Contracting Opportunities

It's the Festival of Genomics once again! The premier UK event for genetic, omics, precision medicine, biomedical data and more, packed full of talks and stands. Most of the BioinformaticsLondon crew will be there. If you haven't got your ticket already, go to: https://festivalofgenomics.com/london/ *Tickets are free for most people. If you're unemployed or job-seeking, there is a special avenue for getting free tickets. See the website. If you fall into the category of people who have to pay for tickets (mostly sales, vendors and recruiters), unfortunately we can't help.* Wednesday is the drinks and mixer event at the Festival. We'll start there and migrate to a pub outside where non-ticketholders can join us. Updates will appear here, in comments on this meetup and in our Whatsapp group. Tentatively: * Wednesday, day 1 * Talks end about 5:40pm * Drinks inside the festival start about 6pm. Be warned that there are usually long queues for the singular free drink you might get. We'll meet at the genomics bubble tent from about 6 to 7pm * 7pm we'll migrate to the Fox, the large pub at the Western entrance of Excel. Our usual talks will resume in February. Details to be posted soon.

**Bookable via our website ➡️** **⋆⋆⋆** **Suitable for:** Absolute beginners. No prior experience in woodworking or woodcarving is required for this course. **About:** Learn classic joints, such as a mortice and tenon and dovetails, over the course of several weeks as you learn to make a lovely hinged, panelled door cabinet. If you hanker after a really useful item to take home with you, this versatile cabinet is an amazing piece of joinery to learn how to make. Made from seasoned pine, this classic project will teach you how to make an accurate wood frame, with a hinged, paneled door. The completed cabinet is 435mmH x 300mmW x 140mmD. You will have the opportunity of learning classic joints, such as a mortice and tenon and dovetails, as you build your skills week by week. You will use measuring and marking tools, hand tools, including chisels, smoothing, plough and rebate planes. Over 6 or 12 weeks, we will cover many aspects of traditional joinery tuition. This content rich class will suit everybody who wants to learn a lot in a short time. Len Conway, a very experienced craftsperson and tutor will explain each part of the process and instil lifelong good habits as well as tips for improving accuracy if you have some woodwork experience.

We are back to it after a much needed break & we're kicking things off with a London.js fan favourite... Join us, **London.js,** on **Wednesday 28th January** from **6pm-8.30pm** hosted at **Accurx**, sponsored by **Flagsmith** 📣 Register now to avoid disappointment as London.js access is limited and spaces fill fast! Doors open at 6:00pm, talks will start at 6:30pm, ends 8.30pm ish. Address - 7 Curtain Rd, London EC2A 3LT Map - [https://maps.app.goo.gl/wqccD89qckbsuWz67](https://maps.app.goo.gl/wqccD89qckbsuWz67) 🎤 **Our** **January Talks** 🎤 **Vahid Mohammadi** - *Lead Frontend Engineer at Accurx* \- 'Visualising and Enabling Code Migrations at Scale' Migrating large codebases is challenging. This talk explores how we built tooling to make migrations visible and actionable: custom linting tools to detect deprecated patterns, migration dashboards to track them, and GitHub annotation integration to catch issues in PRs without failing CI during the migration. **Kyle Johnson** - *Co-Founder at Flagsmith* \- 'Feature Flags: A Safety Net in the AI Era' AI's promise - speed and efficiency - is only half true. It's fast, but it's not efficient. Teams still need to comb through, test, and fix AI-assisted code in order to minimise risk. Without feature flags, the bottleneck simply moves. Learn how developers can implement release strategies that remove that bottleneck. **Elena Calvo Carazo** - *Software Engineer at TryHackMe* \- 'Models Gone Rogue: Securing AI Integrations' Your AI features work great... until someone tries to hack them. Unlike traditional REST calls, natural language inputs and unpredictable model outputs expand the attack surface in ways developers don't expect. This talk explores four real-world vulnerability categories (prompt injection, malicious output, denial of wallet, and data spillage) and practical defence-in-depth techniques you can start implementing today to prevent them. **Our Hosts** **Accurx** is on a mission to make healthcare communication simple. The platform is used by thousands of healthcare teams across the NHS to connect with patients and colleagues quickly and securely. With a strong engineering culture and a modern tech stack, Accurx is solving complex problems that have a real impact on people's lives. **Our sponsor** **Flagsmith** is an open source feature flag tool. Use Flagsmith to ship faster and control releases with feature flag management. Roll out, segment, and optimise—with granular control. Use our hosted API, deploy to your own private cloud, or run on-premise. **[Find Flagsmith on GitHub](https://github.com/flagsmith/flagsmith)** or **[learn more](https://www.flagsmith.com/)**. Come to **London.JS** & learn more about the changing face of JavaScript across all industry landscapes. We're a very inclusive meet-up representing a diverse community of awesome engineers 🤖🌈🦄 About the **London.JS** organisers... **James McLeod**, Open Source Program Lead, NatWest Group [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesmcleod/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesmcleod/) **Jordan Potts**, Head of Contract, Albany Growth [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-potts-albany/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-potts-sr2/) **Will Laing**, Co-Founder, Plan:it [https://www.linkedin.com/in/willhlaing/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/willhlaing/) [https://weareplanit.com/](www.weareplanit.com) *🍕🥤 **Refreshments*** * A variety of food & drink will be served. We will endeavour to cater for allergies & dietary requirements. This won't just be pizza & beer either... ***Things to note*** * A desire to explore JavaScript from different points of view is absolutely recommended * Feel free to bring your JS projects along * All engineering levels are welcome * Please RSVP to secure a place * Please ask plus 1's to sign up to the group & RSVP * Spaces are limited so techies will get priority \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- • Code of conduct: [http://confcodeofconduct.com](https://confcodeofconduct.com/) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-

