Single Parents

## 1 Million Cups Loudoun – January 14 ### Business Presentation Featuring Yomna Sarhan of L-Lab **Wednesday\, January 14 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun – Ashburn** Join us for our January 14th **1 Million Cups Loudoun** meeting as we welcome **Yomna Sarhan**, founder of **L-Lab**, an innovative after-school enrichment program designed to transform how children learn and grow beyond the classroom. ### About the Presenter Yomna Sarhan brings a diverse and impressive background to her entrepreneurial journey. She is a former **project manager overseeing $8M+ in government contracts**, has led **multidisciplinary teams of more than 20 employees**, and is a **multilingual consultant** who has worked in over **10 countries**. Yomna also founded a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the **Society of Egyptian American Professionals**, reflecting her long-standing commitment to education and community development. ### About the Business L-Lab was born out of a personal experience. When Yomna’s daughter was entering kindergarten, she discovered a lack of high-quality, enriching after-school programs in Loudoun County. Many existing programs focused solely on supervision rather than meaningful learning—despite children spending 10–15 hours per week and families investing significant resources in aftercare. L-Lab is changing that narrative. L-Lab is an **after-school language immersion enrichment program** for elementary-aged children, blending: * STEAM-based learning * Social-emotional development * Montessori-inspired approaches In addition to after-school programming, L-Lab offers **full-day camps** during school breaks, including winter, spring, and teacher workdays. ### Where Yomna Is Now L-Lab is currently in the **launch/startup phase**, with the full after-school program beginning in early January and a winter break program running at the end of December. Yomna is focused on enrollment, program validation, and building a strong foundation for growth. ### Feedback Yomna Is Seeking from the Community Yomna is coming to the 1 Million Cups stage looking for thoughtful feedback and insight on key challenges, including: * How to **shift the mindset around after-school programs** from “time-filling childcare” to meaningful enrichment * The most strategic way to **scale after a successful pilot** (January–June): * Expanding curriculum into schools * Focusing on one location first * How to **find and retain high-quality part-time staff** aligned with L-Lab’s mission and values ### Who Should Attend Yomna would especially love to have: * Entrepreneurs with experience **scaling service-based businesses** * Founders who have **modified or diversified offerings as they grew** * Parents and guardians interested in education, enrichment, and after-school programming ### What Is 1 Million Cups? 1 Million Cups is a national program powered by the Kauffman Foundation that brings together entrepreneurs and community members for weekly conversations that educate, support, and inspire. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month. Join us on **January 14 at 9:00 AM** for coffee, connection, and a meaningful conversation about reimagining after-school education in Loudoun County. **We look forward to seeing you there.**

Come out every Wednesday from 6 to 9 to play Flesh and Blood TCG!

## **1 Million Cups Loudoun – January 14 Business Presentation** **Featuring Eric Wojtkun of Focal Point Coaching** **Wednesday\, January 14 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun – Ashburn** Join us for our **January 14th 1 Million Cups Loudoun** meeting as we welcome **Eric Wojtkun**, founder of **Focal Point Coaching**, for a powerful conversation on leadership, resilience, and preparing businesses to thrive before challenges arise. **About the Presenter** Eric brings a rare and compelling background to entrepreneurship. An **Army BRAT, Army Veteran, and FBI Agent**, Eric has lived in 17 places, served two overseas deployments (Bosnia and Kosovo), and worked across nearly every major FBI discipline — from violent and white-collar crime to cyber, counterintelligence, crisis response, and national security. After decades of leadership in high-stakes environments, Eric launched **Focal Point Coaching** to focus on what mattered most to him throughout his career: **helping people and organizations build resilience in the face of change and adversity**. Through executive coaching and team development, Eric helps leaders move from survival mode into what he calls **“BEAST mode”** — prepared, confident, and proactive. His exclusive resilience-focused coaching framework supports leadership, teams, processes, culture, and cyber readiness before a crisis occurs. **Where Eric Is Seeking Community Feedback** * How do you effectively market **resilience preparation** *before* a critical incident occurs? * What helps leaders and business owners clearly understand the **ROI of resilience coaching**? * How can resilience training be integrated into the flow of **normal business operations**? * What motivates leaders to prepare mentally and emotionally for the inevitable challenges of business? **Who Should Attend** Eric is especially eager to connect with: * Small to mid-sized business owners in the **hospitality industry** * Leaders responsible for teams, culture, and operations * Entrepreneurs experienced in scaling service-based businesses * Anyone interested in leadership, preparedness, and sustainable growth Come ready to listen, learn, and offer meaningful insight to support a founder building something impactful. ### What Is 1 Million Cups? 1 Million Cups is a national program powered by the Kauffman Foundation that brings together entrepreneurs and community members for weekly conversations that educate, support, and inspire. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month. Join us on **January 14 at 9:00 AM** for coffee, connection, and a meaningful conversation about reimagining after-school education in Loudoun County. **We look forward to seeing you there.**

📚 Do you love reading, but wish you had a structure and a community to share your insights with? Join our small circle of curious minds (just 4 members per gathering) as we come together for an hour of focused reading—in the calm setting of a library or the cozy atmosphere of a café. Here’s how it works: First part: Quiet reading on your own—bring a book you’re exploring, whether it’s philosophy, history, psychology, literature, or anything meaningful to you. Second part: We regroup and each person shares key takeaways, insights, or questions sparked by their reading. This sparks a structured yet free-flowing conversation around ideas, perspectives, and personal reflections. Why join? Add structure to your reading habit. Discover new books, authors, and ideas through others’ choices. Build real connections by sharing and listening deeply. Socialize around something meaningful instead of small talk.

