Speakers & Events

### **🌍 Open Discussion & Networking Evening at GTC Café** Looking for a friendly and engaging environment to share ideas, meet new people, and expand your network? Join us every **Wednesday at 6 PM** for an open discussion and networking session at **GTC Café**. Whether you’re here to make new friends, discuss professional topics, or simply enjoy thought-provoking conversations, this event is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. *** **🗣️ What to Expect:** * **Free Discussions**: Talk about any topic of interest—current events, cultural insights, personal experiences, or global trends. * **Networking Opportunities**: Expand your professional connections and exchange ideas about career growth and development. * **Friendship Building**: Meet locals and internationals in Helsinki and form meaningful connections. * **Language Practice**: Practice English or learn from others in a supportive environment. *** **📋 Event Details:** * **Day & Time**: Every Wednesday, 6 PM * **Location**: GTC Café, Ruoholahdenkatu 8, 00180 Helsinki 📍 * **Entry Fee**: Free, but ordering a drink or snack is mandatory 🍵 * **Each week's discussion topic** will be announced in our café's WhatsApp group and on our Instagram page — so make sure to follow us and stay updated! *** **✨ Guidelines for a Positive Experience:** * 🍹 Order a drink or snack upon arrival (mandatory). * 🚫 Outside food and drinks are not allowed. * 🧹 Please respect the café staff and ensure the space is clean and tidy when you leave. * 🤝 Be polite and respectful to everyone. *** **👉 Join Our Community:** * 📨 **WhatsApp Group**: Stay updated about future events. [Click here to join.](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JU94iEW0dHlHMgPDwR9s27) European phone numbers are automatically accepted; contact us on Instagram for others. **Why Join Us?** * Expand your professional and personal network. * Engage in meaningful and fun discussions. * Enjoy a welcoming space to meet locals and internationals. Mark your calendar and join us every Tuesday at GTC Café for an enriching evening of conversation and connection. See you there! *** ### **🌍 Avoin Keskustelu- ja Verkostoitumisilta GTC Cafessa** Etsitkö ystävällistä ja innostavaa ympäristöä jakaa ajatuksia, tutustua uusiin ihmisiin ja laajentaa verkostoasi? Liity seuraamme joka keskiviikko **klo 18** avoimeen keskustelu- ja verkostoitumisiltaan **GTC Cafessa**. Olitpa kiinnostunut uusien ystävien löytämisestä, ammattiaiheiden keskustelusta tai mieleenpainuvista keskusteluista, tämä tapahtuma tarjoaa täydellisen tilaisuuden luoda yhteyksiä samanhenkisten ihmisten kanssa rennossa ja kutsuvassa ilmapiirissä. *** **🗣️ Mitä Odottaa:** * **Vapaat Keskustelut**: Keskustele kiinnostavista aiheista—ajankohtaisista tapahtumista, kulttuurieroista, henkilökohtaisista kokemuksista tai globaaleista trendeistä. * **Verkostoitumismahdollisuudet**: Laajenna ammatillisia yhteyksiäsi ja vaihda ajatuksia urakehityksestä. * **Ystävyyssuhteiden Luominen**: Tapaa paikallisia ja kansainvälisiä ihmisiä Helsingissä ja muodosta merkityksellisiä yhteyksiä. * **Kielen Harjoittelu**: Harjoittele englantia tai opi muilta tukevassa ympäristössä. * **Kahvilamme** WhatsApp-ryhmässä ja Instagram-sivulla ilmoitetaan joka viikon keskusteluaihe – joten seuraa meitä pysyäksesi ajan tasalla! *** **📋 Tapahtuman Tiedot:** * **Päivä & Aika**: Joka keskiviikko, klo 18 * **Sijainti**: GTC Café, Ruoholahdenkatu 8, 00180 Helsinki 📍 * **Osallistumismaksu**: Maksuton, mutta juoman tai välipalan tilaaminen on pakollista 🍵 *** **✨ Ohjeet Mukavaan Iltaan:** * 🍹 Tilaa juoma tai välipala heti saapuessasi (pakollista). * 🚫 Ulkopuoliset ruoat ja juomat eivät ole sallittuja. * 🧹 Kunnioita kahvilan henkilökuntaa ja varmista, että paikka jää siistiksi lähtiessäsi. * 🤝 Ole kohtelias ja kunnioittava kaikkia kohtaan. *** **👉 Liity Yhteisöömme:** * 📨 **WhatsApp-ryhmä**: Pysy ajan tasalla tulevista tapahtumista. [Liity tästä](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JU94iEW0dHlHMgPDwR9s27). Eurooppalaiset numerot hyväksytään automaattisesti; muut ottakaa yhteyttä Instagramissa. **Miksi Liittyä?** * Laajenna ammatillista ja henkilökohtaista verkostoasi. * Osallistu mielekkäisiin ja hauskoihin keskusteluihin. * Nauti kutsuvasta ympäristöstä tavata paikallisia ja kansainvälisiä ihmisiä. Merkitse kalenteriisi ja liity seuraamme joka tiistai GTC Cafessa rikastuttavaan keskustelu- ja verkostoitumisiltaan. Nähdään siellä!

