Sustainable Development

For our March meetup we are excited to host Darryl Wright who will demonstrate how you really can deliver 3 yr projects in 3 months using Value Stream Mapping and Flow Efficiency. Find out what other organisations are doing to slash the time it takes them to deliver value, and how you can do it too. This talk explores: 1\. What is Value Stream Mapping \(VSM\)\, and Flow Efficiency ? 2\. What does VSM reveal about how most organisations deliver value today ? 3\. The big lightbulb moment: can 3 yr projects really be delivered in 3 months? \(hint: yes\!\) 4\. Where to from here ? \(and can I use AI to help with all of this ?\) And then, as we always highly encourage participation to embed what we learnt, we'll give the method a go ourselves with Darryl's expert guidance. **Meet your Speaker - Darryl Wright, Value Delivery Advisor and Trainer at Organa** *The only constant in life is change.* Darryl comes from a strong commercial and delivery background borne from two decades of experience in traditional IT project and program management and running IT businesses. This led him on a journey to find more successful and humane ways of working, becoming an Enterprise Agile coach and trainer. He is now a passionate champion of changing the way the world works. His guiding vision is to assist organisations to become great places to work that have happy, effective staff who create brilliant products and services that their customers love.

To celebrate ***International Women’s Day***, we’re bringing our community together for a special evening featuring two inspiring women in tech. This event is all about sharing experiences, learning from real journeys, and creating space for honest conversations about building a career in cloud and technology. Whether you’re just starting out, making a transition, or already deep in the industry, you’ll find stories, insights, and perspectives that resonate. **And some exciting news** — thanks to our friends from [Programmable](https://www.programmable.tech/), attendees on the day will get a chance to win a ticket to the Programmable conference (valued at $449!). Expect practical lessons, personal reflections, and the kind of discussions that remind us why community matters. See you then! **Topics** **1\. One Platform\, Infinite Connections** An API Platform is not simply a layer for routing traffic; it is an operating model for how organisations design, secure, and monetise digital capabilities. This session opens by defining what an enterprise API Platform looks like in practical terms and why it’s becoming a core part of modern engineering and business strategy. Using a real implementation as context, the discussion examines how Apigee enables structured governance, streamlined developer onboarding, intelligent traffic control, and deep observability. It also addresses how the platform supports emerging AI, LLM, and MCP patterns, outlining its security architecture in production environments and demonstrating how APIs can be bundled into consumable products to create commercial value. Particular attention is given to advanced protection strategies for managing both conventional API workloads and AI-driven traffic. Attendees will leave with a concrete, experience-backed framework for turning an API platform into a measurable driver of innovation, resilience, and revenue. **About the speaker** Neha is an Engineering Manager at MYOB, leading the API Platform capability. With nearly two decades of experience in the IT industry, she has built deep expertise across cloud infrastructure, platform engineering, and large-scale technology transformations. **2\. Stateful Secrets in a Stateless World: Navigating the Azure Serverless Landscape** Serverless is more than just a buzzword; it represents a fundamental shift from managing infrastructure to focusing entirely on code. In this session, we’ll begin by comparing serverless with traditional server-based models to unpack the true differences in cost, maintenance, and scalability. From there, we’ll walk through a real-world application architecture to see how Azure Functions can be used to solve practical engineering problems that conventional servers often struggle to handle efficiently. Drawing on lessons learned from hands-on experience, we’ll also explore common pitfalls, optimisation strategies, and cost-saving techniques. Whether you’re new to serverless or already working with cloud-native systems, this talk will leave you with a clearer, more practical blueprint for designing and building modern applications. **About the speaker** Archana is a Master’s in Data Science candidate with a foundation in Computer Science and Engineering. She brings hands-on experience from her background as a Full Stack Developer, where she focused on building web applications powered by Azure serverless backends. By blending her software engineering roots with her current work in data science, Archana designs cloud-native solutions that are both scalable and data-driven. She is passionate about sharing practical lessons and helping the community understand how to effectively bridge the gap between web development and serverless technology. **Agenda** 5:30pm – Food and networking 6:00pm – Presentation 1 6:40pm – Presentation 2 7:20pm – Networking Thanks to our sponsors: [HAL systems](https://www.halsystems.com.au/), [Mantel](https://mantelgroup.com.au/) and [REA group](https://www.rea-group.com/)! Join us for an evening of learning, conversations, and great company!

