am happy to share! (coloring books, colored pencils, and markers). Part of the mission of this group is to provide us an opportunity to check out AND SUPPORT local businesses. So, please don't bring any outside food/drinks and, while purchasing something isn't at all a REQUIREMENT to participate in the event, I do strongly encourage you to try something from the vendor :) I look forward to seeing and meeting you there! ***\*\*DISCLAIMER*\*\*** Photos may be taken during the event to be shared here on Meetup so feel free to let me know if you'd like to be excluded from them.

We invite you to an in-person session in Seattle exploring the real impact of AI on knowledge-driven industries — from shifting economics and the disruption of traditional SaaS and consulting models to where organizations can still build lasting competitive advantage. As AI platforms like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini continue to redefine how work gets done, organizations face a critical question: how can they adapt, remain competitive, and create lasting value? We’ll discuss practical strategies for integrating AI while preserving human expertise, along with actionable approaches to upskilling teams for an AI-driven workplace. Drawing on real-world experience from training thousands of professionals and deploying AI solutions, this session will provide clear, applicable insights for today’s evolving landscape. Following a short presentation, the session will open into an interactive discussion where attendees can share perspectives and explore key questions around the evolving role of humans, organizational adaptation, and staying competitive in an AI-first world. **Who should attend:** • Executives and managers in SaaS, consulting, and knowledge-driven organizations • Professionals exploring AI upskilling and workforce transformation • Anyone interested in the future of AI and knowledge work 📍 **Location:** Data Science Dojo, 5010 148th Ave NE, Suite 200A, Redmond, WA, United States 🔗 **Google Maps:** [https://lnkd.in/d8WA-yNc](https://lnkd.in/d8WA-yNc) **💻 Online Access:** A livestream will be available for those unable to attend in person; however, the full interactive experience is reserved for in-person participants.

**As a proud sponsor of the Fairfax Vegfest,** the [Veg Society of DC ](https://vsdc.org/)(VSDC) encourages our members to attend this free, outdoor, all-vegan event with great speakers and delicious food! It is happening on Sunday, April 19, from 11 am to 5 pm, in Herndon, Virginia. VSDC has scheduled this meetup event to: 1\. publicize the Fairfax Vegfest so more people will attend\. For details, go to the [Vegfest event page here](https://marketspread.com/market/35820/fairfax-vegfest/events/84760/) 2\. encourage volunteers to sign\-up for shifts at the VSDC Table\. RSVP on this page and select which shift you would prefer. 3\. refer people to the Fairfax Vegfest organizers to volunteer with them\. Go to the [Fairfax Vegfest volunteer page here](https://forms.gle/HfNd2WYAbgKAtVVk8) ***We do need volunteers at the VSDC table so PLEASE do sign up. When you RSVP, please provide your first and last name, email, and shift preference (10am-12:30pm, 12-230pm, 2-430pm, 4-6pm, or ANY shift). Only the VSDC organizers will see this info.*** Confirmed speakers include: Neal Barnard MD Gene Baur Milton Mills, MD (many more to come!) **Why you don’t want to miss Fairfax Vegfest:** * **A full day of vegan food, shopping & discovery** Enjoy incredible plant-based eats, local makers, wellness brands, and eco-friendly businesses—all in one place. * **Something for everyone** Whether you’re vegan, veg-curious, or just love good food and good vibes, Fairfax Vegfest is welcoming and inclusive. * **Family-friendly & community-focused** A fun, positive atmosphere with activities, education, and space to connect with like-minded people. * **Meet the makers behind the brands** Talk directly with chefs, founders, and creators who are passionate about what they do. * **Support small & mission-driven businesses** Every purchase helps support ethical, sustainable, and compassionate businesses. * **Feel-good vibes all day long** Come hungry. Leave inspired. 💚 **Location** Northwest Federal Credit Union (parking lot in the back) 200 Spring St. Herndon VA 20170 A $5 donation per person is requested to help the organizers offset the costs for the event. Parking in the adjacent garage / lot is $5 per car. Join many of your friends from VSDC and our vegan meetup group who will be attending this fun and educational event! **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**