Embark on a journey of creativity and relaxation as you explore different artistic mediums. Immerse yourself in a sculpture painting workshop and discover a variety of techniques and styles. Led by experienced painting masters, our workshops provide expert guidance and insider tips to enhance your skills. We supply all the necessary materials, from paints and brushes to sculpting tools, so you can fully immerse yourself in the creative process. At the end of each session, take home your unique masterpiece as a memento of your artistic journey! Reserve your spot today by pre-booking through the links below. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to tap into your artistic potential. Join us at GTC Cafe's painting workshops and let your creativity soar! You can also arrange this workshop for special events, birthdays, or any other occasion to enjoy with friends. Simply let us know your preferred date at least one week in advance. We can't wait to paint with you!

🎲 **Board Game Wednesdays at GTC!** 🎲 Every Wednesday at **6:30 PM**, we gather for a fun evening of board games — one featured game each week! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, this is the perfect chance to learn, play, and meet new people in a relaxed atmosphere. Bring your friends or come solo , you’ll always find a group to join! ✨ **Entry Fee:** €7 for new visitors \| €5 for loyal customers Pääsymaksu: 7 euroa \| €5 for loyal customers 🎲 **Lautapeli-keskiviikot GTC:llä!** 🎲 Joka keskiviikko klo **18:30** kokoonnumme pelaamaan yhdessä yhtä lautapeliä viikossa. Olitpa sitten aloittelija tai kokenut pelaaja, tämä on loistava mahdollisuus oppia uutta, pelata ja tutustua uusiin ihmisiin rennossa ilmapiirissä. Tule kavereiden kanssa tai yksin, peliseuraa löytyy aina! ✨

【IMPORTANT SUMMARY】 * The purpose of competitive game session is to enjoy badminton games by focusing on trying your best to win the games. * You don't need to be a very good player to join this session. Our level range from beginner to intermediate. We will put you to play with people with similar level. But if you are the first time to come and I don't know your level, then I will put you to play with less-experienced players to start. * Please purchase your slot through this link [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/) Please also read the instruction inside this link, so that you have an idea how it works. * Please bring feather shuttles to join the games. We only accept specific shuttles. Please read the following. **If you come without bringing feather shuttles with you, I may ask you to go home.** 【SIGN-UP SYSTEM】 * Please sign up and pay through this link. [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game) * We don't use the signup system on Meetup.com anymore. (Neither the waiting list) * It says this event is full on this meetup page, because I didn't open any slots here for you to sign up. You have to check this [sign-up page](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game) to see if there is still a slot available there. * The background of using an external sign-up and payment system is because Meetup.com introduced a service fee to increase 21% of the fee in May 2023, and we want to reduce this cost. 【FEE and REFUND POLICY】 * Fee includes courts and the work I do to continue this group. Please sign up and pay before you come. NO refund if you do not cancel until 48 hours before the event. * Racket: bring one or rent one at the counter. * No matter the reason is sickness, accident or anything, the group or I will not afford the cost caused by your absence. * Of course you CAN'T ask me, "Can I sign up for free for next week because I didn't come to use my slot this week?". Please remember, the court booked for you is there and it costs money. The court doesn't simply become "free of charge", just because you didn't show up. 【COMMUNICATION】 * Communication: our whatsapp group [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347) * There are too many spams, so I only accept +358 number to join whatsapp group. Numbers from other countries will all be rejected. 【DETAILS of COMPETITIVE GAMES】 * This is the list of shuttles we accept: RSL Classic Tourney Li-Ning Super 1000 Victor Smash It 1 Victor Smash It 2 Yonex Aerosansa 30 Ling Mei Gold Ling Mei Black * Smash Center also sells feather shuttles (Ling Mei Gold and Black). You can purchase there at your arrival. 【OTHERS】 * Please always keep 1 meter away from those courts where people are playing. Never step into the corners of other courts! If I see you do this, I probably will yell at you! * If you have some questions, you can put your questions in the comments on the event page. People will respond. * If you are new to badminton, please Google basic badminton rules in advance. Serve rules, double rules and point counting rules. You are always welcome to ask anyone in our group. Most of our members are more than happy to help you. * Badminton activity is organized for non-profit purpose, but I take a small fee for my work. * Want to restring your racket? I can do restring for you. €24 including the string. Please get contact with Ken. [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing) * You want to pay with your sport card or voucher? check the bottom of the page. Click "read more" [https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/](https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/)

