Career

📅 **Week 4 Focus: Calling LLM via API** Each 7-week cycle focuses on a small, well-defined part of a larger system—and over time, these cycles build toward a complete, real-world project Feel free to join at any week and we will catch you up. There is no need to be at the beginning of the cohort to build. Complete beginners welcomed! 📌 By the End of a Full Cycle, You should Have 🎯 A working project in your own GitHub repo 🎯 A small but real portfolio piece you can demo or write about 🧠 **Current Project** This cycle’s shared project is an **image-based knowledge extraction system**. In Week 3, we trained a deep learning object detection model (YOLO) and learned how modern computer vision models are built. **In Week 4** we will try **LLM-based image understanding via APIs** to extract structured information from images and comparing this approach with traditional computer vision and building your own deep learning methods. * \*\*\* **👋 Who Is This For?** 🔹 Beginners who learn best by doing — no prior experience needed 🔹 Career switchers from product, engineering, design, marketing, or other fields who want to break into data 🔹 Analysts, engineers, and PMs looking to sharpen their skills or build real-world projects 🔹 Data professionals who want a creative playground outside of work 🔹 Anyone with big questions and a love for learning through experimentation \*\*\* **BUILD. LEARN. EXPERIMENT. OVER COFFEE.** Come hang out, meet like-minded people, and work on something fun. 📍 Based in Berlin – in-person meetups only (for now!) 💻 Laptops + ☕ highly encouraged Join our Discord → [https://discord.gg/dPnmzcCP8w](https://discord.gg/dPnmzcCP8w) Check out our program resources: [Google Drive](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/15DmZqD4bLBk2vU4zpvh1HiB3_5n09v-q?usp=sharing) \*\*\* ✨ Who’s Hosting? I’m Lindsey, a senior data scientist working on AI, causal inference, and data products. I’ve built models for fraud detection, uplift modeling, and LLM-based systems. I am always open to suggestion for different format for this meetup.

**SPECIAL VALENTINE'S** special offer : 1 tickets for 2 ppl come alone or with your friends , lovers, family and draw with us for our special Valentine workshop ! **Theme of the workshop:** Paris guinguette ! • 3 models • mini accordion concert • French pastries tasting 🍰 • some surprises ! We're a Life drawing workshop in berlin Prenzlauer Berg ! * It's open to everyone, * All levels : beginners to advanced artist: what a better way to learn from each others and to share tips and knowledge all together! * We're providing the basic tools! * Food | alcohol free drinks | Secure your spot now, **draw and connect** with Queers & allies of your neighborhood! **Make new friends in a safe space** while having a creative time all together! We're looking forward to seeing you! **Timeline**: **7:00 pm - 7:15pm : Greeting** no entry after 7:15. Please be on time or inform us at least one hour before the start of the workshop so we can open the doors again for you. **7:15pm - 9:15pm : Life drawing** **9:15pm : Snack n Talk** Enjoy some cookies and alcohol free drinks and share your drawings of the night with each other if you feel like to. **10pm : official closing of the workshop**

**Systemisch Lachen – mehr Freude und Leichtigkeit im Alltag** Der Mini-Workshop zeigt Dir, wie Du mit einfachen Übungen das Lachen systemisch bewusst in Dein Leben integrieren und als Ressource nutzen kannst, um neue Lösungswege für Probleme zu entdecken. Durch spielerische Methoden wird Lachen als kraftvolles Werkzeug erlebbar – sei es für die Selbstfürsorge, in Beziehungen oder Freundschaften, oder in der Arbeit mit Kolleg\*innen und Klient\*innen. ### **Workshopinhalte:** Im Workshop lernst Du Lachen als **soziale Interaktion** kennen. Du erfährst, wie sehr es unsere Verbindung zu anderen Menschen stärken kann. Du setzt Dich mit dem **Embodiment des Lachens** auseinander und erlebst, wie Körper und Emotionen dabei in Resonanz treten. Ein besonderer Fokus liegt dabei auf der Bedeutung der **inneren Freude** sowie auf der Stärkung Deiner individuellen **Lachkompetenz**. Spielerische Übungen helfen Dir, mehr Leichtigkeit und Gelassenheit in Dein Leben einzuladen. Darüber hinaus wirst Du erfahren, wie **Lachen als Mikropraxis im Alltag** genutzt werden kann – sei es in kurzen Pausen, in Gesprächssituationen oder als bewusste Ressource bei Stress. Der Workshop verbindet Lachmomente, Tiefenentspannung und Achtsamkeit miteinander, sodass Du einen nachhaltigen Nutzen für Dein persönliches Wohlbefinden mitnimmst. ### **Methodik:** Der Workshop bietet einen geschützten Raum, in dem die positiven Wirkungen des Lachens körperlich und praktisch erfahren werden. Du lernst unterschiedliche Übungen des Systemischen Lachens kennen, entdeckst Dein individuelles Lachen und erforschst gemeinsam die Sprache des Lachens. ### **Zielgruppe:** Der Workshop richtet sich an alle, die mehr Freude und Lachen in ihren Alltag bringen möchten, sowie an Fachkräfte in sozialen Berufen, die die Methoden des Systemischen Lachens professionell anwenden wollen. Nähere Informationen findet ihr auch auf der [Website](http://www.juliavonrandow.com/) der Dozentinnen. ### Kursinformation Anmeldung: https://lette-akademie.de/kurse/systemisch-lachen/ Termin: Sa., 14. Feb. 26, 10:00 – 13:45 Gebühr: 70 € / 5 Unterrichtsstunden Veranstaltungsort: Lette-Verein Berlin Viktoria-Luise-Platz 6 10777 Berlin Fragen zum Kurs? [info@lette-akademie.de](mailto:info@lette-akademie.de?subject=Frage%20zum%20Kurs:%20Lachen%20%E2%80%93%20eine%20ernste%20Sache%20*Mini-Workshop%20ALLG%202.24.2)

⚔ Spiritual Heroism and the hero's journey ⚔ “*[T]he student-teacher relationship is similar to that in the martialarts. You could get hurt severely if you are too tense. [...]You could read a book about it, but it doesn’t mean very much unless you have that very immediate and direct experience —which is frightening [...] We have to learn fearlessness that is without hesitation but is not based on blind faith.*” (Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche) Turning to the inside, investigating who one truly is, facing challenges and obstacles on the search for truth, is heroic. Whether the story of the great hero Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita, Atalante in Greek mythology or David in Christianity - our ancient stories are full of heroines and heroes. Heroism seems to be an attribute of the mystic archetypes (Gods) considering the legends of Kali's victory over the demons, Siva Nilakantha's rescue of the Universe from poison, or Ragnarök in nordic and Titanomachy in Greek mythology. Books like "*The way of the superior man*" or simply biographies of great spiritual beings like the Tibetan Princess, Yeshe Tsogyel, Co-founder of Tibetan Buddhism suggest that there is something that Heroism can contribute to the spiritual Quest. And then there are things like the Bodhisattva Vow - spiritual actions that seem heroic in nature. "*'Would you like to leave your subjects and go off to practice the Dharma? Would you l ike to leave the palace and go to practice the Dharma? [...] Do not try to do what you are not capable of doing: Practicing the Dharma. Do what you know how to do: Be a housewife.'* Nangsa responded: '*Helpful mother, Nyangtsa Seldron, listen to me [...], Nangsa Obum! The sun shines in the four corners of the universe: When the sun stops shining I will stop desiring to practice the Dharma and stay at home. If the sun keeps going, I will go also to the Dharma.'*” (Nangsa Obum - quote taken from the book "Women of wisdom" by Lama Tsultrim Allione) **Let's share for an afternoon about the hero's journey in spirituality!** 💫 **What this event offers for you:** * Guided Meditations for arriving, calming the mind and tuning into your intuition * Meeting people interested in spirituality (all levels) * Safe Space for sharing - non-hierarchical and non-judgemental * Opportunity to ask just about any question **👀 You may watch one or few of the following Videos for inspiration:** * Sadhguru on "Hero or Zero" : [https://youtu.be/-9iebN1Rp3g?si=4ohMVIXvuTvMa1Gu](https://youtu.be/-9iebN1Rp3g?si=4ohMVIXvuTvMa1Gu) * Lama Tsultrim Allione on "Feeding your demons": [https://youtu.be/aEbJ_maF_fo?si=PWUWJsIME2nPqJNM](https://youtu.be/aEbJ_maF_fo?si=PWUWJsIME2nPqJNM) * Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo on "Using adverse circumstances": [https://youtu.be/-doY-wf0P2Y?si=1QoPWWHS66WTaUDd](https://youtu.be/-doY-wf0P2Y?si=1QoPWWHS66WTaUDd) * Tantra Teacher Uriel Yariv on overcoming obstacles: [https://youtu.be/tTql0O5XAP0?si=JFr5vzCcSTjUxdTF](https://youtu.be/tTql0O5XAP0?si=JFr5vzCcSTjUxdTF) * Alan Chapman on his journey including the "Abyss": [https://youtu.be/GQ99PULR5NY?si=MIJ0_Fi1H_QFkjOR](https://youtu.be/GQ99PULR5NY?si=MIJ0_Fi1H_QFkjOR) * Pema Chödron on "Being brave": [https://youtu.be/zVzV_RCMqNU?si=O5CpCX25XbISBP4e](https://youtu.be/zVzV_RCMqNU?si=O5CpCX25XbISBP4e) * Dzontsar Khyentse Rinpoche on the story of the horse thief: [https://youtu.be/wjpUQaFROFA?si=EbI_RcWLnvLAzbSD](https://youtu.be/wjpUQaFROFA?si=EbI_RcWLnvLAzbSD) * Tantra Teacher Blandine Wegener and Uriel Yariv on facing fears: [https://youtu.be/LTHAzHZm1Mc?si=bEN227_m56zF81rv](https://youtu.be/LTHAzHZm1Mc?si=bEN227_m56zF81rv) * Tantra Teacher Uriel Yariv on the path of the hero (Vira) for men: [https://youtu.be/eeawuvFXgbg?si=jTUGTC3nXPDeCDb8](https://youtu.be/eeawuvFXgbg?si=jTUGTC3nXPDeCDb8) **🧘 About the Organizer** Martin is a certified Mindfulness Teacher, Systemic Coach, Yogi and Altruist by heart who teaches Meditation and Martial Arts in different formats. However, in this meetup Martin focuses on the altruistic intention to open a space for people to share while offering as much facilitation as needed in the moment. "*From a spiritual point of view it's not advantageous to be a rabbit. It's better to be a tiger, [...] Rabbits are very nice and cuddly but they don't have much potential for breaking through. Tigers, on the other hand, are very wild but that pure energy, if used skilfully, is exactly what's needed on the path. All the great saints were very passionate people. It's just that they didn't dissipate their passions into negative channels. They used them as fuel to send them to Enlightenment.*" (Tenzin Palmo) "*The search for reality is the most dangerous of all undertakings for it will destroy the world inwhich you live. But if your motive is love of truth and life, you need not be afraid.*" (Nisargadatta Maharaj)

**Founders Running Club** (FRC) brings founders, investors, tech, creative people and startup enthusiasts together for weekly easy runs and networking. We like to be comfortable when we run and finish with coffee and conversations. Choose your pace or follow a pacer—pets, friends, family, are welcome. 🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022 🌍 Now in 35+ cities 📅 Running + Networking events + Community **Join the community** [http://foundersrc.com/chats](http://foundersrc.com/chats) **Stay updated**: Instagram [http://instagram.com/foundersrc/](http://instagram.com/foundersrc/) Podcast [http://podcast.foundersrc.com/](http://podcast.foundersrc.com/) LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/](http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/) Strava [http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC](http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC) Website [http://foundersrc.com/](http://foundersrc.com/)

✌︎ HELLO WEEKEND — HELLO SELF-CARE Beginne deine Wochenende genau so, wie es sein soll! • YOGA This yoga practice is suitable for all levels. With individual support, adjustment/alignment of your asana practice. Flowing sequences of asanas will energise your body, release tension and activate the whole system to wake up and start your weekend in a positive way. • HOW CAN YOU HAVE A RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHERS …if you don't have one with yourself? We must revolutionise the rules of society that have us believe self care is selfish. In your practice we create more room for yourself to stay whole, healthy and happy. • LIMITED to 12 SPOTS • • The balance recommended: Donation-Drop-In 15€ 5 x Donation-Card 70€ 10 x Donation-Card 140€ 20 x Donation-Card 240 € Hugs (0€ pro Klasse)Free USC (M, L, XL) • USC Members Welcome: M, L, XL • 90 Min. Class • LOCATION YOGA at Lobe Block Böttgerstraße 16, 13357 Berlin right elevator, ring bell • HOW TO GET THERE 5 Min. walk from Gesundbrunnencenter near Magic Mountain Kletterhalle U8 Gesundbrunnen S42/41 & S1 BUS N7, 247, RE5 GOOGLE MAPS: https://tinyurl.com/yal3wf2x How can you have relationships with others, if you don't have one with yourself?

### The Question of Feminism: History, Politics, Society, and Psychology Feminism addresses the historical and ongoing disadvantage of women in society. It begins with the recognition that women were long denied legal rights, political participation, economic independence, and control over their own bodies. From this starting point, feminism examines how inequality has been created and maintained through laws, institutions, social norms, knowledge production, and cultural practices—and how these structures shape everyday life and women’s internal experiences. In this session, we will focus on the following topics: 1. **Historical exclusion of women from legal rights, education, political power, and economic independence** 2. **Political regulation of women’s work, income, citizenship, and bodily autonomy** 3. **Social expectations surrounding motherhood, care work, and emotional labor** 4. **Psychological effects of gender norms, including self-confidence, ambition, guilt, and mental health** 5. **Social, medical, and political control of women’s bodies and sexuality** 6. **Marginalization and underrepresentation of women in science, education, and cultural production** 7. **Differences in women’s experiences shaped by class, race, migration background, disability, and age** 8. **Contemporary forms of discrimination against women in workplaces, healthcare, relationships, and public space** This will be an open and focused conversation grounded in historical realities, political structures, social practices, psychological experience, and intersectional perspectives. Together, we’ll reflect on how feminism connects material conditions, power relations, and inner lives—and why addressing all of these dimensions is essential for understanding and challenging women’s inequality today. 📅 **Event Details** 🗓️ **Date:** Saturday, 14 February 2026 ⏰ **Time:** 14:00 📍 **Location:** Hardenbergstraße 10, 10623 Berlin 📱 **WhatsApp (for prep materials and directions):** 👉 **[Join Group Chat](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ba8ZAaH2Yuk6FGmD3LLO7H)**

Welcome to Sunday Tech Coffee. This is a **networking** event for those in the tech industry in Berlin. We are usually inside and to the right. Ask the barista/bartender if you can't find us.

Hey everyone! I’m organising a co-working + socialising session for all of us who like to work on something (e.g. our own project, freelance or remote work) but don't feel like sitting alone at home. 🙂 To ensure that we have both **socialising** AND **working**, we will be using the so called “Pomodoro” technique: **50min of deep work** (silent), followed by **10min of break** to socialise. Then repeat! If you get into flow, you're also welcome to skip the breaks. It’s an effective way to stay focused - you can read more about it [here](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pomodoro_Technique). Anyone from any background is welcome, whatever project you are working on or whatever is your personal background. I (the host) speak English and German, so either is fine :-) ——————————————————- AGENDA: * **15min Intro** * Get to know everyone, talk about what you will work on today * **Pomodoro Session** (3x) - *Each Pomodoro session consists* *of...* * ...**50min** of uninterrupted “deep work” (no talking, no interruptions, no phones) * ...**10min** of break: share your progress with others, talk about what you are stuck on etc. * Repeat * Conclude and celebrate your progress Share your progress, socialise and get to know others 😊 ———— We'll be at the Social Hub Berlin (they have a food menu in case you get hungry). The structured part will end at 2:30pm, but you're welcome to stay longer, go for lunch together, or leave earlier. See you there 🩵 **\*\*We'll reserve the long table. Please update your RSVP in advance if you can't attend!\*\***

On Sunday, February 15, we’re inviting you to a facilitated session of our MBTI MeetUp! Using the 16 Personalities Test, you’ll get to know yourself on a deeper level. You’ll meet like-minded people from your color family, explore what you truly share — and then experience in a mixed small group how very different personality types can come together to form a fantastic team. This time, we’ll meet at betahaus Berlin Kreuzberg, Lobeckstraße 30, right at Moritzplatz. Please try to arrive on time! To enter the coworking space, just give our co-host Michael Metzger a quick call — we’ll post the number in the comments on the day of the event. Coffee, tea, and cold drinks will be provided on a donation basis. Feel free to bring a snack to contribute to our shared buffet. ⸻ Agenda 15:00 Arrival & Check-In 15:30 Introduction: 16 Personalities 16:00 Round 1: Finding Common Ground 16:30 Round 2: Mixed Small Groups 17:00 Insights & Wrap-Up 17:30 Social Hangout & Networking ⸻ We can’t wait to see you there!

This Sunday it's time for another clothes swap, at the wonderful Prince Peach. Have some cake, swap some clothes, and have a lovely Sunday afternoon with us. 💸 Entry is free, but make sure to get a [donation based ticket ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/queer-sunday-hangout-with-closing-swap-tickets-1553198451379?aff=oddtdtcreator)before the event! You can find them in our bio. ⏳️The event is from 14.00 to 18.00 👕 Bring up to 10 items of clothing to swap with the other queers ☕️🍰 There will be vegan beverages and deserts for sale ❔️There will also be other social activities See you there!

The next **Pitch and Planning Session** will be on **Feb 15th at 19:00.** We are super looking forward to hearing your pitches and watching you meet people ready to help you make your films a reality in the really real world! 📍The event is located at **House of Music** in RAW Gelande, Revalerstr 99, 10245 Berlin . A very large and amazing space that we are now calling home. For those who are new, our Pitch and Planning Session is a monthly English language event held here in Berlin for people who have an idea for a film and would like to pitch it, as well as those people who are eager to work on films. It's all about getting films made. If you have a film idea that is burning a hole in your brain, tell the people in the audience your story idea and hopefully you will meet people who can help you make your idea into a reality! This event is also for people who want to help out in all aspects of filmmaking to help make these pitches happen. So if your passion is camera, sound, hair and makeup, writing, lighting, fighting, or anything that could help, you are always welcome. Whether you're new to filmmaking or experienced and want to work on something cool and creative, no matter what your area of expertise/interest is, this is for you! Be sure to show up to either pitch your idea or be ready to listen to some interesting pitches from excited people and potentially help someone make their film. Let's make some cool shit! If you still want more information you can head on over to our website: *https://berlinfilmcommunity.com/pitch_and_planning/* I have been a part of making some of these pitched projects into real world movies and I have always had a blast.

📅 **Save the Date** **When:** 15 February 2025, 7:00 PM **Where:** Mercure Hotel Berlin Wittenbergplatz Are you a **filmmaker, producer, director, screenwriter, or actor**? Whether you’re an emerging talent or a seasoned professional, **Berlinare** is designed to ignite your network and fuel your creative ambitions. *** ## 🌟 What’s in Store 🎤 **Exclusive Live Interview** Experience a special spotlight session featuring industry voices sharing their creative journeys, insights, and real-world experience. 👉 *Apply for the interview slot — DM to apply.* *** 🎬 **Tell Your Story / Pitch Your Project** Step into the spotlight and present your story, concept, or next big idea. 🕒 **Up to 18 minutes per pitch** — applications now open! A powerful opportunity to make your vision heard and connect with potential collaborators. *** 🤝 **3 Dynamic Networking Rounds** Connect with like-minded creatives from the film, TV, and media industries. Exchange ideas, discover partnerships, and spark exciting new opportunities. *** 💫 **Special Announcement** Be among the first to hear about the **Beyond Visionary Mastermind** — a transformational experience for filmmakers and creatives ready to go beyond limits. *** ## 🎥 This is your opportunity to: ✨ Share your story ✨ Gain valuable insights into independent filmmaking ✨ Build authentic connections and ignite new collaborations *** 📩 **Questions or Applications:** DM me or email **info@suzan-yumerova.com** 🚀 Don’t miss this chance to turn dreams into action. Let’s make magic happen — see you in Berlin! *** 📸 **Disclaimer** By attending this event, you agree to the recording of video and audio for promotional and documentation purposes. The event will be livestreamed. #Berlinare #NetworkingEvent #FilmIndustry #Director #Producer #Screenwriter #Actor #FilmCommunity #MediaCreators #BerlinEvents #IndependentFilm

Curious what we do? Check our [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/filmmakersandmovienerds/) ♥️ Would you like to meet some like-minded filmmakers? Start a project? Or do you need help with a movie you are currently working on? Are you new in the city and you'd like to meet people tinkering with movies? **Then you should join us!** We meet every Sunday. It’s important to us that we get to know each other in person. To create a community of connected people, work, learn and grow together. For film making you need a crew of reliable people with a positive can-do-attitude. This is the place to find them. Together, we will talk about these topics: * What you are currently working on * What you need help with * What would you like to help with * What you you would like to learn This is event is great for: * filmmakers * movie nerds * writers * camera operators * editors * actors * sound recorders * composers * gaffers * producers We are limiting the amount of people, so we can have a structured introduction and discussion. After that we get together loosely with some drinks and chats. And then we mostly go for dinner with a couple of us. **Important information**: *To sustain and grow this amazing community, we started a member contribution that is due every month. The money we collect is used solely for the purpose of the community. Of course you can come once or twice without contributing to check us out!*

Michelle Arnold https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellearnold-/ and Robert Brandau https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertbrandau/ will tell stories and give examples of how relationships lead to business success and job search success. At the end of this seminar/webinar, there will be a brief Christian story.-------------------IF YOU ARE NEW TO Career-Confidence.org and want to learn about us via our team, here are some videos that we have done. PLEASE SUBSCRIBE to our channel and LIKE our videos.------ Career-Confidence.org, Laura Hamilton and Robert Brandau both long-time recruiters give you an overv iew. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R20iMmWWsas Doris McMillon of our Board of Directors https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNmOi9TsYGs&t=10s --Bruce, Silvia, and Mary Beth talk about the impact of Career-Confidence.org on their job search. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYtFRWzhKLo --Kim DeWitt Succinctly Talks about our Team https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSHCEK11jD0_ Cecilia and Nate – 2 of our Alumni give an overview of Career-Confidence.org. perspective. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNstYHVnfAA --Sara's Experience with Career-Confidence.org - Surprise Ending – Pre-Covid https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEuKuvZyEYE&t=51s Kathi Galiano’s Article which Sara references. https://www.career-confidence.org/my-experience-with-career-confidence-org-by-kathi-gagliano/

Hybrid registration links at https://greatcareers.org/events-calendar/career-success-group-job-seeker-accountability-networking-23/ The Career Success Group is a networking meeting held on the 2nd Monday and 4th Thursday of each month from 9:30-10:30 AM ET with [Kevin Keene](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinekeene/). Join us if you are looking for a new opportunity, to grow your career, or if you are in a job transition. 1. Practice your elevator pitch in a safe space 2. Check-in for accountability 3. Set goals for your job search for the week 4. Meet others to build your LinkedIn network 5. Learn about upcoming events 6. Ask questions **CHAPTER LEADER** [Kevin Keene](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinekeene/) kekeene@comcast.net

We will be meeting at Starbucks to learn together. Come with an online class you're already going through or an interest and we will try to connect you with a course where you can learn it. Already have a skill you want to contribute to a Kaggle Datascience competition? We will work on these too! Laptop required :)

## **1 Million Cups Loudoun – February 25 Business Presentation** **Featuring Jennifer Zitelli, Founder of ESL Thrive** **Wednesday\, February 25 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun** Join us at 1 Million Cups Loudoun as we welcome **Jennifer Zitelli**, founder of **ESL Thrive**, for a dynamic conversation focused on workforce communication, business growth, and supporting employees for long-term success. **About the Business** ESL Thrive provides **on-the-job English training designed specifically for business success**. Through customized instruction, Jennifer helps employees gain the language skills they need to communicate effectively, perform confidently, and thrive in their roles — ultimately strengthening the businesses they support. Her programs are tailored to meet the real-world needs of small businesses, ensuring employees learn practical workplace language that directly impacts productivity, team collaboration, and customer experience. **Who Jennifer Is Looking to Hear From** Jennifer is seeking feedback from business owners and leaders in industries such as: * Hospitality * Home services * Restaurants * Retail * Any business with employees whose first language is not English **Current Business Focus & Barriers** As ESL Thrive continues to grow, Jennifer is looking for insight around: * Overcoming barriers to business growth * Strengthening marketing strategy * Expanding business development efforts * Effectively reaching her target markets This is an excellent opportunity to share your perspective while supporting a business dedicated to empowering both employers and employees. **Why Attend?** * Learn about a service that directly impacts workplace success * Provide valuable feedback to a growing business * Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and community leaders * Be part of a collaborative, solutions-focused conversation **What is 1 Million Cups?** 1 Million Cups is a national program that brings entrepreneurs and communities together to learn, connect, and grow through presentations and discussion. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays each month. Join us on **February 25 at 9:00 AM** for coffee, connection, and a meaningful conversation about communication, workforce development, and business growth. We look forward to seeing you there!

Attendance is $35 (cash, credit/debit card, or ApplePay - paid at the door), which includes water/soda/coffee, bread, choice of a plated lunch entrée, and a dessert assortment. Parking is also validated in the Reston Station garages (3 hours of validation). Join one of Northern Virginia's most successful business networking groups (part of BNI). Open to the public and is typically attended by business owners, business developers, and entrepreneurs. Meetings are typically attended by 30-40 members and guests. \*\*\*PLEASE RSVP here: [REGISTER HERE](https://square.link/u/0WvC6Eir) \*\*\*If you do not register on the BNI website, there may not be a seat available for you.

⚡ **Reset your mindset. Meet someone unexpected. Walk away with new clarity.** Join us for a free, small-group event held in our **Startup Garage** — a **spacious, comfortable living-room style space** inside a single-family home. Think couches, coffee, and real conversation — **not an actual garage 😊** 🔁 You’ll be **paired** with different attendees throughout the event for short, energizing rounds — each sparked by a simple **opening line** designed to make you laugh, reflect, and think bigger about what comes next. You won’t just talk about what’s behind you — You’ll begin to **picture what’s ahead** in a way that actually excites you. *** **☕ Coffee and snacks are on me.** Just show up with a curious mind — and a willingness to laugh. We’ll guide you through questions that blend **wisdom and humor** — the kind that help you see your story through a new lens. *** **🔍 What You’ll Experience** • One-on-one rounds to explore purpose, identity, and new possibilities • Light, energizing activities designed to shift your mindset in under 10 minutes • Fresh insights from people you’ve never met — but may never forget • A laid-back, thoughtful space to connect without pressure *** **💼 Who It’s For** • Divorced/Separated or midlife professionals figuring out what’s next • Entrepreneurs, builders, and creatives in a season of reinvention • Men and women who prefer **meaningful conversation** over surface level talk Whether you’re starting over, scaling up, or just ready for something more aligned — this space is for you. *** 📊 *Most attendees are in their 30s, 40s, or 50s — navigating life and growth with curiosity, clarity, and a sense of humor.* 🛋️ **Hosted in a spacious living-room setting** inside a single-family home (Ashburn). Full address shared after RSVP. 🌐 Explore more: [https://midlifereinvention.co](https://midlifereinvention.co)