Emerging Leaders

📆 **Every Wednesday**, join an exclusive table of ambitious founders in a handpicked venue. 💡 *You are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with.* **Choose your circle wisely — it will shape your future.** 🔗 Application required: [thefiveclub.co/en](thefiveclub.co/en) *** 🥂 **Every Wednesday**, join a table of **6 inspiring founders**, carefully selected for you. 😌 A relaxed atmosphere, no pressure. 🤝 The goal: build genuine affinities, friendships, and long-lasting connections. *** 🔍 **How it works:** 🔴 Sign Up & Apply on : [thefiveclub.co/en](thefiveclub.co/en) 1️⃣ Pick a Wednesday and confirm your **membership** to join the club 2️⃣ Invite members you've previously met at afterworks or dinners 3️⃣ 24h before, you’ll receive the 📍 **restaurant address** and 🧑‍💼 **participant list** (bios + LinkedIn) 4️⃣ On the day: come as you are — we handle the 🍽️ booking, 🛠️ logistics, and ✨ ambiance 5️⃣ After the dinner: Add to your circle the founders you connected with most, 6️⃣ Reinvite them to future dinners or reconnect via curated events in the app 📲 ***

**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

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)

Masnavi Book 1 Weekly reading and discussion group

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.

Toastmasters meeting

Inviting creatives, entrepreneurs, mastermind groups, or anyone interested in networking with other likeminded or different minded individuals to bring your creative ideas and businesses to life. Come as a group or individual and connect with others. This is a showcase of our restaurant for you to consider us for your group meetings or getaway to think and build your business. Our place is a quiet luxury tucked away in the heart of Dubai in Healthcare City. The staff is guaranteed to give you and your colleagues a great experience and you won't get enough of our amazing dishes. We would like you to see our meeting space option. Our projector available for your meetings. Taste our mouth watering international cuisine with a quiet escape to the Caribbean without leaving your seat.

Ready to connect with the brightest minds in startups, tech, and business? Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/entrepreneurs-whatsapp)** **🎶 Drinks. Conversations. Opportunities. Vibes.** This is where founders, leaders, and investors come together to shape what’s next. **💬 What You’ll Experience:** * 🤝 Meet investors, venture capitalists & accelerators. * 💡 Exchange bold ideas with fellow founders. * 📈 Gain insights from tech leaders & industry experts. * 🌐 Expand your business network in a relaxed atmosphere. Join us in an elegant lounge setting where the vibes are high, the views are stunning, and the conversations flow as smoothly as the drinks 🍸 **🔥 At this event, you’ll connect with:** * Startup founders, entrepreneurs & innovators. * VC firms, angel investors & strategic partners. * CTOs, product leaders & growth experts. * Marketers, HR agents & service providers. * AI experts, SaaS founders & enterprise clients. This is your chance to meet fellow entrepreneurs, investors, founders, and experts all in one place. 🌍💡 Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/entrepreneurs-whatsapp)** 🎶 Background music sets the mood while you mingle, network, and unlock new opportunities. **🎯 Why Join?** * Build relationships that can spark partnerships. * Learn from peers who’ve already faced the challenges you’re solving today. * Share your story, pitch your vision, and discover new opportunities. * Connect in a more informal, friendly atmosphere—no pressure, just possibilities. ✨ **The future of entrepreneurship thrives on conversations like these.** 🌟 Whether you’re raising funds, scaling your startup, or simply looking for fresh collaborations—this evening is designed to help you make meaningful connections that last far beyond the night. 👉 Bring your business cards, your vision, and your curiosity. 👉 Leave with new opportunities, valuable insights, and a stronger network. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/entrepreneurs-whatsapp) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Networking 😊

