Critical Design

This event is designed for founders, where[ Ajinkya Tanpure](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajinkyatanpure/), Founder & CEO- [CrossVal,](https://www.crossval.com/) [Levi Lewandowski](https://www.linkedin.com/in/levilewandowski/), Head of UAE of [Brinc ](https://brinc.io/) and [Zohare H](https://www.linkedin.com/in/zohare/), Founder of [Jalebi.io](https://jalebi.io/) come together to tackle the two most critical areas when markets shift: financial preparedness and resilience. This focused, practical session will equip you with actionable frameworks you can apply immediately and offer the chance to connect with fellow founders navigating the same headwinds. Walk away sharper, steadier, and ready to lead your business through all business cycles.

House of Thinking Big: Ideas × Coffee Have you ever dreamed of being part of the early dot-com energy — when ideas were raw, ambitious, and conversations could spark entire movements? Welcome to House of Thinking Big: Ideas × Coffee — inspired by the spirit of early founder circles, when bold ideas spoke louder than decks. We gather a small circle of creative and tech leaders who think beyond borders, value authenticity and intelligent dialogue, and believe that growth begins with people and their ideas. No presentations. No ads. Just caffeine-fueled thinking. ☕ When: 6:30 PM 📍 Where: Starbucks, Emirates Towers Boulevard, Dubai 🎙️ Host: Kate Adiyak — Founder of House of Thinking Big Join the House and think bigger — together. Thinking Big Strategy Timeline 6:30 PM — Arrival & Networking 7:00 PM — Personal Problem Statement 7:30 PM — Resource Mapping 7:50 PM — Action Planning 8:00 PM — Closing No rush — Dubai traffic does Dubai traffic things. Join whenever you manage to escape the roads You will find me with a laptop and a cup of coffee [To keep in touch join my WhatsApp group ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Lnu5UhRArdXJTengnhqLhB?mode=hqrt3)

IMPORTANT: If you RSVP, it is essential that you attend or update your RSVP status at least one day before the networking session. For an optimal networking experience, we need at least 20-25 participants. If you RSVP and do not attend, it is not fair to those who are punctual and turn up as they said they would. Please be mindful and only RSVP if you are confident you can attend. 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM (PLEASE, BE ON TIME!) Concrete Restaurant Burj Daman Tower DIFC, Dubai Located on Ground Floor (VIEW MAP - https://maps.app.goo.gl/3u5DZgQrvJPLrv1U6) **Parking:** 2 hours of free parking are available in the building. It's fast, it's fun, and the best thing about it is that you get to pitch to many different people within a short period. All that you need is your business cards (not compulsory) and your presence. Typically, you would meet many different people, spending only 2 - 3 minutes with each, and it's a great way to meet others. You speak to the person in front of you, and when the bell rings, you move to your left to speak to the next person. View Video of past events (https://youtu.be/ImZAe4OQ1qg). This gives you a great chance to network with business owners and decision-makers to find the clients, vendors, and professionals you need most. **Cost: AED 70 cash** (Includes Coffee, Tea, Soft Drinks or Water) Remember to tell your friends, colleagues and associates and bring lots of business cards! How to get there: (VIEW MAP - https://maps.app.goo.gl/3u5DZgQrvJPLrv1U6) IMPORTANT RULES ON TIMING, NO-SHOWS AND CANCELLATION: 1. Please, be on time, so that we can start promptly at 7.30 pm. 2. If you have never been here before, then arrive early, so that you can find us. 3. If you have RSVP'd as "YES" and then do not show up, you will be removed and banned from this group, as it shows you are not professional enough to be a part of this group. You can easily change the status if you know that you may not make it. This is important as we have to make prior reservations at the venue. 4. People arriving late may not be able to join in if we have already begun, as that ruins the flow and transitions around the tables. By allowing people to join late results in meeting the same person twice and missing out on others, which is unfair for those who arrive on time. Any questions, please call OR WhatsApp Vlad on +971 56 693 0866. About the Organisers - Vlad Tashakov and Oksana Tashakova are organisers of this successful event and also founders of [QPQ International](https://qpq.international/), Wealth Dynamics Unlimited and Millionaire Summit. Vlad and Oksana are brother and sister from New Zealand, with a business background and have solid experience from various types of businesses in New Zealand, and now they have shifted their focus to Dubai. Warmest Regards, Vlad Tashakov

