Design Fiction

Join us for **Gen AI Day Malta** and [register](https://ti.to/maltaawsusergroup/gen-a-i-day-malta) for this community event organised by the AWS User Group Malta and sponsored by [doIT](https://www.doit.com/) and [Clickhouse](https://clickhouse.com/). This event will focus on practical, real-world discussions on **Generative AI**. Whether you're **building, leading, or scaling AI initiatives**, this event is designed to deliver **practical value — without the hype**. To keep discussions meaningful and relevant to your experience level, the event will be **divided into three focused tracks**. Each track targets a different stage of the AI journey, allowing participants to dive deeper into the challenges and opportunities most relevant to them. **Register at** https://ti.to/maltaawsusergroup/gen-a-i-day-malta and choose one of the tracks below # **Tracks:** ## **Track 1: Production Operations & Pitfalls** **For leaders and engineers running live AI workloads** *The “War Stories” Session* **Focus:** The reality of **Day-2 operations** when AI systems are already in production. **Topics include:** * **The “Ops” in LLMOps** – Managing latency, throughput, and error handling in distributed AWS environments * **Cost Management** – How to scale AI workloads without blowing the budget * **Production Pitfalls** – Handling hallucinations, model drift, and security guardrails when AI interacts with live customer data ## **Track 2: Making Agentic AI Responsive, Trustful and Scalable** **For architects and tech leads planning reliable Agentic AI systems** *The “Architecture” Session* **Focus:** Frameworks alone are not enough to ensure successful Agentic AI systems. This track explores the **architectural components required to make AI systems responsive, trustworthy, and scalable as adoption grows**. **Topics include:** * **Real-time and scalable analytical databases** – Using ClickHouse Cloud * **LLM Observability** – Using Langfuse to ensure end users receive high-quality results from LLM-powered systems 📋 **Pre-requisite:** Please come prepared with **one specific use case** where chatbots or other Agentic AI technology is (or could be) used — for example: * Customer Service * Natural Language Data Analysis Be ready to discuss the **benefits and challenges** introduced by these solutions. *** ## **Track 3: The Builder's Path (MVP)** **For those starting their Generative AI journey** *The “Zero-to-One” Session* **Focus:** Rapid validation and prototyping. **Topics include:** * **Getting Started** – Identifying AI use cases that actually deliver value * **The Toolkit** – A practical introduction to Amazon Bedrock for building GenAI applications without managing infrastructure * **MVP Architecture** – How to build a scalable Proof of Concept in **days, not months** *** # 👥 **Who Should Attend?** This event is designed for key personas across the Generative AI ecosystem. ### 🛠 The Engineer * Get hands-on insights from real implementations * Pressure-test your architectural ideas * Learn how teams are using Amazon Q and Amazon Bedrock in production * Ask deep technical questions and exchange patterns with peers If you're **building or experimenting with GenAI solutions**, this session will sharpen your approach. *** ### 🎯 **The Leader** * Understand the real resource requirements for AI adoption * Assess risks, governance, and operational considerations * Set realistic timelines and expectations * Cut through marketing noise and focus on execution If you're responsible for **strategy, budgets, or innovation direction,** this event will provide **clarity and actionable insights**. *** ✅ **Please select the track that best matches your interests and experience when registering.**

🔔 Meet new people easily, enjoy great conversations, and experience Malta’s social life at Thursday Social Mixer - our weekly international meetup. Whether you come alone or with friends, you’ll find a friendly and open atmosphere where connecting feels natural. Many guests arrive solo, and our team welcomes you from the start, introducing you to a small group so you can begin chatting right away. The evening features our fun group-rotation icebreaker, the “Bell Speed Friendship” — every few minutes the bell rings and groups change, giving you the chance to meet many different people in a fun way. Expect an international crowd, great energy, and a beautiful venue perfect for socializing. 📅 Every Thursday, from 19:30 till late 📍 Surfside, Sliema 🌎 Who joins: Internationals, students, travellers, expats & locals 🎟️ Entry: 7€, including: – A free welcome drink – Full access to the event – Friendly team support to help you connect and meet new people 👉 No booking needed — just show up and join the experience. The earlier you arrive, the easier it is to join the first groups and make the most of the night. We look forward to welcoming you! Links: [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/english_cafe_malta/) [Website](https://englishcafemalta.com/)

