Black Business

Meetup Event organizers wanted. If you have something to help people in this group that you want to invite them to step up as event organizer. Contact me via meetup and let me know what you have in mind organizing how often and where.

This month, we will be reading and discussing *Brotherless Night* by V.V.Ganeshananthan, Winner of the 2024 Women's Prize for Fiction, from our International Contemporary category. BLURB. Jaffna, Sri Lanka, 1981. Sixteen-year-old Sashi wants to become a doctor. But over the next decade, a vicious civil war tears through her home, and her dream spins off course as she sees her four beloved brothers and their friend K swept up in the mounting violence. Set during the early years of Sri Lanka's three-decade civil war, *Brotherless Night* is a heartrending portrait of one woman's moral journey, and a testament to both the enduring impact of war and the bonds of home. (348 pages). Happy reading!

# **Hck4G Meetup #0x15** ## **"Stop Spying On Me!" – Disrupting Adversarial DNS Queries** Register here: https://events.humanitix.com/hck4g-meetup-0x15-stop-spying-on-me-disrupting-adversarial-dns-queries ### **Event Overview** Hck4G returns with Meetup #0x15, continuing our mission to build practical, community-driven cybersecurity capability that provide legitimate pathway into cybersecurity for young people. This session explores the hidden risks behind everyday internet usage; specifically, how online advertising and tracking ecosystems have evolved into security and privacy threats, and what defenders can do about it. ### **Talk Overview** Online advertising is no longer just an annoyance — it has become a significant attack surface for both individuals and organisations. Ads and trackers consume large amounts of data, profile users, and are increasingly leveraged for malware delivery and cybercrime activity. This session follows the journey of building a whole-of-home advert and threat blocking system using a DNS blackhole, highlighting both the effectiveness of DNS filtering and the ongoing challenges defenders face. What starts as a simple setup quickly becomes an arms race, as modern devices and operating systems bypass traditional controls using: * **Hard-coded DNS resolvers** * **DNS over TLS (DoT)** * **DNS over HTTPS (DoH)** Attendees will gain practical insight into how DNS filtering works, why it remains relevant, and how encryption is reshaping both privacy and network security. ### **Speaker** **Dr Joel Panther** Joel is a cybersecurity researcher, offensive security specialist, and educator with over 15 years of experience across system administration, penetration testing, and security consulting. In his consulting work, Joel specialises in offensive security practices, including vulnerability assessment, penetration testing, and security training. His approach bridges technical execution and strategic insight, combining hands-on exploitation techniques with a broader understanding of organisational risk. Joel is an active contributor to the cybersecurity community as a speaker, mentor, and educator. He regularly presents on topics spanning security, privacy, and ethics. His work often explores the intersection of cybersecurity and societal impact, with a particular focus on emerging threats in areas such as artificial intelligence and cybercrime. His PhD produced a framework for designing dynamically generated penetration testing laboratories, and his current research focuses on offensive security skills development. Joel is deeply committed to education and workforce development, supporting initiatives that strengthen pathways into the cybersecurity profession. He has led the design and delivery of CyberCX’s security testing training program, which provides early-career professionals with a structured blend of formal training and practical, real-world experience. When he’s not in the basement hacking, he can be found at cybersecurity community events across Australia. Known as one of the top offensive security education voices in Australia. *** ### **Who Should Attend** * Cybersecurity practitioners (offensive and defensive) * Network and system administrators * Privacy-conscious technologists * Students and early-career professionals * Anyone interested in practical, real-world cyber defence *** ### **Event Details** * Date: 20th April 2026 * Time: 5:30pm - 8pm * Venue: RMIT University – Building 80, Melbourne * Online: Livestream available * Cost: Free (registration required) *** ### **Event Schedule** * 5:30 – 5:40 PM: Welcome, Intro & Networking * 5:40 – 6:00 PM: Networking & Cyber pizzas 🍕 * 6:00 – 6:45 PM: Presentation * 6:45 – 8:00 PM: Discussions and Q&A ### **Thanks to Our Sponsors** RMIT University – World-class certificates, degrees, Masters and Postgraduate programs BridgeLynk.io – Attack-informed cybersecurity services for NFP, SMB and Enterprise CyLynk.com – Job-ready cybersecurity training led by expert coaches *** ### **What to Expect** * Practical, real-world cybersecurity insights * Community-driven learning and discussion * Networking with peers across experience levels * Food and refreshments (in-person attendees) *** ### **About Hck4G** Hck4G is a not-for-profit organisation focused on disrupting the human impact of cybercrime through awareness, education, and community capability building. Diversion - Victim Support - Community Education.