**Kindly note that this is a paid event and the average number of attendees for our events is 60-70 people. You can register on [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/startup-networking-event-london-featuring-live-elevator-pitches-tickets-1978820575610?aff=meetup](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/startup-networking-event-london-featuring-live-elevator-pitches-tickets-1978820575610?aff=meetup)** Network with startups, founders & investors at Founders Connector® 15th Edition – grow, pitch & connect in London Join the **19th edition of Founders Connector®**, London’s leading **startup and entrepreneur networking event** designed for **founders, business owners, directors, and investors**. This exclusive event helps you **build connections, find funding, pitch ideas, and grow your business** in today’s competitive landscape. **This is your chance to:** * **Fuel your entrepreneurial spirit:** Be inspired by success stories and cutting-edge ideas. * **Gain a competitive edge:** Develop your business acumen and refine your strategies. * **Expand your network:** Connect with key players in the business ecosystem. * **Find funding:** Meet with potential investors and learn how to secure capital. This event isn't just about inspiration (although there'll be plenty of that!). It's about equipping you with the tools and connections to **turn your business dreams into reality**. **Entrepreneurs & Aspiring Business Owners:** * **Validate your idea:** Get valuable feedback from experienced founders and investors. * **Develop a winning business plan:** Learn how to craft a compelling roadmap for success. * **Find your tribe:** Network with like-minded individuals who share your passion and vision. The format of the evening is pure networking. 24 hours before the event, we will create a whatsapp group so that you can start interacting with other attendees of the event. We strongly recommend early booking for this event, which we expect to be sold out in advance. ### **Event Host** ### The event is hosted by [Jim McLaughlin](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-mclaughlin-b227975/ "https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-mclaughlin-b227975/"), a successful entrepreneur with 35+ years of experience building and exiting multiple businesses, is hosting this event as an FSB Membership Advisor to share insights and showcase the essential support services available to help fellow business owners and entrepreneurs thrive. The [Federation of Small Businesses](https://www.fsb.org.uk/ "https://www.fsb.org.uk/") (FSB) is the UK's leading business organisation providing essential membership benefits including networking, legal protection, business insurance, financial expertise, and advocacy support, helping over 165,000 small businesses and self-employed individuals across the UK grow and succeed. ### **Event Details** * **7:00 PM**: The event starts with free format networking, the event is fully hosted. * **8:00 PM:** Elevator pitches and then more free format networking * **WhatsApp Group**: Enhance your connections before and after the event by joining our exclusive attendee WhatsApp group. To join, send a WhatsApp message to 07789740193 with your full name after purchasing your ticket. **Event Disclaimer** Please note that photos and videos may be taken during this event. These may be used on our social media channels and promotional materials to showcase our events. If you prefer not to appear in any photos or videos, please inform the event host upon arrival, and we will ensure your preference is respected. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. * [United Kingdom Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom/events/) * [Greater London Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--greater-london/events/) * [Things to do in London](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/ttd/united-kingdom--london/) * [London Networking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/networking/) * [London Business Networking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/business--networking/) * [#investor](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23investor/) * [#startup](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23startup/) * [#entrepreneur](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23entrepreneur/) * [#networkingevent](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23networkingevent/) * [#founders](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23founders/) * [#businessnetworking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23businessnetworking/) * [#business_growth](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23business_growth/) * [#startup_business](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23startup_business/) * [#startup_event](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23startup_event/) * [#startup_networking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23startup_networking/)