Join us for a fun and engaging social exchange meetup in Malta. Whether you're practicing English or any language, a beginner or advanced, this event welcomes you. Meet like-minded locals, expats, internationals, and fellow wanderers eager to share stories, explore cultures, and build friendships in a relaxed vibe. This is ideal for new residents, exchange students, and travelers immersing in Malta's island life and community. Don't miss your chance to connect over casual eating, drinking, and chats—expand your network while embracing the nomadic spirit! 🌍👋

🍷 Drink with AI: Exploring Computer Vision & Wine Grab your laptop and a glass! Join us for a hands-on GDG event where we explore the practical side of computer vision. Can an AI learn to visually distinguish between different bottles and varieties of local Maltese wine? In this interactive session, we'll guide you through the process of training custom machine learning models to recognize, classify, and demonstrate computer vision techniques using a selection of fantastic wines provided by Tal-Massar Winery. Whether you are an AI enthusiast, a wine lover, or a beginner curious about machine learning, this event is the perfect blend of tech and culture. You'll get to see exactly how image classification works in real-time, and enjoy some great local wine while doing it! 📅 Event Details Date: March 28th Time: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Location: Faculty of ICT - Common Room (-1, B) Please bring your laptop! This is a fully interactive, hands-on workshop. We'll be using accessible, browser-based tools, so you won't need to install any heavy software beforehand, but you will need your own device to build, train, and test your computer vision models alongside us. Spaces are limited, so be sure to RSVP early. We can't wait to build with AI (and grab a drink) with you! Agenda --- Hosted By James Gatt, Administrator AOSP Enthusiast Recognized Developer on XDA Developers Experienced with both AOSP and Device Engineering Matthias Bartolo, Logistics Matthias Bartolo (Graduate Student Member, IEEE) received the B.Sc. IT (Hons.) in Artificial Intelligence from the University of Malta in 2024, graduating with First Class Honours and ranking first in his cohort. He subsequently completed an M.Sc. in ICT by Research at the University of Malta in 2025. His principal research interests lie in computer vision, applied machine learning, and in exploring how AI may be harnessed to support and empower individuals. He has gained considerable experience working on real-world projects involving complex datasets, developing practical solutions in contexts where the way forward was not immediately apparent. In this regard, he upholds a strong commitment to integrity and embraces the ideal of being “a man for others,” striving to use his abilities in service of the greater good. Matthias is actively involved in multiple projects that bridge research and application, advancing computer vision and applied machine learning techniques while contributing to several peer-reviewed publications. He was selected as a member of the Google Developers Group in Malta, where he contributes to various projects and initiatives within the group and the university. Beyond his academic and technical work, he also forms part of several voluntary organisations, further reflecting his commitment to service and community engagement. In 2024, he was honoured with the Dean’s List Award by the Faculty of ICT in recognition of his outstanding academic achievements, and was robed by the Rector during the graduation ceremony as the top student of his cohort. Joseph Grech, Hospitality Matthew Mangion, Designer Andrea Filiberto Lucas, Marketing I am a Research Support Officer I within the Department of Artificial Intelligence at the University of Malta and a Master of Science student specialising in AI. My work focuses on applied computer vision, intelligent systems, and dataset-driven research. I contribute to active research projects within the Faculty of ICT, with responsibilities ranging from model development and evaluation to data processing, automation, and system integration. I am particularly interested in bridging academic research with real-world applications through practical AI solutions and collaborative development. Jonathan Attard, Treasurer Gabriel Hili, Community Engagement Complete your event RSVP here: https://gdg.community.dev/events/details/google-gdg-malta-presents-drink-with-ai/.

Do you dare to explore the dark side of Birgu? Join our Ghost Tour through the historic streets of Birgu (Vittoriosa) and uncover the chilling stories, mysterious legends and dark history hidden within one of Malta’s oldest cities. As night falls, the narrow streets and ancient buildings of Birgu take on a completely different atmosphere. During this evening walk, you’ll hear stories about ghost sightings, unexplained events, tragic tales from the time of the Knights of Malta, and places where spirits are said to still wander today. Your guide for the evening is Charmaine, widely known as one of Malta’s best storytellers when it comes to ghost stories and local legends. With her captivating storytelling, she brings the mysterious past of Birgu to life. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, this tour is a unique way to experience Malta’s history after dark. 👻 Expect stories about: • Haunted houses and mysterious sightings • Dark events from the time of the Knights • Hidden streets with chilling legends • Unsolved mysteries from centuries ago The tour is a relaxed walking experience through Birgu and lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Cost: Only 15 EUR **Already 11 tickets sold!** Full=Fulll IMPORTANT: In order to participate, you can purchase your ticket here: https://www.nowonlinetickets.nl/Shop/EventDetails/33E3BF665BDB291B5498848582DFDE2D Stay up to date with more info and our events by joining our Whatsapp Community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DFf8zJqzqpU85HjqxEY7pD?mode=gi_t

