Local Politics

This is a **recurring weekly gathering** of open-minded people who want to understand geopolitics **without confirmation bias**. We are not here to repeat talking points, defend camps, or feel morally validated. We are here to **listen, compare perspectives, and learn** — especially from people who come from, live in, or are directly affected by the regions being discussed. Each week, we look at **current and long-term geopolitical issues**, including conflicts rarely covered or oversimplified by Western media. **Topics We Cover** Our discussions focus on **current and long-term geopolitical issues**, including conflicts rarely covered or oversimplified by Western media, sovereignty, and reality as it is, not as it is marketed. We approach geopolitics and society from a realist, sovereignty-first perspective, skeptical of globalist ideology and media **groupthink**. The aim is to understand interests, incentives, history, law, and consequences — not to rehearse fashionable outrage. **Examples of topics we regularly examine include:** **1\. Venezuela & Cuba** Sanctions, regime survival, sovereignty, and how U.S. policy, energy interests, and regional power dynamics shape outcomes in Latin America — beyond Cold War clichés. **2\. Ukraine\, Cyprus & European Borders** Frozen conflicts, divided territories, and how international law is selectively applied when sovereignty clashes with strategic interests. **3\. Iran\, Gaza\, Syria & Lebanon** The Middle East beyond slogans: proxy wars, regional balances, sectarian fault lines, sanctions, militias, state collapse, and why Western media framing often obscures long-term realities. **4\. Congo \(DRC\) & Resource Wars** How minerals, supply chains, and foreign interests fuel instability in Africa — and why some of the deadliest conflicts on earth barely make the news. **5\. Taiwan\, Greenland & Strategic Geography** Why islands, trade routes, chokepoints, and remote territories matter enormously in a multipolar world — and how geography shapes power more than ideology ever will. **What Makes This Different** – We prioritize **voices from affected regions**: Latin America, the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, Asia – We examine **what Western media doesn’t tell, doesn’t show, or doesn’t contextualize** – We welcome **new ideas, uncomfortable facts, and disagreement** – We focus on power, interests, culture, history, economics — not slogans **This is not a safe space for ideology.** **It *is* a safe space for honest thinking.** In Brussels, there are already debate initiatives that offer structured discussions. Too often, however, a small circle curates skewed propositions and narrows the range of acceptable conclusions, turning moderation into gatekeeping . There are also plenty of spaces dedicated to repeating anti-American slogans or reducing complex geopolitics to partisan outrage. This forum is not one of them. Our approach is different. **We welcome genuine diversity of opinion and lived experience.** No one here will be cancelled, banned, or shamed for challenging dominant narratives. Ideas are debated openly; personal attacks and defamation are not tolerated. **Motions & Proposals Welcome** We actively encourage participants to propose motions for debate. If you suggest a motion, please do so with substance: a clear claim, basic historical or legal grounding, and an understanding of the stakes involved. Motions designed to provoke thinking are welcome; motions designed to score points or repeat media talking points are not. **Languages** The language of discussion will depend on the participants present. Debates are typically held in English and French, but we are comfortable switching or accommodating other languages when the moderation team can support it. Languages we can currently handle include: – English – French – Dutch – Spanish – Italian – Russian – Farsi The goal is understanding, not linguistic purity. When needed, participants may clarify or translate key points to ensure everyone can follow the discussion. If you speak more than one language, that’s an asset here ### **What We Ask of Participants** – Come to understand, not to perform or “win” – Be genuinely open to **new ideas and perspectives**, especially those that challenge your own – Speak from **knowledge**, not slogans — history, law, and context matter – If you bring a topic, come prepared: facts, timelines, sources, and legal or historical grounding are encouraged – Argue **ideas**, never individuals – No censorship of viewpoints – No personal attacks – No defamation or accusations against individuals **Strong disagreement is not only accepted — it is expected.** **Intellectual laziness is not.** **This is not a dating meetup.** Not every social space exists for flirting, hitting on people, or testing romantic opportunities. Anyone who treats this forum as a dating pool, approaches others with unwanted advances, or assumes participation implies romantic availability is misunderstanding the purpose of this group. Conversation comes first. Ideas come first. Respect comes first. If you are here primarily to date, pursue, or pressure others, this is not the right space for you. Boundaries are enforced. Discomfort is taken seriously. **Those who ignore this will be immediately asked to leave.** **Location & RSVP** The event will take place in Ixelles, in a public bar. To keep the discussion safe, focused, and accountable, the exact venue will be shared only with confirmed RSVPs via our WhatsApp chat. Depending on the final size of the group, we have several appropriate and secure venue options in the area. This allows us to: – Adapt the venue to the group size – Avoid disruptive or bad-faith behavior common to fully open meetups – Prevent meetup creeps and repeat offenders – Ensure everyone present respects the rules of conduct 👉 To RSVP and receive the location: **https://chat.whatsapp.com/LX7UkWGZ3UdLQWLBvNdezN** The goal is not exclusivity, but accountability and quality of discussion. If this format doesn’t suit you, this event may not be the right fit.

