English

# Three classics from the golden age of the Iranian documentary movement. Films by **Ebrahim Golestan** explore the relationship between earth, people, and the cycle of life in a uniquely poetic manner. *A Fire*, part of his ‘industrial documentaries’ (made early in his career whilst working for oil companies) was **Golestan’s** first major international breakthrough. It depicts the extraordinary effort to extinguish a major oilfield fire, combining dramatic immediacy with a poetic sensibility. *The Hills of Marlik* appears to be about the excavation of an archaeological site, but the unearthed objects become a lens through which 3,000 years of Iranian history are seen. **Shirdel’s** *The Night It Rained* follows a newspaper report of a village boy who supposedly saves passengers on a train, an account that is quickly doubted and challenged. In just thirty minutes, **Shirdel** offers a masterful, incisive portrait of 1960s Iran. Tickets are selling fast! Reservation link: [https://www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2026/event/masterpieces-of-the-iranian-new-wave-documentary-programme](https://www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2026/event/masterpieces-of-the-iranian-new-wave-documentary-programme) We will have a discussion about the films at Barbican’s cinema bar after the screening. Join me on: English reading club: [www.meetup.com/persian-culture](www.meetup.com/persian-culture) Spanish reading club: [www.meetup.com/gaia-libros](https://www.meetup.com/gaia-libros) French reading club: [www.meetup.com/gaia-livres](https://www.meetup.com/gaia-livres) Instagram @persian_culture_ -Whatsapp group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/EZk35ZbJZ6W6wwyHyuxoS2](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EZk35ZbJZ6W6wwyHyuxoS2)

**Note:** we are only going to be reading the 12 stories in the original 1965 edition of Cosmicomics, not the later stories which may be included in some editions under the title 'The Complete Cosmicomics'. See end of description for the list of 12 stories. **Description:** Italo Calvino's enchanting stories about the evolution of the universe, with characters that are fashioned from mathematical formulae and cellular structures. **'Naturally, we were all there, - dld Qfwfq said, - where else could we have been? Nobody knew then that there could be space. Or time either: what use did we have for time, packed in there like sardines?'** The Cosmicomics tell the story of the history of the universe, from the big bang, through millennia and across galaxies. It is witnessed through the eyes of 'cosmic know-it-all' Qfwfq, an exuberant, chameleon-like figure, who takes the shape of a dinosaur, a mollusc, a steamer captain and a moon milk gatherer, among others. Italo Calvino's funny, whimsical and delightful stories blend scientific fact, flights of fancy, parody and wordplay to show the strangeness and the wonders of the world. **List of stories:** 1.) The Distance of the Moon 2.) At Daybreak 3.) A Sign in Space 4.) All at One Point 5.) Without Colours 6.) Games Without End 7.) The Aquatic Uncle 8.) How Much Shall We Bet? 9.) The Dinosaurs 10.) The Form of Space 11.) The Light-Years 12.) The Spiral

17:15-18:00 Doors open / Registration 17:30-18:30 Free English Classes in small groups 18:30-19:15 Meal for 3.5£ / Meet new people www.freeenglishclasses.org

This week we'll discuss chapter 5 of [How Language Began](https://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Language-Began-Humanitys-Invention/dp/1781253935/ref=sr_1_1?crid=27SNUKXPY1BWO&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.pTtn5alJgGZxLimiVijnr1oxTj0AiKpPdpaaVkIUio1hwzPu48_laQFrsnpFEGZMkWvnwbcALfmeyhyeuVQbcNCtoB6oD_Bg6K-GRhzBWrI.g5fzcdJdVKVgxgrTe1s6wn3c6dilMbYkHbhe_yGuzbQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=how+language+began&qid=1768693702&s=books&sprefix=how+language+began%2Cstripbooks%2C90&sr=1-1), by Daniel Everett. In this work Everett presents his views about the origin of language -- that it is a culturally evolved tool for communication, not the product of innate biological instinct or pre-wired universal grammar. If this is your first time attending we meet in the cafe of the Barbican Cinema -- look for for people with copies of How Language Began. Please read the chapter before attending.