**Urban Climb Blackburn** Never climbed before? No worries at all! You're very welcome here! Just complete a quick safety induction when you arrive and the staff will walk you through everything you need to know to climb safely indoors. It's easy, friendly, and won't take long. The venue has plenty to enjoy, including a bouldering cave, speed wall, sauna facilities, and sparkling water to keep you going. This group is primarily focused on rope climbing, top roping and lead climbing, but if you'd prefer to stick to bouldering while you find your feet, that's absolutely fine too! Many of our members have their lead pass and gear, but there's no pressure at all. **Finding us:** If you arrive on time, look for us gathered around the couches in the bouldering area. We're a friendly bunch, so just come and say hi! Running a little late? No stress, just let the staff up the front know you're with the Climb Meetup group and they'll make an announcement. Someone will come and find you and introduce you around. A few of our regulars also wear a black shirt with the old logo, so keep an eye out for those. **A note on numbers:** The meetup runs every Monday and many regular members come along independently without RSVPing through the group, so the crowd is often bigger than it looks on the attendee list! If you're ever unsure whether people will be there or worried it might be a tiny group, feel free to drop the organisers a message beforehand and we'll put your mind at ease. **Fees:** Entry is paid directly to Urban Climb. You can find current pricing at [urbanclimb.com.au/pricing](https://urbanclimb.com.au/pricing/). If you hold a climbing membership elsewhere, it's worth checking your member benefits as you may be eligible for a discount. For venue info and the first-time waiver, visit [urbanclimb.com.au/locations/blackburn](https://urbanclimb.com.au/locations/blackburn/). **Stay connected:** We also have a facebook group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/663576119053808](https://www.facebook.com/groups/663576119053808) with a chat function; a great way to connect with members before or after a session!

Join Queer Meditation Melbourne for an evening of self-exploration and mindfulness in a safe and inclusive space. Start the event with a guided meditation session focused on promoting wellness, positive thinking, and spiritual growth. Connect with like-minded individuals from the LGBT community and enjoy meaningful conversations that nurture self-empowerment and consciousness. After the meditation practice, we will engage in social activities, promoting healthy living and dining out experiences. This event is designed for gay men and gay and lesbian friends who are looking to nurture their spiritual journey while building connections within the community. Come together to foster a sense of belonging and support each other in a space that celebrates diversity and self-care.

A mix of dance classes, connections & laughter! We love offering a diverse range of moves to keep things fresh and exciting, and it’s always amazing to see our dance community connecting on and off the dance floor. It’s all about coming together, learning, and having fun! Brighton Beach Bowls Club 2B South Rd Brighton 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm Foundation, Beginner & Intermediate levels $25 CASH or PAYID

* Join us for an evening of professional networking and valuable insights at our Entrepreneur & **Small Business Networking Mixer**. Connect with fellow small business owners, entrepreneurs, and like-minded professionals to share business strategies and exchange ideas for startup success with a drink. * * We have carved a deal with the restaurant of 10% Discount of all Menu items & drinks if you mention the staff "**Friday Business Meetup Deal**" * * We will delve into the power of integrating feminine wisdom with masculine energy for enhanced business strategies and entrepreneurial success. Discover the importance of positive human collisions in fostering innovation and growth, while expanding your network in a dynamic and supportive environment. * * Don't miss this opportunity to meet new contacts, exchange knowledge, and take yourself to the next level! * * **About Host:** Host of the event Sash (Sachin) is qualified accountant in practice. Mostly he is present in the event but it is subject to his prior commitment. However everybody is still invited to chat & socialise whether he is present or not. The place is a platform for everyone to gather,meet & help each other. * * **Address & Timings :** from **6-8 PM** at **500 Victoria Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051 (This event will be on every Friday same time same day unless otherwise advised)** * * Join us to meet new friends, hang out and have some laughs. New people are always welcome 😊🍺🍺 * * Come along to meet new people and see the familiar faces of the regular members. This is a regular weekly group for socialising and unwinding for the weekend. * * **Liability Waiver:** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your safety and well-being.

