UX Design

AWS re:Invent is Amazon Web Services’ flagship global technology conference, held annually in Las Vegas since 2012. Every year, the most critical updates and shifts around Kubernetes, Amazon EKS, and AI are first discussed, debated, validated, and refined at re:Invent — shaping technology decisions for years to come. This is not just another tech conference. It is where engineers, architects, and AWS core teams collectively define the future direction of cloud technology. Many AWS technologies are officially announced for the very first time at re:Invent. And just recently, AWS re:Invent has concluded in the US. From AWS re:Invent to Melbourne Bringing Global Cloud Insights to the Local Tech Community Shortly after re:Invent wrapped up, JR Academy is bringing first-hand insights from the global cloud stage directly to Melbourne. At this critical moment, JR Academy, together with KSUG, is hosting an in-person technical meetup to share real observations and discussions straight from the conference floor. This is not a replay or summary of re:Invent sessions. It’s a focused exchange that brings key global cloud judgments back to the local engineering community. Not a “Re-cap”, but a Deep Technical Exchange What engineers bring back from AWS re:Invent is rarely just slide decks. More often, it’s: Which EKS and AI directions were repeatedly discussed on-site Which technologies looked promising, yet sparked real debate among engineers How personal technical judgments and engineering thinking evolve after high-density information exposure These insights are difficult to fully capture through live streams, blogs, or recap articles — yet they are often the most valuable inputs for real-world technical decisions. JR Academy hopes to open these discussions to more engineers. **Event Focus** 🔹 First-hand perspectives from [AWS](https://aws.amazon.com) re:Invent Participants who attended re:Invent in person will share what they saw, heard, and felt — beyond what appeared in keynotes. 🔹 Amazon EKS & Kubernetes topics Exploring changes in platform capabilities, architecture design, and engineering practices, and discussing the next phase of Kubernetes within the AWS ecosystem. 🔹 AI insights & emerging trends Practical takeaways and new signals around AI from the conference. **Event Perks** 🎯 Food & drinks available from 5:30 PM – 6:00 PM (first come, first served) 🧃 Open networking & face-to-face technical discussions **Registration Notes** ⚠️ Amazon Office security requirements: Photo ID required (Passport or Driver’s License) Registration must be under your real name Thank you for your understanding. **Event Details** 📍 Location Amazon MEL12, Level 13 304/555 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000 🕠 Time January 14, 2025 — 6:00 PM (Melbourne time) 🎯 How to Register Click “Attend” on the right to secure your spot. 📍 Technical Community Discussion After registration, please contact JR Academy (Xiao Hua) to join the group for deeper technical discussions. Why JR Academy Keeps Doing This At JR Academy, we believe the real gap between engineers is not just about mastering individual tools — but about building independent understanding and judgment at the very beginning of change. Not everyone can attend AWS re:Invent in person. But the key insights it generates deserve to be heard as early as possible. That’s exactly why we bring it to you. **🤝 Acknowledgements** AWS Melbourne Office — Venue support [KSUG](https://ksug.ai/) — Global AI & Cloud-Native Community

Dear Lakesiders, 4 Pack is the hare for this week’s run no. 2245, 14 January 6:30pm. Venue – **Lincolnshire Arms Hotel, 1 Keilor Rd, Essendon** [Lincolnshire Arms Hotel - Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Lincolnshire+Arms+Hotel/@-37.7445893,144.9098151,821m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x6ad65c7bbbc30f99:0xb4ac16fb675e28b!8m2!3d-37.7445893!4d144.9098151!16s%2Fg%2F1tfqljcc?hl=en&entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDYzMC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) Public Transport – Tram 59, stop on Keilor road, stop #47. Onon Point Post.

