English Writing Skills

IMPORTANT: This Wednesday's session will be held at the Brussels Beer Project. **Rue Antoine Dansaert 188, 1000 Bruxelles** Please take a moment to read the information and rules for the sessions. **Overview:** Improv sessions in English accepting all levels. We play short and long-form improv comedy, which includes theater-style scenes, guessing, and group games. **Topics:** * Timing * Location * Participation (Attendees list) * RSVP rules * Improv session format * Who is it for? (Participation requirement) *** * **Timing** Being on time will help you and everyone. **18h15** \- Doors open *Please take this time to order your drinks/food and settle in.* **18h30** \- Start of the session **Are you late?** Please inform the event host or comment on the event page. If you arrive late and the session is already in progress, please wait on the side till the game/scene is finished. Wait for the session moderator to indicate when you can start participating. * **Location** We have two locations: Monday Sessions: The session takes place on the first floor of The Sister Cafe. Stairs next to the bar. It's the room with a curtain at the door. Wednesday Sessions: At Brussels Beer Poject Rue Antoine Dansaert 188, 1000 Bruxelles * **Participation (Attendee list)** The session is limited to **12 attendees**. This ensures the session is manageable and everybody gets enough chances to participate. Therefore, only the people on the "attendee list" can participate in the session. **Waiting list**: People on the waiting list should keep an eye on the updates in case someone from the attendees' list drops and you get their spot. It's important for the people on the waiting list also to update their RSVP status if they already know they won't be joining the session. **Do you just want to observe?** In the regular session, we do not have an audience, only participants. Please do not join the session if you do not plan to participate in the games/scenes. If you are unsure about something, please contact the event host. *People on the attendee list are expected to take part.* * **RSVP Rules** * Please update your RSVP status in a timely manner if you can't make it to the session. This applies to people on the **attendee list AND waiting list.** * If you are on the waiting list and know you won't be able to join in case someone from the main list drops, please update your RSVP to "not going". This will give the next person on the waiting list a chance. * Emergencies aside, please update your RSVP status on time. Canceling at the last minute or just 1 hour before isn't helpful. * If we see a pattern from someone not showing up after confirming or last-minute cancellations, we reserve the right to prohibit session access. * Please write a comment if you cancel and your spot becomes available. With this, others will get an extra notification. **Improv Session Format** The session is held in English. The session has three sections: Warm-up, Scene games, and Cool down. **Warmup:** Quick group games are played to break the ice and get the creative juices flowing. **Scenes:** Then we move on to scene games. These are mostly from short-form improv, which can include different games with various gimmicks, like story building, character work, guessing, etc **Cool down:** One or two short group games to end the session. The rules are explained by the moderator before each game. There is no obligation to participate in games you are uncomfortable with. There can be feedback after a game is played. This is so we learn from each other and gain skills and insights. **Tip**: If you are new, pay attention to the regular players when they are performing and notice small details, like how a stage is cleared before a scene, how to enter a scene, and how to collaborate with each other. * **Who is it for?** Anyone interested in improv! We accept participants at all levels, beginners and advanced. This is a great place to start if you are new to improv. The basics will be explained. We only require the "Yes, and...!" spirit! If you are an advanced player and have ideas and games to share and work on, please do let us know. We look forward to welcoming you and doing improv!

Join us every Wednesday for an authentic Korean experience in the heart of Brussels! ✨ Let’s share Soju, delicious Korean food, fun karaoke sessions, and plenty of good vibes. Don’t miss our photo booth moments and the chance to meet amazing new people from all over the world! Free entry, just order at least one drink to support the venue. Gyosang, Rue Sainte-Catherine 8, Brussels Every Wednesday, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM Come for the language exchange, stay for the laughter, food, and Soju!

Given the current state of affairs, one can wonder which step world leaders will take next, and which means they will use to do so. Technological and scientific progress can be in part attributed to the military, as can historical changes. Civilisations evolve, but having an army remains a constant. Is it a necessary evil ? Can we do without it ? If not, why not ? Tonight, we will be discussing the societal role of the military. Please join us with some humour, some paper and a pen. Looking forward to seeing you all.