Please reserve your spot at bit.ly/bnitickets - do not RSVP here on MeetUp. Please mention Jerry invited you. BNI Momentum are a motivated group of business owners and business professionals who meet weekly to refer business to each other. (ordinarily we meet in Brighton, Bayside Melbourne). And now more than ever you can't afford to be losing connections you would have normally made face to face. BNI has embraced online networking, so come and join us! BNI is business as usual, but currently we are meeting online, and already our meetings still have the same amazing buzz with loads of Referrals, business and 1:1 meetings go ahead every week. Please arrive online by 10.15am (but from 10am) so you have plenty of time network and before our meeting officially starts at 10.30am. You will be emailed the weekly online link from the BNI Momentum Visitor Host team. So look out for an email from bnimomentumvisitorhosts@gmail.com - or please email that address if you have not received something by the Monday night before your chosen event date. Come along and network with people who want to refer you business. Learn the system, get some business education, hear from our weekly speakers. If you want to grow your business through referrals in a system guaranteed to work, then come along and see why BNI is the World's most successful networking organisation.

**Most networking events are easy to attend - and easy to ignore.** **This is a working session for founders who are serious about moving something forward.** **What this is:** This is a small, in-person founder roundtable. One or two real business situations are presented and worked through live. Not hypotheticals. Not theory. Actual constraints. **What we work through:** * What is actually trying to be achieved * What is getting in the way * What may be misdiagnosed * What the real constraint is * What should happen in the next 7 days **Then: Structured Founder Conversations** You won’t be left to casual networking. You’ll take part in short, focused discussions where: * you apply the same thinking to your own situation * you speak with multiple founders * you leave with one clear next step **WHAT MAKES THIS DIFFERENT** Most events optimise for: * attendance * volume * energy This one optimises for: **clarity, constraint, and follow-through** **WHO THIS IS FOR** * founders * business owners * consultants * operators * people actively building something **WHO THIS IS NOT FOR** * casual networking * passive attendance * startup pitching * people “just exploring ideas” **IMPORTANT — THIS IS NOT A STANDARD RSVP** To keep the room focused and intentional: 👉 You must register via a private page 👉 Spaces are limited **Register here:** https://meetups.aqmeets.com/ **VENUE SECTION** 📍 Melbourne (CBD location — confirmed after registration) This is a small, in-person session. Details are shared after registration to maintain a focused group. **FINAL NOTE:** If you’re tired of thinking about what to do next - and want to actually decide and move - this will feel different.

**🍻 The Entrepreneur Club – Last Friday of the Month Drinks** **Not your average knock-off drinks.** Join us for a monthly gathering of entrepreneurs, builders, creatives, and self-starters who believe business is more than just work, it’s a personal growth journey. Whether you're scaling something or just starting out, this is a space to meet others who think like you do. **💬 What to Expect** ✅ Real convos with people building something ✅ A place to bounce ideas, swap challenges, and share wins ✅ Opportunities to give value and get it in return ✅ Chill vibes, no pitches, just smart people in good company You don’t need a title or a polished pitch, just curiosity and the willingness to connect. **🗓 Format** **6:30pm** – Arrive, grab a drink, join a convo **8:30pm** – We wrap, or roll on elsewhere 📍 **The Oxford Scholar** We take over a corner of the bar (Back Bar or Atrium), look for the crew with ideas in one hand and a drink in the other. **🎯 This is for you if** * You want more entrepreneurial people in your life * You’re building something, or want to be * You care about growth, not just small talk Bring a question. Bring a challenge. Bring your curiosity. Last Friday of every month. Let’s make it count.

**Find Your (Business) Tribe** *Because no great business is built alone.* They say, *“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”* And in business, this couldn’t be more true. Whether you’re just starting out, growing something exciting, or dreaming up your next big move, this event is about finding the right people to walk alongside you. Think of it as a curated networking night for entrepreneurs, creatives, and business-minded doers who are looking for more than surface-level connections. Maybe you need a co-founder. A photographer. A mentor. A tech-savvy mate. An accountability partner. Or simply a community of like-minded humans who *get it*. Whatever you’re building, this night is about helping you find your *people*. Your collaborators, supporters, and sounding boards, the ones who help you stay grounded *and* move forward. Expect meaningful conversations, interactive connection activities, and a space where you don’t have to “pitch” yourself, just show up authentically. Because business gets a whole lot better when you’re surrounded by the right energy. So, bring your ideas, your questions, and your dreams. You never know who you’ll meet. **Your ticket will cover a basic beer, wine, spirit or soft drink on arrival.** Remainder of your ticket will be split to cover costs of running FYT and also charity donation to Sisterworks. Tickets are required to attend this event. Please note: This is not an event for selling, for business cards, or recruitment for direct sales or MLM models. This is an event for genuine connections, friendships, collabs, business partners, business networking, when equally reciprocated on both sides!