**Register now to attend! =>** [https://konfhub.com/ksug-au-2026-01-14](https://konfhub.com/ksug-au-2026-01-14) **<=** **Latest promotions** discovered by our community! * **30%** off [KubeCon Europe](https://ksug.ai/events/?ref=meet) 2026 using code **KSAI** * **30%** off [Linux Foundation](https://ksug.ai/?ref=meet) Certs using code **30K8SUG** * Up to **30%** off popular [Books](https://ksug.ai/books/?ref=meet) and [Events](https://ksug.ai/events/?ref=meet) * **25%** off [THRIVE-ONE subscription](https://jf1.ksug.ai) We're excited to welcome you to the upcoming **KSUG.AI Australia Meetup** — happening both in-person at at Amazon and online via [Zoom](https://linktr.ee/ksug.ai)! 🎉 We're actively seeking more awesome AI topic speakers! 👉 [https://speaker.ksug.ai](https://speaker.ksug.ai) **Agenda and topics preview:** * Food, drinks and Socializing * Welcome / Introductions by the Organizers @**[KSUG.AI](https://ksug.ai/?ref=meet)** * **Topic 1:** **AWS re:Invent re:Cap** by our panelists, **Dale** Orders, **Stephen** Sennet, **Matthew** Gillard, **Michael** Walmsley * **Topic 2:** **Amazon** **EKS update** by **Andrew** Jarrett from **AWS** * **Quiz time:** nice swags giveaways Food and drinks will be provided between **5.30 and 6 pm** on a first-come, first-served basis. This is a great opportunity to learn and network with our peers. Thanks to our sponsors @**[Amazon](https://aws.com/)**, @**[KodeKloud](https://kodekloud.com/k8sug)**! **[Register here](https://konfhub.com/ksug-au-2026-01-14) to secure your spot!** See you all there! **Location:** Amazon MEL12, Level 13.304 [555 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Kbi13GZqj2zDqDz2A) Join **[#Discord](https://discord.com/invite/Rp9WzYyKua)** for latest update 👉 [https://discord.com/invite/Rp9WzYyKua](https://discord.com/invite/Rp9WzYyKua) 🔖 𝐎𝐧𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐬: ☸ 30% OFF **[Kubernetes](https://lf.ksug.ai/)** Certs - Code: **30K8SUG** ☸ 37% OFF **[KodeKloud](https://ksug.ai/kk/?ref=meet)** Plans - Code: **K8SUGKK** 𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐖𝐞 𝐃𝐨 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬: ✅ Learn 𝐅𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑 ⚡ ✅ Certify 𝐒𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐑 💰 ✅ Grow 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐑 💪 𝟏𝟖𝟎,𝟎𝟎𝟎+ follow **[KSUG.AI](https://ksug.ai/?ref=meet)** 🔥 [linktr.ee/ksug.ai](https://linktr.ee/ksug.ai) *By registering, you consent to the management of your personal information in accordance with KSUG.AI Meetup's [Privacy Policy](https://k8sug.ai/privacy). Additionally, you agree that our sponsors may contact you.* **[KSUG.AI](https://ksug.ai/?ref=meet)** is an independent community and not affiliated with or endorsed by CNCF. Kubernetes, K8s, Kubestronaut are registered trademarks of The Linux Foundation.

Players of all skill levels are welcome to join us at Marché Board Games Cafe in the CBD for a casual night of mahjong - Right in the CBD. We'll start around 6:00pm till we all need to go home :) Our typical session concludes usually around 10:00pm. Please change your RSVP to not going if you're no longer able to attend, 24 hours prior the event. For those that have a record of non attendance without communicating, you will be moved to the waiting list for future events and be contacted directly to confirm that you indeed intend to turn up, at which you will be allotted a spot subject to availability. For more details on the rules of the game, please refer to: http://mahjongtime.com/hong-kong-mahjong-rules.html Marche has been kind enough to offer us a deal to play in their cafe. **⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆ Cost ⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆** Attendees who have registered for the event on Meetup can play at discounted rates, with the following payments to be made: * **$6 in total per session” to cover cafe costs. Payment of $6 should be made to Marche at the front counter upon notification to the staff member that you are here for the scheduled meetup. There is now no minimum spend on items at the cafe as there were before. The cafes menu can be found here https://mbgcafe.com.au/menu.pdf .

Join us for a relaxed LinkedIn networking walk — a casual way to connect with others in a friendly way. This event is only open to people who have an active LinkedIn account. Whether you're working, studying, running a business, or figuring things out, you're welcome here. It's a great opportunity to grow your LinkedIn network and meet like-minded people. We ask that everyone comes with the intention to build genuine connections — not to pitch or sell. Please remember to RSVP to this event if you wish to attend. **Please note:** We won’t accept RSVPs from individuals who have previously breached our group guidelines. **Meeting Point:** Let's meet infront of Timeout at Fed Square at 7 PM. We will be at the meeting point till 7:10 PM before walking. We will finish the walk around 8:30 PM at Fed Square. Please don't be late. Map: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/CnfUeKQ4XQZwkbrb8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/CnfUeKQ4XQZwkbrb8) **Total Walking Distance:** 4km, Easy, mostly flat Cost: FREE Please follow me on LinkedIn for updates: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheolsu](https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheolsu) Explore Melbourne is the largest meetup group in Australia with more than 43,000 members. We know these group rules won’t suit everybody, and that’s okay—there are many other groups where you might feel more at home. To keep things safe, fun, and positive, we have 8 simple rules for people attending our events. Over the past 9 years, we’ve removed 342 people (around 0.8%) for breaking them—so please read carefully! ❌ Not a dating group! – We’re here to make connections, not find soulmates. 📵 No phone numbers, please! – Feel free to swap LinkedIn if both parties are cool with it, but please don’t share or ask for phone numbers. Please don’t add people to WhatsApp or other groups. 🔞 Our events are only open to people aged 18 and older. 📢 Please do not advertise other events or groups. 🚗 We don't allow carpooling due to safety incidents/our public liability insurance not covering motor related accidents. 💰 **No sales pitches! – No selling, no MLMs, no pyramid schemes, no “life-changing mentorship” offers—let’s keep things scam-free.** By joining an event, you agree to follow these rules. Breaking them means removal from all our groups—no exceptions. Thank you! **Liability Waiver:** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your safety and well-being. By joining this event, you agree to the liability waiver mentioned here: [https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/](https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/ "https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/")

