Professional Networking

**Unrealistic Expectations** is an entertaining, slightly chaotic evening of business and life related improv speaking games designed to help you practise action over certainty. Sign up as an audience member or a speaker, both are fun and packed full of laughs. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "This was a safe environment to fail." ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Audience reactions are hilarious." ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "I learnt that it was not as scary as I thought." **6:30** Arrival + Drinks **7:00** Games Begin **8:15** Wrap Up + Hangout ❓ **Why we do this** Entrepreneurs are often told their ideas are unrealistic. Too big. Too early. Too hard. This night is for people who feel that fear and want to build the courage to act before they have all the answers. **Volunteers get 1-4 minutes to talk on wacky topics:** * Pitching a slide deck they have never seen before * Taking questions from the audience on a topic they know nothing about * Being handed a random object from the office and explaining your "revoulutionary discovery" * Explaining a graph that has no numbers or legend * *More "fun" and chaotic games to come...* **Spectators get front row seats to:** * Brave attempts and clever recoveries * Watch brilliance appear under pressure * The exact moment someone realises they are more capable than they thought * And...comedy gold! 🎲 **How the night works** Some people will step up. Some people will sit back and enjoy the show. Both are welcome. You don’t have to participate but most people end up tempted as the night goes on. We’ll rotate through a variety of short games across the evening. Each one stretches a different entrepreneurial muscle: • Thinking out loud • Explaining half-formed ideas • Handling pressure • Committing before certainty 😉At the end of the night, one brave participant will receive a completely meaningless but highly coveted honour. 👀 **Who this is for** • People building something and tired of waiting until they feel ready • Anyone who wants to build the courage to act before they have clarity You don’t need confidence You don’t need experience You just need a willingness to give-it-a-go **Because most worthwhile things start with unrealistic expectations.**

Creative Expressive Arts Group Session "Empower Yourself with Nature's Elements" Earth / Air / Water / Fire Reconnection and Empowerment Date Tuesday 28th of April Time 6:30pm to 8:30pm (2 hours) Cost $50 Bookings essential, limited seats What to bring? Yourself What to expect? Being in a sacred space, finding meaning through creative expression. Small group of 6 or less. You will need to fill out a consent form prior to commencement Facilitated by Connie www.conniepenniart.com

Reset your body, reconnect with yourself, and meet like-minded people — naturally, without pressure or awkwardness. **Hosted by KISMETRIX \| True Connection** [Ticketed Event](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/apr-14-kismetrix-pilates-connection-night-tickets-1986040845632?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl) 📍 RYVE – Level 1, 38 Shafton St, Huntingdale VIC 📅 Tuesday, 28 April 2026 🕡 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM **Please arrive by 6:15 PM** ## MOVE FIRST. CONNECT AFTER. Most singles events start with small talk. This one doesn’t. We start with a **45-minute Pilates session** to help you reset, unwind, and feel good in your body — so when you meet people, it feels more natural. No pressure. No awkward setups. Just a better way to connect. ## WHAT THE NIGHT LOOKS LIKE **6:15 PM** – Arrival & check-in **6:30 PM** – Pilates session begins **7:15 PM** – Mingling + light refreshments **8:00 PM** – Event wraps up Simple, structured, and easy to enjoy. ## 💫 THE EXPERIENCE The class is led by **Sarah Gerfast (Studio Lagom Pilates)** and is: • Beginner-friendly (no experience needed) • Focused on light strength, stretch, and posture • Designed to help you relax and feel more present After the class, we open the space for **casual mingling**. No forced rotations. No expectations. Stay for a chat, meet a few people, or just enjoy the atmosphere. ## ✨ WHAT’S INCLUDED • 45-minute guided Pilates class • Relaxed mingling after • Light refreshments • A welcoming, low-pressure environment ## 🎯 WHO THIS IS FOR • Singles who want something different from apps • People who enjoy health, movement, and wellbeing • Those who prefer natural conversation over structured dating • Anyone open to meeting like-minded people — without pressure ## 📌 EVENT DETAILS Location: RYVE, Huntingdale Time: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM Arrival: Please arrive by 6:15 PM **What to bring:** • Activewear • Water bottle (All equipment provided) ## 🎟 TICKETS Limited spots to keep the experience comfortable. Bookings required. ## ABOUT KISMETRIX \| TRUE CONNECTION We create social experiences where people meet in real life — without pressure. No swiping. No scripts. Just genuine interaction. ## 🔔 IMPORTANT NOTES • This is a social event — outcomes are not guaranteed • Respect and boundaries are essential • Tickets are non-refundable but transferable ## 📩 CONTACT [social@kismetrix.com.au](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/apr-14-kismetrix-pilates-connection-night-tickets-1986040845632?aff=ebdsoporgprofile) [www.kismetrix.com.au](http://www.kismetrix.com.au/ "http://www.kismetrix.com.au") Follow us on Instagram, Facebook & Eventbrite. By registering for this event\, you confirm that you have read and agree to Kismetrix \| True Connection’s **Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy, Disclaimer, and Code of Conduct.**

Come along and join in a relaxed evening of dev and tech talk, drinks and dinner.

