Guest Speakers and Events

\*\*\*This is not a hosted Meetup. I'm actually on stage at this show, so can't host. However I am inviting you, and offering the "Cost of Living Help" price. So you're welcome along.\*\*\* Event ticket site: https://www.comedyfestival.com.au/browse-shows/an-introvert-s-guide-to-extroverts/ Event description from the ticket page: ......... Following the New Zealand International Science Festival, Luke is returning to Melbourne International Comedy Festival with more goofing and education about introverts and extroverts. \-\-\- PSY24IGE: The role of introverts in society has been diminishing in recent years with their historical positions increasingly taken by those with extrovert tendencies. How can introverts survive and what do they need to do to adapt? This lecture explores the history of introverts in society, their current status and potential future. It is a core lesson within PSY24 and may be attended by others for course credit. Update, tutor Matt Boring (Luke Morris) will be taking this lecture and there are to be no questions about Dr. Lachmann's escaped lab monkeys. It's all totally fine. Do not worry about the escaped monkeys. Bundoora University has that all under control. Funding and show support from Comedy Victoria.

**💝 Virtual Speed Dating – East Melbourne Singles, Curated by Personality** Meet East Melbourne singles from home. We sort the matching, you just turn up. Join from home, get paired with East Melbourne singles your age, and have real conversations on Zoom. A host manages everything so you can just relax and enjoy. **Pick your age group and sign up:** - 🚀 **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=421.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=society-local-singles-speed-dating-friends&ar=18-32&face_v=28.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=421.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=society-local-singles-speed-dating-friends&ar=30-46&face_v=28.0) **⚠️ RSVP alone won't secure your spot.** You need to register through your age group link below and complete the personality quiz. Places are limited. --- 🎯 **Especially useful for:** - East Melbourne locals after personality-matched dates - 🌍 Singles who prefer a hosted, structured experience 📍 **Event snapshot** - **Format:** Hosted on Zoom – one-on-one video dates - **Location:** Online from home – no need to go anywhere **How the event unfolds** 1. **Register** – Select your age group above and sign up. 2. **Take the personality quiz** – We use it to pair you with compatible East Melbourne singles. 3. **Hop on Zoom** – Join the call and your host will walk you through it. 💡 **Tip:** Check your Zoom setup and pick a quiet, well-lit spot ahead of time. --- ✨ Register, take the quiz, and connect with East Melbourne locals tonight. 💓 ✨ Compressed version with the essentials only. Concise by design so people can decide quickly. A wider swing in voice, pacing, and shape.

💃 Unique Events Singles Soirée Forget the apps, swipes, ghosting, and dead-end chats… it’s time to get back to real-life flirty fun! 🎉 Join us for an afternoon of laughter, cheeky banter, and 🍸 – where singles connect IRL and sparks fly in Casino RoyaleVibe, so dress to Impress✨ 🎶 Chat in this relaxed lounge area with a cocktail in hand and see if any sparks ignite, if not a match meet some great friends along the way! 💥 Event Highlights *Ice breakergames *Prizes for Best dressed *Photo booth *smoking area upstairs *happy hour 4pm til 6pm Mens Tickets 🎟 https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/mens-42-58yo-singles-soiree-casino-royale-vibes-tickets-1984762068776 Date: Sun, 19 Apr, Time: 4:00 pm Place: LALA LAND CITY lvl 1/125 Hardware Street. Melbourne (includes a complimentary glass of bubbles ,wine on arrival DRESS TO IMPRESS Casino royale theme Ladies 🎟 https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ladies-singles-soiree-casino-royale-vibe-42-58yo-ticketed-event-tickets-1984760760864 🍹 Happy Hour: , 4pm – 6 pm $15 Signature Cocktails Link for tickets: Don’t miss out on the ultimate singles soirée – where the music’s hot, the vibes are flirty, and the fun is non-stop! 💃✨ ---

Join us for a relaxed Sunday morning picnic followed by a visit to the vibrant **Latin American Festival at Queen Victoria Market**. It’s a great chance to enjoy amazing food, meet new people, and experience Latin culture together. **Meetup Location:** 📍 Flagstaff Gardens – Picnic Area (on Google Maps), near the playground 🕚 11:00 AM *** ### 🌟 Highlights & Activities 🧺 **Picnic at Flagstaff Gardens (11:00 AM – 12:00 PM)** We’ll start with a casual picnic at the park. Bring some snacks to share, relax, and get to know others. 🌮 **Cachivaches Latin Market @ Queen Victoria Market (from 12:00 PM)** After the picnic, we’ll head to Queen Vic Market to explore the Latin American festival — enjoy delicious food, music, and a lively atmosphere. Feel free to roam around and check out the stalls. 🎉 You’re welcome to stay longer and enjoy the festival, which runs until **4:00 PM**. *** **Note:** This event has limited spots. Please only RSVP if you plan to attend. If your plans change, kindly cancel your RSVP so someone else can join. **What to bring:** • Snacks to share • Water bottle • Picnic blanket or mat (optional) • Check the weather and dress accordingly Come along for a laid-back Sunday of food, culture, and connection 🌏 ✨ **Bondaroo** **Community Rules** ✨ * This is a rain-or-shine event. * 18+ only. * Maintain respect and no unsolicited contact. * No advertising and selling during the event. * Adherence to the liability waiver is mandatory: [Read here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hKqVIMcXMFdzvpjqO3KRf_uQ5xAzd-jt/view?usp=sharing) * By attending this event, you are consent to our media policy: [Read here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rgNOcewZs-tKYUEBt3gV84hob1HdDXydjrGf_tEiXjQ/edit?usp=sharing)

