Careers for Greater Social Impact

'HOW TO FIND YOUR BASIC PURPOSE' A Life Improvement free workshop with Maria Bennett. In this a live in-venue workshop: \- Do you know your basic purpose? \- What makes a person's basic purpose? \- Practical drills to help you define your own basic purpose\. Pen and paper provided,so - let's get stuck in!! Using information taken from the book '*Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health*' by L. Ron Hubbard. *Testimonial:* *"Great seminar. I liked how you took us through step by step and we found our own basic purposes. It is a common basic purpose for all, I believe. I realised that the spiritual is more important to me than anything else. My purpose is to help others and the webinar validated things I do. I liked how the participants feel free to communicate their situations. My win was that I can use your method to help others find their basic purpose too. Thanks!" - VR* Maria: I have worked at the Scientology Life Improvement Centre helping and coaching others for over 20 years. I enjoy this a lot! I have access to tools that anyone can put to use in their life to make the positive improvements that they may be looking for. I look forward to meeting you. What can you do after the workshop? We have various other free services that you could do - such as the free personality test. We also have a lot of Life Improvement Courses. These focus on specific areas of life to help 'unblock' them, put your actual abilities to use!

**Dead Product Society \| After Work Drinks** Come along, bring a friend/colleague or two and join us for a relaxed evening of informal product and tech chats over a few drinks and doughnuts. We aim to connect everyone without awkwardness or LinkedIn spiel, and value good conversation over boring presentations. **Who is welcome?** Product Managers, CEOs, UX/UI Designers, Developers, Scrum Masters etc. We welcome anyone who works in, with or wants to break into product. *Note: We intentionally keep our After Work Drinks on the smaller side to allow for more in-depth conversations.* **The Bike Shed** We'll be hanging out in the lounge area (behind the area with all the tables, next to the store). \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Dead Product Society** Dead Product Society is a collective of like-minded professionals sharing real-talk and joining forces to navigate the twists and turns of the product world. Our down-to-earth community is for anyone who works in, with or wants to break into product teams regardless of their background or experience. **Our Sponsors** Shout out to our generous sponsors at Waggel Pet Insurance; Lifetime pet insurance, simplified. With their support we are able to host these events for you and create a space for those important, honest conversations.

"Help isn’t coming. And even if it does… you might not want it." – Survival isn’t just about staying alive — it’s about keeping your mind when everything else goes feral. 📅 **Date:** Wednesday, 12 February 2026 🕕 **Show Time:** 19:10 🧭 **Meeting Time:** 18:00 outside Cineworld Crawley to get a drink or dinner or 18:50 📍 **Cinema Address:** Unit 1, Crawley Leisure Park, Crawley, RH10 8LR (15 mins walk from Crawley Station) 🎬 **Screening Type:** 2D 🪑 **Screen:** 2 🎟 **My Seat:** R15 *** ### 🎬 About the Film: **SEND HELP** comes from **Sam Raimi — the legendary director of *Evil Dead* and *Drag Me to Hell***. That means one thing: beautifully controlled chaos. What begins like an ordinary situation mutates into a survival nightmare where panic, personality, and bad decisions collide. Raimi doesn’t just scare you — he makes you laugh at the exact moment you shouldn’t. Beneath the madness, the film teases some great questions: • Who are we when modern comfort disappears? • Are we capable in a crisis – or just people with low phone batteries? • When pressure hits, do we trust, betray, or turn everything into content? • And why, in true Raimi style, is disaster sometimes uncomfortably hilarious? Expect tension, dark humour, and that signature Raimi energy where horror and comedy wrestle for control. *** ### 🧭 Meeting Point: Let’s meet at **18:00 or 18:50 outside Cineworld Crawley** — quick hellos, snacks if needed, then we head in together before things get messy on screen. 🪑 I’m in **Seat R15, Screen 2** — feel free to book next to me 😀. *** ### 🎟 Booking Info: Book via Cineworld Crawley: https://www.cineworld.co.uk/films/send-help *** ### 💬 After the Movie: Optional drink nearby to unpack the madness: – Are we really as capable as we imagine, or just well-charged spectators of our own lives? – Does crisis reveal character — or create it? Relaxed chat, mixed views welcome, no deep film knowledge needed. 📱 Need to reach me? WhatsApp: 07830374629 *** Because some films don’t just entertain — they test you. Let’s press **Send Help** together.