Join in at 10 Yarra Street, South Yarra for the Mental Health Foundation Australia Monthly Depression Support Group. Introducing Akshay as our current facilitator. Akshay has completed a Bachelor of Psychological Sciences and is passionate about understanding and managing depression, anxiety and stressed based disorders. Akshay takes a non-judgemental, compassionate approach to addressing mental health issues and engages participants to share in a positive and safe environment. Come along and be with people who understand and share in your experiences. They may start out as strangers but they will quickly become friends. To register your attendance please see: [https://supportgroup.mhfa.org.au/depression-support-group](https://supportgroup.mhfa.org.au/depression-support-group) You can also sign up for the Online Depression Support Group which is held on the second Monday of each month on the same page. For other MHFA support groups please see: [https://supportgroup.mhfa.org.au/](https://supportgroup.mhfa.org.au/) If you need any further information feel free to contact us at supportgroup@mhfa.org.au

**Welcome to our Tuesday Social + Language Exchange Meetup 🌍** We meet weekly at **La Di Da — 577 Little Bourke Street (Melbourne CBD).** We ask that you **purchase a drink at the bar** or **pay $3 at entry** to support the venue. *** ### 💬 Find your people (New!) Looking to practice a specific language? Post in the discussion using: * **#LearnSpanish** * **#LearnEnglish** * **#TeachEnglish** * **#LearnJapanese** * etc. 👉 This helps others find you faster and makes it easier to connect. *** ### 📲 Join our WhatsApp Community Stay connected before and after the event, meet people, and find language partners: 👉 **Join here:** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/Bi7FlhHP91e0eP7MfdeWcZ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Bi7FlhHP91e0eP7MfdeWcZ) *** ### ⏰ What to expect We consistently have **100–120 attendees** every Thursday (across multiple Meetup groups). People arrive at different times — **best time to come is between 6PM and 9PM.** Come solo or with friends — most people come alone and join conversations naturally. *** ### 🌏 Who attends? A mix of: * Native & non-native English speakers * International students * Backpackers & working holiday travellers * Professionals & expats * Local Australians You’ll meet people from: Europe, China, Japan, Korea, Latin America, and more. *** ### 🗣️ Why join? 👉 A relaxed, social way to practice English 👉 Meet people from around the world 👉 No pressure, no structure — just conversations *** ### 🍕 FREE DRINKS & FOOD FOR FRIENDLY VOLUNTEERS! We’re looking for **friendly volunteers** to help welcome newcomers and keep the vibe social. 👉 You’ll get: * Free drinks (beer/soft drink) * Food (pizza, wedges, etc.) * A fun team to hang out with No experience needed — many of our volunteers are **first-timers too**. Interested? 👉 [www.Linguas.au/Volunteer](www.Linguas.au/Volunteer) *** 📲 **More info:** [https://instagram.com/Linguas.AU](https://instagram.com/Linguas.AU) or **@Linguas.AU**

Join us for a relaxed networking drinks with other couples who value meaningful conversation, intentional living, and want to work on a business or a project together (or already are). This isn’t your average couples’ Meetup. 💡 **Please note:** This event is specifically for couples attending together. RSVPs without a +1 (partner) will be cancelled to keep the balance of the group. 📅 **il Mercato Centrale Melbourne** **📍 Limited to 10 couples** so grab your spot early 🍷**Happy Hour** drink specials from 5:00pm **💬 Conversation Starters** Each time we meet includes a few rotating topics to spark insight and great chats: * A habit that made your life better as a couple * A travel story with a twist (funny, unique, or unexpected) * Something you’re learning right now * A tip on how to work with your partner's personality and communication styles No need to prep, just come ready to connect. We’ll mix up seating halfway through so you meet more than just the couple beside you. **🧠 Who This Is For** * Couples into growth, learning, and intentional living * Those building something together, or who want to * People who want deeper connection, not surface-level chat This isn’t networking. It’s real people and real convos. Just bring yourselves, curiosity, and an open mind. We’ll take care of the rest. **👥 Hosted by Matt & Justine Stuckings** Matt & Justine are the kind of couple who live for deep chats over food, spontaneous adventures, and connecting with people who live life on purpose. Matt’s a 6’4 ex-photographer turned marketer and entrepreneur. He’s into Pickleball, boutique breweries, and discovering weird restaurants and books that make life (and business) better. If it helps him grow or gets him thinking differently, he’s probably already into it. Justine’s a connector at heart. She’s a uni teacher and entrepreneur who loves mentoring, dancing, dark hot chocolate, and surrounding herself with people who think big and care deeply. Together, they host events that feel relaxed but intentional, welcoming but meaningful. They started this event to find more of their people. Curious, kind, growth-minded couples who want more than just small talk.

