Global Citizenship

Far less popular on the tourist trail than its neighbor India, but much more intriguing, **Bangladesh** remains a very little known corner of the world. You'll find a truly fascinating combination here: cultural immersion to discover **untouched,** **remote tribes,** but also **brutality of modern industry at the one of the** **world’s largest ship breaking yards**. While 80% of the country is made up of fertile lowlands called the Bangladesh Plain, in the far southeastern corner of Bangladesh, bordering Myanmar, is the **Chittagong Hill Tracts area**, featuring **green, undulating topography** that is strikingly different, and incredibly scenic. Here, in the **Bandarban Hill District**, it is not only the landscapes that are unique – many of the inhabitants are very different from the majority of Bengalis, making for a fascinating **crossover between subcontinent and far east cultures**. The first settlers of these hills were tribes from Myanmar, and today there are **11 distinct ethnic groups** **who are** **only found in the Bandarban area**. Their lifestyle and culture differ greatly from those of the plains Bengalis, from their thatched bamboo huts to their **distinctive languages, rituals, dress** **and handicrafts**. A visit to the **Chittagong Ship Breaking Yard** is a unique opportunity to see up close as giant cargo ships, oil tankers and other vessels are broken down, bit by bit…there aren’t many places in the world where we can get access to a place like this! This **cemetery of steel and iron**, with monster ship carcasses in various stages of decay, is a sight to behold. **Let’s go!** **Day 1: Bandarban – Golden Temple, Tribal Village, Nilachal** Arrival to Chittagong Airport; meet the team and drive to **Bandarban**. After some lunch, we’ll set out to discover the area. First stop is **Golden Temple**, an impressive, glittering gilt structure housing the massive Buddha Dhatu Jadi statue. The temple belongs to the Theravada Buddhism order, which is practiced by the Marma indigenous people, the dominant ethnic group in the Bandarban area. Next we visit the **Tanchangya tribe**, who earn their living cultivating the land. They are known for their traditional costumes and ornaments, and Tanchangya women can be easily spotted because of their unique dress and hairstyle. Later we’ll head to **Nilachal**, high up in the hills about 1600 to 2000 feet above sea level. From here we’ll have stunning views of the surrounding area, the city of Bandarban, as well as Cox’s Bazar beach, and enjoy a magnificent sunset. **Day 2: Bandarban – Chimbuk &** **Nilgiri, Tribal Villages** After breakfast, we’ll set off to capture more amazing views. **Chimbuk** is the third largest mountain in Bangladesh, and its peak lies up a winding road overlooking the hills and towns below. Next we’ll head to **Nilgiri**, a popular resort area and a place of spectacular beauty. In the afternoon, we’ll get to know the diverse local peoples a bit better. First stop is the village of the **Tripura indigenous people**, who subsist on slash-and-burn farming in the remote hills and valleys. This small Animistic and Hindu ethnic group only numbers around 60,000 people, but clings proudly to its traditional ways. We’ll stop at the **Shaila Prapat waterfall** before heading to **Bawm tribal village**, home to a group hailing from Chin state in western Myanmar. The group’s first wave of migration to Bangladesh took place more than 500 years ago, and today 200 Bawm families live in the Bandabar area, facing much discrimination due to their Christian faith. Last is the **village of the** **Mru (or Murong) people**, also originally from Myanmar, who left their homeland due to invasions by rival tribes and colonisation by the British. This peaceful Buddhist society relies on hunting and bamboo crafting, and values the preservation of its unique cultural traditions. **Day 3: Chittagong – Potenga Beach, Ship Breaking Yard** We’ll head to Chittagong, making a stop at the **Bandarban hanging bridge** on the way. After a couple hours’ drive we’ll get some sea views at popular **Patenga Beach**. In the afternoon we’ll enjoy a truly unique experience, witnessing the dismantling of iron and steel giants at the **Chittagong** **Ship Breaking Yard**. Once the world’s largest, the scale of industry at this ship breaking yard is truly astounding, the site teeming with over 200,000 workers taking apart and salvaging materials from vessels from around the world. After dinner we’ll head to the airport, saying bye-bye to Bangladesh after a fascinating few days of discovery. [https://vimeo.com/206645153](https://vimeo.com/206645153) [https://vimeo.com/204837040](https://vimeo.com/204837040) **Level of difficulty:** Easy available for everyone. **Activities:** short trekking, sightseeing, boating, cultural immersion. **Accommodation & meals:** 4 star hotel double sharing, meals included except breakfast D1 and dinner D3. **Cost: AED 4550 incl. flights, until JAN 07.** **Requirements:** mosquito repellent, trekking shoes, your best lenses. No check in luggage on this trip. **Excluded:** * any costs related to visa, * meals as mentioned **Visa:** Most of nationalities get [visa on arrival](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Bangladesh) at 50-55 USD. *Visa cost is not included in trip budget. Admission to country of destination is at strict responsibility of traveler.* See yah in Bangladesh x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 00971 50 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](http://linktr.ee/trekkup)