Ready to connect with the brightest minds in startups, tech, and business? Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/entrepreneurs-whatsapp)** **🎶 Drinks. Conversations. Opportunities. Vibes.** This is where founders, leaders, and investors come together to shape what’s next. **💬 What You’ll Experience:** * 🤝 Meet investors, venture capitalists & accelerators. * 💡 Exchange bold ideas with fellow founders. * 📈 Gain insights from tech leaders & industry experts. * 🌐 Expand your business network in a relaxed atmosphere. Join us in an elegant lounge setting where the vibes are high, the views are stunning, and the conversations flow as smoothly as the drinks 🍸 **🔥 At this event, you’ll connect with:** * Startup founders, entrepreneurs & innovators. * VC firms, angel investors & strategic partners. * CTOs, product leaders & growth experts. * Marketers, HR agents & service providers. * AI experts, SaaS founders & enterprise clients. This is your chance to meet fellow entrepreneurs, investors, founders, and experts all in one place. 🌍💡 Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/entrepreneurs-whatsapp)** 🎶 Background music sets the mood while you mingle, network, and unlock new opportunities. **🎯 Why Join?** * Build relationships that can spark partnerships. * Learn from peers who’ve already faced the challenges you’re solving today. * Share your story, pitch your vision, and discover new opportunities. * Connect in a more informal, friendly atmosphere—no pressure, just possibilities. ✨ **The future of entrepreneurship thrives on conversations like these.** 🌟 Whether you’re raising funds, scaling your startup, or simply looking for fresh collaborations—this evening is designed to help you make meaningful connections that last far beyond the night. 👉 Bring your business cards, your vision, and your curiosity. 👉 Leave with new opportunities, valuable insights, and a stronger network. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/entrepreneurs-whatsapp) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Networking 😊

✨ Step into the Spotlight with Desert Voices Toastmasters Club ✨ **Note: Don't be passive, respect own commitment / RSVP, register only if serious and going to attend.** Seize that rare moment with top leaders—maximize it with clear, confident words. Master interviews without mumbling; shine in meetings with poise and charm. Won't this transform your life? If benefits convince you, what's holding back? **Start small**: Sign up, commit your details, **honor your promise to attend**. Ditch procrastination—**act now**! Toastmasters is your ultimate launchpad to build unshakeable confidence in facing diverse audiences, through hands-on practice and proven projects honed over 100+ years by Toastmasters International. Don't miss the thrill. Come as our guest and feel the energy! Join us for a powerful meeting on April 9th, 2026 7:00 PM – 09:30 PM at Dubai Health Care City. Expect inspiring speeches, dynamic evaluations, and an unforgettable evening of growth, fun, and community. Don’t miss your chance to connect, learn, and lead with us! 📍 Venue: Dhanguard Business Center (12th floor, Citi Bank, near DHCC Metro) Feel free to join with a friend interested in personal growth and communication practice. 📞 Contact: Eby ‪+971 554 671 971 https://wa.me/971554671971 A meeting with 2-3 Prepared Speeches (5-7 min), 4-6 Table Topics Speeches (1-2min) and 2-3 Evaluation Speeches (2-3), education sessions. Grow yourself to be an confident speaker and a leader. Don't miss. Be consistent and determined. Discover yourself. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPCsCfok1b8 Welcome to Desert Voices Toastmasters Club.

### **Where Dubai’s AI Innovators, Operators, and Talent Meet to Build the Future** Are you building in AI? Launching a tech startup? Exploring how AI can transform your business or job? Or looking to join the next big thing in AI? Join **AI Builders & Business Connect**, a **founder-first, operator-focused meetup** for Dubai’s tech and AI community. This isn’t your typical networking mixer—it’s a room full of **people building**, **people hiring**, and **people looking to grow**. *** ## **🗓️ Event Details** **When: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM (Sharp) - Every Thursday** **Where:** Coffee & Sundries, First Floor (Above Carrefour), DIFC, Dubai **Entry: FREE**— we just ask that you support the venue by purchasing a coffee or some food. *** ## **🚀 What to Expect** This is for **doers, decision-makers, and tech talent ready to build:** ### **🔹 AI 60-Second Spotlight** Founders, job seekers, and partners get **60 seconds to introduce themselves**—no slides, no fluff. ### **🔹 Speed Collaboration Rounds** Quick, curated connections between **builders, investors, operators, and AI talent**. ### **🔹 Real Conversations, Real Opportunities** Whether you’re hiring, raising, building, or job hunting—this is where partnerships start. ### **🔹 Dubai & UAE Playbook** Hear practical tips from locals on how to **launch, hire, and scale tech ventures in the region.** *** ### 📋 Agenda * **7:30 – 8:00 PM** Introductions * **8:00 – 8:45 PM** Market research using different AI tools * **8:45 – 9:15 PM** Prototyping session on one selected idea * **9:15 PM onward** Networking ## **💡 Who Should Attend?** * **AI Founders & Startup Builders** * **Tech Entrepreneurs & SaaS Leaders** * **Investors scouting AI deals** * **Engineers, Developers & Product Leaders working in AI** * **Job Seekers & Operators looking to join AI and tech startups** * **Enterprise Innovators exploring AI use cases** *** ## **⚠️ Important** * **Your RSVP is a commitment**—let us know 24 hours in advance if plans change * **Doors close at 7:30 PM sharp**—no late entries *** ## **🌍 Hosted by Pradeep Valat** Startup advisor, investor, and AI business strategist helping founders unlock growth. LinkedIn: [linkedin.com/in/ivallat](https://linkedin.com/in/ivallat) WhatsApp: +971 529503315 *** ## **🔥 Why This Event?** Dubai’s AI and tech scene is booming—but it’s still about **who you know and who you build with.** This is where **startups meet talent, investors meet ideas, and builders find partners.** **Spots are limited. If you’re serious about AI, this is your room.** **By participating in AI Builders & Business Connect \| events\, you consent to the use of photos and videos captured during the event for promotional purposes\.**