We meet for brunch. Location will be sent to participants later Winter in Malta is very different from winter in many other countries, yet it still influences our mood, routines, and lifestyle. During this meetup we will reflect together on how the winter season affected us. Possible discussion topics include: • emotional wellbeing during winter • changes in daily routines • new hobbies or activities discovered • changes in physical activity • eating habits during colder months • energy levels and motivation This is a relaxed and friendly conversation where everyone is welcome to share their experiences and insights. Community Guidelines • Respect each other’s opinions, backgrounds, and experiences • No judgment, gossip, or discrimination • This is a friendship-focused space — please keep interactions respectful • Support and kindness are at the heart of our community • Personal stories shared during the event should remain confidential 📸 Photo Consent Photos may be taken during the event for community promotion. If you prefer not to appear in photos, please inform the organizer. ⚕️ Disclaimer Any recommendations shared during the event (health, lifestyle, financial, or other) are for discussion purposes only. Please consult a qualified professional before applying any advice. 💶 Participation Participation in the event is €10, which helps support community organization and event planning.

🛶 Discover one of Malta’s most iconic natural wonders on our Blue Grotto excursion, combining dramatic coastal views, a scenic sea-cave boat ride, and free time to explore the area at your own pace. Travel by private bus to the Blue Grotto, admire the famous turtle-shaped cave from the panoramic viewpoint, then enjoy a local boat ride through glowing sea caves where sunlight paints the water in shades of blue and emerald. After the boat tour, enjoy free time by the sea — relax, explore the village, have lunch, or take an optional swim in the Blue Grotto canal. If you like, it’s easy to connect with other international participants along the way, sharing the views and the experience. 📅 Every other Saturday 🕚 Meet at 10:30, departure at 11:00 📍 Meeting point: McDonald’s, Sliema 🚌 Return: around 16:00, same location 🌎 Who it’s for: Internationals, students, travellers, expats & locals 🎟️ Online ticket required (limited spots), starting from €20, including: – Private bus transportation to and from the Blue Grotto – Scenic sea-cave boat ride – Guided walk and full team support – Event coordination and logistics 👉 Spots are limited due to transport — advance online booking on our website is required. Cliffs, sea caves, and crystal-clear waters await you along Malta’s coastline! Links: [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/english_cafe_malta/) [Website](https://englishcafemalta.com/)

🌊 Explore one of Malta’s most iconic natural wonders on our Comino & Blue Lagoon excursion, an experience combining scenic cruising, Comino exploration, and free time in the famous crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon. Travel by private bus and boat to Comino Island, where turquoise seas, rugged cliffs, sea caves, and Mediterranean landscapes create a truly unforgettable setting. The experience includes a short walk across Comino to discover the island’s landscapes, followed by extended free time at the Blue Lagoon to swim, relax, take photos, or simply enjoy the unique atmosphere. If you like, it’s easy to connect with other international participants along the way, through shared views, conversations, and the journey itself. 📅 Every other Saturday 🕚 Meet at 09:30, departure at 10:00 📍 Meeting point: McDonald’s, Sliema 🚌 Return: around 17:00, same location 🌎 Who it’s for: Internationals, students, travellers, expats & locals 🎟️ Online ticket required (limited spots), starting from €20, including: – Private bus transportation to and from Ċirkewwa – Round-trip boat ride to and from Comino – Short guided walk on Comino – Full team support, coordination, and logistics 👉 Spots are limited due to transport — advance online booking on our website is required. LINK A full day of sea, nature, and unforgettable Mediterranean scenery awaits you! Links: [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/english_cafe_malta/) [Website](https://englishcafemalta.com/)

