Speeches

After some great discussions using these cards, we just had to continue! "It isn't easy to get into a good conversation. Many of our best ones seem to have happened by chance. Far from it - we believe a great conversation always starts with someone asking a great question.” The School of Life cards contain questions designed to get a group of people into entertaining and meaningful conversations. This is a casual, social and fun event where we share our thoughts and experiences with a group. We can cover topics like: Personality & Emotions, Work & Money, Family & Friendship, Travel, Culture & Taste, depending on the questions that end up being asked on the day. Please arrive hungry/thirsty for us to keep up a good relationship with the venue that allows us to host our events. \*\*\* Meaningful Discussions events take place in 11 countries and this will be our 147th event in Melbourne! :) Please be try to arrive on time if you can. This event will allow a thoughtful, respectful and engaging discussion. So if you're looking for open-minded, friendly and intelligent people, you've come to the right place!

Join the MSS for our first meeting of 2026, to explore the themes of **'Magic, Illusion, Power, and Gender'** which will thread through our readings and discussions this year. We will kick off the meeting with a viewing of the 'Upstart Crow' episode on 'Macbeth', which will lead into an overview of this year's MSS programme and a discussion of representations of witches and magic in the plays of Shakespeare and fellow playwrights. Please see the Facebook page for further details. As always, there will be an afternoon tea to connect with our community of Shakespeare and theatre lovers. We look forward to seeing you there! Cost: $7 per person (cash only).

Do you live in the Southern suburbs? Want to explore what the Southern suburbs has to offer? Or are you just interested to catch-up with like-minded people? Once a month Steph hosts our Southern socials. It is a great opportunity to meet others. Our emphasis is on fun whilst helping and supporting each other. The socials include drinks and chats, casual coffees, dinners and other activities suggested by members from time to time. Our socials are informal and open to all. We pay for own food and drinks individually and there is no charge for the organisation of the events. We hope to see you!

**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-7-feb-2026/](https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne/event-34-55yrs-7-feb-2026/) . . **Want To Meet Someone?** All your friends in relationships? Are you better at talking in person? . . **Get 10 Fun Dates in 1 Night** Easily Meet New People Find someone to share your life ♥ Popular with professionals & everyday people . . **In Person Meetup🔥** Easily chat one on one See what they're like Be introduced up to 12 singles . . **Simply Book & Turn Up** Our Host Introduces You And pairs you on a new date every 6mins No pressure simply say hi 👋 . . **Click below to Be Matched (limited places)** [https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne/event-34-55yrs-7-feb-2026/](https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne/event-34-55yrs-7-feb-2026/) . . **Host Rotates the Guys** 🧊 Not approaching strangers Get paired & meet each other So there's no fear of rejection . . **Be Automatically Matched** With a new date every 6mins No swiping, no messing around Instantly meet, chat in person, repeat ✅ . . **Just Fun 6min Dates** So there's no pressure Message your favorites after the event Find friends, connection & romance . . **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 . . **If It's Your First Time?** We're all in the same boat ⛵ Simply book & turn up, it's easy Most come alone, or bring a friend . . **Must click below to Attend (limited places)** [https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne/event-34-55yrs-7-feb-2026/](https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne/event-34-55yrs-7-feb-2026/) . . **Still Unsure? 😕** We Get It... Why not take a chance? You meet around 12 singles Eventually you'll find someone . . **It's Okay to Feel Nervous** It's easy once the first chat starts Worst case, you'll make new friends . . **You Enjoy Fun Chats 🔥** Builds Confidence Meeting People They're only one 6min chat away... Book now & find your someone today . . **Find Real Connections** Have Plans for Your Weekends Actually meet without 1 million DMs Makes friends & builds your social circle ♥ . . **Most Book Early, Don't Miss Out** Balanced ratios means limited places Venues have fixed capacity - not endless . . **What Are You Waiting For?** Most book early, so don't miss out Must book through Link to attend Book now and find your someone today . . **View all Melbourne events below** 👇 [https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne/](https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne/)