This Thursday is Christmas. If you’re spending it on your own, you’re more than welcome to join us and meet some new friends. You won’t be alone here. Come share your best (or worst) comedic mishaps, stories, and gossip in a relaxed, conversational meetup at **Kallio Bar** (right next to Street Bar) in Hakaniemi, Helsinki. Beers from **€6.50** 🍺, wine bottles **€25** 🍾 — and there will very likely be extra discounts 😉 Later in the evening, we might head to a nightclub together 🤗 Hope to see you there!

Hello sporty population! Let's gather around and play some badminton together with people from around the world! IMPORTANT! Spots are limited, so make sure you reserver yours! If you are not registered on the list, you will be kindly asked to leave; this is to ensure fair access for everyone! If you do not cancel your spot, you will be **suspended from participating** for the next two sessions. We will play in Talihalli Huopalahti from 11-12.30 Court numbers are 9-12; you can come directly to the courts or meet us at the entrance a bit before 11.00. Please keep in mind that if you go directly to the courts, **do not enter them before our time starts!** MIITTI welcomes everyone to its events regardless of background or gender. You don't have to have any skills at all to come and play with us, and if you do, please come and coach us! Age limit: 16+ Event is free, but please bring your rackets and indoor shoes, or you can rent (racket) from the hall for 3€ each. After badminton, we'll enjoy Talihalli's sauna and maybe go to a local restaurant to grab some lunch after the game. Warm welcome! For questions and more information, please contact Alaa 040 5656096 If you want to be part of the MIITTI community, follow us on our other platforms: WhatsApp: Join our Whatsapp community network to join your favourite group and stay connected with the other members! When you participate in one of our groups or events, just ask the group facilitator to add you to the community! [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/miitti1) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/miitti1) [Website](https://lapinlahdenlahde.fi/en/projekti/miitti)