News from the Middle East, and from Iran in particular, has been stark. Following months of nationwide unrest and a severe state crackdown, casualty estimates vary widely and remain difficult to verify, ranging from official figures in the thousands to independent claims far higher. In late February 2026, Israel and the United States began a major military campaign against Iran, with publicly stated objectives ranging from degrading Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities to calls that imply, or explicitly seek, regime change. Reports also indicate that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been killed during the strikes. Understanding this moment requires more than headlines; it requires historical perspective. Modern Iran’s relationship with Western powers has been shaped by deep mistrust. In 1953, the UK and the US backed a covert operation that overthrew Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh after his government moved to nationalise Iran’s oil industry. For many Iranians, the coup became a lasting symbol of foreign interference and a denial of democratic sovereignty. The decades that followed were marked by repression under the Shah and intense geopolitical competition and helped set the conditions for the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which replaced the monarchy with a theocratic system under Ayatollah Khomeini. Since then, relations with the West have been defined by sanctions, nuclear diplomacy, regional conflicts involving allied armed groups, and sharply competing visions of order in the region. The reported death of Khamenei may be seen by some as an opening for change inside Iran, and by others as a trigger for instability: succession struggles, hard-line consolidation, fragmentation, or a prolonged power vacuum. Externally, it raises urgent questions about escalation, international law, civilian protection, and the long-term consequences of force. This evening, we will explore the broader forces shaping the conflict rather than reducing it to simple narratives: * What weight does history carry in shaping today’s realities? * How do foreign interventions alter domestic political trajectories? * Can external pressure promote reform or does it entrench authoritarianism? * How should states balance strategic interests with international law and human rights? Join us for a discussion that seeks to unpack the historical roots, competing narratives, and moral complexities surrounding Iran and the wider regional crisis. This debate will follow a British Parliamentary format with eight debaters split into **four teams of two.** Participants who wish to speak are highly encouraged to bring a paper and pen. You are welcome to participate even if you have no prior debating experience. We aim for debates that are respectful, constructive, and welcoming: * **Respect ideas and people** Listen actively, stay quiet while others speak, and debate arguments, not identities or beliefs. * **Be concise and civil** Keep questions short and relevant; avoid hostility, hate speech, or discrimination. * **Respect boundaries and time** No unwanted advances or suggestive behavior; arrive on time to avoid disrupting the debate. * **Follow moderators** They guide the discussion and ensure fairness.