Let's make the most of daylight savings to do more of what we love. Bring your own book, read in silence, and we'll gather afterwards for a chat about what we enjoyed. **ITINERARY** 11am: Meet at the lawn outside Kere Kere Green Cafe next to the visitor information centre at Fitzroy Gardens. Find a cosy spot to read. You might want to take your book for a meander around the park. 12.15pm: Meet back on the lawn to chat about your book. 1pm: End of event. **Note:** Feel free to bring your deck chair / picnic mat, whatever you need to feel comfy. Coffee and lunch can be purchased from the cafe. If you're running late, look for us at 12.15pm on the lawn outside Kere Kere Green Cafe. There is an organizer fee of $5 for this event. You can bring cash on the day or PayID me at 0403 413 056 (Serena Low). **Getting there:** The closest train stations are Jolimont (2 min across the road) and Parliament (10 min walk).

MUST TAP “ATTEND” (PLEASE SPECIFY NUMBER OF GUESTS) FREE ENTRY ONLY IF YOU BRING A FRIEND. This is an extremely popular event so please RSVP EARLY to avoid disappointment as PLACES ARE LIMITED. Please arrive on time at 8pm as NO ADMISSION WILL GRANTED ONCE THE VENUE REACHES FULL CAPACITY. LAST ENTRY STRICTLY AT 8.30PM

Our late afternoon get-together, (4-6pm) for a drink and conversation *en français* at Southgate food court by the Yarra river. It is easy to find. We will get together in the sheltered seating area (as per photo above) outside the food court *en plein air.* Southgate food court is just across the river from Flinders Street Station. We can buy a glass of wine or hot drink inside the food court. A glass of wine costs $11 at Grill'd or Rhumbas. Any change of arrangement, will be posted on the meetup website.

The 5th edition of Victoria's Pride Street Party will be back and this time, teaming up with UBQ to bring you an exclusive FREE speed friending event to match, connect, meet and network with people before the street party. Event is FREE. Register your interest. I AM BACK to host with a few other volunteers to greet you. Register here: [Register here ](https://www.trybooking.com/DICST) Speed friending is a new and exclusive event and a new twist on speed dating but we are NOT a dating group. This is a way to meet the right people. A way to CONNECT to then go and check out the street party together and hang out for the day to really cement those deep connections. There will be 3 rounds. Doors open 11:30am speed friending starts at 12pm with 3 rounds of connection. **First time to an event:** \- This is alot of people's first time attending but have a range of people to help you meet\, get comfortable and move around the venue\. \- Feel nervous\, this is the perfect and structured way to meet and connect with like minded people **Don't know anyone:** \- Most people attending do not know each other either\. However\, after 3 rounds of connecting\, you’ll be sure to make at least one friend\. **Will be clique and stand in corner on my own** \- NOT at this event\! Everyone is there to meet and speed friend \- You'll be too busy connecting and meeting and mingling to be on your phone \- Throughout event\, you will move and mix to connect with 3 rounds **Food:** \- Can be purchased at venue throughout the day **Venue:** UBQ, 97 Smith st Collingwood, upstairs **How to get there:** \- Most road and streets around will be closed\, be to check your local public transport \- Venue is upstairs