Welcome to join our Ren Xue Yuan Gong practice! The practice is simple but yet practical and powerful. It is easy to learn and will help you: -gain energy, feel less tired and stressed -more mental clarity, easier to concentrate -boost your immune system Time: Sundays at 13:00 - 15:30 for advanced (over 1 year in the group) and at 15:30 - 17:00 for beginners NOTE: on the 16th and 30th of November, the beginners lesson will be in Wanha labra (through Kahvila Lähde, above the stairs of the auditorium) WHERE: Tallipääty, MIITTI office Lapinlahden Lähde Lapinlahdenpolku 8 00180 Helsinki How to find us: When entering into the courtyard of the yellow main building, MIITTI's office is through the first door on the left-hand side. About REN XUE Ren Xue is a comprehensive system for uplifting human life. It includes a unique form of Qigong (Yuan Qigong); three foundational theories (Theory of Qi, Theory of Consciousness, Theory of Totality) and a large body of teachings. It was created by world-renowned teacher and healer Yuan Tze who continues to offer online and in-person events worldwide. Ren Xue combines ancient Chinese wisdom traditions with modern insights into health and well-being. The goal of Ren Xue is to help individuals improve their physical, emotional, and mental health through a holistic approach that emphasizes the connection between the mind, body, and spirit. REN XUE FINLAND Ren Xue Finland (RXF) is the Finnish branch of the global movement, an organization dedicated to the promotion and teaching of Ren Xue and its associated practices, including Yuan Gong and Yuan Ming Medicine. It provides easy entry into the Ren Xue system through local in-person sessions, online courses and workshops/retreats. Other learning methods can be found here: Ren Xue TV, a YouTube channel and Learn Ren Xue website. More about Ren Xue: [https://www.renxueinternational.org/](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.renxueinternational.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR06uJQRSC7BE3zhPePQ7X_KO7WXa60cr7NK25KdOqfbSIHpYqBLO3dYgVM_aem_alDR7a6KhbNhG3u9NhCUVA&h=AT18asmYaRkvHCJemaC7rr9GVu579uflDCg7T6mLNodWdtMVhuxwFhIyz0p5ONeJbm3WQ3ZGIwONIa0_pDvih4t9BCCJUBkjhK4BdIMEl4aQ_qPzR5ykW-aiOndhYDPeAW9_2_eWZaMsv889HKbp8_c&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT35KTjVjr2kCnYHrXXjXPxEGFK-RFbZnFVdDmWrTe5WwbSZZ5ulNxFEjPPhejS8Pf4xetwkU1hhM1P2K_ABugpnXL6w-CKE25ARXwtLSexv-4fPJ4s2_Kcqgj3g2XWjCVkPPgcjwrPoNWOvdKa2f1VqyVa-2kcTojodTS3wn9zrnRjZLcG7) If you want to be part of the MIITTI community, follow us on our other platforms: IG: [instagram.com/miitti1](http://instagram.com/miitti1) Facebook: [facebook.com/miitti1](http://facebook.com/miitti1) Web: [lapinlahdenlahde.fi/projekti/miitti](http://lapinlahdenlahde.fi/projekti/miitti) Whatsapp: Join our Whatsapp community network to join your favourite group and stay connected with the other members! When you participate in one of our groups or events, just ask the group facilitator to add you to the community!

Join our cozy Book Club evening where we dive into meaningful stories and share ideas! Bring a book you’ve read recently and share your favorite quote, passage, or theme with others. It’s a relaxed space to connect, reflect, and enjoy conversation over a warm drink. 📅 Every Thursday 🕕 6:00 PM 📍 GTC Café 🎟 Participation: • No entry fee required • ☕ Minimum purchase: €5 (e.g. any drink/snack combo) Whether you're a regular reader or just curious to hear what others are reading, you're warmly welcome! Join and engage with the GTC Café community group to enjoy exclusive loyalty discounts and fan-only perks! **[Join Us](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JU94iEW0dHlHMgPDwR9s27)** 💬 **Discounts:** * **10% OFF** for students (with valid student ID) ** GTC Book Club** **A Different Way to Read Together** Welcome to tonight’s session! This is not your usual book club. Tonight, you won’t just talk about books, you’ll create, reflect, and share your own voice. ** What’s going to happen?** 1. You’ll write something of your own. Inspired by one of the most famous books in the world, you’ll be given a creative writing prompt. Don’t worry, this isn’t school, and it’s not about “good writing.” It’s about your thoughts, your feelings, your imagination. 2. You’ll share what you wrote with others. After everyone finishes their short writing (one page), we’ll form small groups where you can read your piece aloud, if you feel comfortable. 3. We’ll talk, not just about the book, but about your experiences, ideas, and each other. This is a space to connect through stories, not to judge or critique. 4. A little mystery… Your writing prompt will be randomly chosen from a sealed envelope. Each person will get a unique, personal question to inspire their page. What will your question be? You’ll find out soon  ** Just a few notes:** * You can write in English or any language you’re comfortable with. * No one is forced to read aloud, but we encourage you to share. * Be kind, open-minded, and supportive. * Enjoy the journey, not just the destination. Ready? Grab your envelope. Pick your pen. Let’s begin.