Happy New Year! After a short winter break, we’re back to kick off 2026 with our first event of the year. We’re returning to the spectacular **The Light Bar** near Liverpool Street, a space that was so good in November we just had to go back. Housed in a stunning Victorian power station from 1893, The Light Bar offers a unique backdrop for our first gathering of the year. Whether you’re setting new career goals or just looking to reconnect with the community after the holidays, come join us for great drinks and even better company. **​What is Product Pints, anyway?** ​It's simple: Forget the stuffy presentations, Product Pints is all about meaningful connections and stimulating conversations for product people. Our diverse crowd includes everyone from aspiring PMs to seasoned CPOs, entrepreneurs, developers, designers, and tech enthusiasts. ​Need advice on a tricky problem? Curious what other PMs are building? Or just want to share a beer with your peers? This is the perfect opportunity to grow your network and launch some genuinely great chats! **​P.S. If your company is interested in sponsoring future events in 2026, please reach out to us at hello@productpints.com - thanks!**

**Do you dream of seeing the northern lights? Join Backabush to hunt for the aurora borealis in Arctic Sweden!** Cost - £599. Nights - 4. Accommodation - comfortable en-suite twin share rooms (please enquire about single supplement option) The magical dance of the northern lights is a spectacular sight and a true bucket list experience. Over the next year aurora borealis activity should continue to be at its highest levels in over a decade as we are in a solar maximum, so now is the time to go and see this unique spectacle! Abisko National Park in [Swedish Lapland](https://www.swedishlapland.com/northern-lights/) is located about 150 miles north of the Arctic Circle and is a [dream destination for aurora seekers](https://www.swedishtouristassociation.com/northern-lights/) as it offers some of the best conditions in the world for northern lights watching. The unique climate of the area keeps the skies almost always clear, and light pollution is minimal. Our plan is to walk to the best nearby viewing areas each night to hunt for the aurora borealis, for example at the shore of the fantastic lake Torneträsk. There is also the option to book a night visit to the [Aurora Sky Station](https://auroraskystation.se/en/welcome-to-aurora-sky-station/) on one of the evenings, taking the chairlift up to its amazing viewing platform at 900m above sea level. During the day we will have the opportunity to explore more of the national park, hiking to nearby lakes and waterfalls (weather and snow conditions permitting). There are many other exciting winter activities available to book including snowshoeing, ice climbing, dog sledding, cross-country skiing, ice fishing and snowmobile tours. Come and join us on an amazing arctic adventure to the world's best place for the aurora borealis! **ACCOMMODATION:** We have secured comfortable en-suite twin share rooms at the wonderful STF Abisko Turiststation, at the heart of Abisko National Park. A delicious Swedish style buffet breakfast is included every day. Limited single room places possible based on availability and room cost at the time of booking, please enquire. The accommodation has an on-site restaurant, bistro and convenience store and there are self-catering facilities available. There is also a grocery store 2km away. The on-site sauna is the perfect place to warm up and unwind after a day of exploring and our accommodation is perfectly placed for aurora hunting with many great viewing points nearby. **WHAT'S INCLUDED:** * 4 nights accommodation in comfortable en-suite twin share rooms (limited single supplement possible at extra cost - please enquire) * 4 breakfasts * Airport transfers * An itinerary of organised walks to view the northern lights each evening and to explore the national park during the day (weather and snow conditions permitting) * Access to on-site sauna * Self-catering facilities * Trip organiser * Financial protection in accordance with the Package Travel Law 1992 **WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED:** * Lunches and dinners (a restaurant, self catering facilities and convenience store are available on-site and there is also a grocery store 2km away) * Flights (see details below) * Optional activities * Travel insurance * Single supplement (please enquire) **RECOMMENDED FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS:** Airport transfers (included) are timed to meet the below recommended connecting flights with [Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) ](https://www.flysas.com/gb-en/)to/from Kiruna: Outbound - Wednesday 28 January: SK 1530 London Heathrow LHR 06:40 – Stockholm Arlanda ARN 10:05 SK 1042 Stockholm Arlanda ARN 11:55 – Kiruna KRN 13:35 Inbound - Sunday 1 February: SK 2899 Kiruna KRN 11:40 – Kastrup Copenhagen CPH 14:00 SK 1517 Kastrup Copenhagen CPH 16:40 – London Heathrow LHR 17:40 It will be easy to break up your journey by spending a few nights in Stockholm/Copenhagen or arrive in Kiruna earlier/leave later to extend your stay, and make your own way to/from the airport to meet the group. There is also an overnight train to Kiruna/Abisko available from/to Stockholm although tickets only go on sale closer to the date. **HOW TO BOOK A PLACE ON THIS TRIP:** [https://www.meetup.com/backabush/events/306415559](https://www.meetup.com/backabush/events/306415559)

