Postmodernism

**WELCOME** **This is a supportive, growing community for writers — a quiet space to return to yourself, your words, and the simple rhythm of creating alongside others. I organise and gently hold the space, and it’s been beautiful watching this become a regular place to focus, write, and connect.** **WHAT TO EXPECT** **Simply arrive, order your food or drink at the counter, then settle into your writing persona. Together, we’ll share 90 minutes of quiet focused writing — a calm co-working space for writers of all levels.** **No critiques. No pressure. No one reads your work.** **Just the quiet companionship of people showing up for their creativity.** **Afterwards, everyone is welcome to stay, unwind, and socialise with fellow members until closing time.** **TIME & DATE** **Focused writing time:** **Every Thursday, 7pm–8:30pm** **The venue closes at 10pm.** **VENUE** **I’m holding this space at the warm, beautiful, and intimate British Patagonia café, opposite Islington Town Hall on Upper Street.** **TRANSPORT** **The venue is situated between Angel Tube Station and Highbury & Islington Station.** **Closest bus routes: 4, 19, 30, 43.** **There’s also free street parking after 6:30pm (please check signs).** **ABOUT ME** **I create from lived experience — rooted in care, healing, and meaningful connection. I hope to meet you all in time, but if we don’t get the chance to speak, please know you are warmly welcome here.** **See you soon,** **Sara x**

# Learn how to use open-source harnesses like OpenCode & Pi w/ your own LLM and with it, build a real-world application **Registration to this event is only valid through the Luma platform:** [https://luma.com/11txn8gq](https://luma.com/11txn8gq?utm_source=meetup-dot-com) ​Hello code campers! ​Since everyone is talking about using harnesses such as **Anthropic Claude** or **OpenAI Codex**, meaning, everyone is probably tired of hearing about them, we've decided to go in a different direction and explore other, lesser known things such as, [OpenCode](https://opencode.ai/?utm_source=luma) and [Pi DOT Dev](https://pi.dev/?utm_source=luma). Come and join us and learn how to work with a wide range of open-source large language models (**LLMs**) such as **DeepSeek V4**, **Gemma**, **Kimi K2**, and **GLM** across various local-first environments. This comprehensive workshop is designed to teach you what is a code harness, how many types of them there are out there (you might be familiar with **Claude Code** or **Codex** or **CoPilot** but there are others and since the big-tech companies are moving to token-based usage, why not run your own solution locally). Also, we'll explore how to go about having effective agentic coding workflows while benchmarking model performance and hardware requirements. ​We will go through the setup process, focusing on how to install the desired LLM runner like Ollama or LMstudio locally. ​This will be our **7th** event in our series of **local-first, open-source** AI events; therefore, we will try to focus on building a setup that doesn't depend on Big Tech but on smaller open-source tech instead. ​This workshop is open to all levels, from beginners to experts. ​Bring your laptop (make sure it's fully charged as local LLMs tend to be power-hungry), and don't forget to bring your coding gear (hoodie). ​This workshop will be most likely accompanied by a guest speaker (TBD). *** ## ​Prerequisite ​Prerequisite: a local Ollama, LMStudio installation or equivalent (but if you don't have any of that, don't worry, come a bit early and we will help you). ​If you want to take a quick look at the slides from the previous events fell free to do so: [​https://andysign.github.io/ai-london-01/](%E2%80%8Bhttps://andysign.github.io/ai-london-01/) (Ollama); [​https://andysign.github.io/ai-london-02/](%E2%80%8Bhttps://andysign.github.io/ai-london-02/) (LangFlow, not really related but still) [​https://andysign.github.io/ai-london-03/](%E2%80%8Bhttps://andysign.github.io/ai-london-03/) (private RAG w/ Anything LLM) [​https://andysign.github.io/ai-london-04/](%E2%80%8Bhttps://andysign.github.io/ai-london-04/) (AI-native browsers) [​https://andysign.github.io/ai-london-05/](%E2%80%8Bhttps://andysign.github.io/ai-london-05/) (OpenClaw basics) [​https://andysign.github.io/ai-london-06/](%E2%80%8Bhttps://andysign.github.io/ai-london-06/) (OpenClaw advanced) *** ## ​Agenda for the evening (Subject to change) ​**18:00 - 18:30 Arrival and networking** Mingle with fellow developers over refreshments. ​**18:30 - 18:45 Introductions** Intro and a bit of audience engagement. ​**18:45 - 19:40 Workshop** ​Hands-on technical workshop (if you are non-technical it's OK, tag along). ​**20:30 - 20:45 Guest Speaker** ​**20:30 - 21:00 Networking** ​**21:00 - Closing remarks and follow-up** ​ **END:** Carry on the fun at a nearby pub around the corner. *** ## Event Venue We'd like to extend a heartfelt thank you to **Encode Club**. [Encode Club ](http://encode.club)has spent over five years fostering a global community of developers, researchers, and founders in Web3, AI, and emerging technologies. The [Encode Hub](http://hub.encode.club) brings everything together under one roof, providing a dedicated environment for collaboration and innovation through meetups, co-working, and in-person events.

Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you're invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done.

Looking to expand your network as a freelancer? You are in the right place! Join us for a relaxed social meetup where local and international freelancers in London can connect, share experiences and exchange ideas over a drink. This event is all about meeting people who have already sampled freelance life – or would like to give it a go. Our organiser Paul will welcome you on THURSDAY 11TH JUNE from 6pm at The Fellow, a charming pub very close to Kings Cross station. **Important note:** Please send Paul a direct message if you plan to attend. **About this group:** This meetup is hosted by LondonFreelancers.co.uk , a new community for freelancers & freelance consultants in London. To find more meetups, events and activities we’re organising for the international freelancer community, follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/london-freelancers/ **Attention:** We’re currently looking for additional organisers to help host events in other London neighbourhoods – if you’re interested, get in touch!

The café will be open on Thursdays between 23rd April 2026 and 2nd July 2026 - but will not be open on 28th May 2026. \*\* There will also be a **FREE ENGLISH CLASS** for 40 minutes - from 7pm to 7:40pm. \*\* The café offers the chance to practise your English in a friendly atmosphere, where you can meet and make friends. Thursdays, 7:30pm - 9:00pm at Dundonald Church 577 Kingston Road Raynes Park SW20 8SA It is organised by local Christians and during the evening there will be a simple meal and a short talk. facebook.com/raynespark.int.cafe

Join us for Pink Ink - our LGBTQ+ creative writing support group! Pink Ink offers a safe writing space to all LGBTQ+ people to come together to write, share and discuss work. Each workshops will offer up 2-3 creatives writing exercises in a a fun sociable setting - refreshments, snacks and an opportunity to chat about writing, poetry, authors and a whole lot more! Our January workshops will also include a poetry exercise which will support any creative writers looking to enter the LGBT Swichboard [Poetry Competition ](https://switchboard.lgbt/switchboard-news-poetry-comp/) Every 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month 7-9pm 86 Caladonian Rd

Connecting people into Philosophy. All welcome. No previous philosophical experience needed. **What it is** Philosophy in the Park is a fun and friendly space for people to come together and have discussions that get deep. It’s a safe space where active creative thinking is encouraged and enjoyed, and where everyone can explore abstract concepts in a way that combines both sincerity and playfulness. Where the most important question is always - what do you think? **What is Philosophy?** Philosophy is about analysing concepts. It's thinking about thinking. It's not about empiricism or the physical world (eg Science and statistics). It's about abstractions, concepts and ideas (eg Identity, Morality, Mind and Truth). **How Philosophy in the Park Works** * Each hour begins with a group vote on which questions to discuss. You can vote for more than one question if you'd like. * We then break out into groups, each focusing on one of the chosen questions. The question is just a starting point and it's cool if you go on tangents and end up talking about different things. You're welcome to join in and participate or if you'd prefer to sit back and enjoy the conversation, that’s also welcome. * After an hour we regroup, take a quick break and then repeat all over again. So across the 3 hours, we’ll break out 3 times. **Where it is** We meet at Baroness Burdett Coutts Drinking Fountain in Victoria Park (East Park). It is marked down as "13" on the official maps found in the park. Please feel free to bring snacks and drinks with you if you want. After the event finishes most people stay and hang out. There’s a local supermarket to get drinks and snacks, or bring your own. You are very welcome to join us. **Guidelines** In order to make the conversations as fun, interesting and productive as possible please follow these simple guidelines: 1. Keep it Philosophical (No Science, no History, no Sociology, no Evolutionary Psychology, no contestable facts, personal anecdotes etc). 2. Think for Yourself (No phones, no looking up definitions, no name dropping Philosophers / books you've read). 3. Tangents are Cool (Don't worry too much if the subject drifts and you don't answer the question). 4. Keep it Succinct (Like this). 5. Be Excellent to Each Other (But of course). Please remember: It's not about debating and trying to win - it's about listening to people and working collaboratively to increase our collective understanding. **Community** Follow us on instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/londonphilosophycollective/](https://www.instagram.com/londonphilosophycollective/) We have a WhatsApp group if you'd like to continue these conversations between meetings. To join the Philosophy in the Park WhatsApp Group please click here: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/CdFaxJHbeOw9UOfuk7spiK](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CdFaxJHbeOw9UOfuk7spiK) In order to stop spam bots this will take you to a Waiting Room. Once in please write your name, answer the joining question and we will add you to the main chat. **Say Thanks** If you would like to help support Philosophy in the Park you can buy me a coffee here: [https://buymeacoffee.com/philosophyjoel](https://buymeacoffee.com/philosophyjoel)