Join your fellow LGBTQIA+ folks for a social evening of board games at Marché Board Games Cafe. We have access to the games library at the cafe. If you have a game that you want to share, please feel free to bring it along. We play all sorts of games - card games, party games, strategy games - and we're happy to teach new players. Groups for games usually form between 6:30-6:45, so it's important to try arrive on time to ensure you're allocated to a game/group. Anyone arriving late may have to wait for a game if all groups have started. The cafe has drinks and food available. Check out their menu here: https://mbgcafe.com.au/menu.pdf We only accept payment at the time of booking to reserve your spot. This means you will need to pay the booking amount via PayPal at the time of booking to confirm your spot. If you can't make it to the event, please ensure you get in touch by messaging the event hosts or emailing rainbowbg.melbourne@gmail.com at least one day before the event, and we can reverse your payment via PayPal. The cafe does NOT have a liquor licence. Consuming alcohol on the premises is illegal, and will result in any members being banned from future events. See you on Thursday!

Welcome to Elixir Melbourne's monthly meetup. Where we go over Elixir ecosystem news, listen to great talks, and socialise with other Elixir developers of all levels. We’re rebooting the meetup after a hiatus with new (and old) organisers, a new venue and emphasis on more time to socialise. There are still speaking spots open. If you want to talk about anything Elixir related, get in touch. **Agenda** * 6:00pm - Arrive, socialise * 6:30pm - Welcome; introduction; “who’s hiring” pitches. * 6:45pm - Talk 1 (speaking spot open!) * 7:15pm - Food, socialise * 7:45pm - Maybe another talk (speaking spot open!) * 8:15pm - Finish up and head to Saint & Rogue (down the street from SuperAPI at 582 Little Collins St, Melbourne) **Sponsor** Huge thanks to [SuperAPI](https://superapi.com.au/) for catering and venue.

✨ **Do you want to...** * 🫶🏽 Connect with like-minded people in your local community? * 🏋🏽‍♂️ Meet others who are passionate about growing, uplifting themselves, and supporting others? * 🌈 Share insights from your personal journey (or simply listen and learn)? * 🧘🏼‍♂️ Experience a simple yet powerful meditation practice to find calm and clarity? Or maybe you just want to... ☮️💟☯️ **Spend your Sunday evening in a peaceful, zen space and meet some amazing new people?** *** ### **Join us on Sundays!** Let’s come together, share positive energy, and build a warm, supportive local community. **Bring a friend (or two!) and let’s connect.** *** ### **What’s on the evening’s flow?** * **Open meet & greet** – connect and settle in * **Sharing circle** (totally optional!) – share your thoughts or simply listen * **20-30 min guided meditation** – for relaxation and deeper connection *** ### **Everyone is welcome!** All ages (with guardians for under 18), backgrounds, genders, and experiences – no meditation experience needed. The event runs for about **2.5 hours**, but you’re free to come and go as you need. *** ### **What to bring?** * **Donation:** A contribution of **$10 or more is recommended**. Your donations directly help us cover venue costs, provide resources, and keep this meditation community alive and growing. * **Warm jumper/jacket** (just in case!) * **Water** * **Any books/resources/inspiration you’d love to share** *** ### **Where?** 📍 **250 George St, Fitzroy VIC 3065** Enter through the church gates. You’ll see a small garden on the left and stairs on the right leading up to the **Dance of Life Yoga Studio (first door on your right upstairs).** *** ### **Important Notes:** * Spaces are **limited**, so if you can’t make it, please update your RSVP to “Not going” or send us a quick message. * **No-show policy:** To keep it fair for everyone, repeat no-shows without notice may not be able to RSVP in the future. * Attendees under 18 must have a guardian present.