**Recharge Your Soul – Join Our Absolutely Free Guided Meditation** Feel like hitting pause on the chaos of everyday life? Join us for a powerful, in-person meditation session where calm meets connection. This isn’t just meditation—it’s a collective experience of peace, presence, and inner alignment. When we meditate together, something beautiful happens: we rise higher, feel deeper, and tap into the energy that connects us all. What to expect: • A peaceful space to disconnect from the digital and reconnect with yourself • A warm, welcoming group of like-minded souls • Guided meditation suitable for all levels • The kind of inner stillness that lasts long after you leave Come a few minutes early to settle in and meet others. You’ll leave feeling lighter, clearer, and more connected. It’s free, but space is limited—RSVP now and bring a friend! Let’s meet, breathe, and rise. Together.

Come join us and practise public speaking! All levels are welcome. Take the first step to overcome your fears, build confidence and learn to speak with impact in a friendly, supportive and encouraging environment. Start you public speaking journey with us now to improve your communications skills and elevate all aspects of your life. Please arrive 10 minutes early so we can settle everyone in for a 5.30pm start. See you soon!

## Neurospicy Vision Boarding ✨ **Create a visual reminder of the life you want to build.** This is a relaxed session where we’ll spend time creating **vision boards** together. A **vision board** is a large visual collage that represents how you want your life to look and feel. People usually use images and words from magazines, but drawing, writing, and doodling are just as welcome. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s to create something you can **take home and put somewhere visible**. A reminder of what you’re aiming toward, especially on days when motivation is low. The light woo bit: Seeing your intentions regularly helps keep them top-of-mind and easier to act on. Not magic. Just attention doing its thing. *** ### What Happens (High Level) 1. Short welcome and explanation of what a vision board is 2. Open time to create your board 3. Plenty of space to chat, body-double, or work quietly 4. You head home with your board and decide where it lives No presentations. No step-by-step facilitation. Sharing is optional. *** ### How People Usually Make Vision Boards Traditionally, people: * Cut images and words out of magazines * Stick them onto a large sheet of paper * Arrange things until it “feels right” You can also: * Draw * Write phrases or keywords * Doodle badly (genuinely fine) * Mix all of the above There’s no right way. If it makes sense to you, it’s working. *** ### 🗓 When & Where **📍 Sandringham Library** **🕜 1.30pm – 3.30pm** Stay for the whole session or drop in for part of it. *** ### What’s Provided * A3 paper * A small selection of magazines * A few pens and pencils (but not many so please BYO) *** ### 👜 What to Bring (Optional but Encouraged) If you want more choice or personal relevance: * **Scissors** (we only have 2 sets) * Magazines or printed images/quotes (You can print cheaply at the library.) * Your favourite pens or markers * Snacks or drinks that help you focus It’s also fine to bring nothing and just use what’s there but you might just have 1-2 pens available. *** ### 🧩 Who This Is For * Neurodivergent folks (ADHD, Autistic, AuDHD, self-identified welcome) * People who think better visually * Anyone who benefits from body-doubling * Folks who want inspiration *and* momentum No creative skills or clear goals required. *** ### ❓FAQs **How is this different from SMART goals?** Vision boarding is about direction and motivation. SMART goals are about structure and execution. Many people use a vision board first, then translate parts of it into SMART goals later. **What do I do after I finish my vision board?** Take it home and put it somewhere you’ll see it regularly. Over time, you can: * Notice which parts still resonate * Turn specific elements into goals or habits * Update or remake it when things change **Do I need to know what I want before coming?** No. The process often helps clarify that. **Do I have to talk or share my board?** No. Chatting and sharing are optional. **Will my visions come true?** Only if you know *the secret* (which is that dreams without action stay dreams). **Is the space accessible?** Sandringham Library is accessible. Message ahead if you want to check anything specific.