If you’d enjoy a relaxed Sunday afternoon wandering through beautiful spaces, sharing thoughtful conversation, and ending the day over a lovely dinner — you’re warmly invited to join us. This is a women-only gathering designed to make connection feel **easy, unforced, and nourishing**, with art, movement, and shared experience doing the heavy lifting. ### Meet time & place **4:00pm – Meet inside the NGV, Great Hall** Please enter the **NGV (180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne)** and walk through **Federation Court**. We’ll meet in the **Great Hall**. (This meeting spot is easy to find once inside — see map/photo in the event images.) ### Gallery wander + conversation **4:00pm – 5:00pm** We’ll spend the afternoon **wandering a limited area of the NGV together**, moving at an easy pace and allowing conversations to unfold naturally as we explore. This is a relaxed, unstructured wander — there’s no rush and no expectation to see everything. The gallery provides a beautiful backdrop for: * Gentle conversation * Reflections sparked by art and design * Easy connections without small talk pressure As with other **Good Conversations Club** events, you’re welcome to arrive exactly as you are. I’ll have **conversation prompts available** that you’re welcome to use if you’d like — or not at all. They’re simply there to support ease, connection, and meaningful conversation if you want them. ### Walk to dinner The NGV closes at **5:00pm**, so we’ll meet out front, then take a **short walk (approx. 10 minutes)** together towards Flinders Street Station. ### Dinner **5:30pm – 7:00pm** **Chocolate Buddha** (very close to Flinders Street Station) Dinner is a chance to sit, slow down, and continue conversations over (shared?) food. You’re welcome to join for the gallery wander only, or both — dinner is optional but encouraged. ### Who this event is for This is a **women-only** event for those who are: * Young at heart and open-minded * Interested in art, culture, and meaningful conversation * Comfortable in mixed-age groups * Looking for connection without pressure or performance There’s no strict age range — you’ll likely meet women across different life stages who value presence, curiosity, and good conversation. (In general, ages of people attending our events have been around 25-50 years) ### Important notes * Entry to the NGV is free * Dinner is pay-your-own * Please arrive on time so we can begin together * Comfortable shoes recommended for walking This event is about **shared experience first**, followed by **nourishing conversation** — in beautiful surroundings, with ease.

Join us for a Neurosparkles picnic at the Treasury Gardens near the lake. Come down, enjoy the sunshine (fingers crossed 🤞!), meet new people and have some great food. **When:** Saturday 7th February **Time:** 12:00pm to 4:30pm **(come and go anytime)** **Where:** Treasury Gardens, John F Kennedy Memorial, look for a group of people sitting/standing next to the water fountain. It's located near Parliament House, the closest street is Treasury Place. **Feel free to bring a picnic blanket, board/card or garden games, food/drinks to share - but this is entirely optional.** Pets are allowed if they're well-behaved ;) Though children are not as this is a Meetup group for adults. If you have issues finding us feel free to comment below or message an event host via Meetup or post in our WhatsApp community. Location is here: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/NE8AEc9kjrc4aARF8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/NE8AEc9kjrc4aARF8) What to bring (optional): * Picnic mats, foldable chairs, or blankets * Snacks or drinks to enjoy or share * Games or cards if you’d like to keep things lively * Bug zapper to keep the pests away! Remember to stay hydrated, wear a hat, and apply sunscreen and insect repellent or use a zapper. In case of poor weather or extreme heat, we will move the meetup into the Kerekere Café at the Fitzroy Gardens or reschedule the event (check this page for any changes). Nearest transport: • Route 48 or 75 tram, Stop 9 (Lansdowne St) then 5 minute walk • Route 11, 12, 48 or 109 tram, Stop 8 (Collins/Spring St) then 7 minute walk • Short walk from Parliament Station **The event is open to all neurodivergent people and anyone who values a friendly, inclusive space. Many attendees come on their own, so if you’re feeling a bit hesitant, know you’ll be in good company and warmly welcomed.** If at any point you have concerns or feel uncomfortable about any group member, please notify one of the organisers. Disclaimer & Safety Notice By attending this Meetup, you agree: • Participation is voluntary and at your own risk. • Organisers are community volunteers, not medical or professional providers. • You are responsible for your own safety, choices, and belongings. • Organisers are not liable for injury, loss, or damage at any time. • If you have health or access needs, please make your own arrangements. • In an emergency, call 000 immediately. By joining, you accept full responsibility for your actions and well-being.

The topic for February is "Transitions" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!