Come and join us every week day from 12.45pm - 2.45pm. Classes for levels elementary to upper-intermediate (A1+ - B2+) Improve your fluency, listening and reading comprehension, grammar and vocabulary with our friendly classes. No payment needed - the classes are **completely free** because the teachers are training with a University of Cambridge accredited program. Join us at 24 Great Chapel St, London, W1F 8FS Take the level test in advance for more information about classes for your level (link to the level test: https://forms.gle/mn3hqUgo3BRLyAUi7) and wait for up to one business day for more information. OR Come 15 minutes early on your first day to do a quick speaking test and find your classroom. See you soon!

As modern masculinity is rebranded through "soft" aesthetics (e.g. Labubus, tote bags, curated literature) a debate arises: is this genuine growth or a strategic digital costume? Research suggests this "performance" helps men navigate modern social markets but creates a "metabolic cost" of mental exhaustion. Join us to discuss whether these scripts are evolving men - or just creating more sophisticated masks? *Join us for a relaxed group conversation where we explore the real life, the grey areas, and how our different cultures and backgrounds shape our views about key topics.* *Expect real talk, no judgment, and a chance to hear how others see it.* **\*Come for the discussion, stay for the friendships. Our weekly discussion series brings together thoughtful people for honest conversations on relationships, life, and society—with warm social vibes before and after.\*** **WHAT TO EXPECT:** * Good vibes only: we chat big topics in a chill, respectful way. No arguing - just open-minded exchange. * We warm up with casual socializing (come solo or with friends!) * The topic starts around 7:45/8pm, wraps around 9:30. * There's pizza, drinks, milkshakes and snacks available at the bar (incl plant-based options) * And most people stay until late for drinks and mingling! **DISCUSSION FORMAT:** **Our group conversations are open and flexible - there is a very soft guided flow to ensure we focus on the main questions, and to ensure that everyone gets a balanced opportunity to speak. Here's a typically structure, but we adjust on the day depending on the turnout:** \- Introductions and thoughts *(\~5 mins).* \- Group breakouts per question *(\~20 mins x 3).* \- Final round of opinions *(\~10 mins)*. \- Mix and mingle\, make new friends\, get drinks etc *(\~until late)* **EVENT ETIQUETTE (Rules & expectations)** \- Debate the topic\, not the participants \- no personal attacks\! \- No phones\, no interrupting\, no bystanding \- Always follow the moderator/host instructions and guidelines **WHAT IS WORLD CITIZENS?** We're one of London's longest-running and largest communities. Since 2012 we run socials, cultural activities and stimulating discussions to foster meaningful exchange and learning among London's global professionals. They are inspired by MUN (Model United Nations) and salon discussions and offer a more relaxed and social evening version. **LOCATION DETAILS** What: Discussion session followed by social/networking When: Tuesday, 7:30pm until late. Where: Curzon Aldgate (bar area), 2 Canter Way, E1 8PS Closest stations: Aldgate East, Aldgate, Tower Hill/Gateway Cost: Pay for your own meals or drinks Hosts: We have a rotating team and the actual host of each event varies. Our regular members can also help you out with basic matters. *NOTE: like most guests, our volunteer hosts also attend after work and may happen to arrive after the start time. If you are punctual or earlier than our hosts, we highly appreciate this! Please feel free to start socializing already and/or get something to eat or drink - that’s the point of our events anyway. Our regular members can also help you out with any basic matters.* **\*Our other weekly events\*** \- Friday evening socials every week \- Saturday afternoon cafe in Chelsea \- Canary Wharf socials every other Wednesday \- Outdoor fun \(hiking\, kayaking\, etc\) every weekend \- Dining\, cultural and travel activities on\-demand **JOIN OUR TEAM!** We're all volunteers, so if you enjoy organizing activities or events in your spare time, while meeting great people every week, send a message to our team account "TP"! **DISCLAIMER** We are a 100% volunteer-run team. Though we have high standards in planning, this is a private informal activity so we cannot be liable for any damage or inconvenience. However, we put safety and comfort first. We take all complaints seriously, and take severe action against any harassment, verbal or non-verbal, and anti-social behaviour, towards our guests or team members. We collaborate with the police when needed. We take photos and videos which may include you to help promote the community in line with GDPR Data Protection law, as well as stock photos from Pexels or Unsplash. We may restrict or prioritize guests at our own discretion for safety, quality and logistics reasons. While our team's decisions may not be perfect we ask that you follow our decisions first and raise any disputes to discuss with us later and privately. By attending you understand, agree with and respect all terms of this disclaimer. *Image credit: AI-generated, sourced via TNN*