This location is where GRASP started in April 2022 and we're so excited to see it open as a pizza restaurant again! This will be a great opportunity to meet friends old and new while enjoying pizza that has become quite a hit in the DMV area! Andy's serves pizza by the slice and also wine by the bottle. Two slices of pizza and a coke cost about $12. It all started with a ball of Trader Joe’s pizza dough. Over nearly a decade, Andy Brown has refined his recipe from semihomemade to a from-scratch crust that ferments for 72 hours before it’s baked in a hot stone oven. This location, in Kentlands, is the newest but Andy’s is quickly mushrooming around DC and NoVA. With its pliable crust, tangy tomatoes, and high-quality cheese, this is one of the most awarded pizzas in the DMV.

**Leave behind the rushed pace of traditional speed dating and embrace a more relaxed approach to meeting new people, facilitated by a [Dating Coach](https://lovedandfulfilled.com/) with prepared Conversation Icebreakers.** **💕 All ages!** **💕Different sections for different age groups.** Must[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1972845805913?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[RSVP HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1972845805913?aff=oddtdtcreator)** (Event is posted on multiple platforms, attendees list on Meetup does not reflect the actual number of RSVPs) * Easy-going meet & greet to socially warm up * Prepared questions to facilitate meaningful conversations and to assess compatibility * Engaging discussions in small groups * Opportunity to talk to every single person present * Stress free matchmaking by the coach after the event (no need to ask for contact info on the spot, you will get it after the event) * Fun games to play together Whether you are an introvert or an extravert, welcoming and easy-going environment is guaranteed. You won't have to sweat the small talk, and event will be structured to make connecting effortless. **Cost:** $35 (Pay through[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1299434316019?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1815006977729?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1815006977729?aff=oddtdtcreator)or **Venmo** to @Irena-Polyakova (1469) include your email address) **Location**: Uncle Jalapeno Restaurant in Herndon. **Time**: 3:00 pm \~ Irena

\*\*\*This event is cross-posted with the DMV Childfree Meetup and the Northern Virginia Childfree Couples and Individuals Meetup; if attending, please RSVP on only one group or the other. The event will be at a private home in Nokesville, VA, hosted by Kristina and Tom! The address will be provided to attendees shortly before the event date. Please bring something to share. Ideas include a meat, egg, potato, pasta, vegetable, grain, legume, sweet, or fruit dish; a salad; or cheese/charcuterie. Bring whatever you feel comfortable with -- and it can be either homemade or from a grocery store or restaurant. As the event date draws near, attendees can post in the chat the type of item they plan to bring. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/nokidsinnovadcmd](https://www.facebook.com/groups/nokidsinnovadcmd) ***

Come ready to play and Mingle with us on Friday January 16th at the Bench in Washingtonian Rio. We will play a game or two on the "Art of Seduction".The Bench is located at 9751 Washingtonian Boulevard. We will meet at 5 for Happy Hour. Games will start around 6 PM. Parking is available at the hotel or across the way at the Rio.

Start the New Year on a high note at an exclusive singles mixer set inside Philippe Chow, the legendary upscale Chinese restaurant newly arrived at the DC Wharf Waterfront. With its polished interiors and signature sophistication, this iconic venue offers a stylish and inviting atmosphere where new beginnings feel natural and exciting. As the waterfront comes alive, singles from across the city will gather for an evening centered on connection and discovery. The elegant setting and vibrant energy of Philippe Chow create the perfect environment for easy conversation, shared laughs, and moments that spark curiosity and chemistry. This mixer is designed for those ready to welcome what the New Year has to offer. Whether you’re looking to meet new friends, explore romantic possibilities, or simply enjoy an elevated social experience, the night encourages openness, confidence, and genuine interaction. Throughout the evening, the blend of lively conversation and refined surroundings makes it effortless to connect. Every introduction carries the promise of something more, turning casual exchanges into meaningful moments that linger long after the night ends. Join us at the Wharf for an unforgettable New Year kickoff where fresh faces, new energy, and exciting connections come together. At Philippe Chow, the start of the year is not just a celebration, but an invitation to something new. **Can't make this event? Sign up for FREE on our website to get updates on future events:** [www.Intelligent.Events](https://www.intelligent.events/ "https://www.Intelligent.Events")