Hi all! We are looking to build a community here, so if you interest is just to get into coding, please come along and we can help out - all levels and interests are more than welcome. All levels of coding are welcome! We can continue doing some basic coding using HTML, CSS, and maybe some JS if we are feeling up to it (I'll teach if people are interested). Usually there will be some people around to help anyone with issues. We are also holding these sessions for anyone to come along and ask questions about the course. We know it's a big decision and a lot of money, and we are keen to give you as much information as you need to make the right call. https://liskov.dev We are offering some more structured content for anyone interested: ### CV advice Are you currently applying for jobs? Come along to get some advice on: * Resume * Cover letters * Portfolio * Code challenges * Interviews ### Build and deploy your first webpage I What is HTML and how does it work? In this session we’ll: * Install a code editor * Generate an HTML document * Learn how the browser understands markup * Add some content and styling * Deploy your basic webpage to the world! (Deploy is via drag and drop to Netlify) ### Build and deploy your first webpage II Coming in future weeks. Depends on the progress we make. ### Bootcamp info session Thinking about doing Liskov bootcamp? Come along to meet Matt and get all your questions answered. ### Q and A with a former student Meet a former student now working as a developer. Ask them anything! If we get a few starters we'll get a few ex-students along for a chat. ### Types of career paths/jobs in the IT industry For people who are thinking of changing careers or moving to an adjacent/related role in IT. Apparently there are event people who use UX design as a stepping stone to a programming career (seems like a long and windy road though). These will occur at least once a fortnight, so if you miss one you can get to the next one - the schedule will be updated on the site, and here. Here's a list of some of the activities that we could play around with if there are a few people there (will depending on timing and attendance): * Basics of getting into coding (Beginners HTML, CSS, JS) * Coding in [Rooms.xyz](http://rooms.xyz/) * Q and A * BYO issues (we solve their problems if we can) * Build a webpage in quick time * Notion tutorial * SpaceTeam * What are the jobs and industries that these courses lead to (with examples)? Come and have a chat! The Liskov Team

Hosted by the Melbourne Theosophical Society and conducted by the Scottish Medium and Colour Therapist Eleanor Walker, this interactive event will include a talk about the seven Spectrum Colours, and the benefit of Colour Light or Silk Therapy for people and animals. Knowledge of colour enhances our Spiritual and Human connection; it Unites us with its simplicity. Aboriginal people use the colours of the Earth to create their history through images and dreamtime stories and colour was used in ancient times by the Romans and Egyptians who would use colour capsules to help heal people. Although Colour Therapy is a stand alone modality it is best used as a complimentary treatment in conjunction with conventional medical practices and is now used in the hospitals and hospices. Colour affects our mood, our emotions and our bodily faculties. We can drink it, eat it, wear it, decorate with it, include it in Psychic or Mediumship work. Each day of the week has a colour associated with it, numerology includes colour. The benefits are well worth exploring. Eleanor Walker was born in Airdrie, Scotland. From an early age she was always colouring in and was fascinated with colours. She found she would have what she called “knowings” where she would blurt out information that she could not possibly have known. This upset her Mother as she did not want her to be seen as different. As the years passed she developed her knowledge of Colour and qualified as a Colour Therapist eventually gaining a Diploma in Colour Therapy. Eleanor discovered her knowings were in fact coming from Spirit. She developed her Mediumship with the renowned Scottish Spirit Medium Gordon Smith completing his Intuitive Studies course. She has served Spirit around the UK, Germany, Northern Ireland, Finland, the USA, the Netherlands and Australia, facilitating workshops on the benefits of Colour for healing as well as every- day use and teaching students how to include colour with their Mediumship. Eleanor is the Co-Facilitator of The Scottish Spiritualist Seminar which is held each year at Stirling University. She is a member of the International Spiritualist Federation and has conducted short workshops at their seminars. She is also the author of two books “No Proof Required, Embracing my life as a Medium” and “Through Darkness to Light , Grief; a Medium’s Viewpoint”.