# Join The Royals: Social Indoor Cricket @ Insportz Club (Al Quoz) 👑 **Are you looking for a consistent, competitive, and social indoor cricket game in Dubai? Welcome to The Royals.** We aren't just a weekly game; we are building Dubai’s most elite social cricket community. Whether you are a seasoned pro or someone looking to get back into the nets, our sessions at the iconic **Insportz Club** are the perfect place to play. ### 🏆 WHY PLAY WITH THE ROYALS? We believe in rewarding performance and commitment. Every game we track your runs, wickets, and overall impact to crown a **Most Valuable Player (MVP)**. * **The Monthly Grand Prize:** If you secure **10 MVPs in a single month**, you win an **AED 500 Noon Voucher!** 🛍️ ### 📍 THE VENUE: INSPORTZ CLUB, AL QUOZ We host our games at the legendary **Insportz Club**. It is the heart of indoor sports in Dubai, offering: * Professional-grade courts and nets. * Fully air-conditioned environment (perfect for Dubai weather). * Excellent facilities including changing rooms and a cafe for post-game banter. ### 📅 OUR SCHEDULE We play three nights a week to keep the momentum going: * **Mondays:** The Week Kick-off * **Wednesdays:** The Mid-week Grind * **Fridays:** Prime Social Night ### 📊 DATA & THE FUTURE Every game you play with us is recorded in our **Royals Registry**. We track your runs and wickets because, in 6 months, we are launching the **Royals Dubai Cricket App**. By joining us now, you’ll have a verified player profile and history ready for the big launch! ### 📝 HOW TO JOIN 1. **RSVP** on this Meetup event. 2. **Confirm your spot** via our WhatsApp group (Link provided upon RSVP). 3. **Show up & Play:** Bring your gear or use the high-quality equipment provided by Insportz. **Cost per session:** $$AED 35$$ **Format:** 8-a-side / 16 overs per side (Social Rules) **Don't just play the game—Join the Court. Become a Royal today!** 👑🏏

**Hi Footballers!** Get ready for a game at **ISD Sports City**! We’re playing **7v7** on a modern artificial turf pitch (**Outdoor**). Whether you're a beginner or a veteran player, everyone is welcome to join and have fun! 🙌⚽️ The participation fee is **59 AED**, which covers the field booking and organizer costs. To join the game and see who else has signed up, make sure to download the **CeleBreak app**. You can find it on both the **[App Store](https://apps.apple.com/co/app/celebreak/id1244710855?l=en-GB)** and **[Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lewisblack.celebreakOne&hl=en)**. 🚨 **Important:** Please join through the app to **reserve your spot!** 🚨 One of our organizers will be at the pitch to welcome you, provide bibs, and get everything set up. Come as you are and **have fun in our games!** We can’t wait to see you on the pitch! 💪 **PS:** Don’t worry about the number of attendees on Meetup—the real player count is shown in the app!