* **What We’re About** You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with, so join us — and be part of a community that rises above circumstances and creates opportunities. Inspire and be inspired by those who make things happen. It's a relaxed, organic space to connect with like-minded people and network—genuinely talking, learning from each other, and connecting over shared interests. * **What to Expect** Casual Meetups: We gather semi-regularly at a local café to chat about everything from stepping outside your comfort zone to business ideas, creative projects, and building a life aligned with your purpose. It’s relaxed, easy, and welcoming—no need to have anything “figured out.” An Easy-Going Space: We keep things simple and low-pressure. Once everyone arrives, we ease in with some light conversation and naturally break into smaller groups. Networking: Feel free to introduce yourself or let people know what you're working on if you feel like it. And if anyone wants to quickly shout out what they’re working on or looking for before we settle in, go for it—it’s a great way to spark new conversations. * **Host Support** If you’d like a one-on-one chat with me about your business, just tap me on the shoulder. I’ll be floating around and happy to make time for you. **Quick note for the day:** Depending on the weather, we might go for a walk too. Just remember to wear comfy shoes 🌞 👟 🥾:) ❗If you're running late, drop me a quick message as we might leave the cafe for a walk within the last 30-45 minutes. 🏃 🏃‍♂️ 🏃‍♀️

SKA & ROCKSTEADY REVIVAL is looking to bring back the sounds of young Jamaica, the music that gave life to Reggae and Dancehall. SKA & ROCK SKA & ROCKSTEADY REVIVAL is looking to bring back the sounds of young Jamaica, the music that gave life to Reggae and Dancehall. SKA & ROCKSTEADY REVIVAL will feature the sounds of young Jamaica, going back to the days when the music was fun and talent was in abondance. The 2 to 8 supermix will feature Fabulous Fez, Stryka D, Stick Mareebo and Zare Demus . Bring the kids for a taste of old school Jamaican music and dance. Looking forward to seeing you there on the day.

Join Voice Over Pros Of Ohio for an exciting morning of networking, and exploring opportunities in the world of voice acting. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this event is perfect for expanding your network, learning how to start a VO business, and for honing your skills. Connect with fellow voice actors and VO experts, that will help you succeed in your voice over business. This event will feature discussions on professional development, entrepreneurship in the voice over industry, with tips for navigating the world of voice acting. Don't miss this unique opportunity to learn from others, collaborate with like-minded individuals, and take your voice over career to the next level. Join us Saturday, March 28, from 10am - 12pm and learn how to start or grow your voice over business. Let your voice be heard! The $10 fee covers refreshments and door prizes.

Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!