# 2026 S1 Melbourne Freshers Welcome Event（Mandarin speaking) Overview Melbourne’s biggest S1 Newcomer Festival at City Hall — 5,000+ gifts, nonstop prizes & Consulate support. 🎉 2026 S1 Melbourne Freshmen Welcome Festival This isn’t just a “booth event.” It’s a full experience. 🌟 5,000+ FREE gift packs 🎟 Electronic lucky draw every 30 minutes 🎯 Interactive booth games + stamp collecting challenge 🎓 Study, career & migration Q&A zone 🤝 Meet trusted local brands & student organisations 📸 Social sharing activities to win extra prizes And yes — online registration is required to join the lucky draw. No walk-ins. ## 5\,000\+ Free Gifts 🎁 \| Lucky Draw Every 30 Minutes 🔥 \| Interactive Expo Experience Melbourne’s biggest Chinese student welcome event is back — and it’s bigger than ever. Whether you’re a brand new student ✨, a returning senior 🎓, or simply looking to meet new friends and explore opportunities — this is THE event you cannot miss. **📅 Time: Sunday, 8th Marth 2026 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM** **📍 Location: Drill Hall，Multicultural Hub 📍 26 Therry St, Melbourne VIC 3000** 💥What Makes This Event Special?  💥👇**SECURE YOUR SPOT NOW** 👇 ### **📍 Event Details** * **Time: Sunday, 8th Marth 2026 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM** **📍 Location: Drill Hall，Multicultural Hub 📍 26 Therry St, Melbourne VIC 3000** * **🎟 Entry:** **Registration Required** (Strictly no walk-ins. Spots are limited!) ### **📢 Why You Must Attend?** Welcome to the 2026 S1 Freshers' Festival! As Melbourne's largest orientation event, we are bringing you a day filled with gifts, insights, and fun. **This event is your gateway to settling into Melbourne life quickly.** ✅ **Get Answers:** Real solutions to common study and lifestyle questions. ✅ **Make Friends:** Meet students from different universities through games. ✅ **Start Right:** Kick off the semester with fun, not confusion. ✅ **Resource Hub:** Connect with premium local businesses and services in one go. *(P.S. Seniors and alumni are welcome too! It’s not just for newbies!)*  **🎫Ticket Earning Rules:** • Individual check-in: 1 ticket • Group of 3 checking in together: 2 tickets each • Group of 5 checking in together: 3 tickets each • Invite a friend to register and check in: +1 ticket per friend (maximum 10 tickets) • Event volunteers: +2 bonus tickets • Post on Instagram / Xiaohongshu with #澳洲匠人学院: +1 ticket per post (maximum 3) • Take a photo at the event and tag official account: +1 ticket • Livestream or short video sharing event experience: +2 tickets • Take a photo with a student from a different university and post on Xiaohongshu: +1 ticket • Participate in interactive games / booth activities / stamp challenge tasks to earn additional tickets 🎯 Maximum 10 tickets per person. The more tickets you have, the higher your chance of winning. 🎁 Mega Lucky Draw — Every 5 Minutes We’re giving away prizes all day long. Every 30 minutes, multiple winners will be drawn live on stage 🎤 🎉 Prize List (Partial – More Coming Soon) 🎮 PS5 🍟 Philips Air Fryer 💨 Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer 🥤 Stanley Tumbler 🧹 Akitas Vacuum Cleaner 🧺 Steam Iron 🌏 Jacaranda Globe Crystal 🍲 Slow Cooker 💄 Wellcare LED Makeup Box 🖨 HP Printer 📸 Canon Photo Printer ✨ Ulike Air3 Hair Removal Device 🧱 LEGO Sets 💪 Goodlife Gym Bag + Water Bottle (x5) 🔥 Mountain Hotpot “Shishi Ruyi” Plush (x3) 🧧 Panda Delivery $30 Vouchers 🛒 Student Shopping Wagon (x2) 🐻 Graduation Teddy Bears (x5) 🏋️ Goodlife 3-Month Nationwide Gym Membership 🥤 2.28kg Protein Powder (x1) 🎀 LABUBU ⭐ Star Series Blind Box (x3) 📷 Mini Digital Camera 🎁 Panda Delivery Freshmen Gift Pack 🕷 Marvel Spider-Man Icon Lamp 🎁 Bupa Gift Pack ⌨ Vintage Typewriter Toy 🏫 JR Academy Sports Water Bottle … and many more exciting prizes! 