Welcome to our card games night. We will play on Wednesday from 19h-21h at CHEZWaWa Châtelain, a small restaurant. The address is Rue Américaine 91, 1050 Brussels. (Be careful, there also is another CHEZWaWa restaurant.) Please arrive on time. Feel free to call Bruno if you need directions or have questions at +32 485 298 713. We'll bring a selection of games, and you are welcome to bring any of your own. The restaurant serves delicious Mexican-Californian food you might wanna try. It will be available until 20h30. Our group gets a 10% discount on food. We encourage you to have at least a drink, it helps to keep the business running ;) If you like, you can also come a bit earlier for a chat or a snack. We'll be there from 18h30. Katja and Bruno

Parade briefings for the existing and new Volunteers and last stage planning . CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS – ST PATRICK’S DAY PARADE BRUSSELS 2026 We meet to allow persons working in the City Centre to come along after work and learn how they can help with the Parade Organisation. Volunteers from all nationalities are welcome. More Volunteer Meetings will be organised in the coming days. Come along and briefed and see how you can help. We meet at Les Halles Saint Géry Cultural Centre, this is where the Parade will start on Sunday 15th at 13.30. The 18th Brussels Saint Patrick’s Day Parade of the Nations & Regions takes place on Sunday 15th March 2026. We are looking for stewards, musicians, social media helpers and community volunteers to help bring next year’s St Patrick’s Day Parade to life. The parade celebrates the Irish national holiday and the global story of Irish people who have made their homes around the world. Here in Brussels, it is a chance to share Irish art, music, and culture with the wider community and to welcome everyone, Irish or not, into the spirit of inclusion and openness. The event also shines a light on Brussels as a diverse and international capital. It brings together people from many nations and regions, highlights the city’s architecture and heritage, and shows how Belgium and Ireland share long and surprising links stretching back to the 6th century. By joining the volunteer team, you will help create a lively, family-friendly day in the heart of the city. Your support helps us grow a parade that reflects the best of Brussels and strengthens the bonds between our communities. If you would like to get involved, message us here or contact 📧 patricks.day.parade(at)gmail.com

**Est-il possible de réussir sa vie sans passer son temps à la mettre en scène ?** Nous vivons dans l'ère du "Moi" triomphant. Entre la pression de la performance professionnelle et l’image idéale que nous projetons sur les réseaux sociaux, notre égo est devenu un tyran domestique : il veut toujours avoir raison, être admiré, et redoute par-dessus tout d'être ignoré. Mais à quel prix ? Cette course à la reconnaissance nous laisse souvent épuisés, anxieux et, paradoxalement, déconnectés des autres. **Et si le secret d'une vie apaisée résidait dans l'art de "relativiser" ce Moi encombrant ?** Lors de ce dialogue philosophique, nous irons au-delà des apparences pour explorer : * **Le piège de la reconnaissance :** Pourquoi avons-nous si peur de ne pas "briller" ? * **La force du retrait :** S'effacer un peu, est-ce une faiblesse ou une liberté suprême ? * **Les pistes de sagesse :** Ce que les philosophies d'Orient et d'Occident nous enseignent pour apprivoiser ce "Moi" qui nous gouverne. Pas besoin d'être un expert en philosophie pour participer. Venez avec votre vécu, vos doutes et votre envie de débattre dans un esprit de bienveillance et d'écoute. ✨ **Venez tester une nouvelle manière d'être au monde, où la paix intérieure compte enfin plus que le regard des autres.** *** **Infos pratiques :** * **Tarif :** 5€ (boisson comprise) * **Esprit :** Échange ouvert, respectueux et accessible à tous.

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! 🍶🎤

You can now join us for some friendly Badminton games on Wednesdays too! All levels welcome! IMPORTANT: in order to secure your place you’ll need to both book a spot on Meetup AND pay €8 by Sunday 18h00. This is to make sure we can cancel courts if demand isn’t there, and make sure we’re being fair to people on the waiting list. Refunds will only be possible after Monday AM if another player is definitely able to take your spot Always worth joining our Whatsapp group as well for faster, often better, updates: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FTipqtyIwcZLThbw8KpQtZ?mode=gi_t

Making new friends in a new city doesn’t need to be a struggle at all.