**\*\*\*This is a pre-booking event. Please visit [artmasterclass.com.au](https://www.artmasterclass.com.au/) choose your cheeseboard and coaster, use the *MEETAMC10* coupon code, and make a reservation.\*\*\*** Unleash your creativity at our Resin Art Workshop in the heart of Melbourne! Join us for a fun and interactive session where you'll learn the art of resin pouring from expert instructors. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, this workshop is perfect for everyone. You'll create stunning, unique pieces to take home and enjoy, all while surrounded by like-minded creatives. Our workshops provide all the tools, materials, and guidance you'll need to bring your vision to life. Discover the mesmerizing flow of resin, explore vibrant pigments, and watch your art evolve into a glossy masterpiece. Each session is designed to be both educational and relaxing, making it the ideal activity to unwind, socialize, and spark inspiration. Spaces are limited, so book your spot today and dive into the colorful world of resin art with us!

Where does your body end and your emotions begin? Are we ruled by our rational brains or our irrational emotions? Is it a bit of both, or something even more subtle? Affect theory explores human responses to life. * **[Introduction to Affect Theory: Brian Massumi & Eve Sedgwick (0-5.27 seconds)](youtube.com/watch?si=b0ekwCyHL23BmHEV&v=SeMS8QEYIQU&feature=youtu.be)** 1. What do you think “The affective turn” means ( mid-1990’s evolution of thought) 2. Do you think affect theory helps us understand the urges that humans have that they can’t explain? 3. Focussing on subjective feelings and responses is a contrast to trying to quantify and understand facts about events, how do you feel about that? 4. What do you think about the idea being of your body being something that “moves” and “feels”? * **[Spinoza’s Affect and Emotion “affect is a non-conscious experience of intensity” (Shouse, 2005)](youtube.com/watch?si=VohTy1V6AvPLhdm0&v=5bX-H7dYoP0&feature=youtu.be)** 1\. What do you think about Spinoza’s thought? 2\. What do you think about understanding the world through “emotion” instead of with our intellectual analysis? 3\. What emotions/affects do you think are driving some of the big things in culture? 4\. Does the mind connect to the body? How does emotion affect the body? * **[The Rise and Fall of the Main Stream Media From 1:04:28 – 1:11 ish](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-iwOTyv1gyY&list=PLl3m0F1lodbNKr-4yIGBBU-HmPdHJQ2QF)** 1\. How much do you think “affect” has a role in changing the way people engage with media? 2\. What other forces do you think are involved? 3\. Has the splintering of MSM and the proliferations of new voices and platforms triggered “affects” or the other way around? 4\. Is populism a type of affect? Is it still rising? In force\, or on the wane? **Affect Theory vs. Jordan Peterson’s Worldview** | **Aspect** | **Affect Theory** | **Jordan Peterson’s Worldview** | | ------ | ------------- | --------------------------- | | **Classification** | Post-structuralist; interdisciplinary (philosophy, cultural theory, anthropology) | Modernist; rooted in psychology, Judeo-Christian ethics, evolutionary principles | | **Core Idea** | Focus on pre-conscious intensities, bodily sensations, and affective forces shaping experience | Humans need order, responsibility, and meaning to thrive | | **Epistemology** | Relational; skeptical of universal truths; emphasizes flows and emergent phenomena | Values objective truth, universal principles, hierarchical structures | | **View of Order** | Non-hierarchical; dynamic networks of relations | Hierarchical order is natural and necessary for stability | | **Goal** | Understand how affects circulate in culture, shaping identity and politics | Help individuals orient morally and psychologically in a complex world | **Extra Reading:** Shouse, E. (2005). Feeling, Emotion, Affect. M/C Journal, 8(6). [https://doi.org/10.5204/mcj.2443](https://journal.media-culture.org.au/index.php/mcjournal/article/view/2443)

Join us for a relaxing time of folding together at the Ratio chocolate factory in Brunswick! Bring a fun origami project to fold and share, all while sipping on delectable hot chocolate! Standard origami paper will be provided. We just ask for a gold coin to help with group expenses.