Embark on a journey of creativity and relaxation as you explore different artistic mediums. Immerse yourself in a sculpture painting workshop and discover a variety of techniques and styles. Led by experienced painting masters, our workshops provide expert guidance and insider tips to enhance your skills. We supply all the necessary materials, from paints and brushes to sculpting tools, so you can fully immerse yourself in the creative process. At the end of each session, take home your unique masterpiece as a memento of your artistic journey! Reserve your spot today by pre-booking through the links below. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to tap into your artistic potential. Join us at GTC Cafe's painting workshops and let your creativity soar! You can also arrange this workshop for special events, birthdays, or any other occasion to enjoy with friends. Simply let us know your preferred date at least one week in advance. We can't wait to paint with you!

### 🏐 **Friday Night Volleyball @ Töölö Kisahalli** **Your new Friday tradition for casual games, good food and fun vibes.** Join our volleyball community at FINE! We play every Friday night and our games are welcomed to players of all levels of experience, from first-timers and beginners to regular volleyball players. 🎟️ **Tickets** * FREE to join * Each week tickets open at noon on Tuesdays. * Tickets through KIDE here: [https://kide.app/events/a60dfab1-2ebf-4e2a-a518-da6cee4bd6a4](https://kide.app/events/a60dfab1-2ebf-4e2a-a518-da6cee4bd6a4) 📅 **When & Where** * **Every Friday \| 17\.10\.2025 – 27\.03\.2026** * **Time:** 19:00 – 21:00 * **Location:** Töölö Kisahalli, Helsinki 🧍‍♀️ **Before the Game** * You can enter the locker rooms 30 minutes early (from 18:30) to change and get ready * We always start with a warm-up before the games begin and encourage stretching throughout the evening 💥 **What to Expect** * Casual 6v6 matches with relaxed rules, easy for players of all levels of experience to enjoy * Bonus activities such as table tennis or motion-sensor games on select weeks * A welcoming, inclusive, and sober-friendly space for everyone 💬 **Join the Community Chat** Join our Social WhatsApp group with 200+ members! There we share weekly updates, discuss new activities or games, plan hangouts after matches, and answer any questions you have about the upcoming week. 👉 [Join the chat here](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IVaibUK9j47IrNhucYFfKy?mode=wwt)

Join us for lunch and meet our very successful group. We are each others sales team...always looking for referrals for our members. If you are looking for new clients, let us help you out! Bring your business cards and brochures to share with us. We have a speaker each week so that we can learn about their business. Because we have only one member per business, we have many of the spots filled. However, we are specifically looking for an estate attorney, a handyman/electrician, and an event planner. We have referrals for you! All visitors are welcome. Any questions contact [pmarchio@farmersagent.com](mailto:pmarchio@farmersagent.com)

Our January program is privileged to have Kristen Tregar as our speaker. Ms. Tregar is the co-author with John de Lancie (the actor who portrayed the character Q on Star Trek next generation) of a radio play depicting the events surrounding the Kitzmiller v. Dover Area School District trial. The trial decided the issue of some of the Dover school district board members attempting to insert creationism disguised as "intelligent design" into the 9th grade biology curriculum. She will discuss the trial and the process of writing the play. (Bob Leonhard has seen the play and it is riveting and tense). Ms. Tregar's bio is below: Kristen Tregar is a dramaturg, director, playwright, and theatre teacher. She earned her Ph.D. in Drama and Theatre from the UC San Diego and UC Irvine joint program. In addition, she has a MS in Forensic Science from City University of New York- John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a MA in Educational Theatre from New York University- Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. In 2013, in collaboration with Irish colleagues, she founded *The Ireland Project*, an intercontinental devised theatre work with high school students in New York and Tallaght, Ireland. Her original short story "Far From Here" was recently published in *Stay Awhile Longer: More Scenes From Temecula Valley*. She has two rescued dogs (Kira and Harry) and she rides, competes, and foxhunts with her horses, Andromache and Baker Street Irregular. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp.