Socializing and Networking 🛜🆕 at PLUX on Thursday. Making new friends and drinking 🚰🎈🎉🚿🌊. Everybody Welocme, locals, expats or new 🆕 in town.

**Claddagh Toastmasters of Brussels Social & ‘Write a Limerick’ Soirée** As part of the Brussels Saint Patrick’s Day Parade of the Nations & Regions celebrations, the city of Limerick on the Shannon river in the Midwest of Ireland is honoured with the presentation of the Limerick Shamrock Bowl to the City of Brussels during the Brussels Saint Patrick’s Day Parade of the Nations & Regions. After the Parade there is Irish & Limerick evening at Les Halles Saint Géry with a Trad Irish & Folk session. Claddagh Toastmasters of Brussels as part of this evening organise a social evening & ‘Write a Limerick’ Soirée from 6pm. Prior to this there is a lively Jazz Session from 5pm. Everyone Welcome, Admission Free. A Limerick is a humorous poem consisting of five lines with a specific rhythm and rhyme scheme. To write a Limerick, start with the first, second, and fifth lines rhyming with each other, while the third and fourth lines form a shorter rhyming pair. Typically, the syllable pattern is 8-8-5-5-8, which gives the poem its distinctive bouncy feel. Begin by thinking of a funny or unexpected topic, then craft your lines to fit the AABBA rhyme scheme. Use playful language, and don’t be afraid to be a bit silly—Limericks often feature clever wordplay and light-hearted content. Once you’ve drafted your poem, read it aloud to ensure the rhythm flows smoothly and the rhymes work together. If you cannot attend the event, you can submit your Limerick to Claddagh Toastmasters of Brussels claddagh.toastmasters\*\*(at)\*\*gmail.com. It will then be read out a the Claddagh Event. No profanities, offensive language entries will not be accepted or read. You must state it is an original work and your own creation and or without human co—writers, You must state if if is AI Generated. Topics could be Brussels,living in Belgium or some current topic affair. Bar and self-service restaurant at venue. Some examples of Limericks below . In Brussels, the streets turn to green, Saint Patrick’s Day brings quite the scene. With flags waving high, The parade marches by, And laughter and joy fill the sheen. In Brussels, where Guinness flows fast, Claddagh Toastmasters stand unsurpassed. With Irish charm they speak, Public speaking at its peak, The best club in town—unsurpassed! There once was a grand Irish parade, Where nations and regions displayed, In Brussels they danced, With flags all entranced, Saint Patrick’s green proudly portrayed. Claddagh Toastmasters helps you to develop your skills in public speaking, planning, leadership training, and managing your time. They aim is to provide a fun and social environment in which to practice your skills. You are invited to Claddagh Toastmasters, guests are most welcome and bring a friend if you wish. Meet on the 1st & 3rd Thursday of the month. Admission Free. You need also to register by email, as seats are limited. See email registration details below. Welcome coffee at 6.45 pm. Meeting starts at 7pm sharp. You ring the Claddagh designated bell to gain entry. We meet on the ground floor. Please note our venue: The Mug Co-working & Meeting Rooms Centre, Rue Charles Martel 8, Brussels 1000,