📢 **New Member?** ❤️ *Click ‘**Read Description**’* 📢 LINK: [https://www.instagram.com/rmit_pickleball/](https://www.instagram.com/rmit_pickleball/) ***\*\*If you want a resolution to your queries, message on the group chat.*** ***Direct message will not be entertained.\*\**** 🎾 **Paddle & Ball Provided** 🎾 💲 **Payment Link**: Posted in the comment section 1-3 days before each session 💲 Join group chat for update. ### ✅ **Who Can Join** ✅ * This event is open to RMIT students and the Public * To play in this event, you need to be an RMIT Pickleball Club member 2026 - [https://store.rmit.edu.au/pages/club/pickleball](https://store.rmit.edu.au/pages/club/pickleball) * RMIT students can sign up using an RMIT account to get student benefits; for benefits, check our [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/rmit_pickleball/). * This event is open for all ages, genders, and skill levels * First-timers, beginners, intermediate, and advanced players up to DUPR 5.0 are usually expected. * Minors under 18 (if not RMIT Students) are required to be accompanied by a guardian. \#\#\# ✅ **How to Join the Session** ✅ 1. Sign up to the waitlist. Everyone is on the waitlist until the event is finalised. 2. Wait for us to change your RSVP to "Going". 3. Wait for the payment link to appear in the comments below. We usually post it 1-3 days before the session. 4. When your RSVP status has changed to "Going", you can pay for the ticket. **⚠️Any tickets you purchased while on the waitlist are not valid. Invalid tickets are ineligible for refunds or transfer.** \#\#\# ✅ **Priority on Waitlist** ✅ 1. Meetup profile with first and last names. 2. Meetup profile with a clear, recognizable photo with 50-70% of the area covered by face. e.g., LinkedIn/passport photo. 3. RMIT Student Priority—message in group chat. 4. Players with a DUPR rating of 3.0+ who have been and will be playing round-robin with us. 5. Regular players who attend multiple times each week and focus on improving their skills will receive priority. \#\#\# ✅ **What to Bring** ✅ * Paddles & Balls will be provided 🏓🎾 * Wear comfortable sports/running shoes. 👟 * Outdoor Tennis shoes are perfect. 👟 * Bring your own water/energy drink & towel 💧🧴 * No onsite toilet or water fountain is available. * The nearest public toilet (Melbourne Central) and water fountain (IGA/RMIT Tram Stop) are 3-5 minutes from the court. 🚗 **Parking**: Paid parking is available 3-5 walk from court. Check IGA @ 58 Franklin St, [Kim Lim Parking](https://www.parkopedia.com.au/parking/kim_lim_parking/) @ Abeckett St, or [Parkopedia](http://parkopedia.com.au/) for more options. \#\#\# ✅ **On the Day** ✅ * New players should introduce themselves to the host. * **New players who want to learn the rules** come early. When the event starts and politely ask the hosts to join an introductory quick course. * Hosts will check tickets on the day. Please have tickets ready * Social play is for everyone—please assist the host with setting up and closing the session. 👩‍👩‍👧‍👦 \#\#\# 📢 **FAQ** 📢 * We do not use Meetup messages for communication. * Payments are processed via the provided link (no cash, Pay ID, or bank transfers). * Initially, everyone is on the **waitlist** until the event is finalised. * Pay only when you are marked as **going** on Meetup; otherwise, payment is invalid. * The payment gateway and **paid status** on Meetup are not connected. Everyone shows unpaid. * RSVP does not confirm your spot until payment is made. * If you can’t attend, please update your RSVP as ‘**Not Going**’ to free up a spot for someone else. * Failure to update your RSVP results in a "**No Show**," which affects your future participation priority. * Payments should be made at least **24 hours before** the event. * If you can’t find the payment link, contact us via **Facebook chat** * Sometimes, payments are on hold due to uncertainties such as court availability or rain. You don't need to find the old payment link and make a payment; ask us on Facebook chat. \#\#\# ✅ **Cancellations & Refunds** ✅ * Full refunds can only be arranged due to event cancellations, including poor weather conditions or court availability. * Credits for future events are available with mutual agreement only in case of event cancellation; you purchase any ticket after we ask you to make payment. * No refunds for changes of mind, inability to attend, or no-shows. * Please buy tickets only when the payment link is shared. Any payments made before this are at your own risk. * There are no refunds if you make a payment out of violation using the old link while we are holding the payment link as the court is not available due to rain or some other reason. Pay only when we share links; if you have any queries, ask in Facebook chat. \#\#\# 📢 **Game Rules** 📢 * Serve always starts from the right side. * The serving team swaps positions after earning points. * Points are only earned when serving. * Games are typically played to 11 points, win by 2, and capped at 15 points. * More detailed rules available on YouTube/Google. \#\#\# 📢 **Disclaimer** 📢 Participation in Melbourne Social Pickleball involves inherent risks, including personal injury, disability, or other harm. By attending, you accept all risks, and Melbourne Social Pickleball and its affiliates are not liable for any claims.