Welcome, Planetpreneurs! Whether you're a founder, a working professional in the ESG space, or dedicated to sustainability, this meetup is for you. Join us for a coffee, share your story, and build powerful connections. Let's network, inspire each other, and drive positive change together!

**Somaliland’s status may be unofficial, but its hidden gems are officially amazing!** Having declared independence from Somalia but not yet recognized, it’s a country that’s not technically a country. From Africa’s most vivid cave paintings (to suit an archaeologist’s dreams) to ancient temples in forgotten villages to the captivating charms of a city risen from the ashes! **Hargeisa,** with its friendly, bustling markets of camels, money exchanges with towers of bills, and curiosities around every corner with many tales to tell. is surely one of Africa’s most unique destinations. **The cave paintings of Laas Geel** (“Camel’s Well”) spread over 10 alcoves are some of the most vivid rock art in all of Africa, with depictions of horned cattle in ceremonial robes accompanied by their human herders, as well as animals as varied as giraffes and even a domesticated dog. It’s estimated that these **paintings date back to 18,000 BC, or nearly 20,000 years ago!** **From the low-key charms of Hargeisa to the jaw-dropping wonders of Laas Geel, Somaliland is a “country” not to be missed!** **Let’s go!!!** **Day 1 // Hargeisa** Meet at Dubai airport at 2 a.m. for a direct flight to Hargeisa at 4:10 a.m. After arrival and immigration, transfer to the hotel for a quick rest before heading into town for a walking tour of the central market, war memorial, and a stop at the livestock exchange for those who want to purchase a goat or a camel with a wheelbarrow of local currency. Afterward, we’ll head to dinner at a restaurant run by Yemeni refugees. We’ll have chai with the locals before heading back to the hotel. **Day 2 // Laas Geel + Berbera** After breakfast, drive to the caves and rock art of Laas Geel, a complex of rock shelters that feature some of the most impressive Neolithic rock art in Africa. Estimated to be nearly 20,000 years old and the second oldest in all of Africa, the paintings depict wild animals, ancient pastoralists, and other scenes from prehistoric times. We’ll explore the colorful caves and continue to the coastal city of Berbera, where we will visit a historical Ottoman mosque and Ottoman houses. Late lunch at an Ottoman house. Next, we'll head to the old town, where you will find more Persian and British architecture of historic significance. This will be a great chance for some amazing photographs, as well as a visit to the untouched Berbera beaches. In the evening, we head back to Hargeisa. **Day 3 // Return** Early morning flight back to Dubai. Bye-bye, Somaliland! **Activity:** sightseeing, short hiking, boating. **Duration:** Long weekend FRI – SUN. **Accommodation and meals:** 4 star hotel, single rooms. Meals excluded. **Cost: 2910 AED** excluding flights until JAN 17th. On this date we will close the list. **Specifically included:** Letter of invitation for visa on arrival, single rooms. **Specifically excluded:** visa fees payable on arrival, restaurant meals, insurance. See yah in Somaliland x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [info@trekkup.com](http://info@trekkup.com/) [Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)

Calling all football enthusiasts in Dubai! Join us for a friendly social football game where skill meets fun! 📅 Date: Everyday ⏰ Time: from 8 pm To 9 pm and 9 pm to 10 pm 📍 Location: Gems new Mellinum Al khail Dubai hills. Format: Casual 9-a-side game Fee: 40 AED All levels are welcome—just bring your love for the game and positive vibes! 📩 RSVP now! Spaces are limited, so confirm your spot today. Contact: Zinou +971522955859 Let’s kick it and make unforgettable memories on the pitch!