This Saturday 14.03 – Brussels Main Event **✩ Mont des Arts PARTY • BACK 2 MUSIC 2000-2010 • International Party at Plein Publiek • SAMEDI 14/03✩** →FACEBOOK INFO / [https://fb.me/e/9ofdQEUhs](https://fb.me/e/9ofdQEUhs) →PRIORITY PASS: SKIP THE LINE / [https://pleinpubliek.stager.co/shop/brussels/events/111602119](https://pleinpubliek.stager.co/shop/brussels/events/111602119) ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ So, are you ready to dance to the best hits of the 2000s & 2010s? “Who’ll be there?” Stromae, Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga, Rihanna, The Black Eyed Peas & many more artists to take you on a nostalgic ride... For some, it feels like yesterday, for others a bit further back. Do you remember? Let’s be honest, the 2000s & 2010s were legendary, right? Don’t miss it! ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ Info’s → Saturday, March 14, 2026 from 11:00 PM to 4:00 AM → Plein Publiek, Mont des Arts, 1000 Brussels & its Winter Terrace → Easy access by public transport, bike or scooter! → Management reserves the right of admission → Minimum age: 18 ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ Line-Up PALEXX, BOBOUNCE & Z00 UNCAGED FACEBOOK INFO / [https://fb.me/e/9ofdQEUhs](https://fb.me/e/9ofdQEUhs) → Plein Publiek Bxl, Mont des Arts, 1000 Brussels

Post Parade Jazz Session **17.00 -18.00** **Cork Jazz Festival Club of Brussels** with LJM Street Band (Lazy Jazzmen) Promoting the Ryanair Brussels South Charleroi Airport to Cork Airport in Ireland's sunny South. Admission Free, Kitchen and Bar open.

**Brussels Saint Patrick’s Europe Day Parade** **of the Nations & Regions:** On Sunday 15 March,2026 the Saint Patrick's Day Committee of Irish in Europe Association organise the 18th annual Brussels Saint Patrick´s Day Parade of the Nations & Regions. Starting from Halles Saint Géry and will be at the Grand Place at 3.30 pm. Assembling at Les Halles Saint Gery at 1.00pm and moving off at 13.30. The 17th of March is the national holiday of Ireland. Saint Patrick's Day is celebrated in every corner of the world and parades take place in over 140 cities annually where Irish communities have settled. These global celebrations are a symbolic of the impact that a small country has had through the movement of its people. The parade is centrally important as it brings different aspects of Irish art, music and culture out into the public sphere and invites everyone, Irish or not, to celebrate positive values of inclusion, openness and community. For Brussels, the parade highlights the city's position as diverse, international capital and strengthens the bonds between two small European countries with a lot of shared history. In recognition of Brussels being the capital of Belgium, Flanders, and the European Union, we aim to have our Parade, as in New York, to be truly a ´Melting Pot´ Parade of many cultures that the Irish bring together for one day in the year, invite everyone to ´´Wear the Green´- the symbolic colour of Ireland ´and be Irish on the day. It is for this reason that our multicultural Parade in Brussels aims to be a Parade of the Nations & Regions Our Parade will again be a historical stroll of discovery that will not only celebrate Irish culture but also help promote the architectural heritage of Brussels. Many people in Belgium and around the world will learn, from the Parade publicity about the Brussels of the past and present, its little-known side-streets and cobbled squares bedecked by its century’s old monuments. Along the Parade route, we will embrace the stories of the past, the local customs, and the traditions of the historic streets. As an evolution of these stories, we will weave in the Irish story to create new Irish traditions and ceremonies that will become the Brussels stories of tomorrow and for generations to come. Brussels Saint Patrick´s Day Parade starting at Les Halles Saint Géry. **Every one welcome to ‘Wear the Green’' &‘Be Irish & for the Day’!!!!** On Sunday 15 March Led by the Brussels Caledonian (Corneymusers) Pipe Band. Concert Band Landen, and the LJM Street Band( Lazy jazzmen) Individuals Music & Dance Groups, Social, Sporting and Cultural organisations welcome to walk in Parade-No entry fee! Groups & organisations please let us know you are walking in Parade!!! Write to: Parade Secretary: patricks.day.parade(at)gmail.com Organised by Europe Association (International) aisbl (IEAI). info(at)irishineurope.org • What to bring Come along ´Wear the Green´´and be Irish for the Day!! Cultural and Civic Society groups of all nationalities are welcome to attend and walk in the Parade.. Only rule, no Party political slogans on banners are allowed. Everyone Welcome! If you would like to help out in the organisation of the Parade or know of any group that could participate in the Parade,please contact our Parade Secretary at: patricks.day.parade(at)gmail.com If you wish to help the Parade in any way, please contact the Parade Committee at [patricks.day.parade@gmail.com](http://mailto:patricks.day.parade@gmail.com/) Donations to: Irish in Europe Association International -IEAI Bank transfer to the IEAI Bank Account by using these details: Account name: IEAI, held at Crelan, Parc 50Naire IBAN BE82 8601 1591 3968 When you make a donation, please confirm to [info@irishineurope.org](http://mailto:info@irishineurope.org/) to allow a receipt to be issued to you. Details of the Parade Route Map will be available on [www.irishineurope.org](http://www.irishineurope.org/) on 11 March. Details of the Parade Grand Marshal, Parade Ceremonies, pre-parade and post-parade concerts/workshops can be viewed closer to parade date on [https://www.meetup.com/Irish-in-Europe/](https://www.meetup.com/Irish-in-Europe/) .