**Single? 💔** **Over Dating Apps?** **Instantly Get The Dates!** **Meet Someone Today** ❤ . . **Book Through Link to Participate** 👇 [https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne-event-34-55yrs-2-may-2026](https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne-event-34-55yrs-2-may-2026) . . **Want To Meet Someone?** All your friends in relationships? Are you better at talking in person? . . **Get 12 Fun Dates in 1 Night** Easily Meet New People Find someone to share your life ♥ Popular with professionals & everyday people . . **Simply Turn Up... ✅** We do the rest for you Be introduced to each date So you can easily chat one on one . . **Ladies Sit & Men Rotate** Simply rotate every 5mins Get paired & meet each other 👋 Most Come Alone, or Invite Friends . . **Click below to Be Matched (limited places)** [https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne-event-34-55yrs-2-may-2026](https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne-event-34-55yrs-2-may-2026) . . **That’s 12 Fun Mini Dates** Easily meet new people, And see what they're like Enjoy your privacy, I booked us the bar . . **Select Whoever You Like** Anonymously Tick Anyone You Fancy So there’s no fear of rejection 94% get matches the next day ✅ . . **Equally Booked Ratios 50:50** (we advertise everywhere not just on Meetup) There's plenty of people to meet 50-80 attendees at each event! Most book early, so don't miss out . . **Must click below to Attend (limited places)** [https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne-event-34-55yrs-2-may-2026](https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne-event-34-55yrs-2-may-2026) . . **Still Unsure? 😕** We Get It... But it's the easiest way To meet new people Try a new experience . . **It's Okay to Feel Nervous** It's easy once the first chat starts Every night you’ll meet 12 singles Worst case, you'll make new friends . . **And If It’s Your First Time** We’re all in the same boat ⛵ Just turn up, I’ll find you a seat Every 5mins we rotate everyone . . **You Enjoy Fun Chats** Many have already found love Tick ‘yes’ whenever you like someone Get your matches the next day ❤️ . . **It Builds Confidence** Even if you’re new to the game, You’ll get better at meeting people Introduced to each new person Find friends & new connections . . **Always Heaps of Attendees** ✅ Each week I spend thousands on Google and Meta ads And keep ratios balanced 50:50 So there’s always plenty of people to meet ✓ . . **Whatever You’re Looking For** They’re only one 5min chat away Book now though the link below & find your someone today 👇 [https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne-event-34-55yrs-2-may-2026](https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne-event-34-55yrs-2-may-2026)

**The Gals Monthly Walk** Replacing our women's only monthly brunch, we bring you our *Monthly Gals Walk*. As the months get cooler, and cost of living goes up, we need a place to be held accountable to getting out of bed, getting in our exercise and not spending a tonne of money we don't need to. Our monthly women's brunches have always been a space where we can be surrounded by like-minded women in a super welcoming setting, discuss important topics related to bettering ourselves and get below the surface level small talk - all whilst making some great new friends! You can still expect all of this at our monthly walks. Our *May* edition will focus on the topic of **BUDGETING TIPS & HACKS.** Bring all of your go-to tips, bring your questions you need answered and let's connect through movement and coffee. If the weather turns, we will still go ahead, just indoors at a local cafe. Make sure you follow our IG page for latest updates on events: https://www.instagram.com/findyourtribemelb/ This event is aimed at women who identify with being young spirited - typically women in their 20s, 30s and early 40s will attend, however we have also had women in their 60s and 70s. We are open to all ages 18+ as long as you identify with being female, young spirited and open minded. We can learn so much from different women at different stages of life. **Meeting Location: Baker Bleu, 183 Domain Road South Yarra.** Meet by 9am to order coffee. Walking by 9:20am.