Hallo Freunde der deutschen Sprache, wir laden alle, die gern ihr Deutsch üben wollen und in Brüssel geblieben sind, zum nächsten Treffen ein! Falls Ihr angemeldet seid, aber nicht kommen könnt, wären wir dankbar für Eure Abmeldung (WhatsApp - Mike: +32 475 60 88 68). Wir freuen uns auf den Austausch mit Euch!

Once a month we get together to discuss a book written by a woman author. We will read all kinds of literary genres. We choose any published work provided that it discusses gender issues and that it is written by a woman author. We want to discuss books that empower us to be ourselves and bring change to the world. During the discussion, we will answer the following questions: \- what resonated with me? \- what did I learn? \- what can I apply? **The book for this February is "I gave you eyes and you looked toward darkness" by Irene Solà.** The book is available in several languages, feel free to choose your preferred one. Our discussion will be in English. At the end of the event, we choose the book to be read on the following event based on the suggestions of the participants. **Who is this book club for?** The reading club is open to everyone, not only women! The discussion will be in English, but locals and internationals alike are welcome! We will limit the group to 12 people to ensure that everyone has the chance to speak and encourage discussion. The meeting will serve as a discussion, so don't forget to read the book beforehand ;) **About the volunteers:** Viviana has been living in Leuven for 12 years. She loves reading and loves to share this passion with other people. She is one of the volunteers and founder of the regular IHL book club Written by Women. Vanessa is originally from Puerto Rico and has been living near Leuven for the last 3 years. She is very curious and loves reading (especially books that surprise her) and seeing other's perspectives through stories.

**Beyond Relocation: Integrating and Belonging in Belgium** By Helena Andre Brussels, 25 February 2026 Please register here: https://www.imaginationclub.org/brussels/beyond_relocation.php Relocating to Belgium is more than an administrative transition, it is an emotional, cultural and identity journey. This 90-minute interactive workshop invites experienced expatriates to reflect on their integration path, better understand the different phases of adaptation, and reconnect with their personal intention for being here. Through guided reflection, small-group discussions and practical insights, participants will gain clarity on where they stand today, and how to consciously shape the next chapter of their life in Belgium. **What you can expect to explore and take away from this workshop:** \* A clear understanding of the Expat Curve. \* Insight into how habits, community choices and social environments influence integration. \* Reflection on identity, belonging and the balance between home culture and host culture. \* Practical strategies to build meaningful connections (language, local networks, routine, home environment). \* Personal tools to move forward intentionally from their current stage of integration Participants will leave with renewed perspective, practical integration tools, and a deeper awareness of how to create a life in Belgium that feels aligned, grounded and authentic. **About Helena** Helena Andre is a PhD researcher, career coach, facilitator, and well-being practitioner, specialising in emotional resilience, intercultural communication, and supporting expatriates through career transitions and identity shifts. **Practical Information** **When** Wednesday, 25 February 2026 from 18h45-21h00 **Where?** **Timesmore** Boulevard St Michel 47, 1040 Brussels **How much?** €15 to cover expenses including materials, drinks, snacks, etc. - payable at the door. Register here: https://www.imaginationclub.org/brussels/beyond_relocation.php **Please Share** If you feel your friends, family and/or colleagues may be interested in this workshop, please share it with them. The Imagination Club relies on new participants to cover our operational costs and maintain a diverse, perceptive and intelligent audience (in other words, people like you) for our events. Might you be interested to give a workshop at the Imagination Club? Whether you are a complete beginner or a seasoned professional, you are welcome to try out your workshop ideas at the club. We have dates available for this spring and summer