**Description**: Join me to knit or crochet in the warm, friendly environment of Kindred Studios where we can share our skills and ideas. Knitters, crocheters and crafters of all abilities are welcome. The conversation is relaxed as we work on our projects together and it's a great way to make new friends. The Bass Note Cafe is within the studios and will bring great coffee and delicious snacks to our table. **Agenda**: I'll meet you at 1.00pm inside Kindred Studios at the large table near the tiered seating. We have the space available until 3.00pm. **Location**: Kindred Studios 3 Harris St Yarraville Street parking is available nearby in Harris, Cowper, Hyde and Whitehall Streets. There are large red signs on the footpath to guide you to Kindred Studios. If you are coming by train take the Williamstown/Werribee line to Seddon Station. It's then about 10 minutes to walk to the Studios. When you RSVP please click attend on the Event Page and I will be in touch via direct message. I will also be available on the Events Comments page on the day. .

## **Social Threads x Kismetrix** [(Ticked Event)](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/jan-18-understanding-social-connection-social-threads-x-kismetrix-tickets-1980147414220?aff=oddtdtcreator) ### **Understanding Social Connection** **📅 Sunday 18 January 2026** **⏰ 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM** **📍 RYVE, Level 1, 38 Shafton St, Huntingdale VIC 3166** **🍹 Light refreshments included** ### Feel more connected… without awkward small talk In a world of dating apps, surface-level conversations and busy lives, many people feel disconnected — even when they’re around others. **Understanding Social Connection** is a highly interactive, facilitated workshop designed to help you experience what real, meaningful connection actually feels like. This workshop is **facilitated by Social Threads** and **hosted by Kismetrix**. ### This is not a lecture **This is a guided, human experience** You won’t be sitting and listening. You’ll be: * having real conversations * meeting people one-to-one * learning about yourself * and feeling genuinely connected The workshop is designed around **conversation, not theory** — so instead of being talked at, you’ll take part in meaningful discussions and simple, practical exercises that show you how connection is built in real life. ### What you’ll explore Through guided activities and reflection, you’ll discover: * how genuine connection is formed * how emotional intelligence (EQ) shows up in relationships * how you come across when meeting new people * what makes others feel safe, seen and drawn to you You’ll rotate through **one-to-one partnered conversations**, allowing you to connect with a wide range of people in a relaxed, supported way. ### What you’ll leave with The session ends with a **facilitated group conversation** that brings together the insights, patterns and learnings from the room — giving you **practical tools you can use** in dating, friendships, work and everyday life. ### This workshop is for you if you: * feel tired of shallow conversations * want more meaningful relationships * feel awkward or unsure when meeting new people * are curious about how you relate to others * value emotional intelligence and personal growth You do **not** need to be single. You do **not** need to be outgoing. You just need to be open. ### Tickets - [BOOK HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/jan-18-understanding-social-connection-social-threads-x-kismetrix-tickets-1980147414220?aff=oddtdtcreator) 🎟 **Early Commitment** — $69 *(limited)* 🎟 **Standard / Last-Minute** — $99 Limited capacity to keep the space safe and high quality. Light refreshments included. ## **🔗 Stay Connected with Kismetrix \| True Connection** Love this event? We run a variety of experiences to help people meet and connect in meaningful ways. 📧 **s[ocial@kismetrix.com.au](mailto:ocial@kismetrix.com.au "mailto:ocial@kismetrix.com.au")** 🌐 **[www.kismetrix.com.au](http://www.kismetrix.com.au "http://www.kismetrix.com.au")** 📱 Follow us on **[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_/ "https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_/"), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559826808523 "https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559826808523") & [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/kismetrix-singles-events-84848288353 "https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/kismetrix-singles-events-84848288353")** 🤝 Collaborations: **[collabs@kismetrix.com.au](mailto:collabs@kismetrix.com.au "mailto:collabs@kismetrix.com.au")** 📄 **Important Notice:**By registering for this event\, you confirm that you have read and agree to Kismetrix \| True Connection’s[ Terms & Conditions](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/terms-and-conditions-2/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/terms-and-conditions-2/"),[ Privacy Policy](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/privacy-policy/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/privacy-policy/"),[ Disclaimer](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/disclaimer/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/disclaimer/") and [Code of Conduct](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/code-of-conduct/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/code-of-conduct/").Some events may be non-refundable as stated in their individual descriptions.

**Important! Please register on [Luma Page](https://luma.com/n7h7ynr4)** This event is organised by Projector Institute community and Ukrainian Tech Space DC MD VA Join us for an exclusive evening dedicated to exploring what it truly means to be a Product Designer — and how to manage this role more effectively in today’s fast-changing digital landscape. ​ During this session, we’ll dive into: • The pros and cons of working in product vs. non-product companies • Communication as one of the main design tools • Business-oriented approaches to product design • Practical insights for both junior and senior designers • The use of AI tools and workflows — backed by real-world examples ​ Speaker: [Misha Rybachuk](https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-rybachuk/) — Co-founder of [Projector Institute](https://prjctr.com/en/about), Art Director at [Lezo.io](https://lezo.io/en), and former designer at Accenture. With over 10 years of experience in interface design, Mike has helped build impactful digital products by merging creativity, strategy, and technology. ​ This event is your opportunity to connect with fellow professionals, gain hands-on insights, and see how design bridges creativity, communication, and business success.