* **What We’re About** You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with, so join us — and be part of a community that rises above circumstances and creates opportunities. Inspire and be inspired by those who make things happen. It's a relaxed, organic space to connect with like-minded people and network—genuinely talking, learning from each other, and connecting over shared interests. * **What to Expect** Casual Meetups: We gather semi-regularly at a local café to chat about everything from stepping outside your comfort zone to business ideas, creative projects, and building a life aligned with your purpose. It’s relaxed, easy, and welcoming—no need to have anything “figured out.” An Easy-Going Space: We keep things simple and low-pressure. Once everyone arrives, we ease in with some light conversation and naturally break into smaller groups. Networking: Feel free to introduce yourself or let people know what you're working on if you feel like it. And if anyone wants to quickly shout out what they’re working on or looking for before we settle in, go for it—it’s a great way to spark new conversations. * **Host Support** If you’d like a one-on-one chat with me about your business, just tap me on the shoulder. I’ll be floating around and happy to make time for you. **Quick note for the day:** Depending on the weather, we might go for a walk too. Just remember to wear comfy shoes 🌞 👟 🥾:) ❗If you're running late, drop me a quick message as we might leave the cafe for a walk within the last 30-45 minutes. 🏃 🏃‍♂️ 🏃‍♀️

ADDRESS: it is inside Mid City Centre, 200 Bourke Street, Old Street Hunan Restaurant 老街湘菜馆 I will be in front of the restaurant holding a MEETUP" sign from 6:30 to 6:35. Please update your RSVP. Please join our Facebook Group; the Link is attached here: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/172BrZ4TKU/ Authentic Hunan Style Chinese food. 正宗传统湘菜，有回家的温馨感觉。 It's a very immersive eating environment, with all the popular street names hanging on the wall, very homely. It is my hometown food by the way. I can make some good suggestions, and we can share a few dishes together if you guys like. Organiser's fees组织者费用: free event. Please "Subscribe" and "Like" the group video. [https://youtu.be/qkLR5DalbFE?si=znCIeVXE7wCPHhT0](https://youtu.be/qkLR5DalbFE?si=znCIeVXE7wCPHhT0)

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

Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!

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

Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!

Get ready to connect, collaborate, and grow your community at the ***Smashing Your Sales Goals (SYSG) Spring Meet-N-Greet!*** *Smash Nation*— a vibrant and welcoming community for creative consultants, social innovators, professional service providers, entrepreneur support professionals, and the small business ecosystem builders —invites you to join in welcoming the Spring 2026 Cohort of dedicated business owners ready to take their venture to the next level. Join ***SYSG*** cohort members, trainers, sponsors, and partners for an engaging and interactive networking experience. This isn't just another meet-and-greet; it's a dynamic opportunity to gather, strengthen relationships, and actively brainstorm business development opportunities in a relaxed and supportive environment. Come ready to: * ***Connect*** with key players and potential collaborators in the small business community. * ***Share*** your successes, challenges, and insights with peers. * ***Brainstorm*** innovative strategies for sales and business growth. * ***Discover*** new partnerships and future partners. Let's amplify our collective impact and smash those sales goals together! **Who Should Attend:** Spring, Summer, and Fall 2025 Cohort Members, Spring 2026 Cohort members, Trainers, Facilitators, Program Sponsors, Future Sponsors, Velocity Applicants, and Program Partners. **When**: Tuesday, May 26, 2926 **Where**: Warner Wood Park and Pavilion [4747 Central College Road, Columbus, OH 43081](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Warner+Woods+Park+%26+Pavilion/@40.0999435,-82.8601323,839m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x88385f0025d4381b:0xc15eb51285691f4f!8m2!3d40.1002108!4d-82.8612015!16s%2Fg%2F11wb2pg50g?authuser=0&entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAwNS4yIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) **Time**: 4pm-6pm [To Officially Register Go To --> https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/W0CGLL8jvz4EkLNK5jav?notrack=true](https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/W0CGLL8jvz4EkLNK5jav?notrack=true) Meet ***Smashing Your Sales Goals*** expert trainers, sales coaches, community supporters and partners. Learn more about upcoming SYSG events, trainings coaching opportunities to help take your business from surviving to thriving today! This event is FREE and OPEN to the PUBLIC!