**PLAY : 🎧The‎ Biggest‎ THURSDAY ‎ Party** **THURSDAY \| FREE ENTRY \+ OFFERS** **OFFERS FOR ALL💥** * **Free‎ Entry on‎ Guest-list till 12.30** * **Ladies Free Drinks till 1AM** * **4‎ Drinks + 1 Shisha‎ Men‎ : 99** * **4‎ Drinks +‎ 1 Shisha Ladies : 69** 📍**OUD METHA DUBAI** **📞 Reservations:‎ 0543231214** (Special Note : Reservations only through WhatsApp)

**REGISTRATION THROUGH WHATSAPP : 0552176382** Looking to kick a ball around and have fun? Join us for a friendly game of football! Whether you're a seasoned player or just getting started, all skill levels are welcome. This event is perfect for players who want to improve their fitness while enjoying a social game of football in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. We cater to all types of players, from experienced footballers to beginners who want to learn and have fun. Our group is all about providing a positive and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. Join us on the pitch and let's have some fun together! As always, we will be playing outdoors, so please remember to bring appropriate footwear, comfortable athletic clothing, and water to stay hydrated. Don't miss out on a great opportunity to meet new people, get in some exercise, and indulge your love for the beautiful game. See you on the field!

Join us for an exciting day of Padel – one of the fastest-growing sports in the world! Book your game and get more details! **[Join our WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-padel-meetup)** Whether you're a seasoned player or just curious to try something new, this is the perfect opportunity. **Friendly Matches** Participate in casual games where you can compete, have fun, and make new friends. **Fun and Relaxation** Enjoy a day of laughter, friendly competition, and good vibes. It's not just about the sport; it's about the community! Book your game and get more details! **[Join our WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-padel-meetup)** **Why Padel?** Padel is an incredibly accessible sport that's easy to learn and play. You don't need to be a pro to enjoy the game; just bring your enthusiasm, and we'll take care of the rest! Book your game and get more details! **[Join our WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-padel-meetup)** *Just like any game, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* See you in the court! 🎾

Marhaba! Dubai brings the world together — and so does our meetup. [[[Click this WhatsApp Groupchat Link to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CSQjs75EOsqAAoNeTTRzXg) ]] Join us Saturdays at 7:30 PM for a mix of global minds, mostly in their 20s and 30s. If you’re craving culture, company, or conversation in any language, you’re home. We talk, we laugh, we learn — together.

**Hi Footballers!** Get ready for a game at **ISD Sports City**! We’re playing **7v7** on a modern artificial turf pitch (**Outdoor**). Whether you're a beginner or a veteran player, everyone is welcome to join and have fun! 🙌⚽️ The participation fee is **59 AED**, which covers the field booking and organizer costs. To join the game and see who else has signed up, make sure to download the **CeleBreak app**. You can find it on both the **[App Store](https://apps.apple.com/co/app/celebreak/id1244710855?l=en-GB)** and **[Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lewisblack.celebreakOne&hl=en)**. 🚨 **Important:** Please join through the app to **reserve your spot!** 🚨 One of our organizers will be at the pitch to welcome you, provide bibs, and get everything set up. Come as you are and **have fun in our games!** We can’t wait to see you on the pitch! 💪 **PS:** Don’t worry about the number of attendees on Meetup—the real player count is shown in the app!

A social meetup in a beautiful Dubai location for people who love atmosphere, great drinks, new friends, English conversations, and effortless networking.

Hi and welcome to our philosophy meetup!
Do you have a hunger for deeper understanding of yourself and the world? Do you value deep, honest and respectful dialogue?
If yes, then this meetup will be very interesting for you. **Beach special!** We're taking the discussion to Kite Beach for this event! Be sure to get some chairs and snacks when joining us. We will provide mats and drinks. You can also call/msg : [0503551536](https://wa.me/+971503551536) **Entry fee**: AED 30 -> [Click here to pay & register](https://pay.ziina.com/dsh/dYzEZ7oeR) **What’s This Meetup About?** We explore big questions and share ideas to spark curiosity and broaden our thinking. The goal? To learn from each other’s perspectives—not to push our own views. This isn’t about quoting famous philosophers or winning debates; it’s about questioning, reflecting, and challenging our own assumptions in an open, respectful space. Success means leaving with more questions than answers! **What Do We Discuss?** At each meetup, we vote on a topic—anything from "What’s the purpose of life?" to "Do parallel universes exist?" No philosophy degree needed—just bring your curiosity and a love for thoughtful conversation. **Who’s Welcome?** Everyone! Our meetups attract open-minded people from all walks of life who crave meaningful discussions and value respectful dialogue. Join us if you love digging deeper into life’s big questions. You can also call/msg : [0503551536](https://wa.me/+971503551536)

Welcome to Camelot Language School! Our speaking club is a fun, friendly place where everyone feels comfortable speaking and learning together 😊 You’ll practice real conversations, make new friends, and improve your English naturally with a native speaker guiding you along the way. No pressure, just support, laughter, and great conversations. **Join us** and come enjoy learning with us!