We will be meeting at Starbucks to learn together. Come with an online class you're already going through or an interest and we will try to connect you with a course where you can learn it. Already have a skill you want to contribute to a Kaggle Datascience competition? We will work on these too! Laptop required :)

**\*This is an in-person event\*** Most people hold their ideas too tightly. They refine too early, hesitate to share half-formed concepts, and wait for “perfect” before putting anything in front of a user. Frankie Abralind works the opposite way and that mindset is a big part of why his projects succeed. In this session, Frankie walks you through his real creative process: messy drafts, discarded versions, surprising user reactions, and the moments when he threw out something he loved because the evidence pushed him in a new direction. You’ll see firsthand how treating ideas as *disposable, not precious* accelerates learning and leads to better outcomes. You’ll also get to examine real artifacts from the development of his games **BrainSpin**, **DIEKY**, and **eckso**. Explore prototypes, dive into design dilemmas, and hear candid stories of iteration, failure, and breakthrough that have earned former DT:DC director Frankie Abralind a reputation as an “entrepreneur who ships.” **What you'll learn** • What you need to test an idea quickly • Where to find real users (beyond friends and family) • How to ask non-leading, non-biasing questions • User-testing methods that uncover meaningful insights • Best practices for rapid iteration • How to log feedback, share modifications, and track updates • How to receive feedback with openness and use it productively • How to build, and reward, a network of testers and supporters **Agenda** **6:00pm** – Snacks & connection **6:30pm** – Case Study 1: *BrainSpin* — finding user testers **6:50pm** – Case Study 2: *DIEKY* — play tester appreciation **7:10pm** – Case Study 3: *eckso* — rapid prototyping **7:30pm** – *Zenmo* — live user testing **8:00pm** – Debrief & questions **8:30pm** – Adjourn **About our presenter** **Frankie Abralind** is an experience designer, artist, and neurodiversity advocate. He earned his MBA from the University of Maryland, where he has taught “Innovative Thinking” to graduate students since 2014. He also served as co-director of the Innovation Hub at Johns Hopkins Sibley Memorial Hospital. In 2018, Frankie co-founded **The Good Listening Project**, a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening psychological safety in healthcare. He is the inventor of the bestselling game **BrainSpin**, which showcases the power of divergent thinking and collaboration. Today, he leads the stealth startup **Zenmo**, which helps people connect through color. He’s Autistic (and proud!)

NOVA Code and Coffee is an inclusive, informal, co-working session. People of all skill levels are invited. The concept is simple, bring a laptop and ideas, we'll provide the coffee and donuts! Here's how it works: 1. At 10:15 everyone introduces themselves and briefly describes what brought them to Code & Coffee today (project, homework, networking, etc) 2. For the rest of the day, folks work in the communal space on their projects providing one another help and conversation as needed. Oh and they usually drink coffee and tea too! That's it! Hope to see you there! **Location** Our hosts are the Fairfax City Economic Development Building: [10300 Eaton Pl, Fairfax, VA 22030](https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=d7298231ca2df594df822003f9a93517c788fceefe1fcbb79c8976696e341bc6JmltdHM9MTc1MzIyODgwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=180d0745-3b7f-69a1-23a2-11433a7868e5&u=a1L21hcHM_Jm1lcGk9MTA5fn5Ub3BPZlBhZ2V-QWRkcmVzc19MaW5rJnR5PTE4JnE9RmFpcmZheCUyMENpdHklMjBFY29ub21pYyUyMERldmVsb3BtZW50JnNzPXlwaWQuWU44NzN4ODI4MTk2Mjg0NTk5MDM4MTU0MiZwcG9pcz0zOC44NjE0NDYzODA2MTUyMzRfLTc3LjMwMjE3NzQyOTE5OTIyX0ZhaXJmYXglMjBDaXR5JTIwRWNvbm9taWMlMjBEZXZlbG9wbWVudF9ZTjg3M3g4MjgxOTYyODQ1OTkwMzgxNTQyfiZjcD0zOC44NjE0NDZ-LTc3LjMwMjE3NyZ2PTImc1Y9MSZGT1JNPU1QU1JQTA&ntb=1) Conference Room A- Large, Floor 1 This is a new venue for us, so give us some time to get more details about it. Driving is the best option. There is plenty of free on-site parking. Otherwise, we are a 22 minute bus from the Vienna Metro Station. **Sponsored by:** Thank you [Fairfax City Economic Development](https://gofairfaxcity.com/) and [Mason Enterprise Center](https://enterprise.gmu.edu/) for making this event possible! **Thank you so much to our wonderful sponsors!** Organized by [DMV Petri Dish](https://www.dmvpetridish.com/) **[Code of Conduct](https://github.com/NoVACodeCoffee/admin/blob/master/code-of-conduct.md):** We value the participation of each member of the community and want all attendees to have an enjoyable and fulfilling experience. To make clear what is expected, all delegates/attendees, organizers, and volunteers at any Nova Code & Coffee events are required to conform to our [Code of Conduct](https://github.com/NoVACodeCoffee/admin/blob/master/code-of-conduct.md).