18:30-19:00 - Doors Open/Registration 19:00-20:00 - Free English Classes in small groups 20:00-21:00 - Tea, Coffee and refreshments - Meet new people 21:00 - End Further details: www.freeenglishclasses.org

** Speed Dating for Introverts – Meet Like-Minded Locals from Home!** � **Tired of loud, crowded dating scenes?** We get it! Online speed dating is perfect for introverts. Meet like-minded locals from the comfort of your home – no draining social situations, just genuine connections. **Perfect for:** - Shy singles ready to connect in a judgment-free space - Introverts seeking authentic connections from their comfort zone - People who prefer online interaction to noisy venues - Anyone who wants to date without the social exhaustion **Event Details** - **Format:** Online via Zoom – comfortable, low-pressure from your space - **Location:** Anywhere you feel comfortable – your couch, your rules - **Host:** Friendly host who understands introverts perfectly - **Vibe:** Genuine conversations with like-minded Croydon locals from home **Age Groups & Registration** - **Ages 20-36** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=361.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Croydon&groupurlname=ciderglow-stellar-affinity-circle&ar=20-36) - **Ages 30-46** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=361.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Croydon&groupurlname=ciderglow-stellar-affinity-circle&ar=30-46) - **Ages 40-58** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=361.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Croydon&groupurlname=ciderglow-stellar-affinity-circle&ar=40-58) - **Ages 55+** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=361.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Croydon&groupurlname=ciderglow-stellar-affinity-circle&ar=55+) **How It Works** 1. Register for Your Age Group - Choose the session that matches your age range above. 2. Complete a Quick Personality Quiz - We'll match you with compatible introverted singles. 3. Speed Dating Rounds - Comfortable, structured conversations with like-minded Croydon locals. 4. Connect from Home - Meet someone special without leaving your comfort zone. --- ✨ The best connections happen when you're comfortable – hosted on Zoom, just for introverts. ✨

**1st Sunday of every month \| Relaxed\. Bilingual\. Social\.** Join us at the **Cultural Club**, a monthly meetup where we explore the best of Chinese and Western trends in a setting that feels like a hangout, not a lesson. **No Prep, just Chat!** There's no 'prep work', just show up and enjoy! * **We provide the inspiration:** Each month, we hand-pick a few "cultural gems" (like a song, a short clip, or a piece of art) to spark our conversation. * **We provide the treats:** Enjoy the vibe in our beautiful designer office with **free coffee, tea, and biscuits** on us. ☕️ * **You provide the chat:** Just show up and dive into the discussion! * ***The Bonus:*** Have a favourite item related to the month’s theme? Bring it along to share, but there is absolutely no pressure to do so! **March's Theme - Music!** Love Chinese music but find yourself lost without subtitles? From viral hits to hidden gems, we’ll break down the "real-world" vocabulary you won't find in a dictionary and help you find your new favourite artist! * **All levels Welcome**, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned speaker, our expert host will provide active support so you can participate with confidence. * **Price:** £10 (includes all materials + refreshments) * **Secure your spot** - [Tap here to secure your space & Pay](https://monzo.com/pay/r/china-unbound_qsboSdlMTJ8Q1R) * This is a really fun way to learn Mandarin, gain cultural insights, and boost your confidence for real-world communication! We can't wait to welcome you! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Take your Mandarin beyond the event.** If you’re looking for a bit more structure to accelerate your learning, let’s chat! We're offering **FREE 1-on-1 course advice sessions** to help you find the perfect class. **No commitment** required. [Book your Free Session](https://eu.bigin.online/org20070515371/bookings/course-advice) **China Unbound** is the best place to learn practical Chinese for adults. While most schools prioritise grammar and writing, China Unbound empowers you to confidently communicate in Chinese in real-world situations. Join us and discover a fun, fast, and personalised way to master Chinese! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 准备好在轻松有趣的双语环境中提升你的英语水平了吗？每月的第一个星期日，加入我们的双语文化俱乐部，体验独一无二的文化之旅！ 在这里，语言学习与兴趣完美结合。我们围绕**音乐、书籍、电影、美食和艺术**等共同话题，在轻松友好的氛围中交流，让你的学习之路变得更加生动有趣！ **三月的主题 - 音乐！** \*\*\*\* 热爱音乐吗？想不靠字幕听懂歌词吗？这场活动正适合你！ * 带上一首你喜欢的音乐作品，我们一起探究歌词背后的含义，学会用英语表达看法，还有不会的地方我们一起拆解讲解！ * 新手也欢迎！不会说没关系，可以先用中文表达，我们来帮你翻译。 * \*\* 费用\*\*：£10 - [点击预约并支付](https://monzo.com/pay/r/china-unbound_qsboSdlMTJ8Q1R)，名额有限，先到先得！ 学得更聪明，遇见更棒的人！我们在这里等你，一起开启全新的语言和文化之旅！