**At Billionaire Toastmasters, we don’t just practice public speaking — we empower voices, build leaders, and shape futures.** Whether you're stepping onto the stage for the first time or you're a seasoned speaker aiming for excellence, our club provides a supportive, growth-focused environment where you can truly thrive. As part of the globally respected Toastmasters International network, we offer far more than weekly speeches. Here, you'll: * **Sharpen your communication skills** through structured pathways designed to elevate your confidence, clarity, and presence. * **Take on leadership roles** that challenge you to grow — from leading meetings to organizing events and mentoring others. * **Connect with District 127 leaders** and fellow Toastmasters from diverse industries — expanding your network and learning directly from those who’ve achieved remarkable success. * **Develop habits of high achievers**, by learning from those who lead by example — whether in business, public service, or entrepreneurship. If you are **ambitious**, curious, and ready to invest in yourself, Billionaire Toastmasters is a platform where your potential meets possibility. With us, **opportunities are vast and limitless** — all you need is the drive to speak up and step forward. Join us. Speak. Lead. Succeed.

Are you looking to Transform yourself into: • A Powerful Public Speaker? • An Inspirational Leader? • Becoming more Confident? Empower yourself with the secrets of becoming a Confident and Compelling Public Speaker. We provide a fun and friendly learn-by-doing environment which enables you to develop your skills in a comfortable, supportive environment. We are a peer-to-peer group where members mutually develop their Public Speaking Skills through Prepared project Speeches, Constructive Evaluations and ongoing Mentoring, all within the globally recognized educational framework of Toastmasters International. Whether the very thought of speaking in public fills you with fear, or if you love standing up to speak in front of a crowd, you will learn something new by attending our meetings. Join us for our next meeting to experience our fun and encouraging, but professional way of learning public speaking and take a glance at how we prepare and practice public speaking technique, how we learn to control our body and voice and how we learn to deliver a powerful, confident speech. Please join us for our next meeting and discover how the group works. And if later you want to become a regular member of the group, there is a small annual fee, If interested in joining us, please contact following person, we’ll send you all the details about the meeting. For information about this meetup: Zainab Yousuf - (President) - 050- 5577791 Complementary Coffee + Tea + Cookies + Waters. Free Parking in Hotel Basement. Millennium Central Downtown Al Asayel street - Business Bay · Dubai ***More Information***\*\* It is simply knowing what you want to say and being comfortable with your communication skills. You learn to enhance your image, convince, and be impressive thus present with high personal impact. Objectives TM Meetings are designed for you to be equipped with practical tools and techniques that will allow you to: • Establish rapport with your audience • Learn techniques to reduce nervousness and fear • Realise your strengths as a presenter • How to appeal, influence and persuade different types of people • Recognise how visual aids can create impact and attention • Develop techniques to create a professional presence Prepare, practice, and deliver presentation • Presenting with a BANG Topics Covered • Personality assessment of presentation style (Speaker's Evaluation) • Assessment of presentation delivery (Speaker's Evaluation) • Structure your Speech: beginning, body, and ending. • Sending Positive Messages (verbal communication, body language) • Developing great slides • Overcoming Nervousness