**What's going to happen?** There are 4 activities to choose from: **Connection Carousel** (structured conversations), a **Board Game Table**, a **Choose Your Own Adventure** hangout area, and a **Quiet Retreat Space**. Refer to the [detailed plan here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nVbe9zl_dzniTTEavz97LWCWiHfefDZZILYXjVxrAMs/edit?usp=sharing). **Where is it?** It's in the Sandringham Library event space, a short walk from Sandringham railway station. Refer to the [visual directions here to find it](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nVbe9zl_dzniTTEavz97LWCWiHfefDZZILYXjVxrAMs/edit?usp=sharing). **Who's it for?** Whether you have Adult ADD/ADHD, ADHD, Autism, or identify with any other neurodivergent traits, this event is a safe space for open discussions and support. Connect with like-minded individuals, share experiences, and learn from each other's unique perspectives on living with neurodivergence. Our goal is to foster a community where everyone feels accepted, understood, and empowered. Come spice up your neurodivergent journey with us!

Join us to see Melbourne Museum’s special exhibition ‘ROME: Empire, Power, People’ followed by lively discussion about the relevance of themes such as power and human dignity, over lunch in Lygon Street. Please scroll right through to end to see discussion points for lunch AND suggested prior reading link. Meet at museum: 11.45 am Exhibition: 12.00pm - 1.15pm Walk to restaurant: 10min Lunch: 1.30pm @ Il Gambero 166 Lygon Street Indicate in comments if you are coming to exhibition and / or lunch. ***New Members:*** New members are more than welcome, we are a good-natured bunch who value friendship and exploring the realm of next wave humanism. Interested? Come and join the conversation! ***Cost:*** $35 adult, $30 senior, $30 concession **PLEASE PURCHASE TICKET DIRECTLY ON MUSEUM WEBSITE FOR ROME: EMPIRE, POWER, PEOPLE FOR 12.00PM 19 APRIL AS SOON AS POSSIBLE TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT** [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/tickets/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/tickets/) $5 CONTRIBUTION (IF YOU CAN) TOWARDS ONGOING OPERATIONAL COSTS ***About the exhibition:*** From the fall of Julius Caesar to the power and ambition of an Empire, the exhibition showcases the luxury of Imperial Rome, the spectacle of the gladiator arena, the bustling marketplaces and the everyday experiences of Romans. Explore Ancient Rome’s political, social and spiritual worlds through over 180 objects dating from the Imperial period 1st Century CE to the 3rd Century CE, with all of the objects on display in Melbourne for the first time ever. The splendour, drama and humanity of Rome is brought to life in detail with scenography and multimedia, giving visitors an immersive experience and vivid portrait of a civilisation that continues to shape our world today. ***Link with modern humanism and points for discussion over lunch:*** **🏛 Power, Citizenship, and Human Responsibility** Rome’s political system—centralised under the emperor yet still tied to republican ideals—invites reflection on **human agency**, **leadership**, and **ethical governance**. * The emperor’s authority shows how power can stabilise or destabilise societies, prompting questions about **justice**, **accountability**, and **the common good**. * The expansion of citizenship, culminating in the *Constitutio Antoniniana* (212 CE), highlights evolving ideas about **belonging**, **rights**, and **inclusion**. * The Senate, magistrates, and local elites demonstrate how communities negotiate **shared responsibility** and **public service**. Humanist connection: Studying these structures encourages us in the 21st Century to consider what fair leadership looks like, how societies might distribute power, and how individuals contribute to civic life. **🎨 Culture, Creativity, and the Value of Expression** Roman cultural life—its literature, architecture, philosophy, and public entertainment—reveals a civilisation deeply invested in **human creativity** and **shared cultural identity**. * Writers like Seneca, Pliny, and Juvenal explored moral questions, emotions, and the human condition. * Monumental architecture expressed collective values: memory, pride, identity, and aspiration. * Religious and philosophical traditions (Stoicism, mystery cults, local deities) show humans searching for meaning and ethical frameworks. Humanist connection: These cultural expressions affirm the humanist belief that creativity, reflection, and intellectual inquiry enrich both individuals and communities. **🏺 Social Life, Dignity, and the Human Condition** Roman society was hierarchical, unequal, and often harsh—especially for enslaved people, women, and the poor. Yet it also reveals universal human experiences: family, work, belonging, resilience, and aspiration. * The *familia* structure shows how people sought stability, identity, and continuity. * Urban life—baths, markets, forums—demonstrates the importance of **community spaces** where people meet, talk, and coexist. * The presence of slavery and inequality invites ethical reflection on **human dignity**, **freedom**, and **justice**. Humanist connection: By examining both the achievements and injustices of Roman society, we can reflect on the importance of empathy, moral reasoning, and an understanding of how societies can uphold—or violate—human dignity. **🌍 Why This Link Matters for Learning** Connecting Rome to humanist values helps us: * see history as a lens for understanding ethical questions; * recognise the continuity of human concerns across time; * reflect on how societies shape and are shaped by human choices; * develop critical thinking about power, culture, and identity; * understand that studying the past is ultimately about understanding people. It turns the Roman Empire from a distant civilisation into a mirror for thinking about what kind of world we want to build today. ***Suggested prior reading:*** In preparation for the exhibition it is recommended to read about the events of Rome during this time period of 1st Century CE to the 3rd Century CE, and the philosopher Seneca. [https://www.britannica.com/place/ancient-Rome/The-transformation-of-Rome-and-Italy-during-the-Middle-Republic](https://www.britannica.com/place/ancient-Rome/The-transformation-of-Rome-and-Italy-during-the-Middle-Republic) [https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/seneca/](https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/seneca/)