Dale Gnidovec, Curator of the Orton Hall Museum of Geology at The Ohio State University, will be presenting a program he has wanted to share with us for a long time: Plate Tectonics. His description of his program: Continents on the move - Nothing in Earth history makes sense without moving continents - it tells us why mountains, volcanoes, minerals, and fossils are where they are. This talk examines the evidence for continental drift, why it was disbelieved, and explains how the more-encompassing theory of plate tectonics was developed and eventually proven. Dale is an energetic, incredibly knowledgeable, and very entertaining speaker and this will be another wonderful program by Dale. Hope to see you there! 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

Christians in Tech is a community at the intersection of faith and technology. Our meetups are designed to spark meaningful conversations, promote knowledge sharing, and encourage growth—both in your career and your spiritual walk with God. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your tech journey, CIT welcomes you. Our Website [https://linktr.ee/citcbus](https://linktr.ee/citcbus) Sponsors and Partners * Improving (Venue Sponsor) * Bethel World Prayer Center (Fiscal Sponsor) * Fruits & Roots (Coffee Partner)

[The Board Walks](http://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!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. 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?" 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. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *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. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this 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 welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). 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. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **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. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

Christians in Tech is a community at the intersection of faith and technology. Our meetups are designed to spark meaningful conversations, promote knowledge sharing, and encourage growth—both in your career and your spiritual walk with God. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your tech journey, CIT welcomes you. Our Website [https://linktr.ee/citcbus](https://linktr.ee/citcbus) Sponsors and Partners * Improving (Venue Sponsor) * Bethel World Prayer Center (Fiscal Sponsor) * Fruits & Roots (Coffee Partner)

Inspired by the successful events like "Pot Luck in the Park" and "Saturday Mornings @ East Market," this meetup promises a fun and engaging atmosphere where like-minded individuals can connect over a shared love for languages and cultures. Whether you're a language learner, ESL student, or simply passionate about exploring new cultures, this event is perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a diverse and welcoming community. Come join us for an enlightening afternoon of language, culture, food, of course, and connections! (Everyone will individually choose from the buffet and pay for their own meal, by weight.)

Confidence can be cultivated in many ways—through reflection, conversation, creativity, and practice. In this Confidence Lab session, we’ll explore one powerful pathway: **building confidence from the inside out through physical expression and movement**. This experience is designed to help you reconnect with your body as a source of insight, self-trust, and presence. We’ll begin by grounding into what’s bringing you here, creating space to notice how your body is showing up and what it’s holding. From there, you’ll be guided through accessible movement exercises that invite awareness and choice—isolating different parts of the body, experimenting with movement, and practicing what it feels like to take up space intentionally. Next, you’ll participate in a small-group dance lesson led in a supportive, low-pressure environment. No dance experience is needed. The focus is not on performance or perfection, but on expression, curiosity, and allowing yourself to move with confidence as you are. We’ll close with a reflective group discussion, exploring what emerged during the experience and how these insights can be applied beyond the studio—how you inhabit your body, how you carry yourself, and how you show up in everyday life. **What to know:** * Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that you feel good moving in * No dance experience required * Light snacks and beverages will be provided This session is for anyone interested in deepening their relationship with confidence by listening to their body, expanding their capacity for self-expression, and practicing self-love as an embodied experience. **Featured Speaker: Mary Grace** Mary Grace, the dynamic force behind MG Choreography & Boutique, has been transforming special occasions with her unique blend of artistry and passion for over seven years. As a proud Latina, with Venezuelan and Mexican heritage, Mary brings a rich cultural perspective to every choreography she creates. Her dedication to dance is matched only by her commitment to empowering others through the joy and elegance of movement. Mary’s journey began with a simple passion for dancing, which quickly grew into a thriving business. She specializes in crafting personalized choreography for weddings, quinceañeras, and sweet sixteens, ensuring each event is unforgettable. Determined to make a significant impact in Ohio, Mary established the first-of-its-kind brick-and-mortar location that not only offers a space to practice these beautiful dances but also provides a boutique experience for purchasing or renting exquisite dresses and tuxedos for these special moments. Mary Grace is more than just a business owner; she is a trailblazer for Latina women in the community, dedicated to bringing elegance, joy, and a touch of her vibrant heritage to every event she touches. **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.*