*📌Tickets to be bought on the [Website](https://englishcafemalta.com/events-in-malta/excursions-in-malta/sunday-hike-malta/)* 👣 Discover Malta’s natural beauty on our Sunday Hiking Adventure, exploring hidden gems, Mediterranean landscapes, coastal paths, rugged cliffs, and some of the island’s most impressive outdoor areas. Along the way, it’s easy to meet new international people naturally while walking, sharing views, and experiencing the trail together — whether you come alone or with friends. It’s a chance to move, breathe fresh air, connect with nature, and experience a more authentic side of Malta - all while spending your Sunday outdoors. 📅 Every Sunday 🕚 Meet at 10:30, departure at 11:00 📍 Meeting point: McDonald’s, Sliema 🚌 Return: around 16:30, same location 🌎 Who joins: Internationals, students, travellers, expats & locals 🎯 The hiking destination changes weekly — find the full list of upcoming locations on our website. 🎟️ Online ticket required (limited spots), starting from €12.50, including: – Private bus transportation to and from the hiking area – Guided hike and full team support – Event coordination and logistics 👉 Spots are limited due to transport — advance online booking via our website is required. On spot, cash payment is possible but it's €20, and is not reccomended as the trip can be soldout. Check our website for an online ticket and FAQ. After the hike, those who wish often join for drinks or food together — a relaxed and spontaneous way to unwind and continue the social vibe. See you on the trail! Links: [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/english_cafe_malta/) [Website](https://englishcafemalta.com/events-in-malta/excursions-in-malta/sunday-hike-malta/)

🎵 Dance, socialize, and celebrate the weekend under the stars at Saturday Rooftop Party, a vibrant international night on one of Malta’s favorite rooftops. Set at the welcoming Marco Polo Rooftop, the night blends relaxed social vibes with an energetic party atmosphere. Whether you come solo or with friends, it’s easy to blend in, enjoy the music, and let the night unfold naturally. With two rooftop levels, you can choose your vibe — head upstairs for relaxed conversations and lounge energy, or stay on the main level for music, drinks, and dancing as the party builds throughout the night. 📅 Every Saturday, from 21:00 till late 📍 Marco Polo Rooftop, St Julian’s 🌎 Who joins: Internationals, students, travellers, expats & locals 🎟️ Entry: 6€, including: – A free welcome shot or soft drink – Full access to the rooftop party – Glow-in-the-dark face painting – Until 22:30: friendly team support to help you meet new people, if you like 👉 No booking needed — just show up and enjoy the night. Arriving earlier means easier connections and better drink deals before it gets busy. Bring your best energy — Saturday night is for celebrating ✨ Links: [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/english_cafe_malta/) [Website](https://englishcafemalta.com/)

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!

Join us as we get together for an Arthouse Movie Friday event to see the A24 dark comedy /romance / psychological-thriller, THE DRAMA! The film stars Zendaya and Robert Pattinson as a happily engaged couple whose relationship is challenged when one discovers unsettling truths about the other. Here are details, a trailer and our plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: The film follows a happily engaged couple whose relationship is put to the test when an unexpected turn sends their wedding week off the rails. The film comes from A24, is written/directed by Kristoffer Borgli stars Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Mamoudou Athie, Alana Haim, Hailey Gates and Zoë Winters. QUICK WORD OF WARNING: The film hasn’t screened for critics yet and most of the details are being kept tightly under wraps. But, early buzz (possibly promotional) says the film is a brilliant psychological thriller/romance but also provocative, twisty and some contains occasional uncomfortable viewing! I love the cast and trailer, so look forward to seeing for ourselves! ZENDAYA-PATTINSON TRIFECTA CHALLENGE: Robert Pattinson and Zendaya will star in THREE movies together this year, including THE DRAMA, Christopher Nolan’s THE ODYSSEY this Summer and Denis Villeneuve’s DUNE: PART THREE at Christmas! TRAILER: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6zmKcUa4Xxk](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6zmKcUa4Xxk) PLAN: We’ll plan for 7pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area about 30 minutes before showtime! Advance ticket purchase not required for this theater but early arrival is advised. Possibly post-movie get-together at the nearby Rusty Bucket! Complete details will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer. Take care and look forward to seeing you there, Dan

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros. 10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Saturday!