Meet amazing people, discover new cultures, and have an unforgettable conversations 🎉🥂 Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile)](https://jo.my/wa-language-society)** We’re bringing together curious minds, language lovers, and fun-seekers for a social evening like no other. 💬 Meet new people 🌎 Exchange languages 🎶 Enjoy music & vibes 🥂 Make new friends Let's meet, chat, and sip on their your drinks 🍷🍹 while smooth background music sets the mood. **🎉 What’s happening?** * Social hour 🕒 * Chat, mingle & sip drinks 🍷🍹 * Fun icebreakers 💬 * Practice English, Spanish, Arabic + more 🌍 * Connect with curious, open-minded people 🤝 Think bold conversations 💬, big energy ⚡, and friendships waiting to happen. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile)](https://jo.my/wa-language-society)** 🎉 One magical night. One elegant lounge. Countless connections **🌟 Why join?** ✔ Meet people from all over the world 🌍 ✔ Practice & improve your language skills 💬 ✔ Discover new cultures & perspectives 🌸 ✔ Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with drinks, music & views 🍸🎶 ✔ Leave with new friends, new words, and new memories 💛 **Come practice your favorite language, explore new ones, or simply enjoy great company — you’ll walk away with something special. 💫** 👉 Come alone, leave with friends. 👉 No apps. No pressure. Just real people, real fun. 🎉 Drinks + Conversations + Music = One unforgettable night. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile)](https://jo.my/wa-language-society)** 📅 Save the date & join us for this unforgettable cultural and social evening!

A chill hangout for deep thinkers, curious minds, and lovers of raw, real conversations—with or without a drink in hand. No strict rules, no set topics—just a bunch of interesting people talking about life, beliefs, and everything in between. 💵 Fee: AED 30- pay by [clicking here](https://pay.ziina.com/dsh/e73sWOArW) For more info message us at +971 50 355 1536 **Who shows up?** Open-minded folks from all walks of life—no racists, no sexists, no judgmental vibes. Expect friendly debates, weird tangents, occasional cranks, and surprisingly smart convos. **Quick etiquette tip:** Disagree freely, but respectfully. We’re here to learn from each other—not win arguments.

Start the year surrounded by Love From the Earth—with delicious vegan eats, sweet treats, artisan goods, and a chance to win one of our raffle baskets filled with plant-based goodies. Support small businesses, enjoy great food, and spend a cozy day with the community. We will reserve a table for this group if there is enough interest. Just comment "interest" below. Don’t miss out—see you there! Check [event page](https://www.facebook.com/events/893838639773267/) for a vendor list.

Attend a free seminar on how to have successful and lasting relationships. At this seminar you will learn: How to spot and handle negative and toxic relationships. How to get through the "rough patches" in a relationship. How to choose the right people to work with. The three things that make or break any relationship. How to make a good relationship great. All are welcome. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. Hosted by the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

Join us Saturday, 1/31 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm for an evening at The Cozy at Portia’s Café. Come learn about this local, grassroots animal rights organization and our current campaigns. Whether you want to do more for animals or simply meet other activists and vegans, this is the place for you. Bring your friends — all animal lovers are welcome. Enjoy games, socializing, and meaningful connections with fellow vegans and animal advocates. Light snacks and drinks will be provided. Feel free to purchase food from Portia’s if you’d like — it’s completely optional. Location: Portia’s Café 3083 Indianola Ave, Columbus, OH 43202 The Cozy is located right next door.