**It is a paid event. Charges 45aed for 2 hrs of the game per player.** **NOTE: This is dedicated to super advanced levels only.** # 🎯 Welcome to Badminton Lovers Dubai! **The World's Highest-rated badminton community** from the heart of Dubai \(A perfect ⭐ 5 star rated ★ \| 5000\+ reviews\) – where fun\, fitness\, and friendship come together on court\! This event is designed for **super** **advanced player seeking competitive rallies**, you’ll enjoy: ✔ 2 hours of structured, doubles games ✔ Professional world-class courts at **Baseline Sports Academy Al Qouz** ✔ A friendly, welcoming community of advanced players *** ## ⭐ Why Join Us? ✔ Dubai’s **#1 rated sports & social group** ✔ Play with 4–5 players per court → **minimum waiting time** ✔ Separate courts for **advanced competitive matches** ✔ Beginner-friendly (other days) – guidance & support provided ✔ **Feather shuttles included** + limited rackets (first-come, first-serve) ✔ Exclusive **discounts at leading sports stores in Dubai** ✔ Social, fun, and a great way to meet new friends *** ## 📍 Event Details * ⏳ **Duration:** 2 hours of exciting badminton games * 🏸 **Venue:** Baseline Sports Academy Al Qouz * 💵 **Fee:** 45 AED (includes feather shuttles) * 💳 **Payment:** Online (CareemPay/Bank Transfer – 0509001406). *Cash is only for approved regulars (+5 AED surcharge).* * 🔄 **System:** Mix-and-match doubles for maximum variety *** ## 📱 New Players – Important At the time of RSVP, please WhatsApp the organiser: 📲 0509001406 \| 0502480751 \(Waqsi\) https://wa.me/971509001406 *** ## 💰 Payment & Cancellation Policy * **RSVP = Commitment** * Your RSVP is your commitment to attend. Please honour it. * Your RSVP blocks a spot, and you are responsible for payment unless you cancel on time. **Payment** * Payment is required **immediately at the time of RSVP** to secure your spot. * If you RSVP but do not pay **and** do not cancel within the allowed time, you are still liable for the session fee. **Cancellation by Players** * ✅ Cancel **12+ hours before the event:** No charge. If already paid, the amount is credited towards a future session. * ❌ Cancel **less than 12 hours before** OR **No-show:** Full payment required, even if you have not yet paid. No credit/refund. **Unpaid RSVPs** * Unpaid RSVPs may be removed by organisers **before the 12-hour window.** * Within 12 hours of the event, all RSVPs (paid or unpaid) are treated as confirmed and subject to the cancellation/no-show policy. **Event Cancelled by Organisers** * If we cancel, you will receive a **full refund** or a **session credit** (your choice). **Non-Payment Consequences** * Players who fail to honour payment after a late cancellation or no-show may be restricted from RSVPing for future sessions until dues are cleared. *** ## 📸 Social Media Policy * Photos/videos may be used to promote badminton & our community * You can request removal in writing for future events * Past media cannot be deleted *** ## 👥 Guest Policy * Guests must be registered with **name & level** * RSVP holder is responsible for guest payment & cancellations *** ## 🏸 Safety Guidelines & Event Rules *(Badminton Lovers Dubai)* To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and well-organised experience for everyone, all participants are required to read and follow the guidelines below: *** ### 1️⃣ Personal Responsibility * All players participate **at their own risk**. * Please ensure you are **physically fit and medically able** to play badminton before joining the session. * Warm up properly and play within your personal limits. *** ### 2️⃣ On-Court Safety * Always be aware of **other players**, shuttle direction, and adjacent courts. * Avoid running into other courts or behind players during active rallies. * Stop play immediately if a shuttle or player enters your court unexpectedly. * Wear **appropriate non-marking sports shoes** to prevent slips and injuries. *** ### 3️⃣ Equipment & Attire * Use suitable badminton rackets and equipment in good condition. * Badminton Lovers Dubai is **not responsible** for any damage to personal equipment. *** ### 4️⃣ Personal Belongings * Players are fully responsible for their **own belongings**, including rackets, bags, wallets, phones, and valuables. * Please do not leave personal items unattended. * **The organisers are not liable** for any loss, theft, or damage to personal property. *** ### 5️⃣ Injuries & Medical Emergencies * In case of injury, please inform the organiser immediately. * First aid (if available at the venue) is provided as a courtesy only. * **The organisers, hosts, and venue are not liable** for any injuries, accidents, or medical conditions arising before, during, or after the event. *** ### 6️⃣ Conduct & Sportsmanship * Respect fellow players, organisers, and venue staff at all times. * Aggressive behaviour, unsafe play, or repeated rule violations may result in removal from the session without refund. * Follow organiser instructions regarding court rotation, timing, and player grouping. *** ### 7️⃣ Venue Rules * All participants must comply with the **venue’s rules and regulations**. * Any penalties imposed by the venue due to misconduct will be the responsibility of the individual involved. *** ### 8️⃣ Liability Disclaimer By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree that: * You voluntarily assume all risks associated with playing badminton. * **Badminton Lovers Dubai, its organisers, hosts, and volunteers are released from any liability**, claims, demands, or causes of action related to personal injury, loss, damage, or theft of belongings. ## ✅ Ready to Play? Click RSVP, send us a WhatsApp to confirm, and get ready to smash your way into Dubai’s most exciting badminton community!