**💞 Beginner-Friendly Speed Dating – Connect Virtually, Feel Right at Home!** **🚨 DON'T SKIP THIS: RSVP Does Not Mean Entry!** To lock in your spot, click the link for your age group below, sign up, and complete the quick personality quiz. **We have limited capacity** – claim your place today! **🎟️ Age Group Sign-Up Links (Click Yours Now):** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=cobalt-crest-passionate-singles&ar=18-32&face_v=10.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=cobalt-crest-passionate-singles&ar=30-46&face_v=10.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=cobalt-crest-passionate-singles&ar=40-58&face_v=10.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=cobalt-crest-passionate-singles&ar=55+&face_v=10.0) --- 😌 **Dating doesn't have to be stressful.** That's exactly why we built this! Our virtual speed dating sessions are thoughtfully crafted with beginners in mind. Every chat is guided, every interaction feels natural, and you never need to step outside your door. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - People wanting to meet local Toledo singles without stepping outside - Singles looking for a secure, comfortable virtual environment - Quiet or reserved singles who open up better in private conversations **Event Details** - **Format:** Virtual on Zoom – organised rounds in a warm, easy-going setting - **Location:** Wherever you’re most relaxed – that’s your date spot tonight - **Host:** Expert moderator who ensures every conversation flows smoothly - **Vibe:** Great energy, honest talk, and genuine connections with Toledo locals **How It Works** 1. **Choose Your Age Range** – Click the link for your age group and complete sign-up. 2. **Complete the Quick Compatibility Quiz** – Helps us match you with like-minded Toledo newcomers. 3. **Join the Zoom Session** – Log in from home and greet your host. We’ll take care of the rest! 4. **Enjoy the Conversations** – Every round is timed and hosted so each chat feels easy and fun. 5. **Match Results** – Find out who you clicked with. If the interest is mutual, we’ll connect you! 💡 **Advice:** Treat each round like chatting with a mate. Keep it light, keep it genuine! ⭐ *"So much better than any dating app. Genuine conversations with real people. Absolutely loved it!"* – Toledo attendee --- ✨ Amazing connections begin with a single conversation. Yours could start this evening! ❤️‍🔥 ✨

**💘 Relaxed Online Speed Dating – Crafted for Newcomers & First Timers!** **⚠️ PLEASE READ: Just RSVPing Won't Confirm Your Place!** To attend this event, click your age group sign-up link below, register, and complete the brief personality quiz. **Capacity is strictly limited** – don't wait! **⬇️ Choose Your Age Range & Finish Registration:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=cobalt-crest-passionate-singles&ar=18-32&face_v=10.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=cobalt-crest-passionate-singles&ar=30-46&face_v=10.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=cobalt-crest-passionate-singles&ar=40-58&face_v=10.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=cobalt-crest-passionate-singles&ar=55+&face_v=10.0) --- 💬 **Genuine conversations beat endless swiping.** Meet someone this evening! Whether you've never speed dated or haven't been on a proper date in ages, this event is for you. Our welcoming format and skilled hosts make everyone feel at home from the very start. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - People wanting to meet local Detroit singles without stepping outside - Beginners who want to date without the stress of face-to-face encounters - People after meaningful connections in a laid-back setting - Quiet or reserved singles who open up better in private conversations **Event Details** - **Format:** Online Zoom session – intimate atmosphere, professional hosting - **Location:** Wherever you happen to be – no commute, no parking, no fuss - **Host:** Skilled facilitator who guides first-time speed daters with patience - **Vibe:** Laid-back conversations with welcoming Detroit singles from the comfort of home - **Atmosphere:** Positive, inclusive, and completely judgement-free - **Icebreakers:** Entertaining prompts provided to keep chats flowing - **Follow-up:** Post-event match results delivered straight to your inbox **How It Works** 1. **Find Your Age Group** – Locate your age range above and click to sign up. 2. **Complete the Quick Compatibility Quiz** – Helps us match you with like-minded Detroit newcomers. 3. **Hop on Zoom** – Pour yourself a drink, get settled, and let the host walk you through each round. 4. **The Fun Part** – Rotate through rounds of lively chats with pre-matched Detroit singles. 5. **Connect After the Event** – Mutual matches are shared so you can keep the conversation going. --- ✨ One event, many conversations, endless possibilities. Sign up now and see what happens! 🫶 ✨

**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)