Join us for a laid-back Sunday Brunch. The Brunch is All-You-Can-Eat buffet and a bottle of Champagne (750 ml) with Orange Juice. You make your own mimosa. Just only for $ 35.00 per person without tax & gratuity! It includes French toast, pancakes, waffles, omelettes made to order, Pasta, Salads, Roast Beef, Pork Ribs, oyster bar, cheese bar and Salmon, plenty of fresh fruit, yogurt, cakes, cookies, and pudding....mmmm! After brunch, we have a Happy Hour, where lots of people join us to mingle and socialize. Closest Metro Station is Clarendon. Please take into account Metro's Weekend Track Work & Service Adjustments. Check it on http://www.wmata.com/ and plan accordingly. http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/7/a/8/2/600_400351362.jpeg http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/a/2/8/600_405471752.jpeg

Casual coffee and food hang at Caboose Commons for expectant and new parents. Drop in anytime, bring kids or come solo, and stay as long as you’d like. No agenda — just good conversation.

Please join us for dinner at Kook Dogg Cafe, a local small business! It's an 8 minute walk from the Reston Town Center Metro stop. Parking is also available. I'll bring nametags. The restaurant can split up checks by single or couple. https://kookdoggcafe.com/menu/

Imagine beginning the New Year feeling refreshed, optimistic, and genuinely excited about the people around you. You step into *Greenhouse Kitchen + Bar* in Tysons Corner and are immediately met with warm lighting, sleek modern design, upbeat music, and an inviting buzz in the air. Cocktails are being poured, conversations are flowing, and the energy feels intentional—stylish yet relaxed, lively yet comfortable. It’s the kind of space that makes you feel at ease the moment you arrive. Now imagine connecting with open-hearted professionals from different industries—people who are curious, engaging, and ready to start the year with purpose. This curated singles mixer is designed for authentic camaraderie, companionship, and meaningful connection. Whether you’re open to romance, new friendships, or simply expanding your circle with positive, like-minded people, this evening is about real moments and shared energy—not profiles or algorithms. Picture conversations unfolding naturally as you move through the space—laughing over small plates, bonding over shared experiences, and feeling that subtle spark when you meet someone who resonates. Light icebreakers help set the tone, but nothing feels forced. The vibe is social, uplifting, and genuine, allowing chemistry and connection to develop at your own pace in a setting that celebrates being yourself. This is your invitation to start the year differently. Put the apps away, step into real life, and choose presence over swiping. Imagine the friendships, connections, and possibilities waiting for you as the year begins—we can’t wait to welcome you, meet you, and kick off the New Year together! **Can't make this event? Sign up for FREE on our website to get updates on future events:** [www.Intelligent.Events](https://www.intelligent.events/ "https://www.Intelligent.Events")

Imagine beginning the New Year feeling refreshed, optimistic, and genuinely excited about the people around you. You step into *Greenhouse Kitchen + Bar* in Tysons Corner and are immediately met with warm lighting, sleek modern design, upbeat music, and an inviting buzz in the air. Cocktails are being poured, conversations are flowing, and the energy feels intentional—stylish yet relaxed, lively yet comfortable. It’s the kind of space that makes you feel at ease the moment you arrive. Now imagine connecting with open-hearted professionals from different industries—people who are curious, engaging, and ready to start the year with purpose. This curated singles mixer is designed for authentic camaraderie, companionship, and meaningful connection. Whether you’re open to romance, new friendships, or simply expanding your circle with positive, like-minded people, this evening is about real moments and shared energy—not profiles or algorithms. Picture conversations unfolding naturally as you move through the space—laughing over small plates, bonding over shared experiences, and feeling that subtle spark when you meet someone who resonates. Light icebreakers help set the tone, but nothing feels forced. The vibe is social, uplifting, and genuine, allowing chemistry and connection to develop at your own pace in a setting that celebrates being yourself. This is your invitation to start the year differently. Put the apps away, step into real life, and choose presence over swiping. Imagine the friendships, connections, and possibilities waiting for you as the year begins—we can’t wait to welcome you, meet you, and kick off the New Year together! **Can't make this event? Sign up for FREE on our website to get updates on future events:** [www.Intelligent.Events](https://www.intelligent.events/ "https://www.Intelligent.Events")

Finally, a young adult group that includes ages 25+ This is a brand new small group! We will be studying the sermon on the mount 🤗

**Did you know that female friendships are critical for every woman's well-being and longevity? Scientifically proven fact!** *Ladies, join me for a special gathering, let's celebrate the power of female friendships* *and* *empower each other through sharing our stories 💕* As a host & [Life and Relationship Coach](https://lovedandfulfilled.com/), I will be there to create a safe, fun space to truly connect and have conversations about life & love. Please [RSVP HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1979238487596?aff=oddtdtcreator) for me to know who is coming. **When**: January 24th at 2:00 pm. **Location:** True Food Kitchen in Reston Send me a direct message (571-315-1469) if you are running late and please only RSVP if you are coming. I look forward to seeing you there. \~ Irena