## Details This is a paid event and will be deleted from here. Pls register on the link below. **Reserve;** [https://supcon2.eventbrite.com/?aff=Meetup](https://supcon2.eventbrite.com/?aff=Meetup) **QUESTIONS ?** Pls Reach out to; Ridhi - [https://wa.me/971552525078](https://wa.me/971525012234) ( WhatsApp Only)

We are recruiting new group leaders for virtual men's groups! Our primary groups are outdoor movement groups, but we are launching virtual groups for the state of Ohio and beyond and the groups will move outside in the spring, creating room for men's groups, women's groups and coed groups all over the country. Read below to learn about our groups and click the links at the bottom to apply. ### **What is an Outdoor Empowerment Group?** Our Outdoor Movement & Community Empowerment Groups are simple, guided experiences designed to help people reconnect with nature, themselves, and others. We combine some form of movement (hike, walk, run, bike, yoga, workout) and meaningful conversation within a simple community circle to create a space where individuals can support each other while prioritizing mental and physical well-being. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, personal growth, or community, our groups offer everyone a unique and welcoming environment. ## **Why Join?** * **Improve Mental & Physical Well-Being** – Movement, nature, and supportive conversations reduce stress and promote balance. * **Feel Less Alone** – Build genuine connections with like-minded people in a safe, welcoming space. * **Gain Clarity & Perspective** – Step outside daily routines and into a space designed for personal growth and reflection. ## **The Ideal Group Leader** The ideal group leader * Has a born-in passion for mental health, movement, connecting with nature and building community. * Has 5 extra hours per week to dedicate to a meaningful cause for at least one year. Yes, you can leave any organization at any time and we can also ask you to leave, but we are building with legacy in mind and we need people who can commit and be ALL IN on this mission to build with us. * Is independently financially stable with the ability to volunteer with no expectation of pay. This is a deeply beautiful journey of service that all participants commit to at Speak Your Mind. * An ability to manage groups with high emotional intelligence and desire for human connection. * An ability to self-motivate and market/promote their group on Facebook and other social platforms. * Nature informed therapy or clinical therapists/psychologists a plus. ## **Our Impact**  Since launching, we have helped thousands find support, connection, and healing through our Outdoor Movement Groups. 100% of participants surveyed have reported: * A noticeable improvement in mental clarity and emotional well-being. * An increase in social connection and a sense of belonging. * Said they would return again. We believe mental health should be accessible, community-driven, and rooted in nature. Join us and take the first step toward a more connected, grounded, and supported version of yourself. ### **Why Our Groups are Donation-Based** Our Outdoor Movement Groups are made possible through a donation-based model. This approach allows us to keep our events accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances, while also ensuring that we can continue expanding our reach. It’s a great way to pay it forward and support the growth of this beautiful mission! Every contribution helps us: * **Cover Essential Costs** – Donations allow us to pay essential legal, marketing, insurance, and admin costs as well as nourish the important people who run the organization. * **Grow Our Mission** – With your support, we can bring these healing experiences to thousands more people in the future and execute our long term plan to expand across the USA, affecting up to 500,000 people per year. By choosing to contribute, you’re not just leading an event—you’re helping build a mental health movement that supports long-term well-being and connection for all during a severe mental health epidemic. ## **Come Join Us!** We’d love to have you be part of this growing community of people prioritizing their mental health, movement, and connection. 🔹 **Visit Our Website to Learn More:** https://speakyourmind.men/joinusoutside 🔹 **Apply Here to Lead Your Own Group!** – https://form.jotform.com/taketimespeakyourmind/sym-group-leader-application 🔹 **Support the mission**: If you resonate with the mission and want to support, feel free to join a group before applying or donate to help us reach our goals to help more people! You can donate here: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/angels-for-angels/speak-your-mind Please text Mario with any questions: (808) 855-8831