**MONTY ENGLISH CONVERSATION GROUP** [https://montyenglish.co.uk/english-conversation-group-classes-in-london](https://montyenglish.co.uk/english-conversation-group-classes-in-london) **How to find us** When you arrive at the Royal George we go down into the basement and you will find us there. Just ask a staff member if you cannot find us! Here is the location of the Royal George on google maps: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/HpkySsu2rEqUUub1A](https://maps.app.goo.gl/HpkySsu2rEqUUub1A) * Food or drink at the pub is not included (please make at least one purchase - they have a good range of drinks and great food if you feel hungry) **How are the lessons?** The lesson is a General English lesson focused on speaking and error correction - every lesson we usually cover 3 different topics. This will encourage you to use new vocabulary and practise grammatical structures. The group has a limit of 25 people but I usually accept people if you are on the waiting list. You will be divided into groups of 3-6 with others of a similar speaking level so you'll have plenty of opportunity to talk and ask questions to your qualified, native teacher Jon. The lesson takes place in the relaxed environment of the Royal George basement which is a pleasant pub, a two-minute walk from Tottenham Court Road tube station. The lesson is ideal for pre-intermediate, intermediate and upper-intermediate students wishing to get to the next level. If you have any questions about the English lesson then please call me or send me a message. **Payment** Payments can be made in cash or by card (free of charge) when you come to the class. If it is your first time it is only £2! After your first time it is £5 for a single class or you can buy a ticket that makes each class cheaper; 5 classes for £20, 10 classes for £25 (you can use these tickets whenever you like and do not need to come in a set period of time) or 20 classes for £40 which has a limited use to within a six-month period. You can also pay via our website: [https://montyenglish.co.uk/english-conversation-group-classes-in-london](https://montyenglish.co.uk/english-conversation-group-classes-in-london) I hope to see you soon - if you have any questions please message me (via WhatsApp) on 07771 561 576 All the best, Jon (event organiser)

This a BSL practice group for level 1 students and above. We will be meeting at the national theatre in southbank

The last female ambassador of Afghanistan and her tireless commitment to the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan. Four years since seizing control of Afghanistan, the Taliban has instituted a draconian regime of systematic gender-based oppression and domination—what a growing number of Afghan women’s rights defenders, UN experts, Member States, and international jurists have identified as ‘gender apartheid.’ Through the wholesale removal of protective safeguards, an onslaught of repressive decrees and edicts, and punitive enforcement measures, the Taliban has sought to systematically erase women and girls from public life and relegate them to child bearers, child rearers, and free domestic labor. Despite this worsening human rights crisis, much of the world watches in alarming silence, with some states making steps towards normalising relations with the Taliban. As the women and girls of Afghanistan have been courageously leading the charge to stand up against abuses committed against them, it is critical that the international community commit to women’s political participation. This event will feature a screening of *The Last Ambassador*, a documentary that follows the journey of Ambassador Manizha Bakhtari in the aftermath of the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. The last remaining female Ambassador of Afghanistan, Ambassador Bakhtari continues her fight for the people of Afghanistan, in solidarity with Afghan women and girls and in defiance of the Taliban’s deepening gender apartheid regime. Reservation details: [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/screening-qa-the-last-ambassador-tickets-1981320244186](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/screening-qa-the-last-ambassador-tickets-1981320244186) I’ll be at the bar 15 minutes before the event. We’ll meet at Frontline Club’s bar after to discuss the screening. Are you interested in reading fiction and non-fiction in French, Spanish, and English? [www.meetup.com/gaia-books](https://www.meetup.com/gaia-books) [-www.meetup.com/gaia-libros](http://-www.meetup.com/gaia-libros) [-www.meetup.com/gaia-livres](http://-www.meetup.com/gaia-livres) -Instagram: @persian_culture_ -Persian Culture Whatsapp group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/EZk35ZbJZ6W6wwyHyuxoS2](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EZk35ZbJZ6W6wwyHyuxoS2)

Let's read Modern Standard Arabic together and help each other. This get-together continues weekly. Please disregard attendee numbers, as most members come without registering here. There is no charge for this time together.