**Here and Now: Coffee Rave** **Morning Dance Party \| 10 AM – 2 PM** Sunday 19th April **\| Craftsman’s Corner Bar and Kitchen** Welcome to **Here and Now: Coffee Rave,** a morning dance party where real people, good vibes, and genuine connection come first. Dance to the beats of a **live DJ spinning RnB, Pop, Hiphop and Bailey Funk**, sip on your favourite coffee, and meet new friends in a lively, social atmosphere. This is more than a party, it’s a space for **authentic connection**, laughter, and energy to start your day right. Join us at **Craftsman’s Corner Bar and Kitchen** for music, coffee, and community. 313 Lygon St, Brunswick East VIC 3057 **Tickets:** $15 early bird \| Includes entry and good vibes Limited tickets Early bird tickets (30 only available or until 5th April) Book early and secure your tickets with link below * Live DJ: Rnb, Hiphop, Afrobeats, Pop * Non - Alcoholic Event * Coffee, Juices & Non Alcoholic drinks * Health and Wellness * Community * Food https://luma.com/zklrcadg?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnaNyXI-0D3Y7HeFInu1rfBSSPOgMa9SXwmPSk1r9e4XqHrXTqi811oofncwc_aem_led6dPT4MaxYh1bVlvavoQ&utm_content=link_in_bio&utm_medium=social&utm_source=ig

**Get ready for a heart-warming afternoon of readings in a cool, historic cellar - and guess what? It will cost you less than a cup of coffee (well, almost!)** NOTE: THIS IS A TICKETED EVENT Cost: $25, strictly limited to 25 seats Your ticket includes a $20 food and drinks credit voucher ($5 goes to the venue to support costs). [CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR SEAT](https://MelbournePoets.eventbrite.com.au) Budding poets, writers and lyricists join Melbourne Poets for our monthly Poetry & Prose Meetup! This is a true open mic event (usually without the need for a microphone). There'll be an opportunity to read your work (if you're brave enough) and listen to others over a drink or two. You don't need to be published; you just need to be passionate about your craft. So grab a support buddy and come along to our luxe loungeroom hidden away in the 170-year-old bluestone cellars in East Melbourne's Tribeca precinct. We've got great cocktails, back-vintage wines, craft brews, amazing food, and good vibes in a chilled and supportive safe space. RULES: This is a ticketed event due to limited seating capacity. $20 of your ticket price is offset against any bar drinks and food ordered through the venue on the day. Please ensure each piece is less than 5 minutes for those wanting to read. Depending on attendance and number of readers, there may be multiple opportunities to read. Please no "clicking" or trauma porn, and no self-promotion allowed during the readings but networking after the event is absolutely OK. GETTING THERE: We recommend you use public transport or rideshare. We are on the 12/109 tram line (stop 16, Wellington St), several Bus Routes (302, 303, 304, 305, 309, 318, 350, 905, 906, 907, 908) or a 5-10 minute walk from Jolimont and North Richmond train stations. If you decide to drive and/or have a designated driver, 2-hour paid parking is available around Powlett Reserve, Darling Square, and the Fitzroy Gardens. Extended paid parking is available at Care Park at 162 Albert Street, East Melbourne or the Epworth Freemasons Car Park in Gotch Lane off Grey Street. UNABLE TO ATTEND? Cancellations and Refunds are generally not possible. However, for sudden illness, COVID, or other special circumstances, we may agree to reschedule your session to another day or provide a gift certificate for part or all of your ticket price. Please SMS your request to 0466 045 473. #poetry #readings #poets #writers #prose #lyricists #melbournepoets #melbournepoet #melbournepoetry #melbournewriter #melbournewriters #melbournetodo #poetryandprose #poetrylovers #openmic