**​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. ​9:15 Bag drop at the Regent's Bar and Kitchen, Regent's Park: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MmZdAVM8yXT9euKc7 ​9:30 Warm Up starts at the Inner Circle & York Bridge, South Gate: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/qw45ehLmDQY7maMD6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/qw45ehLmDQY7maMD6) 🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022 🌍 Now in 27 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/)**

Join us at the top of the biggest bookshop in Europe to work in company on your own writing, be it a book, blog, screenplay, dissertation, poem, song, coursework, memoir, play, journal, travel writing, work stuff or anything else. Newcomers always welcome. No one will see what you're writing or give you unsolicited advice. Now that our regular Saturday events are filling all the seats we're adding some Sundays when we're able to - check Meetup for dates. Same format but an hour later. WHERE? FIFTH FLOOR CAFÉ, Floor 5, Waterstones, 203-206 Piccadilly, W1J 9LE TIMINGS:- 12.00 - Shop and café open 12:30 - Host will be there. Say hello, especially if you’re new. 12.40 - Brief introductions from everybody - your name and what you’re working on 12:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 13:30 – Break, chat to your neighbours if you like 13:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 14:30 - The End…feel free to stay and keep writing or chat some more. Bring whatever you need to be able to write. It’s a café, there’s some noise so earbuds/headphones/earplugs are handy. There’s very few mains sockets so charged-up laptops are a good idea too. And please remember everybody, thank our venue by buying a drink or food, and don’t consume anything from outside while you're here. We’re looking forward to writing with you, your hosts, Sarah, Nick, Laura, Anna, Solitaire and John

**Early arrivals** 11am, this gives you the time to settle in and chat with the other writers **Start of the session** 11.30am the timer will start of no-talking and focused witing time. **End of the session** 12.30pm the no-talking time is over and you are welcome to stay and keep writing or stay and chat. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://shutupwrite.com).

Join us for a Q&A with **Fanny Chiarello**, writer, musician and author of *Basta Now: Women, Trans & Non-Binary in Experimental Music*. In this powerful and wide-ranging book, Chiarello gives voice to artists who have historically been marginalised within experimental and avant-garde music scenes, challenging dominant narratives and rethinking who gets heard. Chiarello will discuss the making of *Basta Now*, her approach to storytelling, and the political importance of documenting alternative musical histories. The event will explore experimental music as a site of resistance, collaboration and possibility, as well as the intersections of gender, creativity and cultural access. This Q&A offers an opportunity to reflect on listening practices, visibility, and the urgent need for more inclusive archives of sound and practice. Fanny Chiarello is the author of novels, poetry and children's literature, edited by numerous renowned French publishers. She notably wrote *A happy woman*, telling one month in New York with Meredith Monk. *Basta Now (Women, Trans and Non-Binary in Experimental Music)* is her first essay, and her first book in English; it has been released on Permanent Draft, a music label dedicated to finta\* artists that she cofounded with Valentina Magaletti. Her work around *Basta Now* also takes the form of a column in a French quarterly dedicated to avant-garde music, *Revue & Corrigée*, a show on LYL Radio ([https://lyl.live/show/basta-now](https://lyl.live/show/basta-now)) and an Instagram account, @basta_now, a daily rendez-vous with a finta\* musician. This event forms part of Raised Voices, a day‑long immersive celebration of storytelling beyond the page, exploring how stories come to life through music, zines, and audiobooks. For full listings, head to https://libraries.lewisham.gov.uk/events/category/raised-voices