The first session of Menus of Conversation in 2026 will be on Thursday 12th February from 7pm onwards. We will be in the bar section on the ground floor - when you arrive, if you are trying to figure out where exactly we are in the venue, just keep an eye out for the people enjoying themselves! I have started drawing event posters and will draw another poster for next month. I would love it if you would be so kind as to check them out now on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/menusofconversation/ **Price** The event is a pay what you can event. You can tip whatever you think has been a fair price for your event experience. The suggested tip is a minimum of £4-5. You can pay with cash or card on the night. PS, if you've been before, please take a minute to complete my survey! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NZSZD88 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/menusofconversation/ and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/New-Conversation-104308482323373 **Event Description** This is a social event where people have the chance to have a one-to-one conversation with someone they may or may not have met before using a 'conversation menu' (picture attached). A conversation menu is a list of pre-written conversation starter questions which participants use to have a conversation by discussing the different questions. The questions are generally about some of life's big questions and lead to some interesting conversations about important, fundamental topics which we certainly don't get the opportunity to discuss every day. Some might consider our events to be 'small-talk free zones'. The event brings people together and invites people to discuss topics and answer questions they don't get to discuss on a daily basis, especially with people they don't know. The idea is that the more we talk about topics we don't normally talk about, to people we don't normally talk to in our habitual social circles, the more opportunities, connections and possibilities we create for ourselves. If we discuss different topics with different people, then we achieve different results. Testimonials for the events held so far include: 'For me it was a brilliant success and hopefully it will be for many others. It is a simple idea simply executed, asking people to pair up and discuss a number of questions on a list. And it works! Although I vaguely knew my partner, the questions allowed us time to touch on areas that I think we would have been otherwise unlikely to ever discuss e.g. which parts of your life have been a waste of time?' 'Surprisingly good and thoroughly worthwhile. Suggested questions excellent.' ‘I can heartily recommend coming along to a conversation event. The questions were really thought provoking and led to some fascinating conversations. I really enjoyed the evening and I came away with feeling I’d learned a lot from my conversation partner.” ‘I thought it was a very interesting meeting. I thought it was interesting to try to answer personal questions and listen to the other person.’

A post-Valentine’s social for single people. Wine, luxury ice cream, and low-pressure mingling. ### [Single Sundae Sundays](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/single-sundae-sundays-a-post-valentines-social-tickets-1981852879312?aff=oddtdtcreator) *at Frankie’s Wine Bar, Portobello Road* Post-Valentine’s Day can feel a bit… *bleak* if you’re single. So instead of another awkward dating event or staying in scrolling, we’re doing something better! **Single Sundae Sundays** is a relaxed social event for single people who want to get out, meet new faces, make friends, and enjoy a Sunday afternoon - with wine and ice cream very much involved. This is not a speed-dating night. There’s no pressure, no pitching yourself, and no expectations. Come with a friend, come alone, chat to people at your own pace, or simply enjoy the atmosphere. If you meet someone you like, great! If you just have a nice time and leave with new connections, also great. We’ll be taking over the lovely **Frankie’s Wine Bar** on Portobello Road, the perfect setting for easy conversation, great bottles, and a cosy, social vibe. Your ticket includes: • A welcome glass of fizz on arrival • A luxury vegan ice cream tasting bar by Mama Dolce Ice Cream **Mama Dolce** is known for its free-from ice cream made with high-quality ingredients and rich, indulgent flavours. Guests will be able to sample six incredible flavours, with a toppings bar to build your own sundae. After that, the bar is open! Additional wine and drinks will be available to purchase throughout the event. Whether you’re newly single, long-term single, or just fancy a fun, low-pressure way to meet people post-Valentine’s, this is a space to be social, enjoy yourself, and ease back into mingling and making new friends - with a glass in hand and dessert included. Open to all genders. *Singles only!* Come as you are. The first five tickets booked on Meetup will be free, so get in quickly! We can take cash or card payment on the day for additional attendees, or [book with us here!](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/single-sundae-sundays-a-post-valentines-social-tickets-1981852879312?aff=oddtdtcreator)