**"TechWalking" - Networking + Walking** Are you a tech professional looking to network beyond the screen? Look no further than my upcoming #TechWalking event! ‍♀️ Join us for a refreshing walk around the scenic Albert Park Lake. It’s the perfect chance to connect with industry peers while getting in some steps! I know many of you have been tuning in to my online events, but we've never had the opportunity to meet in person. Let's change that! Check out the video from the last event: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/JOva9E3XYhE We'll kick things off at **10 am sharp** at the Albert Park Fitness Station. Please, don't be late! We're hitting the trail around the lake as soon as we gather. And trust me, you won't want to miss it – unless you're up for a bit of a sprint to catch up! (we're going anti-clockwise) This event is pet and kid-friendly, as long as your little ones and furry friends can manage a 5 km walk, they're more than welcome to join. Looking forward to meeting you all in real life! Join the TechWalking group on LinkedIn! [https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14477058/](https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14477058/) \*\*\* Follow me on LinkedIn for more information: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/yana-martens/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/yana-martens/) Just moved to Australia? Grab your FREE guide to land your tech job! [https://yanamartens.com/first-tech-job-in-australia/](https://yanamartens.com/first-tech-job-in-australia/) Subscribe to YouTube Channel: [https://www.youtube.com/@ITCareerinAustralia](https://www.youtube.com/@ITCareerinAustralia)

AI is changing how art is made. But when does it stop being your work and start being the machine’s? This month we're going to be doing a panel with with digital image, music, and written word artists, talking about at what point, while using AI in the creation process, does the work become not the artist creation? We encourage audience participation during this event that will be moderated by Chris Slee. Whether you’re deep in the field or just getting curious, come connect with others building and exploring AI in Columbus. Sponsored by [Transform Labs](https://www.transformlabs.com/services) Sign up also accessible via [Transform Labs Luma](https://luma.com/55umjqta)

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp.

Columbus Code & Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. People of all skill levels attend, and we love it that way. Many people (optionally) bring projects to work on, and many other people (optionally) socialize the entire time. It's entirely up to you! **What to Expect at the Intro Circle** \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Near the beginning of the event (1:30 pm), we do a standup: * Organizer announcements, updates, and logistics Round 1 - (7 secs max): * Your name * What you're working on * What you can help others with Round 2: * Community events you wanna plug. If none, that's cool too. Round 3: * Job opportunities you're hiring for OR announce that you are looking for one. If none, that's cool. After the introduction circle, everything is self-organized! Feel free to work alone, pair up, attend one of our workshops/presentations, or mingle!

**💝 Online Speed Dating via Zoom – Connect with Cleveland Singles Tonight!** Speed dating from home — connect with real Cleveland singles on Zoom. We match you with compatible Cleveland locals using a quick personality quiz. You'll chat one-on-one on Zoom in short timed rounds while a host guides the session. **Pick your age group and sign up:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=dynamic-local-singles-speed-dating-meetup&ar=18-32&face_v=3.0) - 🎉 **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=dynamic-local-singles-speed-dating-meetup&ar=30-46&face_v=3.0) **⚠️ Your RSVP doesn't guarantee a place.** Click your age group link below, register, and take the personality quiz to lock in your spot. Limited places. --- 🎯 **Great fit for:** - 🚀 Anyone who likes connecting online before meeting face-to-face - Busy professionals who don't want to waste evenings ⭐ *"I was nervous but the host made it effortless. Met someone wonderful first try."* – Cleveland single 📍 **Event snapshot** - 💡 **Format:** Zoom video session – short timed rounds - 🚀 **Location:** Online from home – no need to go anywhere **How the event unfolds** 1. **Register** – Select your age group above and sign up. 2. **Take the personality quiz** – We use it to pair you with compatible Cleveland singles. 3. **Log in** – Connect to the Zoom session from home. The host runs the show. 💡 **Tip:** Check your Zoom setup and pick a quiet, well-lit spot ahead of time. --- ✨ Your next match could be one Zoom call away. 🫶 ✨ Lean version: fewer words, same core offer. Everything important, without the extra padding.