Hi UmbLondoners, In honour of [NDC London](https://ndclondon.com/) we are hosting a little get together near the Queen Elizabeth II Centre in Westminster, where the event is. The Umbraco folks at NDC will be joining us so it's your chance to talk to some of the maintainers of the project! If you've never been to one of these types of meetups before, our 'social' events are relaxed, informal evenings. We meet in a designated pub and talk Umbraco, .NET, community activities and more. People are responsible for paying for their own drinks and food (if wanted). We just promise to provide a friendly welcome! We've chosen The Old Star 66 Broadway City-Of-Westminster Greater London England SW1H 0DB Its nearby and hopefully it has no special events on! Please sign up if you think you'll be joining the fun so that we can ensure that we have booked a space big enough for us! Hope to see you all there! While you are here, we need your input to help make Umbraco London better. Please take a moment of your time to answer a few questions. [Umbraco London Meetup Questionnaire](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfISk1q_ZEoN82_vhiBeWwuVG3fUUB4uqkK-PqWtArajUErJw/viewform) Thanks

## Short summary I’m running 1:1 portrait sessions in my House- studio near Stepney Green to grow my portfolio and give you a beautiful set of portraits. You’ll receive **up to 10 edited photos**, plus **any raw photos you’d like**, and I’ll ask for permission to use a selection on my social media. ## What this is This is a relaxed, guided portrait shoot for people who want nice photos of themselves, no modelling experience needed. I’m currently focused on photographing women, so **women will be prioritised**, but feel free to message me if you’re outside that and think it’s a good fit. ## About me Hi, I’m **Marina**, an Italian photographer based in East London. I’m currently focusing on photographing women and improving my portrait direction and studio work, so these sessions are a fair exchange: you get great photos, and I get portfolio content I can share (with your consent). ## What you’ll get * A **private 1:1 studio session** (no modelling experience needed) * Calm guidance on **posing, expression and confidence on camera** * **Up to 10 edited images** (colour-corrected and polished) * **Raw photos on request** (you can choose as many as you want) ## Cost **£10 per hour (minimum 1 hour).** This is a small contribution to create commitment and give value to the time and studio session. ## Bring a friend You’re welcome to **bring one friend** if it helps you feel more comfortable, just **please notify me in advance**. ## How it works 1. RSVP on Meetup 2. Message me privately to book your time slot 3. Arrive, we shoot, then you choose your favourites (or I can curate a strong set) 4. You receive your edited photos within **[2-3 days]** ## What to wear / bring * 2–3 outfit options (simple colours work best) or if you have something in mind I am open to discuss it * Optional: accessories or something that feels “you” * If you have a vibe in mind, bring reference photos ## Consent and usage (important) I will ask you to sign a simple consent form allowing me to use selected images for my **portfolio and social media**. 18+ only. ## Location **Stepney Green, East London** Exact address will shared privately once your slot is confirmed. ## Links * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marinaa_photos/ * Portfolio: https://marina-antonelli.myportfolio.com/