**Strong Business Leads Coffee Networking Event (6:00 PM – 8:30 PM)** **Job seekers are not allowed.** This is a business-focused gathering for peer-to-peer discussions, collaboration opportunities, investment conversations, and solving real business challenges together. It is not a job fair or recruitment event. **Event Schedule & Agenda** * **6:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Welcome & Introductions** (30 minutes) Arrive, settle in, and join quick introductions. Everyone gets 30–60 seconds to share their name, business/role, and one key focus right now. * **6:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Coffee & Light Refreshments** (30 minutes) Enjoy coffee and snacks while connecting casually with others at your table. * **7:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Problem Discussion** (30 minutes) Interactive discussion on real challenges business owners face today and practical solutions. Bring one real issue you are working on and get quick input, ideas, and proven approaches from the group. * **7:30 PM – 8:30 PM: Networking & Connections** (60 minutes) Open networking time! Exchange contacts, explore collaborations, meet partners/suppliers/investors, and build strong business relationships in a relaxed atmosphere. **Why join?** * Get fresh perspectives on solving everyday business hurdles * Meet like-minded business owners, investors, freelancers, and consultants * Leave with 2–3 valuable contacts, potential collaborations, or actionable ideas Spaces are limited — RSVP early! Looking forward to seeing you there and making meaningful connections. **Our WhatsApp group:** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/EAYWgmpDGM296DoDvhn54I](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EAYWgmpDGM296DoDvhn54I) **For any questions, please feel free to contact:** Mr. Ibrahim +971 54 330 7993 Mr. Abdurrahman +971 58 571 2590

Building on the magic of **DDX Dubai**, the Human Centred Design UAE Meetup is bringing together a special evening of lightning talks from some of the standout voices from the conference. DDX has quickly become one of the region’s most important gatherings for **design, product thinking, and innovation**. For those who attended, you know the energy. For those who missed it, this is your chance to experience some of that thinking and inspiration. This edition will also be **broadcast live internationally**, allowing the global design community to join the conversation. We are also excited to host the meetup in a **new venue for our community: Dtec at Dubai Silicon Oasis**, one of the region’s leading hubs for startups and innovation. 📍 Dtec, Dubai Silicon Oasis 🗓 9 April ⏰ 6:30 PM 🎥 In-person + Live Broadcast * Google Meet joining info * Video call link: https://meet.google.com/uij-fzca-ebu * Or dial: ‪(US) +1 408-909-8769‬ PIN: ‪588 196 874‬# * More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/uij-fzca-ebu?pin=8224850544892 ## What to Expect Across a series of fast-paced lightning talks, our speakers will explore a shared theme that runs through DDX: **How design is evolving in an era of AI, startups, complex systems, and new forms of leadership.** From product research and venture design to philosophy, enterprise design, and UX leadership, the evening will explore how designers can: • Shape better products and services • Navigate uncertainty and emerging technologies • Influence strategy and decision making • Design responsibly for people and society Each speaker will deliver a concise version of their DDX talk followed by networking with the community. ## Speakers **[Ana Sofia Gonzalez](https://www.linkedin.com/in/anasofiagonzalez/)** Principal Product Designer, Microsoft **[Leopold Ajami](https://www.linkedin.com/in/leopoldajami/)** Chief Influence Officer, Novel Philosophy Academy **[Joumana Mahmoud](https://www.linkedin.com/in/joumana-mahmoud/)** Head of Design, frog **[Chris Downes](https://www.linkedin.com/in/crash-s-downes-009852113/)** CoFounder, Scaleable Capital **[Arya Dris](https://www.linkedin.com/in/arya-d-s/)** Lead UX Designer, Mashreq Together, they bring perspectives from **big tech, fintech, venture capital, philosophy, product research, and design leadership**. ## Why Attend • Learn from leading designers and thinkers shaping the region • Get a taste of the ideas presented at **DDX Dubai** • Connect with the growing **UAE design and startup community** • Meet designers, researchers, founders, and innovators • Experience the HCD UAE Meetup community in a new venue ## Hosted by **Human Centred Design UAE Meetup** ## Venue Partner **Dtec – Dubai Technology Entrepreneur Campus** One of the largest tech startup campuses in the region. ## Sponsor Proudly supported by **aspexx.** ## Join Us Whether you are a designer, researcher, product manager, founder, or simply curious about the future of design, this will be a fantastic evening of learning, conversation, and connection.

We’ll be listening to a selected podcast /talk beforehand and then gathering to discuss, dissect, and share insights with like-minded people about the episode. Whether you’re actively working on your listening skills, love learning through podcasts, or simply enjoy exploring topics around design thinking, productivity, art, and culture, we are more than happy to have you. Podcast for this session: In our first session we’ll be breaking down our thoughts for the the following podcast. [Decoding Design Wisdom: 35 Years of Lessons from Apple, Disney & Beyond](https://youtu.be/X-83gvgVaWc?si=hOugsMYeJpU9xe6p) *Please note that RSVP’ing and listening to the podcast is mandatory before attending. Walk ins will not be allowed

Join Dubai Offroaders for an unforgettable weekend of camping, off-roading, and Jeep adventure in the Dubai desert! This event is perfect for off-road enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners to advanced drivers. Get ready to explore the stunning desert landscape, tackle challenging terrains, and have fun with like-minded adventurers. Experience the thrill of driving your 4x4 through the sandy dunes, enjoy a BBQ under the starlit sky, and connect with fellow expats in Dubai who share your passion for off-road activities. Whether you're a seasoned off-roader or a newbie looking to learn, this weekend trip promises an exciting blend of off-road driving, camping under the stars, and making unforgettable memories in the great outdoors. Don't miss out on this ultimate Dubai Offroaders experience!

A chill hangout for deep thinkers, curious minds, and lovers of raw, real conversations—with or without a drink in hand. No strict rules, no set topics—just a bunch of interesting people talking about life, beliefs, and everything in between. **Event flow** * Intro & icebreaker * One-on-one discussions * Group discussion * Mini activity **Who shows up?** Open-minded folks from all walks of life. Expect friendly debates, weird tangents, occasional cranks, and surprisingly smart convos. **Who is NOT invited?** * narrow-minded people (racists, sexists, judgmental, ...) * anyone trying to sell something * anyone looking for a hookup 💵 Fee: AED 30 - pay by [clicking here](https://pay.ziina.com/dsh/e73sWOArW) For details message us at [+971 50 355 1536](https://wa.me/+971503551536) **Quick etiquette tip:** Disagree freely, but respectfully. We’re here to learn from each other—not win arguments.

**What this is about?** This is a meetup group focused on AI. We meet every Saturday at 7:30pm at DIFC. Usually there are up to 30 people from different backgrounds, such as AI programmers, rocket engineers, physicists, marketing, designers, investors... But it's also meant for people who have no background in AI and are looking for more insight. This is a very casual group for everyone, no presentations, you can pitch your AI business idea or discuss your favorite Terminator movie. We meet at the Stage Area (next to S&C Music, see directions https://imgur.com/a/QIvYOvT ) above the Carrefour market at DIFC, just look for a group of people there without board games (if you see board games, that's another group). The group is free and there is no requirement to buy anything. There is free wifi. 📣 WhatsApp group for event updates (only mods can post): [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JjrVIJyxHbe9fUWoGLaJsZ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JjrVIJyxHbe9fUWoGLaJsZ) 📍To get there: 🚇 Metro Station: Financial Centre Metro Station, 5 minutes walk, look for the Financial Centre exit sign. 🚗 Parking Options: Gate Avenue Parking is unfortunately under construction. Other options: Gate District Building 2: free underground parking from 6 pm onwards. \* Street Parking near Ritz Carlton: This is a paid parking option, conveniently located. \* Gate Avenue Open Parking: Present a purchase receipt for 4 hours of complimentary parking. 💡 **Note**: *You might see a few other Meetup pages with similar names - this one’s run by the folks actually hosting the weekly meetups and building the in-person community you’ve seen at DIFC.* *PS: We occasionally take group photos to capture good vibes and community spirit, by attending you're comfortable with casual group photos - feel free to step aside if you don't wish to be in them*

Try out this stunning fusion style of smooth sensual moves and funky transitions in an easy-to-follow dance exercised to classic & modern tunes. Kizomba is one of the most popular genres of dance and music originating from Angola, reshaped in Portugal & France. It is a derivative of semba, with a mix of Kilapanda and Angolan Merengue. New styles derived from the traditional kizomba were developed in Europe such as urban Kiz and Tarraxinha. Danced to sensual music, happy folklore or electronic trance and fuelled by passion; kizomba is one of the most versatile genres that will help you express your deepest emotions! AED 89 /1 class AED 599 /8 classes (monthly package!) AED 899 /16 classes (monthly package!) Book your spot NOW! 8 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/pabEn 16 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/w7hbw For enquiries call/text 055 803 4003