Where did political correctness and "woke" come from? At least part of the answer lies in the modern development of **Postmodernism**. This meeting will be the first of a series of discussions of the book ***Explaining Postmodernism: Skepticism and Socialism from Rousseau to Foucault*, by Stephen Hicks.** For the meeting, please read (or listen to) chapter 1. This book can be found in audiobook format on YouTube, read by the author, entirely for free: [YOUTUBE LINK](https://youtu.be/qcSb6VCRoMc?si=IQYiGodxXPeOQVNg) The book is available in multiple formats on Amazon: [LINK](https://a.co/d/0h0mUD5V) Tracing postmodernism from its roots in Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Immanuel Kant to their development in thinkers such as Michel Foucault and Richard Rorty, philosopher Stephen Hicks provides a provocative account of why postmodernism has been the most vigorous intellectual movement of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Why do skeptical and relativistic arguments have such power in the contemporary intellectual world? Why do they have that power in the humanities but not in the sciences? Why has a significant portion of the political Left--the same Left that traditionally promoted reason, science, equality for all, and optimism--now switched to themes of anti-reason, anti-science, double standards, and cynicism? Explaining Postmodernism is intellectual history with a polemical twist, providing fresh insights into the debates underlying the furor over political correctness, multiculturalism, and the future of liberal democracy.

Looking for a quiet, focused space to write? Come be part of our writing group—a dedicated time just for writing alongside fellow writers in your community. No readings, no critiques, no peer-review—just you writing within a supportive atmosphere. 7pm-7:15pm: Find your seat, set up your writing station, quick intro's. 7:15pm-8:45 pm: An hour and a half of silent focused writing. 8:45pm-9pm: Quick debrief, pack and head home. Can't wait to see you! :)

The **Reston-Herndon Toastmasters club** is the place to be if you want to improve your public speaking, communication, listening, and leadership skills in a friendly, supportive environment. By joining Toastmasters, you'll learn to relax, plan, and present great speeches, whether you have ten days to prepare or just 10 seconds. Our club meetings are held every **2nd and 4th Wednesday from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM** at Herndon Fortnightly Library located at 768 Center St, Herndon, VA 20170. The library will be closed, so please contact us for directions. Guests are always welcome at our club meetings! If you are interested in joining the club or would like to attend as a visitor, please fill out the form at [https://3550.toastmastersclubs.org/?contactus](https://3550.toastmastersclubs.org/?contactus). We will reply with directions.

**Looking for a group you can write with *whilst sipping your fave coffee*?** ☕✍️ Then come join **Shut Up & Write!** on **Saturday, June 13th from 1:30pm to 4:00pm** at **Ridgetop Coffee & Tea**! Whether you're cranking out a novel, journaling, looking for new friends, or just trying to get that stubborn paragraph right—we’ve got a cozy seat and a supportive group waiting for you! **No critiques, no peer review, no pressure—just a chill space to get words on the page.** 📝 **What to expect:** 1:30–2:00pm – Grab your coffee or tea, find your seat, and meet your fellow writers. 2:00pm–3:30pm – Silent, focused writing time 3:30–4:00pm – Debrief, celebrate any writing wins, commiserate on any obstacles, and head out feeling accomplished. **RSVP Info:** The room seats only 10 people comfortably! RSVP as soon as possible to secure your spot!! If you are unable to attend, please cancel your reservation **ASAP** so those on the wait list are able to RSVP and attend!!! **Meeting Room:** Enter the coffee shop, walk straight towards the play area and on your left you will see a meeting room just past the bathrooms. The room has a TV, white board, and walls are painted green. **What to Bring:** Whatever helps you focus, and be productive. There is a wall outlet at each end of the room, so you're able to bring your laptop to write, but please bring your own charging tools. You're welcome to bring headphones if you enjoy listening to music while working. **Parking & Accessibility:** there is a large parking lot out front and it is free! There are no stair cases when entering the coffee shop or when inside. This coffee shop is incredibly spacious with many seating options. If you have any questions, please message me through MeetUp. I'm happy to help. **Dietary Information:** many GF, Vegan, and SF options. Just ask your barista when ordering for specifics! Can’t wait to see you there! 🎉

**Curious about Toastmasters?** We're Free Spirits Toastmasters - an established club that meets twice monthly on Sundays from 3:30 - 5:00pm. **Meet us and join a meeting in action at our Open House on Sunday, June 14th from 3:30 - 5:00pm.** No need to get fancy - come as you are and enjoy refreshments with a casual, friendly, and encouraging group. *This year is our 30th Anniversary!* What Free Spirits Toastmasters Club is all about: * Build confidence speaking in front of people, * Learn the art of interesting conversation, * Have fun and build skills to speak "off the cuff" and through prepared speeches, * Members supporting other members in bettering ourselves, * A rich learning environment - our members span a wide range of ages, backgrounds, careers, languages, and life experiences! * A hybrid (in person and via Zoom) meeting option means you can join us remotely if unable to attend in person. **So that we can plan quantity for food and drink, please RSVP soonest by text to 703.795.2967 or by email to officers-5160@toastmastersclubs.org.** #PublicSpeaking #BestSelf #Confidence #Friends #Leadership #Learning #PositiveFeedback