Host: Yash \*This event is a collaboration with other meetup groups and social networks and it will be well attended \*To attend this event you need to buy a ticket from [https://www.fatsoma.com/e/fznbah1c/valentines-singles-social-party-with-karaoke-access-complimentary-glass-of-prosecco-rooftop-terrace-happy-hour-all-ages](https://www.fatsoma.com/e/fznbah1c/valentines-singles-social-party-with-karaoke-access-complimentary-glass-of-prosecco-rooftop-terrace-happy-hour-all-ages) Lets get together in a room full of friendly single people and possibilities to celebrate the valentines! Single people socialising and partying in the heart of London, while keeping their eyes open trying to spot that special one that will make their heart jump You are very welcome to attend alone or with friends. We will be there making introductions, helping break the ice,, and act as a glue in the group. We have a reserved area/table where we can mix and mingle, so that everybody can relax and feel comfortable and we get to know each other. and then we are going to move on the dance floor! Whether you are looking for a partner or just to meet and connect with other people who are at the same phase of life, this is the event for you! You never know who you are going meet in this evening and that is the beauty of it! You may find a friend forever, a party buddy, a partner in crime or a partner in life! Since this is a mix and mingle and not a speed dating there is no age range- in a social pool everybody is welcome and you can choose to speak to whoever you fancy. Connect with like minded people and open your social circle, enjoy chatting about anything and everything, with those you like, for as long as you like If you find somebody who you think you have a connection with, dare to ask their contact details right then and there... like the old times ;) Oh! and you don't need to ask the awkward question: 'so are you single?' because they all will be! Everyone arriving before 9pm receives a glass of prosecco (non alcoholic option available as well) Happy Hour till 8pm! Karaoke access after 11pm Dress code is smart/ elegant/ Smart Casual (smart dark jeans are fine but ripped jeans, sportswear, trainers/sportshoes and hats are not allowed). Zebrano Soho is a vibrant cocktail bar, restaurant, and nightclub in the beating heart of London’s most iconic entertainment district. Zebrano is more than just a venue – it’s a celebration of fun, flavour, and feel-good vibes. It offers amazing cocktails , great cuisine, multiple rooms and an outdoor rooftop terrace At Zebrano, we serve up delicious food, killer cocktails, and the best tunes in town – all in a space designed to make great nights unforgettable. Come for the vibe. Stay for the party. Leave with a story. For security reasons every guest must carry photographic ID with them (Driver’s License, European ID or Passport) independently of the age. Tickets are valid for entry till 11pm How to find us: When you arrive please ask to be directed to Marianna's Events area/ Yash. Any issue on the night feel free to contact Yash: 07774905462 For general inquires or difficulties with your ticket booking feel free to e- mail us at benetoupromotions@gmail.com or call Marianna on: 07949526733 How to connect with us: To see all our events please go to: [https://www.fatsoma.com/p/mariannas-events](https://www.fatsoma.com/p/mariannas-events) Like and follow our facebook page: [https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland](https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland) Join our facebook group: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514](https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514) Follow us on twitter:@Mariannasevents

\#\#\#\# Step 1: TAKE THE TEST The Oxford Capacity Analysis identifies 10 vital personality traits that influence your entire future. It is a factual, scientific analysis taken from your answers, and it takes about an hour to complete. \#\#\#\# Step 2: GET YOUR RESULTS After you complete the test, your personality analysis is generated and displayed. Within minutes your analysis will highlight your strengths and weaknesses—which personality traits to take advantage of and which need help. \#\#\#\# Step 3: CONSULTATION While the analysis graph shows distinct personality traits, it is the interrelationship of these traits that provides the greater picture of your personality. We provide a complimentary consultation with one of our trained staff, who will give a detailed evaluation of your personality analysis. In this one-on-one consultation, you gain a better understanding of your personality strengths and weaknesses, and establish the recommended path to your fast and lasting success.