Gaming, AdTech, EdTech, Media Streaming, and FinTech are just a few of the workloads where high-availability cloud infrastructure matters. Whether you’re doing battle daily in one of these spaces or are just curious about ways to improve performance, meet us in Reston for an in-person discussion on bare metal cloud architecture. You’ll meet our product lead, James MacKenzie, who will walk through how modern bare metal serves as a control plane for hybrid and private cloud architectures. **What we will cover** * Ways to leverage bare metal, containers, and orchestration for better performance and predictable economics; * Real-world hybrid, disaster recovery, and data-intensive architectures; * Our approach to eliminating ingress and egress fees. **Who should attend** * Cloud architects and platform engineers; * DevOps professionals and infrastructure leads; * FinOps stakeholders managing data-heavy or hybrid workloads. **Why attend** This is a technical, architecture-first conversation. You will leave with a clearer understanding of high-availability cloud infrastructure and how organizations are scaling cost-effectively. Food and drinks will be provided. Space is limited to keep the discussion interactive.

## 💻 Reimagine Your Second Half of Life – AI Vision Board Workshop (Ashburn) **Saturday\, January 17\, 2026 \| 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM \| $35** *** ### 🔔 **Important Event Format Notice** To keep this workshop intentional and high-quality: • **5+ participants** → Hosted at a rented facility • **Under 5 participants** → **Private small-group workshop** ✨ *Workshop content, duration, and outcomes remain the same.* *** ## ☀️ **Design What Comes Next** ✨ **A Different Kind of Experience** 👉 **Most people don’t expect this to feel so personal.** The AI doesn’t just generate ideas — it reflects your own thinking back to you in a way that creates real clarity. 👉 **Even people who already use ChatGPT are often pleasantly caught off guard.** When paired with the right prompts and guided reflection, the insights go much deeper than typical goal-setting or vision work. 👉 **There’s often a quiet “oh wow” moment.** Not because it’s flashy — but because something finally clicks into place. You’ve lived enough life to know that success isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing what matters. ### 3-Part Session **1️⃣ Discover & Design** Learn simple AI tools and a practical framework to clarify your 2026 vision and priorities. **2️⃣ Create & Collaborate** Design your personalized AI-powered vision board with guided prompts and small-group reflection. **☕ Short Refreshment Break** Coffee and curated snacks to reset and recharge. **3️⃣ Align & Act** Map your next 3, 6, and 12 months with realistic action steps — individually or with group support. You’ll also learn how to: * Use ChatGPT to clarify goals and affirmations * Turn ideas into effective AI prompts * Create a digital or printable vision board that inspires action * Stay intentional and motivated throughout the year 👉 No AI experience necessary — just bring curiosity, a laptop, and an open mind. *** ## 💻 What to Bring * **Laptop required** (AI tools don’t work well on tablets) * ChatGPT account (free version is fine) 👉 Please set this up before the event. Message me after you RSVP if you need help. *** ## ☕ What’s Included * Guided AI Vision Board workshop (full experience) * Coffee and curated snacks * Small-group collaboration and discussion * All digital tools, prompts, and resources *** ## 💬 Who This Is For * Professionals planning a strong 2026 * Entrepreneurs mapping their next chapter * Anyone navigating life transitions — career, relationships, reinvention * People curious about AI but unsure where to start * Anyone who enjoys learning, connecting, and gaining clarity This community is about learning while having fun — no jargon, no pressure, just real conversation and clarity that lasts. *** ## 📍 Final Details 📍 **Location:** Ashburn area (final location shared after RSVP) 💵 **Fee:** $35 per person 🕐 **Time:** 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM 👩‍💻 **Bring:** Laptop + ChatGPT account ready *** 🔗 **RSVP early — space is intentionally limited.** Come reimagine your second half of life — with a little help from AI and a lot of inspiration 🌟 🌐 Explore more at: [https://midlifereinvention.co](https://midlifereinvention.co)