Location link https://maps.app.goo.gl/VRxURSYYQbUtohQX9 في كافيه ليالي القاهرة كل جمعة الساعة 6 مساءً لو نفسك تدخل عالم التمثيل، أو تطوّر ثقتك بنفسك، أو حتى تتعرف على ناس من ثقافات مختلفة… الورشة دي معمولة علشانك. ورشة التمثيل في ليالي القاهرة هي مزيج فريد بين: - التعرف على ناس من جنسيات وثقافات مختلفة في جو اجتماعي ممتع - العلاج بالفن والتعبير عن النفس بدون أحكام - اكتشاف جوانب جديدة جواك كل مرة - التعلّم العملي للتمثيل والوقوف أمام الكاميرا كصانع محتوى - إزاي تقدّم نفسك في أي إنترفيو بشكل احترافي وجذّاب - إزاي تكون مختلف وتشوف الدنيا من زاوية جديدة - إزاي تعبّر عن مشاعرك بصدق… تبكي، تفرح، تغضب، تحزن من غير ما حد يحكم عليك هتتعلّم كل ده على إيد مدرب ممثلين بخبرة 13 سنة ومخرج أفلام قصيرة وطويلة بخبرة 10 سنين ومخرج معتمد من وزارة الثقافة المصرية. 🎬 كل محاضرة = تجربة كاملة كل محاضرة منفصلة، ولكل واحدة ناتج فني… هتشارك في صناعة فيلم قصير من أول الفكرة لحد التنفيذ. 💰 السعر 50 درهم فقط للمحاضرة + مشروب 📞 للتواصل 0507016543 وهتلاقوا لينك جروب الواتساب الخاص بالورشة… https://chat.whatsapp.com/C27ZhJVENqy5OPqYki049j مستنيكم يوم الجمعة الساعة 6 في ليالي القاهرة – الديرة. At Layali Al Qahira Café Every Friday at 6 PM If you’ve ever wanted to step into the world of acting, boost your confidence, or simply connect with people from different cultures… this workshop is made for you. Our Acting Workshop at Layali Al Qahira offers a unique blend of: - Meeting people from diverse nationalities and backgrounds - Emotional healing through art and self‑expression - Discovering something new about yourself every single session - Learning how to act and perform confidently in front of the camera as a content creator - Presenting yourself professionally in interviews - Seeing the world differently and embracing your own uniqueness - Expressing your emotions freely — cry, laugh, get angry, feel joy or sadness without judgment or restrictions You’ll learn all of this with a professional acting coach with 13 years of experience, and a film director with 10 years of experience in short and feature films, and officially certified by the Egyptian Ministry of Culture. 🎬 Each session is a full experience Every class is independent, and each one ends with a creative outcome… You’ll participate in making a short film from concept to execution. 💰 Price Only 50 AED per session + a drink 📞 Contact 0507016543 You’ll also find the WhatsApp group link for the workshop…https://chat.whatsapp.com/C27ZhJVENqy5OPqYki049j We’re waiting for you this Friday at 6 PM at Layali Al Qahira – Deira.

We meet to learn and practice American Sign Language and to grow our familiarity with Deaf culture. Facilitated by hearing folks (with a connection to a professional interpreter) using Deaf-created content. People of all ASL skill levels are welcome! As we learn, we hope to connect more with the Deaf community in Central Ohio. Join us as you're able! Come regularly or just once - whatever you're looking for! Each meetup will explore different topics related to ASL/Deaf culture, and will feature time to practice conversation with one another. Just bring yourself and a willingness to learn!

Pay attention! We’re delaying a week for those of you who may be on Spring break and/or celebrating the holiday. Ok, no pancakes, but waffles-a-plenty. Join the local UX and Digital Design community for a casual monthly breakfast. Look for us upstairs!