**Confidence & Connection: Using Your Authentic Truth to Find Your People** Confidence isn’t just about believing in yourself, it’s about knowing where you belong and who you can grow alongside. In this April Confidence Lab Happy Hour, we’ll explore how living in your authentic truth helps you find your people, build meaningful collaborations, and create spaces where vulnerability is met with respect rather than risk. Together, we’ll reflect on what it looks like to advocate for yourself with clarity and care, and how confidence deepens when it’s rooted in connection rather than comparison. Featured speaker **Lachandra Baker**, founder of **[LBB Edutainment](https://www.lbbedutainment.com/)** and author of *Your Own Biggest Cheerleader*, will share reflections on authenticity, psychological safety, and the power of community over individual achievement. Drawing from personal stories—including the significance of turning 53—Lachandra will invite us into a conversation about showing up fully, being seen, and choosing relationships that support who you truly are. Expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere with space for reflection, shared insight, and intentional connection—plus drinks, light bites, and the kind of conversations that remind you you’re not meant to do this alone. Come as you are. Leave feeling clearer about your voice, your people, and the confidence that grows when both are aligned. **What is Confidence Lab?** Confidence Lab is a monthly community experience for bold, thoughtful leaders building confidence from the inside out. Whether you’re launching a business, leading a team, navigating change, or simply striving to show up more fully—you belong here. Our work demands clarity, courage, and conviction—but the pace of daily life can erode our sense of self. Confidence Lab creates space to reflect, reconnect, and grow with others doing purpose-driven work. It’s designed for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, creatives, corporate professionals, activists, and anyone ready to lead with authenticity and impact. ***Please note:*** *All are welcome! If cost is a concern, please use promo code PUBLIC to access a free ticket—we want you to join us.*

Are you passionate about supporting other men on their mental health journey? We’re building a movement of virtual and in-person men’s groups across Ohio — and we’re looking for group leaders who want to make a real difference with us. As a group leader, you’ll create a safe space where men can connect, reflect, and grow together. Training and support are provided — you just need heart, presence, and a willingness to lead. **Apply now to lead a group in your area:** 👉 https://form.jotform.com/taketimespeakyourmind/sym-group-leader-application Speak Your Mind is a mental health non profit dedicated to bringing our community together to end the isolation that leads to mental struggle and suicide. Learn more about them here: https://linktr.ee/taketimespeakyourmind

At Evolve Synergy Sessions, you'll be part of a supportive mastermind where we share challenges, brainstorm solutions, and inspire one another to take bold steps in our businesses. Grow your network, gain fresh perspectives, and build meaningful relationships with like-minded women who are committed to success. Whether you’re looking to move the needle in your business or simply need a space to connect and recharge, this is the perfect place to fuel your entrepreneurial journey. [Add Event to Calendar](https://evolvecolumbus.eventcalendarapp.com/) \*\* Please note, we will be arriving around 8:15a for open networking! Get there early and get connected! Contact Alexis Morley at [alexis.morley@edwardjones.com](mailto:alexis.morley@edwardjones.com) or Terri Lawson at [terri.lawson@e-merge.com](mailto:terri.lawson@e-merge.com) for more information.

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!

**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)

Semi in honor of March being International Women's Month Columbus libraries: [https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3454709](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3454709) Location: SOW Plated Menu: [https://www.sowplated.com/menu-brunch/](https://www.sowplated.com/menu-brunch/) Book summary: In 2006 Julia Lerner is living in Moscow, a recent university graduate in computer science, when she's recruited by Russia's largest intelligence agency. By 2018 she's in Silicon Valley as COO of Tangerine, one of America's most famous technology companies. In between her executive management (make offers to promising startups, crush them and copy their features if they refuse); self promotion (check out her latest op-ed in the WSJ, on Work/Life Balance 2.0); and work in gender equality (transfer the most annoying females from her team), she funnels intelligence back to the motherland. But now Russia's asking for more, and Julia's getting nervous. Alice Lu is a first generation Chinese American whose parents are delighted she's working at Tangerine (such a successful company!). Too bad she's slogging away in the lower echelons, recently dumped, and now sharing her expensive two-bedroom apartment with her cousin Cheri, a perennial "founder's girlfriend". One afternoon, while performing a server check, Alice discovers some unusual activity, and now she's burdened with two powerful but distressing suspicions: Tangerine's privacy settings aren't as rigorous as the company claims they are, and the person abusing this loophole might be Julia Lerner herself. The closer Alice gets to Julia, the more Julia questions her own loyalties. Russia may have placed her in the Valley, but she's the one who built her career; isn't she entitled to protect the lifestyle she's earned?