**A Transformative Half-Day Event** Welcome to Confidence Lab, the ultimate experience designed to help you step into your most confident self. This half-day event is packed with actionable strategies, inspiring sessions, and opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals who are ready to invest in their personal and professional growth. Whether you’re looking to advance in your career, deepen your self-belief, or simply embrace new challenges, Confidence Lab is your starting point. **What You’ll Experience** **Your Confidence Lab ticket includes:** * **Engaging Speaker Sessions**: Learn from experts about harnessing confidence in your career, relationships, and everyday life. * **Interactive Experiences:** Participate in dynamic activities designed to help you step into your most confident self. * **In-Depth Audience Q&A:** Get direct insights from speakers as they answer your most pressing questions about building confidence and stepping into leadership. * **Networking Opportunities**: Connect with a supportive community of professionals and confidence enthusiasts. **2026 Speaker Sessions:** * **Seeing Clearly** Understand how you show up - and what’s been getting in the way. * **Confidence in Relationship** Communicate, navigate conflict, and build trust more effectively. * **Sustainable Agency** Learn how to lead without burning out. Your energy is part of the strategy. * **Confidence in Service** Align how you show up with the impact you actually want to have. **This Is For You If…** * You’re ready to take up more space in your work or life * You want to communicate with clarity and confidence * You’re stepping into (or preparing for) leadership * You’re done second-guessing yourself **Our Speakers** **Lachandra Baker** Founder of LBB Edutainment and the kind of person who makes you realize you’ve been confusing confidence with performance your whole life. Lachandra blends psychology, research, and radical humanity to help individuals and teams stop code-switching their way through the day and start showing up as someone they actually recognize. Expect to be challenged, affirmed, and genuinely seen - sometimes all in the same breath. **Annette Santiago Reyes** Annette has a rare talent: she makes the way you communicate feel like a discovery, not a critique. A connection catalyst and culture strategist, she helps people understand why they show up the way they do, and how to bridge the gap between intention and impact. Whether you're navigating change, life’s challenges, or simply trying to better understand yourself and others. Annette gives you the language and the lens to get there. **Elizabeth Wangugi** Creator of The Nap Concert and the RESTOR™ framework, Elizabeth is here to tell you that rest is not a reward - it’s a strategy. Rooted in neuroscience and restorative practice, her work helps high-achievers stop running on fumes and start leading from a place of actual capacity. If your calendar is full and your tank is empty, Elizabeth might be the most important person you hear from at Confidence Lab. **Stephanie Andrews** Founder of Social Black Butterfly Training & Consulting, Stephanie knows what it takes to lead through complexity because she’s done it across social services, healthcare, and operations. She specializes in succession strategy and leadership development, equipping leaders to build trust, navigate the hard moments, and leave something worth inheriting. Stephanie doesn’t just develop leaders. She develops the kind of leaders people actually want to follow. **Lillian Morales-Laster** SVP Human Resources Director at United Midwest Savings Bank and Executive Director of the Empowering Latinas Leadership Academy (ELLA). Lillian has spent her career combining her passion for equity and inclusion with her experience in human resources to lead teams and organizations in the development of supportive work environments. She leads with a vision of ensuring Latinas' voices are included in crucial decision-making processes, because for Lillian, ELLA is more than just a program. It's a vibrant community of hermanas supporting and uplifting each other as they navigate their paths to leadership. A Columbus Business First Community Champion and Distinguished Hispanic Ohioan, her commitment to empowering others shows up everywhere she goes. **Rachyl Kershaw** Founder of Greater Columbus Consulting and the architect behind the Confidence Lab Annual Summit, Rachyl has a gift for cutting through the noise, helping high-achievers stop performing success and start living it. She asks the questions most people are afraid to, creates space for honest reckoning, and somehow makes the hard work feel energizing. If you’ve ever wondered why doing everything right still feels like something’s missing, you’re in exactly the right room. **Why Confidence Lab?** Confidence is the foundation for success in every area of life. Whether you’re navigating a career change, launching a business, or striving for personal growth, building your confidence is the key to unlocking your higher purpose. This is your chance to invest in yourself and start living boldly. **Join Us on May 4** Confidence Lab is more than just an event - it’s a movement. Step into your power, embrace your potential, and make this the year you thrive. Secure your spot today and take the first step toward a more confident YOU. Cost should never be a barrier to growth. If you'd like to request a complimentary community ticket, reach out to us at [hello@confidencelab.org](hello@confidencelab.org), no explanation needed. Read more and see additional ticketing options at [https://confidencelab.org/](https://confidencelab.org/)

Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!