Join me for this 2 day, in-person training in Elephant & Castle, London, where we will dive into the foundational principles and practices of Non Violent Communication (NVC). Whether your interest is to influence your professional, interpersonal, parental or personal communication style, we will explore together the transformational potential of NVC to support you to see and hear yourself and others from a fresh perspective. Armed this fresh perspective you will be equipped to find new ways through and around challenging situations that may previously have seemed unimaginable. **During our 2 days together we will begin to:** * Get curious about why our current strategies might not be supporting connection * Discover compassion and understanding for ourselves and others where there was previously blame and criticism * Find ways to communicate our intentions that are more likely to be heard * Tune our ears to hear what is really being said * Get creative about finding solutions to dilemmas that honour everyone’s needs * Learn and practice in a non judgemental space where you will be seen and heard for your needs The training will have an experiential focus drawing on small and large group activities and discussions to integrate the learning as a lived experience. To register go to: https://www.paulinedoohan.com/events/event-one-c8aad-m3cd9-gzmpb-wdj3b

Hostess: Ana \*This event is a collaboration with other meetup groups and social networks and it will be well attended \*To attend this event you need to buy a ticket from [https://www.fatsoma.com/e/zgt5hcu5/big-valentine-singles-social-home-grown-members-club-all-ages-welcome](https://www.fatsoma.com/e/zgt5hcu5/big-valentine-singles-social-home-grown-members-club-all-ages-welcome) Single on Valentine's day? Lets get together in a room full of friendly single people, roses and possibilities! Join us to celebrate valentines day like a royal, in an elegant and relaxed singles mix and mingle while enjoying luscious cocktails at the most exclusive venue! Single people mixing and mingling, enjoying conversations and keeping their eyes trying to spot that special one that will make their heart jump The event will not have any loud music, making the environment perfect for meaningful long conversations that will allow you to connect with the other attendees and get to know them! Whether you are looking for a partner or just to meet and connect with other people who are at the same phase of life, this the event for you! You never know who you meet in this evening and that is the beauty of it! You may find a friend forever, a party buddy, a partner in crime or a partner in life! Since this is a mix and mingle and not a speed dating there is no age range- in a social pool everybody is welcome and you can choose to speak to whoever you fancy. Connect with like minded people and open your social circle, enjoy chatting about anything and everything, with those you like, for as long as you like while sipping on the best cocktails in town made by award-winning mixologists. If you find somebody who you think you have a connection with, dare to ask their contact details right then and there... like the old times ;) Oh! and you don't need to ask the awkward question: 'so are you single?' because they all will be! You are welcome to arrive solo- most people do- or with friends, we will be there to welcome you, make you feel comfortable and act as the perfect glue among those who wish to. Attendees from past events always feel welcome and energised after our events. Our reputation says that we make the best events in London - so come and check by yourself! Home Grown is the private members’ club, not open usually to the public, set in a stunning six story Georgian building in the heart of Marylebone and part of the Home House Collection which exudes quality, sophistication and style. Hosting our event at Home Grown members club, with its home away-from-home atmosphere, is everything you could possibly want on a Saturday evening This is a unique opportunity to visit the venue which should not be missed! How to find us: When you arrive please come on the first floor . Any issue on the night feel free to contact Ana: 07801038091 or Marianna: 07949526733 Please Note: -Tickets need to be bought online and are not available at the door -Tickets are valid for entry till midnight -Dress code: Smart/ Elegant/Glamorous ( ripped jeans, t-shirts, hoodies, sportwear, sportshoes or trainers are not allowed) -A valid proof of ID (European Passport, Driving License, or Passport) is required upon arrival independently of the age for security reasons For general inquires or difficulties with your ticket booking feel free to e-mail us at benetoupromotions@gmail.com or call Marianna on: 07949526733 How to connect with us: Like and follow our facebook page: [https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland](https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland) Join our facebook group: [ https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514](https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514) Follow us on twitter:@Mariannasevents

Welcome to our **Free Event - Master the Art of Communication**! Join us at the Church of Scientology **Life Improvement Centre** to learn valuable basics of communication and skills that will help you in both your personal and professional life. During this event, you will learn some fundamentals of communication - what is it, what are the vital parts of the communication formula.... and have the opportunity to participate in these new skills. Hear from trained and experienced communicators, and practice communication techniques in a supportive environment. Whether you struggle with public speaking, conflict resolution, or simply want to improve your relationships, this is for you! Come and discover the power of knowledge and how to achieve effective communication. Find out how you could guide and control communication in your life! Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your communication abilities and connect with like-minded individuals. We look forward to seeing you here!