This is a free, in-person meeting on the subject of betrayals, losses and how to get over them so you can build lasting relationships. Burdened by a stressful relationship? Unhealthy relationships can trigger feelings of anger, despair or self-doubt. They can create dwindling spirals of fights and seeking to make-up, or trying to “pin the blame” on someone or something. If you don’t find the RIGHT reasons, or select the correct sources of the problem, the problem can just get worse and worse. Whether in love or personal ties, with friends or at work, our life really IS affected by the quality of our relationships. Good ones can promote pleasure and survival while less optimum ones can lead to annoyance, anger, self-doubt, stress, or even affect our health and ability to survive well. Whether you are suffering from a divorce, or a painful break-up, don’t know who to trust (or who to CHOOSE) as a partner, friend, boss or employee - the anxiety of relationship troubles can really make a mess of things. Maybe you’ve suffered a betrayal, or are dealing with hostility or criticalness or invalidation. Dwindling relationships can involve destructive behavior, where we hurt those we love, or start succumbing to self-destructive thoughts, attitudes or behaviors that spiral out of control and affect much more than our immediate relationship. Past losses in love or life can affect how we act or react to new people and situations and hold us back from even starting to create new, possibly great relationships! How can one get back onto a saner course of action? Come to our Meetup, where we can introduce you to some of the knowledge, tools and techniques of the breakthroughs in the field of the mind that we can apply to this ever important area of life: human relationships! Break free from self imposed limitations Here we will discuss: • How to “erase” the trauma of past hurts and betrayals so that one isn’t always repeating past mistakes. • Why and how do the negative emotions of others affect you? • Why is my partner withdrawing and what can I do about it? • Why do we sometimes feel compelled to hurt the ones we love? • Fights & arguments - what's really behind them? • What underlies “corrosive criticism” or the need to invalidate self or others? • How one can stably change one’s outlook on life so they can affect positive change? • Where do compulsive destructive behaviors come from and what can be done about them? • How to form closer bonds & keep growing the relationships with the people you care about? • How to enhance one’s own ability to survive and create positive healthy relationships whether in love, family & friendships or in work, business or one’s career? Relationships can be hard and life itself IS challenging. Why not arm yourself with the knowledge and breakthroughs that have been made about the mind, mental reactions & interpersonal relationships, so that one has better awareness and control over themselves and life in general. Learn where painful experiences are “stored” and how they can unknowingly affect us. You will also find out how one can “erase” those past painful experiences so that one is free to move forward without being tripped up by the past. Learn too, about what can lead some people to become “toxic” personalities and how to identify those traits in others so you won’t be tripped up trusting the wrong person. Our free Meet-ups occur in a safe environment where one can learn, without fear of judgment or criticism, and without the recommendation of harmful mental techniques or therapies, just how YOU can get yourself onto a happier & more successful path: in love & in life. We look forward to having you join us! This class is sponsored by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

**Join Us for Brunch at Portia’s Cafe!** 🌿 Come meet fellow vegan friends and enjoy a delicious brunch with the Columbus Vegan Meetup! We’ll be gathering at **[The Cozy](https://www.google.com/viewer/place?mid=/g/12hqnx2x0&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj9lPzVmI6SAxXs48kDHS9NMbgQqdYPegYIAQgFEAI)** (located right next door to Portia’s Cafe) to sample a 100% vegan and gluten-free menu featuring savory wraps, breakfast favorites, hearty soups, and decadent desserts. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with a community that shares your values while supporting a local, family-owned staple in our city. * **When:** Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 11:00 AM * **Where:** the Cozy (next to Portia’s Cafe) * **Address:** 4428 Indianola Ave, Columbus, OH 43214 We can’t wait to see you there!

**(‼️‼️*Important:* GO [HERE](https://calendly.com/movewithcouragecoaching/leadership-coffee-chat) to be enrolled in the workshop. Signing up on Meetup won't fully register you!‼️‼️)** **WHAT: ☕ Leadership Coffee Chat** **WHEN: 🗓️ Thursday, January 29 at 7 PM EST** **WHERE: Sign Up: [HERE](https://calendly.com/movewithcouragecoaching/leadership-coffee-chat) only** Join us for a relaxed, supportive Leadership Coffee Chat where you can connect with others, share what you’re navigating at work, and get guidance from a certified career coach, interview coach, leadership coach, and professional résumé writer. This space is designed for real conversation — the kind you don’t always get at work. Bring your questions, your current challenges, or anything you’re trying to figure out in your career or leadership journey. You’ll have the chance to: * Meet other professionals who are growing and leveling up * Support each other through real‑life workplace situations * Get practical advice from a coach who specializes in career clarity, leadership, interviewing, and résumé strategy * Leave with clarity, encouragement, and next steps Whether you’re exploring leadership, preparing for a promotion, navigating workplace dynamics, or simply wanting to grow — you’re welcome here. ➡️➡️ Sign Up **[HERE ](https://calendly.com/movewithcouragecoaching/leadership-coffee-chat)**Not through Meetup if you'd like to attend!

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.