**This week’s discussion looks at Iran without tropes, slogans, or predictable moral positioning.** **Iran** today is at a geopolitical inflection point — facing deep economic strain, widespread domestic unrest, stalled diplomacy with the United States, a significant regional role, and renewed power alignments with Russia and China. We are not here to repeat talking points, defend geopolitical orthodoxies, or feel morally validated. **We are here to understand power, interests, history, law, incentives, and consequences as they actually are — not as they are marketed.** **Topics We Will Examine** 1. **Sanctions, Economy, and Domestic Pressure** Why continued sanctions have shaped Iran’s internal politics and economic crisis, how inflation and public dissatisfaction interact with state legitimacy, and what domestic pressures mean for strategic posture. 2. **Nuclear Negotiations and Strategic Posture** What the current talks reveal about incentives on both sides, where they are stuck, and how nuclear policy functions as leverage rather than merely a weapons issue. 3. **Regional Security and Proxy Strategy** Iran’s role in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Yemen and its deterrence strategy; how regional proxies fit into Tehran’s broader objectives and how Western, Gulf, and Israeli policies interact with these dynamics. 4. **Great Power Dynamics: Russia, China, and the West** How Iran’s strategic ties with Russia and China alter balance-of-power calculations in West Asia, and how Europe and the U.S. are adjusting policy in response. 5. **Geopolitical Signals vs Reality** U.S. military posture in the Gulf, Iranian military exercises near chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz, and what these movements signal about escalation risks versus diplomatic incentives. **What Makes This Discussion Different** – We focus on **sovereignty, incentives, and strategic consequence** — not left-right moral theater – We prioritize **nuance over noise** and **context over tribal narratives** – We welcome participants with lived experience and language strengths (including Farsi) – We challenge received wisdom whether it comes from Western media groupthink or simplistic anti-West tropes *This is not pro-Iran or anti-Iran. This is about understanding **why actors behave as they do and how global order is shaped in practice**.* **Boundaries** Speak to ideas, history, strategy, and law — not personalities or identity. Critique systems, not individuals. Expect strong disagreement; intellectual laziness will be called out. Languages: English and French by default. Farsi, Dutch, Spanish, Arabic and Italian are supported. **Location & RSVP** Ixelles, public bar; exact venue shared with confirmed attendees via WhatsApp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LX7UkWGZ3UdLQWLBvNdezN Accountability and rigorous discussion are the point — not performance or talking points.

Let's meet to write ! Schedule : 11:00 - 11:30 am : Presentation tour. Share briefly with the group about your project and your "goal of the day". 11:30 - 13:30 : Let's write ! 13:30 : Conclusion tour. Did you achieve your goal of the day ? See you soon !

[This is a paid workshop and sign-up via the website is obligatory.](https://www.wordcraft-collective.eu/courses/holding-it-all-together%3A-structure-in-fiction-writing) Whether you’re writing your first novel or just thinking about it, this workshop will help you get to grips with the nuts and bolts of structure. Discover how timeline, perspective, different narrative forms and setting can be used to provide the best framework for your story. Join Clare O’Dea, author of Before the Leaves Fall and Voting Day, to explore the possibilities. Date and time: Saturday 28 February, 11:00-13:00 Venue: Pianofabriek, Rue du Fort 35, 1060 Saint-Gilles Price: €25 Eur (non-member) €20 Eur (Member)

**Join us for an hour of writing!** We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 11:00 - Quick introductions 11:15 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 12:15 - The End: chat, take off, or keep writing OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 12:15. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled. If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! **What Should I Bring?** Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block the cafe’s overhead music or the occasional conversation by other patrons. There are plugs in the cafe but we may not be seated right next to them, so please charge any device before coming ! **Other Important Details:** WIFI : the cafe has wifi, the password is written on the menu TRAVEL / PARKING: The cafe is in the center of the city. An uncovered bike rack is available. For more information on parking, please visit https://leuven.be/parkeren SEATING INFORMATION: Please RSVP so I know how many seats to book ! GUIDELINES: **You are required to order at least one thing to support the café.**

Making new friends in a new city doesn’t need to be a struggle at all.

A relaxed walk. No pressure: you can chat, stay quiet, or simply enjoy the walk. Une balade tranquille. Pas de pression : tu peux parler, rester silencieux·se ou juste profiter de la marche.