Hi everyone, This coffee morning event is @MIR Concept Coffee Store! Saturday, 14 March 2026, from 10:00 - 13:00. MIR opened its doors about 4 years ago, right off Place Jourdan. Doriana, the owner, is a super nice host, and is excited to have our group as her café. The café is very beautiful and has great coffee, and many yummy food options. Their Instagram channel: https://www.instagram.com/mirconceptstore/ **The address is:** MIR Concept Coffee Store Rue Gray 4A 1040 Etterbeek *** 1. The **prime time** of the event is **10:30 - 12:30**. That's when most people will be there. 2. When you enter the gallery, it's either on the right-hand side or left-hand side of its hallway, depending which entrance you take. 3. If you intend **to join past 12:00** (high noon), then there is no need to register. Just come and join! 4. **DON'T forget to cancel** if you can't join! 5. **Please, be respectful towards each other during the event. (And after ;))** **As always, feel free to follow us on INSTAGRAM!** [https://instagram.com/weekendmorningcoffee?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==](https://instagram.com/weekendmorningcoffee?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==) **THE STRUCTURE of THE EVENT:** * I will post the event on Saturday/Sunday evening for the following Saturday. * I send out a reminder to everyone on Friday. * There is sometimes a waiting list. * In case RSVP is closed (once there are 10-15 people on the waiting list), I might reopen it on Friday, depending on the number of cancellations in the meantime. * **For everyone on the waiting,** please check your status and messages on Friday evening the latest. I message everyone on the waiting list on Friday. * **Please, move to "not going" AS SOON AS you know that you can't come anymore, that includes everyone who is on the waiting list.** **IMPORTANT:** * **Please, be respectful towards each other during the event. (And after ;))** * When you register yourself, be careful not to register accidentally a +1 guest (unless you bring a guest). It happens very often. * If you have any questions then, message me. *** **A MESSAGE FOR NEWCOMERS:** *In the three years of hosting this coffee group, I have met many people who struggle with anxieties when coming to an event for the first time. Sometimes, it took them more than one attempt before being able to join.* *Occasionally, people reach out to me before the event, and I have always been grateful for that as it offers the opportunity to communicate with each other and to find the best and most gentle way for that person to join the group.* *I would like to encourage everyone who struggles with this to contact me before. It would really be too bad if you can't join us, as it mostly gets better the second or third time you come.* *In addition to that, if you arrive and notice any signs of nervousness or fear, you can always let me know right then.* **THANK YOU AND SEE YOU ALL ON Saturday!**

Free at Bexley Library Adventures in Ecological Horticulture with Rebecca McMackin Wednesday, March 18 1:00pm - 2:30pm Gone are the days when a garden could be ornamental alone. We now recognize the impact that our land care practices have on the ecosystems around us, and can see the importance of encouraging biodiversity. Thankfully, we do not need to sacrifice beauty when we invite butterflies and songbirds into our gardens. Rebecca McMackin has cultivated gorgeous landscapes in the toughest environments possible: urban parks, school playgrounds, and the sidewalks of New York City. She will take lessons from her work at Brooklyn Bridge Park, the Brooklyn Museum, and decades of research to share how those of us who are fortunate enough to care for land, can do it beautifully and ecologically. Rebecca McMackin is an ecologically obsessed horticulturist and garden designer. She writes, lectures, and teaches on ecological landscape management and pollination ecology, as well as designs the rare public garden. She is currently Lead Horticulturist for the American Horticultural Society, an Associate with the Harvard Divinity School’s Thinking with Plants and Fungi Initiative, and Consulting Arboretum Curator for Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx, NY. Rebecca spent a decade as Director of Horticulture of Brooklyn Bridge Park, where she managed 85 acres of diverse parkland organically. Their research into cultivating urban biodiversity and ethical management strategies has influenced thousands of people and entire urban parks systems to adopt similar approaches. She has been published by and featured in the New York Times, Gardens Illustrated, on NPR and PBS. Her garden for the Brooklyn Museum recently won the PPA’s Award of Excellence and her TED Talk has been viewed over a million times. She holds M.Sc. from Columbia University and University of Victoria in landscape design and biology and recently completed the Loeb Fellowship at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. This program is presented in partnership with Rooted in Bexley and generously funded by the Bexley Community Foundation and Bexley Community Author Series Fund.

**💘 Online Speed Dating – Skip the Awkwardness, Enjoy the Fun – Beginners Welcome!** **⚠️ RSVP ≠ Registration!** Your Meetup RSVP on its own does **not** lock in a spot. You must click your age group link below, finish registration, and complete the personality quiz. **Places are limited** and go quickly! **⬇️ Choose Your Age Range & Finish Registration:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=rose-quartz-singles-collective&ar=18-32&face_v=7.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=rose-quartz-singles-collective&ar=30-46&face_v=7.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=rose-quartz-singles-collective&ar=40-58&face_v=7.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=rose-quartz-singles-collective&ar=55+&face_v=7.0) --- 😌 **Dating doesn't have to be stressful.** That's exactly why we built this! Whether you've never speed dated or haven't been on a proper date in ages, this event is for you. Our welcoming format and skilled hosts make everyone feel at home from the very start. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Singles who feel uneasy about meeting in person and prefer starting from home - Newcomers who want a relaxed, hosted experience - Singles who value a guided, hosted dating format - First-time speed daters excited to try something different **How It Works** 1. **Sign Up for Your Age Group** – Pick the session that matches your age range above and finish registration. 2. **Answer a Few Quick Questions** – Our quiz helps pair you with compatible Indianapolis singles. 3. **Log In & Get Comfortable** – Join the Zoom call and let the evening begin. Your host handles all the logistics! 4. **Date from Home** – Have real, meaningful mini-dates with Indianapolis singles – all from your sofa. 5. **Discover Your Matches** – We’ll let you know about any mutual interest afterwards. The rest is up to you! **Event Details** - **Format:** Virtual via Zoom – relaxed, low-key from wherever you are - **Location:** From your lounge, study, or anywhere else you fancy - **Host:** Encouraging facilitator experienced in helping first-timers enjoy speed dating - **Vibe:** Fun, hosted conversations that make meeting Indianapolis singles a breeze 💡 **First-timer tip:** Don’t overthink it – just be yourself! That's what people find most attractive. ⭐ *"I was really nervous, but the host made it so easy. I met someone wonderful on my very first try!"* – Newcomer from Indianapolis --- ✨ Real people, real conversations, real connections – all from your living room. 🫶 ✨

Let’s meet, wander the exhibits and open galleries, and enjoy an evening out in the Franklinton Arts District. (Nearby pay parking is available in the garage on McDowell, right around the corner from One Line Coffee, and, past it along the curb as McDowell dead ends.)

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 want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."