[The Board Walks](www.theboardwalks.com) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** **and join us for a 5-mile walk** (10,000+ steps!). **What to expect:** We walk as a group and dive into topics that go beyond small talk. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **Come prepared:** We ask that you bring a thoughtful topic with you. At the start of the walk, everyone shares their topic with the group, and these become the launching points for conversations throughout our 5 miles together. Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. Be a good egg and bring a topic that'd make people go "Oooh, interesting." **Important notes:** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We welcome people of all ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). We want everyone to have a great experience, and this format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. **FAQs:** * We have multiple first-timers on each walk! We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are very welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **Logistics:** * **Arrive on time.** If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we kindly suggest that you skip the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and one of our goals is to create a "phone-free" space — which means everyone (including the host!) will be fully present. We can't answer messages during the event. * **Read our [Ground Rules](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules)**. Our host gives an overview of what to expect at the beginning of the walk. * **Share the magic**. If you enjoy the event, send **[this](www.theboardwalks.com)** to a friend. We're currently in 7 cities with more on the way (Austin, SF, NYC, Denver, Columbus, Boone, London). 🤠👋 **If you want to go deeper...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. * We're currently building our waitlist. Apply [here.](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board)

Mental Health, how do you understand it? How can you improve it? How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp. This group is hosted by the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

Step into 2026 with intention, clarity, and a creative practice designed to help you see yourself more clearly. In this special Confidence Lab session, we’ll explore confidence as something you can curate - through the choices you make, the qualities you amplify, and the story you choose to step into. We’ll start with a short guided reflection to surface the traits, habits, and energies you want to nurture in the coming year. Then, using collage materials selected specifically for this workshop, you’ll translate those insights into a visual composition that represents the version of yourself you’re ready to grow toward. This isn’t about resolutions or perfection. It’s about crafting a grounded, imaginative vision of your next chapter - one that feels honest, energizing, and fully yours. All materials are provided. Just bring yourself (and a friend) and a willingness to explore what confidence can look like for you in 2026. **Featured Partner: Columbus Collage Collective** The Columbus Collage Collective was started in August of 2023 by Emily Morgan (aka Lovely But Dead) and Douglas Cuckler (aka Wonder Doug) as a place for collage enthusiasts to gather and create art together. The collective has since become a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the mission to hold free or low-cost collage events across central Ohio. The CCC welcomes all artists of all backgrounds and skill levels and encourages folks to take this time to step away from everyday existence and create art with people who share a love for this dynamic art form. All materials—magazines, scissors, craft knives, glue, paper, cardboard, and more—are provided, so there's no need to bring anything at all (though you're welcome to bring a friend or a favorite tool if you'd like!). We also encourage folks to take home magazines and materials from our events to support continued creativity! Find us on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/columbuscollagecollective/](https://www.instagram.com/columbuscollagecollective/) Register or sign up for the newsletter at [https://www.columbuscollagecollective.com/](https://www.columbuscollagecollective.com/) **What is Confidence Lab?** Confidence Lab is a monthly community experience for bold, thoughtful leaders building confidence from the inside out. Whether you’re launching a business, leading a team, navigating change, or simply striving to show up more fully—you belong here. Our work demands clarity, courage, and conviction—but the pace of daily life can erode our sense of self. Confidence Lab creates space to reflect, reconnect, and grow with others doing purpose-driven work. It’s designed for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, creatives, corporate professionals, activists, and anyone ready to lead with authenticity and impact. ***Please note:*** *All are welcome! If cost is a concern, please use promo code PUBLIC to access a free ticket—we want you to join us.*

**Start the new year with a Braver Angels gathering focused on speaking openly and listening deeply.** **In small, structured groups, each person will have five minutes to share a political or social issue that matters to them and why- no debate, no interruption, just genuine curiosity.** **Participants will practice curiosity, reflecting back values and emotions they hear, asking thoughtful questions, and- only with permission- offering their perspective.** **It’s a simple and powerful way to connect with one another and begin the year with a respectful and courageous conversation.** **Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026** **Time: 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm** **Place: Columbus Metropolitan Library, Southeast Branch, 3980 Hamilton Rd, Groveport, Ohio** **All are welcome- bring a friend!** For additional information contact: Lee Evans at [LEvans@BraverAngels.org](mailto:LEvans@BraverAngels.org)