Hi everyone, This coffee morning event is @ **Château Moderne**, on Saturday, is 28 February 2025, from 10:00 - 13:00. **Château Moderne will be changing its name to Radio Moderne!** 1. The **prime time** of the event is **10:30 - 12:30**. That's when most people will be there. 2. When you enter the place, you will see a long table that is set up for the event. 3. If you intend **to join past 12:00** (high noon), then there is no need to register. Just come and join! 4. **DON'T forget to cancel** if you can't join! 5. **Please, be respectful towards each other during the event. (And after ;))** **As always, feel free to follow us on INSTAGRAM!** https://instagram.com/weekendmorningcoffee?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA== *** **THE STRUCTURE of THE EVENT:** * I post the event on Saturday/Sunday for the following Saturday. * I send out a reminder as an email or a comment on the event page on Thursday/Friday. * There is sometimes a waiting list. * **For everyone on the waiting,** please check your status and messages on Friday evening the latest. I message everyone on the waiting list on Friday. * **Please, move to "not going" AS SOON AS you know that you can't come anymore, that includes everyone who is on the waiting list.** **IMPORTANT:** * When you register yourself, be careful not to register accidentally a +1 guest (unless you bring a guest). It happens very often. * If you have any questions then, message me. *** **A MESSAGE FOR NEWCOMERS:** *In the three years of hosting this coffee group, I have met many people who struggle with anxieties when coming to an event for the first time. Sometimes, it took them more than one attempt before being able to join.* *Occasionally, people reach out to me before the event, and I have always been grateful for that as it offers the opportunity to communicate with each other and to find the best and most gentle way for that person to join the group.* *I would like to encourage everyone who struggles with this to contact me before. It would really be too bad if you can't join us, as it mostly gets better the second or third time you come.* *In addition to that, if you arrive and notice any signs of nervousness or fear, you can always let me know right then.* **THANK YOU AND SEE YOU ALL ON SATURDAY!** **LOCATION:** Château Moderne Mont des Arts 1 1000 Bruxelles

**Vous souhaitez améliorer votre prise de parole en public et développer vos compétences en communication et en leadership ?** ✨ Le **Club des Orateurs**, club officiel de Toastmasters International à **Bruxelles**, vous invite à une soirée d’apprentissage dans une ambiance conviviale et bienveillante. **Prochaine réunion** : **4ème jeudi du mois** **19h15 – 21h30** **Villa François Gay (salle au 1er étage)** **326 Rue François Gay, 1150 Bruxelles** Le bâtiment est situé dans un petit parc. **Pourquoi participer ?** ✔️ **Améliorez votre aisance à l’oral** grâce à des discours préparés et des interventions improvisées. ✔️ **Développez votre leadership** en prenant des rôles lors des réunions. ✔️ **Rejoignez une communauté dynamique** qui vous aidera à progresser à votre rythme. ✔️ **Une expérience immersive** avec des retours bienveillants pour évoluer rapidement. **Déroulement d’une réunion Toastmasters** : Nos réunions incluent des discours préparés, des exercices d’improvisation et des évaluations constructives pour vous aider à progresser. **Qui peut participer ?** Tout le monde est bienvenu, que vous soyez débutant ou expérimenté ! **L’entrée est gratuite pour les invités.** **Intéressé•e ?** Inscrivez-vous dès maintenant sur Meetup et rejoignez-nous pour une soirée enrichissante !

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Sunday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at noon on Sundays. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 12:00 - quick intros. 12:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 1:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 1-1:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Sunday!

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

Greetings writers! Come down and join your fellow wordsmiths for one hour of uninterrupted writing time in the upper level of the Market District Supermarket in Upper Arlington. The main entrance of the shopping center opens onto stairs/elevator leading up to the 2nd floor cafe section where we will have a table displaying a sign with the Shut Up & Write logo. Writing is largely a solitary craft. Practicing with others in a community setting may be the thing you need to fire your own routine. We’ll meet on Wednesday evenings, starting the clock at 6:30, following a brief period of introductions. This is solid writing time and all inclusive. Any project is acceptable, be it fiction, non -fiction, work or homework assignment. All is welcome and will remain private to you. The market boasts a Starbucks, a full service bar and various affordable food options. Parking is plentiful, free Wifi is provided as well as outlets for charging your devices, though they are somewhat limited, so plan accordingly. Show up as early as you like, or stay late. This group tends to socialize some, both before and after the alloted time, but this is not mandatory to you. Feel free to come and go as you please and late arrivals are welcome. The cafe may be noisy on occasion so headphones/ earbuds are reccommended as you see fit. Please try to RSVP if possible so that we may grab enough seats for all—the venue can be busy at times. Feel free to message me privately wth any questions and/ or concerns you may have. Happy writing!

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

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. If the weather cooperates we will be meeting in the patio. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

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.

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia