Mentorship and Leadership Experts

This is a special meeting and happens only ones a year. **The board election.** The Club members will elect our Club Leadership Board for 2026-2027. \-\-\- Ready to captivate any audience, nail your next presentation, or give feedback that people actually enjoy hearing? Then come check out **First Berlin Toastmasters**, Berlin's oldest public speaking club. We're a warm, supportive, and international community here to learn, practice, and grow together. Our meetings are full of laughter, and every voice adds something special. The stage is a safe space, so come by, listen, and see how much fun communication can be. Please, be our guest! The most important people in the room aren't the speakers, they're the audience. Your presence, energy, and reactions are what bring the evening to life. **When** 🗓️ Every **1st & 3rd Wednesday** of the month 🕒 Doors open at **6:30 PM** \- Event starts at **6:45 PM** sharp **Where** St. Lukas-Kirche (near Anhalter Bahnhof) Bernburger Straße 4-5 10963 Berlin 📍 [https://goo.gl/maps/AhDfDmVndqbC9A1C9](https://goo.gl/maps/AhDfDmVndqbC9A1C9) You’ll find us in the **Gemeindesaal** on the first floor of the building to the right of the church. We look forward to welcoming you! Best wishes, John aka Yevgen Schweden - VP Public Relations Important note: We take pictures and clips during our meetings for promotional use only. By attending our meetings, you agree to that by default. If you don´t want to be on any picture, please let the VP PR or another representative from the board know (for example the president.)

**We’re back!** After a break, the Berlin Tech Leads meetup is officially revived **\- and this time IRL at Berlin Vinted office\.** **We’ve missed the deep dives, the architectural debates, and the networking. To kick things off, we’re tackling one of the fastest-moving landscapes in the industry right now: the intersection of Engineering and Customer Support.** **About the Event** Customer Support is often the first place where AI moves from "experimental" to "mission-critical." For Tech Leads, this shift isn't just about plugging in a basic chatbot; it’s about re-engineering the entire lifecycle of a ticket and how our systems actually interact with our users. In this meetup, we’re looking under the hood of the support stack. We’ll discuss how the landscape is being reshaped by LLMs, the shift toward autonomous agents, and the real technical hurdles of building multi-modal support systems. **Talks:** * [Pau Agustín](https://www.linkedin.com/in/pau-agust%C3%ADn-granell-6420a5139/) & Team Help Experience (vinted.com): "Scaling Support: How Vinted Manages Tens of Thousands of Tickets Every Day" * [Yam Marcovitz](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAAAbVVAwBOgouy-uT1QB1ixhqrafAv1kNxQk) (parlant.io) "Building consistently aligned agents with Parlant" * [Richard Lohwasser](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAABRCCmYBD9PS9O73AjQ244LC4Gc_NMUcnsY) (enneo.ai): "Applying AI across all channels in real-life customer service at scale: What works, what doesn't, and where we're heading to?" *Just a quick reminder: if you'd like to take the stage and speak at a future Berlin Tech Leads meetup, feel free to drop a message to one of the organisers.*

An inspiring, high-energy meeting of public speaking, connection, and personal growth in the heart of Berlin. **Mercury Toastmasters Berlin** invites you to our weekly meeting at our new home at **Das Center, Potsdamer Platz**, in the stunning **Historic Imperial Breakfast Hall**. *Experience the **power of prepared speeches** loaded with bold ideas, participate in our **dynamic Impromptu Session**, and **gain valuable insights** during our feedback segment.* *Leave with practical tools, fresh ideas, and renewed inspiration.* *Whether you want to speak up at work, boost your presence, or just meet inspiring people, you’ll feel at home at Mercury Toastmasters Berlin.* *** **[What to Expect:](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/find-toastmasters-meetings-in-berlin/)** ✨ A supportive space to speak, grow, and connect 🎤 Engaging prepared speeches ⚡ Fun, fast-paced impromptu speaking challenges 💬 Feedback session you can actually use 🌍 A friendly, international crowd (around 25–30 people) **Schedule** (times may vary) ⏰ 19:15 - Doors open & networking 🎙️ 19:30 - Prepared Speeches 🏓 20:35 - Impromptu Session (Guest welcome to join) ↩️ 21:00 - Constructive feedback 💬 21:30 - Food, drinks & relaxed socializing **No experience needed.** ***Come curious. Leave energized.*** *** **🤙 [Hear it from our members:](https://maps.app.goo.gl/eRtvR9DRNqU9WZQn7)** *“You can sharpen your public speaking skills and gain tons of confidence, while having fun and making new friends. Mercury is well-structured, fun, and affordable.”* — *Therese Pitt* *“Mercury gave me a safe place to speak, create, and grow. I love the multicultural vibe and supportive community. It’s the best place to learn and have fun.”* — *Krisztina Linka* *** **[Did You Know?](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/about-mercury-toastmasters-berlin/)** Toastmasters is where people go to get better at speaking—and grow into confident communicators and leaders. Today [Toastmasters ](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/about-mercury-toastmasters-berlin/)has 350,000+ members across 16,000 clubs in 143 countries. And [Mercury](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/find-toastmasters-meetings-in-berlin/) is one of the best places to experience it. So bring your curiosity, your energy—and just be yourself. Whether you’re just starting or ready to level up, there’s a place for you here. *** **[Wondering what you get as a member?](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/membership-mercury-toastmasters-berlin/)** Think expert feedback, real-world speaking practice, and a supportive crew that’s got your back. [See you Wednesday night! 🎉](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/find-toastmasters-meetings-in-berlin/)

Liebe Freunde der Improvisation, Es gibt Neuigkeiten: Das Improtraining ist im April bis Juni alle 14 Tage im Theater vom Kreativhaus (s.u.)! Und die Zeit ist jetzt von 18.30 Uhr bis 21.00 Uhr. Das Training kostet 25,00 €. Die Viererkarte kostet jetzt 90,00 €. Und die Achterkarte kostet jetzt 170,00 €. Für individuelle Vorschläge und Ideen meldet Euch bei mir! Wir starten am Mi 08.04.2026 um 18.30 Uhr im Theater vom Kreativhaus Fischerinsel 3 10179 Berlin Ich freue mich auf Euch! Harald *************************** Wir Toastmasters verstehen Improvisation als wertvolle Ergänzung zu unseren Rhetorikabenden. Die Grundlagen von Bühnenpräsenz und Rhetorik lernt ihr weiterhin zweimal im Monat montags bei Mut& Rede Toastmasters Neukölln. Kontakt/Info Rhetorikclub: mut-und-rede.de Kontakt/Anmeldung Impro-Workshop: harald-polzin.de

[*Registration form required below*] **Interested in Japanese sword fighting or Japanese culture? Come join a trial and experience the traditional Samurai art at Katori Shintō-ryū in Schöneberg.** **Trial Fee**: **25€**/ session (2hr). Classes every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 19:00 to 21:00. **!!SIGN UP HERE**: [Katori Shinto-ryū Berlin Sign-up (google.com)](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeBt4A13VgnEcgQQ2PDaruthmYMRWineG4KtUCKsuC9KBsCUQ/viewform) Registration is required before your participation so that we can prepare enough training equipment. **Address**: Belziger Str. 25, 10823 Berlin. **No previous experience required!** The classes are in English and German. **Our website**: [Kenjutsu Berlin - Official school of Katori Shinto-ryu in Berlin (katoriberlin.org)](https://katoriberlin.org/) **Katori Shintō-ryū** is one of the oldest Japanese sword fighting traditions (koryū) still practised today and is recognized by the Japanese government as a cultural intangeable asset. The school was founded in the middle of the 15th century by Iizasa Chōisai Ienao at the Katori Shrine (Katori jingū) and has become the origin of numerous other martial arts schools over the course of its almost 600-year history. The training consists of the continuous repetition of fixed sequences of movements (kata) and includes the use of classic Japanese weapons such as the sword (iai-jutsu, battō-jutsu, ken-jutsu, ryōtō-jutsu, kodachi-jutsu), the long staff (bō-jutsu), the lance (naginata-jutsu) and the spear (sō-jutsu), as well as unarmed disciplines, tactics and spiritual aspects. **The Katori Berlin dojo** is the only official shibu of Otake Nobutoshi-shihan’s dojo Shinbukan in Germany and fully dedicated to the transmission and study of one martial tradition: Tenshinshō-den Katori Shintō-ryū. Through these efforts we aim to contribute to the cultural preservation of this martial tradition. The dojo has one officially appointed shidosha. **Our sensei**: Sebastian Graetz has been active in martial arts since 1997. After almost 15 years of taekwondo in Berlin, he started with Katori Shintō-ryū in Asia in 2014. Since then, he has studied in Japan with Ōtake Risuke-shihan and Ōtake Nobutoshi-shihan, and in Vietnam with Malte Stokhof-shihandai. In 2023, he received his Menkyo license and permission to set up a training group in Berlin the following year.

Hast du Angst vor Publikum zu sprechen? Verlangt dein Beruf, dass du Vorträge hältst? Macht dich das nervös? Hast du Schwierigkeiten beim Aufbau deiner Reden oder Vorträge? Driften deine Zuhörer ab und scheinen dir nicht mehr zuzuhören? Nimmt deine Nervosität überhand? Vergisst du im entscheidenen Moment was du sagen wolltest? Bei Toastmasters bekommst du auf all diese Fragen nicht nur eine Antwort, sondern kannst im sicheren Umfeld lernen und trainieren deine Redekunst zu verbessern und zum charismatischen Redner zu werden. Komm einfach zum nächsten Clubtreffen. Du bist herzlich willkommen!

**💶 Eintritt: 13-20 Euro (nach eigenen Möglichkeiten)** **Sichere Dir Deinen garantierten Platz mit [einem Ticket (Eventbrite).](https://www.eventbrite.de/e/nur-fur-frauen-neue-freundinnen-in-berlin-workshop-tickets-1983044451336)** Falls Du doch nicht kommen kannst, sage bitte hier auf Meetup ab und gib Deinen Platz frei. Wir fangen 19:00 Uhr an. Sei deshalb bitte pünktlich 18:45 Uhr da. Ein späterer Einlass ist nicht möglich, weil wir mitten im Flow sind. **Vielen Dank Dir** 🙏🏽 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Menschen mit guten Freunden leben länger, glücklicher und gesünder. Außerdem machen gute Freundinnen einfach Spaß.** . Deshalb biete ich Freundschaftsworkshop an. . Manche sagen: "Es ist schwierig, in Berlin gute Freundinnen zu finden." Berlin, die Stadt der 1000 Möglichkeiten ... ich kenne das auch. . **🌸 Dann machen wir einen Workshop!** 1. Maximal 40 Frauen. 2. Eine leichte Moderation führt durch den Abend 3. Ihr lernt Euch kennen und habt Spaß. 4. Wer mag, trifft sich wieder. . Du wirst überrascht sein, wie vertraut Du mit vielen nach 3 Stunden sein wirst - so, als ob Ihr Euch schon lange kennt. . **🔱 4 Jahre Arbeit - 1 Workshop** Vier Jahre habe ich geforscht und ausprobiert, wie Menschen Freunde werden & was die Magie der Freundschaft ausmacht. Das Ergebnis ist dieser Abend. . Praxisnahe, schnell umsetzbare Tipps, die Du schnell in den Alltag umsetzen kannst. Kleine Happen zur Theorie. - Und vor allem: Kennenlernen & Spaß haben. Wir probieren einfach miteinander aus. . Eine Teilnehmerin sagte mal zu mir: * "Georg, das ist so eine angenehme Atmosphäre. Danke, dass Du das machst." . Was soll ich sagen? Stimmt. Das ist mein Anliegen 🤗. . . **🎁 Diese Methoden kannst Du in Deinen Alltag mitnehmen.** Ab sofort kannst Du Menschen besser und persönlicher kennenlernen – und damit tiefe Verbindungen und bessere Freundschaften aufbauen. . . **⏰ Die Türen sind offen ab 18:45 Uhr.** * Deinen Mantel aufhängen, WC, eine Runde schwatzen und los geht's... . **❓ Darf ich wiederkommen?** Es gibt nur wenige Veranstaltungen, bei denen man wirklich miteinander ins Gespräch kommt. Hier schon, mit Tiefgang. . Einige kommen immer wieder, um die Details des gut gestrickten Programms zu ergründen - und immer wieder neue Menschen kennenzulernen oder auf bekannte Gesichter zu treffen. . Bis es endlich Klick macht und die richtigen Freundinnen gefunden sind. . . **🎒 Was bringst Du mit?** * Etwas zu trinken (z.B. deine Wasserflasche, keinen Alkohol!) * Du solltest satt sein und vorher gegessen haben * Bargeld für den Eintritt oder Ticket von Eventbrite . **🏠 Der Veranstaltungsraum** * Wir haben einen wunderschönen Raum im Prenzlberg - im Life Artist Hub * Gut mit Öffis zu erreichen: Schönhauser Allee (Ringbahn, U2, M1), Eberswalder Straße (U2, M10, M12) * Vor Ort ist alles ausgeschildert. . **Vorsichtshalber hier die Wegbeschreibung:** * Du gehst in den Hof bis nach hinten durch. Dort ist eine Tür. * Du klingest bei "Life Artist Hub". Die Tür sollte sofort summen. Öffne die Tür. * Du gehst in den 3. Stock. Da sind wir. 🤗 . **👱🏽‍♂️ Warum moderierst Du als Mann diesen Workshop?** . Hi, ich bin Georg. Ich weiß, ich bin ein Mann. Warum moderiere ich dann diesen Workshop? . Abenteuer Freundschaft ist mein Beruf. Am Anfang war ich auf Männer-Freundschaften spezialisiert. Überraschenderweise waren 60 Prozent der Newsletter-Empfängerinnen Frauen. Frauen scheinen die Wichtigkeit guter Freundschaften viel mehr zu spüren. . Deshalb habe ich letztes Jahr angefangen, Workshops für Frauen anzubieten. Soziale Träger, das Rathaus Schöneberg und das Frauenzentrum Begine haben mich bereits für Freundinnen-Workshops gebucht. Im Frauenzentrum moderiert eine Bekannte die Workshops.... denn da darf ich noch nicht mal rein :). . Unseren Workshop werde ich zurückhaltend moderieren. Ich weiß mit der Situation umzugehen. Das ist Euer Raum. . Für die Männer gibt es alle zwei Wochen am Dienstag einen Männer-Workshop, der regelmäßig gut besucht ist. . . **Mehr über Abenteuer Freundschaft & mich:** 🌎 [www.abenteuer-freundschaft.de](http://%5Bhttps://www.abenteuer-freundschaft.de/%5D(https://www.abenteuer-freundschaft.de/) "\[https://www.abenteuer-freundschaft.de\](https://www.abenteuer-freundschaft.de)") . . **👋🏽 Get in touch & stay in touch:** . **✈ Telegram-Kanal: [t.me/abenteuer_freundschaft](http://t.me/abenteuer_freundschaft)** für Events, Workshops & Neuste Erkenntnisse aus der Freundschaftsforschung (Überschriften) . **✉ Freundschafts-Newsletter:** [https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter) Alle 4 Wochen das Neuste aus der Freundschaftsforschung; oft seltener, denn ich schreibe nur dann, wenn es wirklich etwas zu berichten gibt. . **🔥 6 Zutaten großartiger Freundschaften** Seit 2020 forsche ich, was großartige Freundschaften wirklich ausmacht. Das Ergebnis ist das 30seitige eBook: "Die 6 Zutaten großartiger Freundschaften". Du erhältst das eBook zurzeit kostenlos, wenn Du Dich für den Newsletter anmeldest: [https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter) . **🎭 Meet-Up-Gruppe:** [https://www.meetup.com/g/abenteuer-freundschaft/](https://www.meetup.com/g/abenteuer-freundschaft/) Hier bist Du schon: Workshops, Spaziergänge, Wanderungen, Treffen, Eislaufen, Eisbaden, Männer-Abende, Freundinnen-Workshops, Sonntagsausflüge . . **😲 Ehemalige Teilnehmende der Meetups:** . "Ich hatte Schwierigkeiten in Berlin anzukommen. Früher war es immer easy. Bei deiner Veranstaltung haben wir uns kennengelernt. Jetzt sind wir Freunde. Ich hätte das nicht mehr geglaubt." . "Ich bin ein bunter Hund und habe viele Bekannte. Aber eine Bekanntschaft zur Freundschaft machen - das hast Du mir gezeigt." . "Ich war nervös, ob ich wirklich kommen soll. Was sind da für Leute? Mit wem verstehe ich mich? Nach einer Stunde war mir klar: Gute Freundinnen sind gleich. Ich muss mich nicht mit jedem verstehen. Und allein für die Methoden hat es sich gelohnt. Dankeschön!" . "So schnell im Deep Talk. Interessant!" . **💫 Einige Highlights von der Webseite:** * [Wo kann man neue Leute kennenlernen?](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/neue-leute-kennenlernen) * [Wie schnell entsteht wahre Freundschaft?](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/wie-schnell-entsteht-freundschaft) * [Der ultimative Freundschaftstipp: Zum Essen einladen - bei Dir zu Hause](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/zum-essen-einladen) * [Das erste Freundschafts-Treffen: So lernt ihr Euch wirklich kennen](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/freundschaftstreffen) ++++++++++++

Join the First Circle of Moms in Berlin & Brandenburg here 💛; linktr.ee/supermom_inc Motherhood can be beautiful and fulfilling… and also incredibly demanding. This meetup is a small, relaxed space for moms to connect, share experiences, and support one another without pressure or expectations. Whether you’re looking to meet other moms nearby, have meaningful conversations, exchange ideas, or simply take a break and be around people who understand this stage of life, you’re very welcome. In this second meeting, we'll be discussing how taking care of your mental health makes you the best mom. Join us for real conversations with an expert and with other moms and also a chance to build genuine connections. Because we want to keep the atmosphere personal and comfortable, the group will be intentionally If you’re interested, register for our May meetups here; linktr.ee/supermom_inc we’d love to meet you. Feel free to bring your child if that makes it easier for you, there's a prepared place for them.

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.

🧠 **Decision-Making Under Pressure (Part 2)** ​The wait is over. ​After the great response to our first session, we’re bringing it back — with new scenarios, new challenges, and even more real-time decision-making. ​This is not a typical event. It’s an **interactive business simulation**, where you step into the role of a founder and face real-world startup situations under pressure. ​You’ll work in small teams, analyze scenarios, make decisions within limited time, and present your approach — just like in real life. *** # ​💡 What to Expect ​🔹 Work in teams 🔹 Solve realistic startup scenarios 🔹 Make decisions under time pressure 🔹 Present your strategy 🔹 Receive feedback and different perspectives ​Each round becomes more challenging, pushing you to think faster, communicate clearly, and act with confidence. *** # ​🎯 Why Join ​Because building a startup is a series of decisions — and the ability to make them under pressure is what makes the difference. ​Whether you’re a founder, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious, this session will challenge you to think critically and act decisively. *** # ​Event Details ​📅 **May 24, 2026** ⏰ **13:00 – 15:30** 📍 **The Social Hub** See you there! Check out our websites: Company-[Datenstrom-3ag.com](https://datenstrom-3ag.com/?utm_source=luma) Application-[Growfirma.com](https://growfirma.com/?utm_source=luma)

**\>\>\> Registration takes place on Luma: [https://luma.com/yp90isjd](https://luma.com/yp90isjd)** **Welcome to KREATIV UNTAPPED #1 – Storytelling Untapped w/ Ben Sauer** **A hands-on session. No slides. Just your stories.** We couldn't be more excited to tap into this with you at Thoughtworks Berlin. *Follow us on [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/kreativ-untapped) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/kreativuntapped).* **KREATIV UNTAPPED** is a creative playground born in Berlin — and we're kicking off with the discipline that sits at the heart of every other one: **storytelling.** Because here's what AI can't replace: the human desire to create. Creativity is what makes us uniquely human — it's a muscle, and like any muscle, it needs training. Most of us have stopped. **KREATIV UNTAPPED** is where we change that — through hands-on sessions with working practitioners across visual arts, tactile crafts, narrative & sound, and spatial & performative disciplines. **This evening** is about words, voice, and presence. In a world full of decks, dashboards and screens, we've forgotten how to just… tell a story. This evening is a practice in putting the slides away and using the oldest tools we have — your voice, your hands, your story. **Expect a short provocation from [Ben](https://bensauer.net/), a hands-on session with a sketching element to flex that creative muscle, a round of group sharing, and time to actually meet the people in the room.** **Who's this for?** Anyone with a story to tell — and the willingness to tell it without a slide deck. No job title. No prior experience. Just the willingness to tap in. Creativity untapped. Connection for real. \-\-\- **ABOUT [BEN SAUER](https://bensauer.net/)** Ben Sauer is a speaker, author, and coach who teaches the art of strategic storytelling — and the perfect person to launch this series. He's the author of "Death by Screens: How to Present High-Stakes Digital Design Work and Live to Tell the Tale" — a go-to resource for designers, product people and creatives who want to stop boring their audiences and actually be heard. Ben spent years as a UX designer at Clearleft, then as Director of Product for AI at Babylon Health, leading a team of 100 on products worth $100m+. He has trained teams at NASA, Amazon, and the BBC, and spoken at The Economist, NEXT Conference, UX London, VW + Audi and dozens more — frequently as the audience's top-rated speaker. More about Ben: [https://bensauer.net](https://bensauer.net/) \-\-\- **AGENDA** • 18:30 – 19:00 · Check-in • 19:00 – 19:15 · Intro – what KREATIV UNTAPPED is and why we're here • 19:15 – 20:15 · Hands-on storytelling session with Ben Sauer (incl. sketching element) • 20:15 – 20:45 · Group sharing round • 20:45 – 20:50 · Wrap-up & what's next • 20:50 – 21:30 · Networking \-\-\- **ADDITIONAL NOTES** **Donation-based event** This first edition is donation-based — give what feels right. Your contribution supports building KREATIV UNTAPPED into something lasting. Donations are non-refundable. **Photos & video** We'll be taking photos and potentially videos throughout the evening. By attending, participants agree that visual material may be used for promotional purposes. Anyone who prefers not to be photographed can let us know on arrival. **Where** Thoughtworks Berlin Revaler Str. 31 (Event Space), 10245 Berlin (In walking distance from S Ostkreuz) \-\-\- **FOLLOW US** LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/company/kreativ-untapped](https://www.linkedin.com/company/kreativ-untapped) Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/kreativuntapped](https://www.instagram.com/kreativuntapped) **\>\>\> Registration takes place on Luma: [https://luma.com/yp90isjd](https://luma.com/yp90isjd)** See you there! Creativity untapped. Connection for real. \-\-\- ***An event by our friends from KREATIV UNTAPPED***

Nice! You are looking for real long time friendship! You might have already lived in Berlin or other big cities and experienced the "Anonymous" culture for a while. Meeting random people over and over and never see the same person again! In order to find "Real Long Term Friendship" in Berlin, do as follows: * You should not care how many people are joining this meetup. You RVSP. Even if only one person is joining. Because if everyone are waiting for everyone else to RVSP, nobody joins and nobody finds a new friend. * You do not care how many people of the opposite sex are joining. You are looking for friends. Finding the best romantic partner in the world, while avoiding not very attractive others, can be your other goal, for another time. Here we are looking for Friends. Real ones. * You are going to risk a very precious property of yours: Your time! Yes, there are thousands of opportunities in Berlin, there might be a rock concert for free, a birthday party you might miss, an important person might call you and invite you spontaneously, but you never find new friends until you decide to risk your time and meet people anyway. "I will check my calendar and get back to you" also does not work. Commit your time and spend it. Trust me, you won't go bankrupt ;-) * You are ready to use your phone as a real phone! You might have been using your phone as a tablet to visit Instagram and Facebook and watch movies. But if you want to find friends, you must know that people might take your phone number and give you theirs. That means they will Call you! And you have to pick up the phone and answer it. If you want to find new friends, you must be ready to do something really hard for the first time after years: Call people first, and if they called you: Answer your phone! * You are going to meet some people twice! That's the point of friendship. We already can experience random encounters with random people in random places one at a time. But that is not called friendship. If you want friends, you must be ready to meet the same person more than once. If you agree with above, RVSP and COME! You will meet other people who think the same way. P.S: Now that you've read all the way down to here, I suggest you [watch this animation](https://player.vimeo.com/video/547249272?h=22f3dd0f6f).

**\>\>\> Registration takes place on Luma: [https://luma.com/yp90isjd](https://luma.com/yp90isjd)** \*\*\* ## **Welcome to KREATIV UNTAPPED #1 Storytelling Untapped w/ Ben Sauer** ## **A hands-on session. No slides. Just your stories.** We couldn't be more excited to tap into this with you at **[Thoughtworks Berlin](https://www.thoughtworks.com/en-de/about-us/locations/berlin)**. Follow us on [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/kreativ-untapped) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/kreativuntapped) *** **KREATIV UNTAPPED** is a creative playground born in Berlin – and we're kicking off with the discipline that sits at the heart of every other one: **storytelling.** Because here's what AI can't replace: the human desire to create. Creativity is what makes us uniquely human — it's a muscle, and like any muscle, it needs training. Most of us have stopped. **KREATIV UNTAPPED** is where we change that — through hands-on sessions with working practitioners across visual arts, tactile crafts, narrative & sound, and spatial & performative disciplines. **This evening** is about words, voice, and presence. In a world full of decks, dashboards and screens, we've forgotten how to just… tell a story. This evening is a practice in putting the slides away and using the oldest tools we have — your voice, your hands, your story. **Expect a short provocation from Ben, a hands-on session with a sketching element to flex that creative muscle, a round of group sharing, and time to actually meet the people in the room.** **Who's this for?** Anyone with a story to tell — and the willingness to tell it without a slide deck. No job title. No prior experience. Just the willingness to tap in. *Creativity untapped. Connection for real.* *** **About [Ben Sauer](https://bensauer.net)** Ben Sauer is a speaker, author, and coach who teaches the art of strategic storytelling — and the perfect person to launch this series. He's the author of **Death by Screens: How to Present High-Stakes Digital Design Work and Live to Tell the Tale** — a go-to resource for designers, product people and creatives who want to stop boring their audiences and actually be heard. Ben spent years as a UX designer at Clearleft (one of the first UX agencies in the world, working with the BBC, Penguin Random House and Tesco), then as Director of Product for AI at Babylon Health, leading a team of 100 on products worth $100m+. He has trained teams at NASA, Amazon, and the BBC, and spoken at The Economist, NEXT Conference, UX London, VW + Audi and dozens more — frequently as the audience's top-rated speaker. His background doesn't fit neatly in a single box: comedy, software, English literature. Which is exactly why he's so good at this. *** **Agenda** * **18:30 – 19:00** · Check-in * **19:00 – 19:15** · Intro – what KREATIV UNTAPPED is and why we're here * **19:15 – 20:15** · Hands-on storytelling session with Ben Sauer – including a sketching element to support your storytelling and flex that creative muscle * **20:15 – 20:45** · Group sharing round – share your story, your sketch, your takeaway * **20:45 – 20:50** · Wrap-up & what's next * **20:50 – 21:30** · Networking *** **Donation-based event** This first edition is donation-based — give what feels right. Your contribution supports building KREATIV UNTAPPED into something lasting. **Please note:** if you can't make it on the day, or decide to cancel, donations are non-refundable. By booking, you're not just paying for a seat — you're backing the spirit of what we're building. Thank you for that. *** **A heads-up on photos & video** We'll be taking photos and potentially videos throughout the evening to capture the spirit of the session and share what KREATIV UNTAPPED is all about. By attending, you agree that visual material featuring you may be used for promotional purposes — on our social channels, website, newsletter, and future event communications. If you'd prefer not to be photographed or filmed, just let us know on arrival and we'll make sure to keep you out of the frame. *** **Where** 📍 **Thoughtworks Berlin** Revaler Str. 31 (Event Space), 10245 Berlin (2 minutes from Ostkreuz) *** See you there. ***Creativity untapped. Connection for real.*** Follow us on [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/kreativ-untapped) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/kreativuntapped)

COACH NETWORKING #1 Gemeinsam kommt man besser voran! Egal ob NLP, Systemisches Coaching, Transaktionsanalyse oder Agil – wir alle arbeiten mit Menschen. Und wenn es gut läuft oder auch mal knirscht – immer gibt es Erfahrungen zu teilen. Dafür ist das Coach Network da. Wir treffen uns im betahaus am Moritzplatz, einem kleinen und feinen Coworking Space in Kreuzberg. Es gibt eine Vorstellungs-Runde und ein Skillsharing. Wer von euch gerne eine Methode oder einen Coaching-Ansatz teilen möchte schreibt mir bitte eine Nachricht. Um ins betahaus zu kommen braucht man einen Code den ich euch mit der verbindlichen Anmelde-Bestätigung schicke – gegen fünf EUR Aufwandsentschädigung via Paypal an michael.metzger(at)mailhafen.de. Achtung: Eine reine Anmeldung hier über MeetUp ist nicht ausreichend um am Event teilzunehmen!

THE TIME IS NOW. While we celebrate the 1500 beagles getting released from Ridglan, there is still work to be done! To gather more participants and momentum, we are transitioning the rally to May 23rd to fight for the approximately 23,000 dogs trapped in Marshall BioResources in NY. We are also targeting NIH who funds institutions who buy beagles for testing. **Attend the Rally: We will peacefully gather with signs, posters, and positive energy. Bring your friends and share widely!** **Location: Bethesda, MD on 355 near the NIH Metro, any changes will be noted. 1 pm-3 pm**

Whether you are a seasoned public speaker or looking to build your confidence in front of an audience, this event is perfect for anyone interested in self-help and self-improvement. Hosted by the Empower Confident Toastmasters group, this workshop aims to provide practical tools and techniques for leadership development. Meet like-minded individuals and network with professionals in a supportive environment. Don't miss this opportunity to invest in your personal growth and unlock your full potential.

Join us for a fun experience with conveyor belt sushi and robots that serve drinks at **Kura Revolving Sushi Bar** (Tysons location)! ***NOTE: We'll be seated in 3 groups of 4 people. Each group will have their own tab - and should be able to split the bill using the ordering tablet. In the event that is not the case, please be prepared to calculate / split the tab with your table group (include 10% tax plus 20% tip). While some may be inclined to tip less due to the high tech nature of this experience, please be mindful that tips are shared between the restaurant and kitchen staff. Thanks in advance for your consideration.*** ***Patch:*** Shoppers at Tysons Corner Center may be familiar with the revolving sushi bar on the lower level of the mall. Just minutes away from the mall, there's a standalone restaurant serving sushi and other Japenese dishes moved by a conveyor belt and drinks delivered by robots. Kura Sushi is a Japanese restaurant concept established in Japan in 1977 and expanded to the U.S. in 2008. The restaurant brand helped establish the revolving sushi concept, which features sushi plates circulated around the restaurant by conveyor belt. There's also an express belt where kitchen staff can send dishes customers order by tablet at their table. The menu features over 140 Japanese dishes free of artificial sweeteners, seasonings, preservatives and coloring. One of the restaurant brand's technological features has been drink orders delivered by Kur-B the KuraBot robot. Staff typically receive orders, place beverages on the robots and program it to deliver to a specific table. Diners place orders directly on the tablet at their table and check out on their mobile phone. The restaurant offers prizes once certain numbers of dishes are ordered. These prizes could include keychains, cable protectors and stickers. The prizes are usually available for purchase at the restaurant while supplies last. Diners can also join the Kura Sushi Rewards program, which provides a $5 reward for every $50 spent, allows diners to see live wait times, join the waitlist remotely, and receive special promotions. The restaurant brand has hundreds of locations in Japan, Taiwan and the U.S. The Tysons location is the 40th U.S. location and was the first in Virginia. Check out Kura menu [here ](https://kurasushi.com/menu/) **WAITLIST:** Meetup does not allow a waitlist for paid events. If this event fills and you are interested in adding your name to the waitlist, please send host a message through the app. To enhance the opportunity for great conversation, we would like to keep the group small. Please feel free to sign-up to meet us along with up to 2 friends. In the future, we will vary the days of the week, geography and the cost of restaurants so that we can attract many different types of diners. PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU ARE COMMITTED TO GO WHEN YOU RSVP FOR THIS EVENT. In the event our group incurs a fee for no-shows / late cancellations, your ability to RSVP for future events will be restricted. Thank you in advance for your understanding.Feel free to make suggestions for future meet locations. All diners will have their own tab to avoid any confusion. \*\* The small non-refundable registration fee helps us share the cost associated with Meetup platform ($360/year) and reduces the likelihood of no-shows, allowing us to better plan our events and accommodate attendees. Thank you in advance for your understanding!\*\* If you are unable to join us in June, we hope you'll stay interested and join us for a meal in the future. Looking forward to seeing you at Kura in Tysons!

## **1 Million Cups Loudoun – Resource Presentation** **What You Really Need to Know from an HR Professional** **Presented by Donna Giarratana** **Wednesday\, May 27 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun** Join us for a practical and insightful resource presentation designed to help small business owners navigate one of the most critical — and often overlooked — areas of growth: **Human Resources**. *** ## **About the Session** As your business grows, so do the complexities of managing people, processes, and compliance. Many entrepreneurs wait too long to think about HR — and by the time they do, they’re already reacting instead of planning. In this session, **Donna Giarratana** will break down what small business owners *really* need to know about HR — in a way that is clear, actionable, and relevant to your stage of growth. This conversation is designed to help you move from uncertainty to confidence when it comes to building and managing your team. *** ## **What You’ll Learn** * When it’s the right time to hire * How to set your business up for success before bringing on employees * Why HR matters — even for small businesses * Common pitfalls and how to avoid them * The foundational HR knowledge every business owner should have *** ## **Who Should Attend** * Entrepreneurs preparing to hire their first employee * Small business owners currently managing a team * Founders looking to strengthen operations and compliance * Anyone who wants to build a business with a strong, scalable foundation *** ## **Why Attend?** * Gain clarity on one of the most important aspects of business growth * Learn how to avoid costly mistakes before they happen * Ask questions and get real-world insight from an HR professional * Walk away with practical knowledge you can apply immediately *** ## **About 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 **May 27** for coffee, connection, and a conversation that will help you build your business the right way from the inside out. We look forward to seeing you there.

At Toastmasters, we empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. Our meetings provide a supportive and positive learning environment where members grow through prepared speeches, impromptu speaking (Table Topics), and constructive evaluations. Whether you're looking to overcome your fear of public speaking, enhance your work communication, or develop leadership skills, you're welcome here. Guests are always invited to observe first. If you'd like to speak, we’ll ask before inviting you to participate - no pressure at all. See how Toastmasters can help you build confidence, develop new skills, and connect with a community focused on growth.

## ***Join emerging Gen Z leader Akshay Kuchibhatla for this special workshop. Move beyond expectations and make choices that feel right for you.*** In a time when everyone is trying to figure out who they are, it’s easy to get pulled in different directions, by expectations, social media, relationships, and the pressure to “have it all together.” Somewhere along the way, many begin to feel disconnected from their true self. This workshop is a space to pause, reset, and reconnect with your true self. Come explore who you are at your core, beyond labels, trends, and outside opinions. Through guided reflection, real conversations, and simple mindfulness practices, you’ll gain clarity on your values, strengthen your inner voice, and learn how to make choices that feel right for you. You don’t have to lose yourself to find yourself. You can grow, evolve, and still stay true. Come as you are. Leave more connected, clear, and confident. ***Akshay Kuchibhatla*** *is a thoughtful and emerging Gen Z leader currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science at George Mason University. Passionate about personal growth, self-awareness, and helping young people navigate life with clarity and purpose, Akshay brings a grounded and relatable perspective to conversations about identity, values, and inner strength.* Sat., May 24th, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm. Held at Brahma Kumaris, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl, Suite 200, 2nd Floor, Chantilly, VA. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/luks5](https://shorturl.at/luks5)

🌿☀️ You’re invited: Sunrise with Jesus on May 30th! Ladies! I want to personally invite you to something I’m really looking forward to. On Saturday morning, May 30, a few of us will be gathering for a peaceful outdoor time together called Sunrise with Jesus at Black Hill Regional Park from 6:30–8:30 AM. This is a simple, relaxed morning created for women who want: * a peaceful start to their weekend * a chance to meet other local women * encouragement in their faith * space to slow down and breathe We’ll have coffee + pastries, a short encouraging message from Scripture, time to journal, and prayer—but most importantly, it’s about connection and community, not anything formal or intimidating. 💛 You do NOT need to know anyone to come. A few women are already signed up, and we’d truly love to have you join us. If you’ve been feeling like you could use a reset, some encouragement, or just a welcoming place to connect with other women—you are warmly invited! Here’s the link for more info on how to find us, what the morning will look like, and to sign up: Sunrise with Jesus Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sunrise-with-jesus-tickets-1989352232078?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=wsa&aff=ebdsshwebmobile