…Transform Our Lives, Work, and World (2024) by Jamie Metzl, 432 pages [Genetics] • Paperback • Hardcover • Kindle • Audiobook • Library: [https://fcplcat.fairfaxcounty.gov/search/title.aspx?ctx=1.1033.0.0.1&pos=1&cn=615082](https://fcplcat.fairfaxcounty.gov/search/title.aspx?ctx=1.1033.0.0.1&pos=1&cn=615082) Check the How To Find Us section for Zoom Link **(Remember, the Zoom Link is different each month, do not bookmark)** ### Review “In Superconvergence, Jamie Metzl takes readers on a magical journey through the science of the intersecting genetics, biotech, and AI revolutions, deeply explores the implications, and challenges us to think creatively and proactively about what comes next. Very few books are absolute must-reads. This is one.”―Siddhartha Mukherjee, assistant professor of medicine at Columbia University and author of The Gene: An Intimate History "During the 25 years I have known Jamie Metzl, he has always been ahead of the curve. There is no one better to help us understand and prepare for the fast-approaching technological revolutions. Superconvergence is brilliant. I can't recommend it more strongly."―Sanjay Gupta MD, bestseller author, neurosurgeon, and Emmy-award winning chief medical correspondent (CNN) "Our world is defined by our science and technology—whether we like it or not. The question now is not whether to use these powers, but how best to use them. In Superconvergence, Jamie Metzl takes us on a journey through the new capabilities that are radically transforming ecosystems inside us and around us, challenging each of us to get personally involved with building the future we want."―Beth Shapiro, University of California Santa Cruz evolutionary biologist and author of Life as We Made It: How 50,000 Years of Human Innovation Refined―and Redefined―Nature "In a fine counter-blast to the pessimism of today, Jamie Metzl lays out just how spectacular the future of humanity and planet can be if we harness innovation responsibly and imaginatively to create what he calls the 'spiral of progress.'"―Matt Ridley, author of How Innovation Works, and co-author of Viral: The search for the Origin of Covid-19 “A page-turning journey through space and time that shows us how our lives will be changed by imminent technological advances we once only dreamed of.”―David Sinclair, Professor of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, and author of Lifespan: Why We Age―and Why We Don't Have To “The superconvergence of the genetics, biotechnology, and AI revolutions provides spectacular opportunities for building a better world. It also represents an almost limitless investment opportunity. We were excited to collaborate with Jamie Metzl, one of the world's great experts on how these aspirations can best be realized, including in capital markets. Superconvergence is a master class for imagining, investing in, and building a future we'd like to inhabit."―Jeremy Schwartz, Global Chief Investment Officer, WisdomTree “A clear examination of a transitional moment in the story of life on Earth…. Metzl capably describes recent developments in genetics and biotech and looks at how AI is providing an analytical engine of unprecedented power…. An important book in which the author sets out a path for the future based on his experience and expertise.”―Kirkus “Erudite, optimistic, and timely.”―Science Magazine "[In Superconvergence] Mr. Metzl has identified an important truth: that the convergence of new technologies is galvanizing us to reimagine how to meet urgent challenges in medicine and the environment. It’s a compelling opportunity—provided we manage to sidestep self-induced catastrophes along the way."―The Wall Street Journal ### About the Author Jamie Metzl is a leading technology and healthcare futurist and the founder and chair of OneShared.World. He is the author of Hacking Darwin: Genetic Engineering and the Future of Humanity and four other books and was a member of the World Health Organization expert advisory committee on human genome editing. Jamie previously served in the U.S. National Security Council, State Department, and Senate Foreign Relations Committee and with the United Nations in Cambodia. His work has been featured by most major media organizations around the world, including 60 Minutes, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Fox, CNN, ABC, NBC, CBS, the Times of London, Le Monde, and Paris Match, and his podcast interviews with Joe Rogan, Lex Fridman, and others have reached tens of millions of listeners. He lives in New York City. Visit Jamiemetzl.com.

Join us for another session of our study group as we cover the book Build a Reasoning Model (from Scatch). In this session, we will try to cover Chapter 1 titled "Understanding Reasoning Models", which defines what a Reasoning Model is and Chapter 2, on "Generating Text with an LLM". This isn't just a lecture! Come ready to ask questions, share insights, and code along. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, this is the perfect opportunity to continue to learn together. If you plan to work with the code on your own laptop during the session, try and download the code from it's GitHub repository at https://github.com/rasbt/reasoning-from-scratch ahead of time.