**Read this before you RSVP.** This workshop is for a **very specific type of person.** You are a **non-native professional in London.** You can do your job in English. You can join meetings, present slides, speak to clients. But when it really matters - **presenting to senior leadership, negotiating with clients, interviewing for a promotion, speaking to investors** \- you know your English does not sound as **clear, confident or natural** as you want. In your native language you feel **sharp, credible and relaxed.** In English you sometimes feel **flatter, more tense and less convincing.** You might notice that: * You have to repeat yourself in important meetings. * People interrupt you or talk over you. * You slow down or overthink your words when you are under pressure. * You worry that your **accent, pronunciation or rhythm** makes you sound **less senior** than your actual level. If that sounds like you, **this workshop is for you.** I'm Michael Roberts. I grew up with a **speech impediment in English**, so I know what it is like to be judged on how you sound instead of what you mean. After fixing it and learning multiple languages, I created the **British Accent Method** to help non-native professionals and pilots speak **clear, confident English in high-stakes situations.** This is **not** a general English class. It is not about more grammar or more vocabulary. It is a **practical, focused session** where you will: * **See** how your current pronunciation and rhythm affect your credibility when you speak English. * **Hear** which sounds, weak forms and stress patterns make your English harder to follow in fast meetings and presentations. * **Discover** how native speakers use English rhythm to sound natural and in control, and how you can copy that **without losing your identity.** * **Practise real phrases from your professional life** with live feedback. We'll look at situations like: * Presenting to **senior leadership or a board.** * Explaining complex ideas to **non-technical stakeholders.** * Handling **difficult questions** in English. * Introducing yourself and your work in a way that sounds **confident, not rehearsed.** You will leave this workshop with: * A **clear understanding** of what in your current pronunciation and rhythm is holding you back in high-stakes situations. * **Two or three specific changes** you can start using immediately to sound clearer and more senior. * A **simple plan** to keep improving after the event. This workshop is for non-native professionals in London in fields such as **finance, consulting, tech, law, medicine, engineering, academia and entrepreneurship.** If you already speak English well, but you know that **how you sound is not yet matching your level of expertise, this is for you.** If you only want free general English practice or casual conversation, **this is not the right event.** **Format:** * Small group. * Short teaching sections. * Live examples and practice. * Time for questions about your specific situations. If you read this and thought **'this is exactly my problem'**, reserve your place and I will see you there.

# **The Ostrich Social** #### **3408 Indianola Ave** BYOB / Pizza will be provided so Please RSVP Dresden Stammtisch is a monthly social gathering for members and friends of Dresden Sister City, Inc. The event is free and open to the public. We speak German or English - it is largely up to you!

The aim of this group is to get together and practice our German. Doesn’t matter if are a beginner or a native speaker. The goal is to speak and improve our German. Everyone is welcome! If the weather is good, look for us in the Biergarten. Pro Tip: Get there before 6:00 for happy hour pricing.

The aim of this group is to get together and practice our German. Doesn’t matter if are a beginner or a native speaker. The goal is to speak and improve our German. Everyone is welcome! If the weather is good, look for us in the Biergarten. Pro Tip: Get there before 6:00 for happy hour pricing.

The aim of this group is to get together and practice our German. Doesn’t matter if are a beginner or a native speaker. The goal is to speak and improve our German. Everyone is welcome! If the weather is good, look for us in the Biergarten. Pro Tip: Get there before 6:00 for happy hour pricing.

This meeting will be an open discussion about the book "an Immense World" by Ed Yong

Hey Everyone! Let's meet at Belle's Bread Bakery and Cafe. There is lots of free parking and easy access to the cafe and many shops and restaurants as well. This is a great way to meet new and old friends while chatting about life and practicing English language speaking skills. All are welcome and encouraged to join us anytime between 11am and 1pm. Looking forward to seeing you soon.

Coffee and conversation at [Stauf's Coffee Roasters](https://www.staufs.com/) in German Village. Street parking is free on Sundays.