AI is changing how art is made. But when does it stop being your work and start being the machine’s? This month we're going to be doing a panel with with digital image, music, and written word artists, talking about at what point, while using AI in the creation process, does the work become not the artist creation? We encourage audience participation during this event that will be moderated by Chris Slee. Whether you’re deep in the field or just getting curious, come connect with others building and exploring AI in Columbus. Sponsored by [Transform Labs](https://www.transformlabs.com/services) Sign up also accessible via [Transform Labs Luma](https://luma.com/55umjqta)

**TBA**

The Fellowship of the Star Schema: Transforming OLTP Data for Power BI One does not simply build reports on OLTP data. Join us on an epic journey from the depths of raw, normalized tables to the shining halls of a well-modeled star schema fit for Power BI greatness. We will demystify the differences between OLTP and OLAP, walk through star schema vs snowflake (and why Power BI has a clear favorite), and show you the compression differences between normalized and columnar storage that will make you never look at an OLTP model the same way again. We will cover the different types of dimensions, when to use them, and how to handle Slowly Changing Dimensions without losing your mind. You will leave knowing exactly how to identify a bad model, how to convert OLTP data into a clean star schema, and how to forge relationships that rule them all. Whether you are a data wizard, a curious hobbit, or somewhere in between, your models will never be the same.

Colombus Code & Coffee is thrilled to partner with Central Ohio Azure to put on the global Azure community day! RSVP here: https://www.meetup.com/central-ohio-azure/events/313484939/ View the session lineup and speakers at [Global Azure Columbus 2026](https://coazure.github.io/cbus-global-azure-2026/) On **Saturday, April 18, 2026**, the Azure Columbus Meetup, DevOps Meetup, and Code and Coffee Meetup are hosting our local edition of Global Azure 2026. This is a free, community-driven event packed with learning, networking, and all things Microsoft Azure. Whether you’re building modern cloud-native apps, experimenting with AI agents, deploying containers, automating infrastructure, or just beginning your Azure journey, this event is for you! **What to Expect** * Engaging technical sessions * Real-world Azure architecture & cloud-native patterns * AI, agents, automation, and modern DevOps * Food and drinks (because learning burns calories) * Time to connect with fellow engineers, architects, and cloud enthusiasts **Who Should Attend?** * Software engineers (any language, any stack) * Cloud architects * DevOps engineers * Data professionals * AI explorers * Platform builders * Anyone who loves solving hard problems with great tools If you build, deploy, automate, scale, monitor, or optimize in Azure, you’ll feel right at home. **Why Global Azure?** Global Azure is a worldwide community event where Azure user groups host learning sessions on the same day across the globe. It’s grassroots. It’s technical. It’s practical. And it’s powered by people who genuinely love sharing what they’ve learned. And yes, it’s free to attend!

**The Data-Driven Brand: Using Analytics to Shape Perception** Can you use analytics to improve tacos? This being CBUSDAW, we think the answer is probably “yes”, but we’re not sure how to implement or test this theory. For our April meetup we’ve got Sara Kear, CMO of Condado Tacos, to investigate this delicious question. Sara will explore how she blends quantitative data and qualitative customer feedback to shape brand positioning and drive business decisions. We all know that marketing and analytics go way beyond attribution. Sara will show how Condado uses customer insights to inform product and pricing strategy. She’ll also highlight how Condado leverages customer feedback at scale to influence operational priorities, positioning marketing as the voice of the customer across the organization. In the last 12 years Condado has gone from one location in Columbus to 52 locations across 10 states, so we’re guessing there’s more to that growth than really good guac (though the guac probably helps). Ultimately, this talk focuses on the intersection of art and science—using data to inform creativity and build a brand that resonates with customers in a measurable way. **About Our Speaker** Sara Kear is Chief Marketing Officer at Condado Tacos, where she oversees brand, restaurant design, menu and pricing strategy, off-premise including catering, and customer data strategy. Since joining in 2021, she has helped grow the brand from 19 to 52 locations while building a data-driven marketing organization focused on loyalty and customer insights. Condado has since been named to the Inc. 5000, recognized as Breakout Retailer by Chain Store Age, and consistently ranked among FastCasual’s Top 100 Movers & Shakers. Thanks to our 2026 sponsors: [Clarivoy](https://www.clarivoy.com), [What Box Consulting Group](https://www.whatboxconsultinggroup.com), [Conductrics](https://www.conductrics.com), and [Piwik PRO](https://piwik.pro) More info at [cbusdaw.com](https://cbusdaw.com)