Join startup founders, tech entrepreneurs, business owners and professionals in business, finance and tech for an **evening of business networking in the elegant Sycamore Bar at the 5-star Middle Eight Hotel, Covent Garden.** **💼 Note re Contactless Cards** 
Free RSVP gives entry only - the contactless business card is not included.
To receive a contactless networking card, please book a paid ticket when available. **This informal yet refined business mixer** is the perfect opportunity to exchange ideas, spark collaborations, and build meaningful business connections that go beyond LinkedIn. **👔 Dress Code**
 As this is a 5-star hotel, smart or business attire is required. Please avoid casual wear, hoodies, or sportswear. **What to Expect** ✅ Relaxed, premium networking environment - no stage or speeches, just natural conversations with inspiring professionals.
 ✅ Mix of industries - startups, tech, finance and business. ✅ Guest list of max 40 attendees to encourage genuine connections as opposed to impersonal crowded conferences.
 **Why Attend** • Expand your network with startup founders, tech entrepreneurs, business owners and senior professionals in business, finance and tech from London and beyond.
 • Share insights and opportunities in tech, business growth, and digital innovation.
 • Experience luxury yet relaxed networking in one of Covent Garden’s most sophisticated venues. **Venue** Sycamore Bar, Middle Eight Hotel
A refined, design-led bar inside the 5-star Middle Eight Hotel.
Located in the heart of Covent Garden, within walking distance of Holborn, Covent Garden, and Tottenham Court Road stations. **Important Info** • Ages: 18+ (ID required for bar purchases)
 • Photography Notice: The event may be filmed or photographed for promotional use by [CineEye (audiovisual production company in London)
](www.cineeye.co.uk) • Dress Code: Smart/business attire only (see above). • Contactless Cards: Free RSVP does not include contactless business card (see above). **Join Us** Step into an evening where business meets elegance - designed for founders, innovators, and professionals who value meaningful business conversations. **Limited to 40 spots - reserve yours today!**

**Want to improve your Portuguese and connect with great people?** Join us, where language learning meets community! You’ll get the chance to practice Portuguese in a relaxed, friendly environment, build confidence in conversation, improve your fluency, and make new friends along the way. 📍 *Held at the church building — everyone is welcome!* Every Thursday at 4:30pm - 5min walking from Liverpool Street Station/8min from Moorgate Station Any questions, contact Glauce 0 7852 223881

HIGHTLIGHTS: * Remote heathland and picturesque lakes in pine & bracken forests * Bagmoor Common Nature Reserve with oak trees and Scots pine trees * Thursley Common Nature Reserve and Pudmore Pond with its diverse wildlife, boggy terrain and raised boardwalks * Views over Devils Punchbowl and Gilbert Hill * Greensand Way with fantastic views on our way to Haslemere. The area offers walking trails through marsh, woodland, and heath, through some muddy paths over a eerie terrain preserving delicate ecosystems. We will be walking over sandy paths through ancient established woodlands, heather and gorse and see evidence of bush fire in 2006 which has left a blackened moonscape. We then continue south up to Devils Punchbowl, a deep depression believed to be the result of erosion caused by spring water beneath the sandstone, causing the upper level to collapse. We continue on our way to Hindhead and Haslemere along the Greensand Way to end up in a pub for a deserved drink. A day of Englands beautiful heathland, forests and iconic views over surrey's hills. **SUMMARY** **Distance**: 22km from Milford to Haslemere **Ascent:** 350m **Duration:** 6-7 hours walking time **Grade:** Moderate **COST & LOGISTICS** **Cost:** £10 **Meet:** 8.30am Waterloo Station for Groupsave, 8.45am if getting own ticket or 10.10am at Milford Station **Train from Waterloo:** 9.00am **Finish:** 5pm into Haslemere/ local pub **Recommended ticket:** Return to Haslemere **Recommended:** An annual Network Railcard gives the same discount as a group save ticket - www.network-railcard.co.uk **REVIEWS** [Trip Advisor](https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186338-d19994843-Reviews-AAA_Hiking_Outdoor_Group-London_England.html) \| [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AAAHikingUK/reviews) \| [MeetUp](https://www.meetup.com/aaa-outdoor-hiking-adventure-travel/feedback-overview/) **PRICE INCLUDES** * Guided hike planned and led by an experienced AAA leader, trained in Outdoor First Aid. **PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE** * Travel costs * Lunch, drinks or any refreshments * PayPal fees **RECOMMENDED KIT LIST** [(](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist)[complete list](http://www.aaahiking.co.uk/kit-lists)[)](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist) * Suitable hiking shoes or boots * Packed lunch and snacks * Water - 2 litres recommended * Waterproof jacket and trousers (Please no jeans!) * Warm windproof layer e.g. Down/Primaloft/Fleece * Wicking base layer e.g. Polyester/Tencel/Merino **CANCELLING/REFUNDS** If you can no longer join the hike, please message the Host listed on here, and update your RSVP status to 'Not going', to allow others to take your place. If the hike is full, and you have messaged us and have changed your RSVP to 'Not going', we will refund you, less than the PayPal/Meetup fees. To obtain this, please email [info@aaalondongroup.com](mailto:info@aaalondongroup.com) **after the event**, with the email address you use on your PayPal account and transaction reference. If the hike is not full, unfortunately we will not be able to provide any refund. **QUESTIONS** If you have any other questions, please check visit our [FAQ page](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/frequently-asked-questions). If you are still unsure, contact the event Host shown on this page. We have operated over 1,000 events without significant incidents in the last ten years, achieved through meticulous planning. All participants (members and their guests) in any AAA Hiking event or activity are personally responsible for their fitness, safety and welfare, and must be equipped accordingly. If you have signed up for the event, you acknowledge and accept the AAA London Group Terms and Conditions. © AAA London Group Ltd. Errors and Omissions Excepted [FAQs](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/frequently-asked-questions) \| [Terms and Conditions](http://www.aaahiking.co.uk/terms-and-conditions) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/AAAhiking) \| [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AAAHikingUK/reviews)