You want to do your best! You want to realise your potential! You want to make the right decisions at the right time! Obviously- you want to be a success! Do you have all the skills in place? Do you have areas in your life or personality that are weaker and you feel can stop you or hold you back? Would you like a free personal consultation to help locate your strengths and weaker areas? We can help you to maximise on your potential. If you would like a free 1 hour consult then register now! We have various times available for your own personal consultation This is hosted at the Scientology Life Improvement Centre in London. We use the Oxford Capacity Analysis test. https://www.scientology-london.org.uk/personality-test/

**This Valentine’s season whether you’re embracing self-love, celebrating with your partner, or enjoying a fun Galentine's gathering with friends, this event is for you. Join us for a delightful Pre-Valentine's Special with Coffee, Tarot Readings and Turkish Coffee Readings at Trade Roots Coffee Shop.** **What to Expect:** -Delicious Coffee and Friendly staff at Trade Roots Coffee Shop. \- Heart to Heart Tarot Readings with Jenny in a Curanderismot Tarot Experience\. Tarot readings offer insight and guidance to make empower decisions in matters of love\, family\, career and your life path\. -Turkish Coffee Readings with Babs: Experience the rich tradition of Coffee grounds reading with Babs, who will unveil the stories and information hidden in your cup. **Event Details:** Date: Thursday, February 12 Time: 1:00 PM - 5:30 PM Energy Exchange:Tarot Readings with Jenny $15 for 10 minutes Coffee readings with Babs $15 cash only, must buy a Turkish Coffee at Trade Roots for the reading. Location: Trade Roots Coffee Shop 5852 Washington Blvd, Arlington VA 22205. In the event of weather conditions not allowing us to be outdoors we will move the event upstairs to Curanderas Heart Mindfulness and Wellness unit 5. **Come for the brews, stay for the wisdom! We can’t wait to share this special day with you!** \*\*\*Tarot card readings and Coffee readings are not to take the place of professional legal, medical or financial advice\*\*\*

Michelle Arnold https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellearnold-/ and Robert Brandau https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertbrandau/ will tell stories and give examples of how relationships lead to business success and job search success. At the end of this seminar/webinar, there will be a brief Christian story.-------------------IF YOU ARE NEW TO Career-Confidence.org and want to learn about us via our team, here are some videos that we have done. PLEASE SUBSCRIBE to our channel and LIKE our videos.------ Career-Confidence.org, Laura Hamilton and Robert Brandau both long-time recruiters give you an overv iew. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R20iMmWWsas Doris McMillon of our Board of Directors https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNmOi9TsYGs&t=10s --Bruce, Silvia, and Mary Beth talk about the impact of Career-Confidence.org on their job search. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYtFRWzhKLo --Kim DeWitt Succinctly Talks about our Team https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSHCEK11jD0_ Cecilia and Nate – 2 of our Alumni give an overview of Career-Confidence.org. perspective. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNstYHVnfAA --Sara's Experience with Career-Confidence.org - Surprise Ending – Pre-Covid https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEuKuvZyEYE&t=51s Kathi Galiano’s Article which Sara references. https://www.career-confidence.org/my-experience-with-career-confidence-org-by-kathi-gagliano/

Kevin Elwell of Get A Head Shot [https://getaheadshot.net/](https://getaheadshot.net/) will be donating his photography talents to help motivated job seekers by giving them professional headshots to use on LinkedIn and other sites. [https://www.linkedin.com/in/getaheadshot/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/getaheadshot/) After registering, you will receive a SignUp Genius to reserve your 15 minute slots. In preparation of this event, [https://getaheadshot.net/preparing-for-your-session/](https://getaheadshot.net/preparing-for-your-session/) At the end of this session, you will receive 1 Free Image to use. There are some people who (wisely) chose to purchase photographic touch ups and other services.