**A Transformative Half-Day Event** Welcome to Confidence Lab, the ultimate experience designed to help you step into your most confident self. This half-day event is packed with actionable strategies, inspiring sessions, and opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals who are ready to invest in their personal and professional growth. Whether you’re looking to advance in your career, deepen your self-belief, or simply embrace new challenges, Confidence Lab is your starting point. **What You’ll Experience** **Your Confidence Lab ticket includes:** * **Engaging Speaker Sessions**: Learn from experts about harnessing confidence in your career, relationships, and everyday life. * **Interactive Experiences:** Participate in dynamic activities designed to help you step into your most confident self. * **In-Depth Audience Q&A:** Get direct insights from speakers as they answer your most pressing questions about building confidence and stepping into leadership. * **Networking Opportunities**: Connect with a supportive community of professionals and confidence enthusiasts. **2026 Speaker Sessions:** * **Seeing Clearly** Understand how you show up - and what’s been getting in the way. * **Confidence in Relationship** Communicate, navigate conflict, and build trust more effectively. * **Sustainable Agency** Learn how to lead without burning out. Your energy is part of the strategy. * **Confidence in Service** Align how you show up with the impact you actually want to have. **This Is For You If…** * You’re ready to take up more space in your work or life * You want to communicate with clarity and confidence * You’re stepping into (or preparing for) leadership * You’re done second-guessing yourself **Our Speakers** **Lachandra Baker** Founder of LBB Edutainment and the kind of person who makes you realize you’ve been confusing confidence with performance your whole life. Lachandra blends psychology, research, and radical humanity to help individuals and teams stop code-switching their way through the day and start showing up as someone they actually recognize. Expect to be challenged, affirmed, and genuinely seen - sometimes all in the same breath. **Annette Santiago Reyes** Annette has a rare talent: she makes the way you communicate feel like a discovery, not a critique. A connection catalyst and culture strategist, she helps people understand why they show up the way they do, and how to bridge the gap between intention and impact. Whether you're navigating change, life’s challenges, or simply trying to better understand yourself and others. Annette gives you the language and the lens to get there. **Elizabeth Wangugi** Creator of The Nap Concert and the RESTOR™ framework, Elizabeth is here to tell you that rest is not a reward - it’s a strategy. Rooted in neuroscience and restorative practice, her work helps high-achievers stop running on fumes and start leading from a place of actual capacity. If your calendar is full and your tank is empty, Elizabeth might be the most important person you hear from at Confidence Lab. **Stephanie Andrews** Founder of Social Black Butterfly Training & Consulting, Stephanie knows what it takes to lead through complexity because she’s done it across social services, healthcare, and operations. She specializes in succession strategy and leadership development, equipping leaders to build trust, navigate the hard moments, and leave something worth inheriting. Stephanie doesn’t just develop leaders. She develops the kind of leaders people actually want to follow. **Lillian Morales-Laster** SVP Human Resources Director at United Midwest Savings Bank and Executive Director of the Empowering Latinas Leadership Academy (ELLA). Lillian has spent her career combining her passion for equity and inclusion with her experience in human resources to lead teams and organizations in the development of supportive work environments. She leads with a vision of ensuring Latinas' voices are included in crucial decision-making processes, because for Lillian, ELLA is more than just a program. It's a vibrant community of hermanas supporting and uplifting each other as they navigate their paths to leadership. A Columbus Business First Community Champion and Distinguished Hispanic Ohioan, her commitment to empowering others shows up everywhere she goes. **Rachyl Kershaw** Founder of Greater Columbus Consulting and the architect behind the Confidence Lab Annual Summit, Rachyl has a gift for cutting through the noise, helping high-achievers stop performing success and start living it. She asks the questions most people are afraid to, creates space for honest reckoning, and somehow makes the hard work feel energizing. If you’ve ever wondered why doing everything right still feels like something’s missing, you’re in exactly the right room. **Why Confidence Lab?** Confidence is the foundation for success in every area of life. Whether you’re navigating a career change, launching a business, or striving for personal growth, building your confidence is the key to unlocking your higher purpose. This is your chance to invest in yourself and start living boldly. **Join Us on May 4** Confidence Lab is more than just an event - it’s a movement. Step into your power, embrace your potential, and make this the year you thrive. Secure your spot today and take the first step toward a more confident YOU. Cost should never be a barrier to growth. If you'd like to request a complimentary community ticket, reach out to us at [hello@confidencelab.org](hello@confidencelab.org), no explanation needed. Read more and see additional ticketing options at [https://confidencelab.org/](https://confidencelab.org/)

Join us for lunch and meet our very successful group. We are each others sales team...always looking for referrals for our members. If you are looking for new clients, let us help you out! Bring your business cards and brochures to share with us. We have a speaker each week so that we can learn about their business. Because we have only one member per business, we have many of the spots filled. However, we are specifically looking for an estate attorney, a handyman/electrician, and an event planner. We have referrals for you! All visitors are welcome. Any questions contact [pmarchio@farmersagent.com](mailto:pmarchio@farmersagent.com)

Join other experienced and aspiring agile coaches and professionals to: * develop and practice your coaching skills in a peer-to-peer environment * share current successes and challenges in your work environment and get support from each other * learn from each other, build better relationships and experiment with new ideas ***NOTE:*** Pre-registration is required for this event. **Please arrive 10 minutes early** to check in at the security desk.