New year, new events, and the same great community! We’re kicking off our 2026 socials next week and we are happy to say that the organisers from **Swift Craft** will be joining us for our meet-up on **Thursday, 29th January**. Whether you’re planning your conference calendar, want to chat with some of the people shaping our community, or want to catch up after the winter break, this is the perfect way to start the year. We hope to see you there!

Weekly cycling club open to members of that club only. Membership enquiries to creativewellnesswon@outlook.com

👉 Please fill in this [FORM](https://forms.gle/Hrrm6Ct7gDE2P5Dr8) to participate *** Welcome to our first-ever Friendly Data Meetup Hackathon! 👩‍💻 We’re absolutely excited to host this special evening with the community. Whether you’re a seasoned hacker or trying your first hackathon, this event is all about learning, building, and having fun. 🥪☕ Light refreshments will be available throughout the event to keep you energized while you work. 🏦 This hackathon is proudly sponsored by **CFC Underwriting**—big thanks to them for making this experience possible! CFC Underwriting is a cyber insurance underwriter, and the team co-organising this hackathon are software and data professionals, very eager to collaborate with you! 📒 To participate in the hackathon, **please submit [this form](https://forms.gle/Hrrm6Ct7gDE2P5Dr8)** no later than 21st Jan 2026. **RSVP on Meetup does not count as registration for this event**. Complete the form now to secure your place! Due to limited availability (40 seats), only selected participants will be able to attend the hackathon. Good luck! We will email you venue details closer to the event. Many thanks for your enthusiasm and participation! We look forward to meeting you :)

**Caller: Dan Kappus** **Band: Trillium** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!

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!

Joanie Shell and Lindsay Thomas of Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, will be representing the Independent Living Older Blind (ILOB) program, and will explain what this program can offer to persons ages 55 and older. As taken from their website, the ILOB program can help Ohio’s aging population face the many challenges of vision loss and maintain their independence. Target audience for this group is persons who are visually impaired, especially those who have experienced recent loss, however, all are welcome, including family members and supports. Light refreshments will be served. You can also join the meeting by Conference Call at (518) 263-8851.

Evolve exists to connect women entrepreneurs connect with one another, serve one another, and help one another overcome challenges in marketing, sales, networking, and professional development. [Add to Calendar](evolvecolumbus.eventcalendarapp.com) What to Expect: \~ Welcome team to greet you, introduce you to others, and make sure you feel a part of the group from your very first meeting \~ Welcome & Introductions: 15 second introductions \~ 15 Minute Speaker Spotlight: Member speaker who shares a bit of her story, how she got to doing what she does, and a tangible tip she uses to gain success in her business. No hard selling...no expectations. Simply giving the group an opportunity to get to know her and her journey. \~ 20 Minute Break Out Sessions: Small groups is where we connect best. Extroverted and Introverted alike get the opportunity to share on a deeper level and learn from one another. \~ Take Aways: Hear what the other groups talked about and share resources to grow yourself and your business \~ Grow Time!: Do you need a specific connection to a person, company, or industry? Share it with us! We love to open our networks to one another and grow together! Guests are always welcome. Please contact Mentor Director Donna Schomer at Donna@EvolveWomensNetwork.com for more information. We'd love to meet you!

Volunteer with Mid-OH Food Collective Mid-OH Market 4041 Gantz Rd Grove City, OH 43123 -fill carts with boxes -help support the various stations inside the Market -help scan groceries at the check-out stand -help repackage groceries into shopping after being scanned -help deliver groceries to customer vehicles Some volunteers will help load groceries into vehicles so dress in layers as needed. RSVP by contacting Renee with name, email, phone # 614-257-9389 or reneelquillet@gmail.com

Let’s meetup at Cafe Istanbul for the last day of Restaurant Week. You get three courses for $30. This is the menu: https://614now.com/rw-menu/cafeistanbul-easton