Hybrid registration links at https://greatcareers.org/events-calendar/career-success-group-job-seeker-accountability-networking-23/ The Career Success Group is a networking meeting held on the 2nd Monday and 4th Thursday of each month from 9:30-10:30 AM ET with [Kevin Keene](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinekeene/). Join us if you are looking for a new opportunity, to grow your career, or if you are in a job transition. 1. Practice your elevator pitch in a safe space 2. Check-in for accountability 3. Set goals for your job search for the week 4. Meet others to build your LinkedIn network 5. Learn about upcoming events 6. Ask questions **CHAPTER LEADER** [Kevin Keene](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinekeene/) kekeene@comcast.net

## **1 Million Cups Loudoun – February 25 Business Presentation** **Featuring Jennifer Zitelli, Founder of ESL Thrive** **Wednesday\, February 25 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun** Join us at 1 Million Cups Loudoun as we welcome **Jennifer Zitelli**, founder of **ESL Thrive**, for a dynamic conversation focused on workforce communication, business growth, and supporting employees for long-term success. **About the Business** ESL Thrive provides **on-the-job English training designed specifically for business success**. Through customized instruction, Jennifer helps employees gain the language skills they need to communicate effectively, perform confidently, and thrive in their roles — ultimately strengthening the businesses they support. Her programs are tailored to meet the real-world needs of small businesses, ensuring employees learn practical workplace language that directly impacts productivity, team collaboration, and customer experience. **Who Jennifer Is Looking to Hear From** Jennifer is seeking feedback from business owners and leaders in industries such as: * Hospitality * Home services * Restaurants * Retail * Any business with employees whose first language is not English **Current Business Focus & Barriers** As ESL Thrive continues to grow, Jennifer is looking for insight around: * Overcoming barriers to business growth * Strengthening marketing strategy * Expanding business development efforts * Effectively reaching her target markets This is an excellent opportunity to share your perspective while supporting a business dedicated to empowering both employers and employees. **Why Attend?** * Learn about a service that directly impacts workplace success * Provide valuable feedback to a growing business * Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and community leaders * Be part of a collaborative, solutions-focused conversation **What is 1 Million Cups?** 1 Million Cups is a national program that brings entrepreneurs and communities together to learn, connect, and grow through presentations and discussion. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays each month. Join us on **February 25 at 9:00 AM** for coffee, connection, and a meaningful conversation about communication, workforce development, and business growth. We look forward to seeing you there!

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Hidden Cleopatra,”** an excavation through myth and slander to uncover the real Egyptian queen, with Jacquelyn Williamson, an Egyptologist and associate professor of archaeology and ancient art at George Mason University. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/hidden-cleopatra](https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/hidden-cleopatra) .] Depictions of Cleopatra are abundant in popular culture. A long list of painters have depicted her, Marilyn Monroe and Kim Kardashian have posed as her, and Vivien Leigh and Elizabeth Taylor famously portrayed her in Hollywood films. At the end of the day, however, what most of us think we know about Cleopatra is wrong, the product of the ancient Rome’s “fake news” and anti-Egypt propaganda. Learn about the real Cleopatra—and how our understanding of her came to be so distorted—with Professor Jacquelyn Williamson, scholar of women and power in ancient Egypt, teacher of courses on ancient Egyptian art and archaeology, and author of *Nefertiti’s Sun Temple: A New Cult Complex at Tell el-Amarna.* Dr. Williamson will walk us through how the first Roman emperor, Octavian, created the distorted image of Cleopatra as seductress that we know today as part of his political scheming to defeat his rival Antony and end the Roman Republic once and for all. Cleopatra has been the subject of debate and controversy ever since. William Shakespeare later relied on ancient Roman sources such as Horace and Plutarch in writing *Antony and Cleopatra*, and his play helped give rise to countless other works offering a distorted picture of her. Professor Williamson argues that “Cleopatra was a human being, like you and I,” and “deserves the dignity of being represented as accurately as possible.” Her efforts to set the record straight have met frustration, however—after being extensively interviewed for the recent Netflix historical docuseries Queen Cleopatra, she concluded that it, too, had missed the mark. You’ll gain a much deeper appreciation of the challenges of researching and accurately depicting the ancient past from Dr. Williamson, who also has taught at Harvard, Brandeis, and the University of California at Berkeley and is involved with an ongoing archaeological investigation of Queen Nefertiti’s sun temple. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Layla Taj portrays Cleopatra VII as part of an Egyptian Cultural Performing Arts Society production. (Photo by Amos Gvili / Wikimedia Commons.)