🏷 Stamp Collection Challenge — New This Year! Visit participating booths. Complete mini activities. Collect stamps. Unlock bonus lucky draw entries and exclusive small gifts 🎁 This isn’t just about grabbing freebies — it’s about exploring, interacting, and having fun. 🎓 Study & Career Advice Zone Have questions about university life or your future? We’ve invited experienced mentors and industry professionals to help you with: 📚 Course planning 💼 Internship & part-time job advice 📝 Resume & interview tips 🛂 Migration & visa pathways 🏡 Student life survival tips Ask questions freely. This is your space. 🎁 5,000+ Free Gifts — First Come, First Served From student survival kits to brand merchandise, discount vouchers, gym passes, beauty experience cards, food samples, and practical lifestyle gifts — everyone walks away with something. Arrive early for the best selection. ⚠ Important Information • Online registration is mandatory • On-site check-in required to activate lucky draw eligibility • Friends must arrive together to claim group bonus tickets • Lucky draw tickets are electronic — no paper tickets  ### **🎟 How to Maximize Your Lucky Draw Chances** **Step 1: Register Online (Mandatory)** Only registered guests are eligible for the draw. 报名链接：**[\[Melbourne\] 2026 S1 Melbourne Tri-University New Student Festival](https://jiangren.com.au/events/698e91ace0fc334785c20650?source=Angela "https://jiangren.com.au/events/698e91ace0fc334785c20650?source=Angela")** **Step 2: Get Raffle Tickets** * **Standard Check-in:** 1 Ticket. * **Group of 3:** 2 Tickets each. * **Group of 5:** 3 Tickets each. * **Refer a Friend:** +1 Ticket per friend (Max 5). * **Social Media Share:** +2 Tickets (Share on WeChat Moments). * **Instagram/Red (Xiao Hong Shu) Post:** +1 to 3 Tickets (Tag #JR_Academy). * **Volunteers:** +2 Tickets. *Max 10 tickets per person. The more tickets, the higher your winning chance!* **⚠️ Important Notes:** * **Pre-registration is essential.** No ticket, no entry. * You must be present to win lucky draw prizes. * Bring your friends and arrive early to beat the queue! 🌟 **Thank You to the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Melbourne for Their Strong Support**🌟 💎 **Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Melbourne** 💎 The Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Melbourne is an important diplomatic mission of the Chinese government in Australia, representing China within its consular district. It is responsible for consular protection, external communication, and cooperation. ## 「Organizer」JR Academy 🌏 **The No.1 AI Learning Hub for Global Chinese** JR Academy is an AI-focused EdTech company specializing in IT education. We are dedicated to empowering the Chinese community in Australia to achieve breakthroughs in IT-related studies and careers. With **600+ top-tier mentors** and **700+ enterprise partners** across multiple IT domains, we provide hands-on project experience and career coaching. Through our strong social platforms, we have hosted **200+ events**, helping students pursue their IT career dreams. To date, we have supported students in securing **6,000+ offers** from **500+ global tech companies**. Whether in Chinese or English programs, JR Academy is committed to supporting students’ academic and professional growth. 🌟 Special Thanks to Our Supporting Partners 🌟 ## 「Diamond Partners」 ### Block Club Block Club focuses on crypto learning and networking. With active online discussions and regular offline meetups, the community emphasizes high-quality information sharing and insightful discussions. ### Ruiyuan Investment Group Ruiyuan Investment Group provides one-stop services for property sales, leasing, and asset management. During orientation season, we assist students in efficiently matching suitable properties, completing applications, signing leases, and settling in smoothly. We also support owner-occupiers and investors with furniture and appliance setup advice, helping you settle into Melbourne quickly and comfortably. ## 「Gold Partners」 ### ACIC Education & Migration Founded in 1988, ACIC is a globally recognized education consultancy and an official recruitment center for all Australian universities. ACIC has successfully helped over 100,000 students from 40+ countries study in Australia and supported tens of thousands in obtaining work visas and permanent residency. ### HungryPanda HungryPanda specializes in serving the global Chinese community through food delivery, retail, and grocery services — satisfying your Chinese cravings wherever you are. ### Bupa Bupa is a health and care company committed to helping people live longer, healthier, and happier lives. It offers a wide range of services including aged care, dental, optical, health insurance, and community wellbeing initiatives across Australia. ### Compass Education & Migration Founded in 2002, Compass is one of Australia’s largest local education and migration agencies, with 24 years of industry leadership. Services include: * Study abroad consulting * Career planning * Visa applications * Local employment guidance * Skilled migration * Employer-sponsored visas * Family reunion * Distinguished talent migration * Business & investment migration ### Fantuan Delivery Fantuan is a leading global lifestyle service platform connecting users and merchants through technology. From food delivery to grocery services, Fantuan aims to make life easier — “One Fantuan is all you need.” ### Mood Skin Lab A trendy skin management studio located in Melbourne CBD, offering 1:1 customized treatments combining advanced technology and professional injectable solutions. Specializing in acne, dullness, unstable skin conditions, and early aging concerns — creating natural, healthy, and youthful skin. More than a skincare space, it’s a popular urban healing destination. ### 2EZY 2EZY Driving School × Car Detailing Studio * Official bilingual instructors * Patient and supportive coaching * Professional car detailing & coating * Dashcam installation Learn driving and car care in one place! ### ICE U Founded in 2024, ICE U is Melbourne’s first innovative Sichuan sesame sauce BBQ brand. After multiple recipe refinements, it perfectly combines sesame sauce with authentic Sichuan flavors. Fresh skewers daily, with ingredients displayed openly for customers to choose — creating a truly unique Melbourne dining experience. ### Dawei Malatang Dawei Malatang — Australia’s popular Sichuan-style spicy hotpot. Self-select ingredients, convenient and full of flavor! ### Dealmoon ANZ Dealmoon ANZ is the Australia/New Zealand branch of the North American Dealmoon platform, serving the Chinese community with real-time promotions and discounts. Fashion, beauty, electronics, home goods — everything in one place. ### Jobpin AI Jobpin AI is an intelligent career platform leveraging artificial intelligence to revolutionize job searching and career development. Through advanced AI algorithms, it provides: * Personalized job matching * Resume optimization * Cover letter generation * Internal referral support Making job hunting more efficient, precise, and competitive. ### Amo Lumie Amo Lumie creates emotional value through fragrance, connecting people and spaces. The brand name combines the Latin words for “Love” and “Light,” symbolizing each candle as a source of warmth and illumination in daily life. ### Yeeyi Founded in 2006, Yeeyi is one of the most widely visited Chinese platforms in Australia. Providing reliable news and comprehensive lifestyle services across 40+ categories including housing, jobs, second-hand market, cars, pets, and more — serving as a digital community hub for Chinese Australians. 「Community Partners」 ### University of Melbourne Chinese Debating Group (CDG) Founded 29 years ago, CDG began as a small Chinese debating team and has grown into a large comprehensive student organization. Through decades of dedication, it continues to promote Chinese debate culture and intellectual exchange. ### Venture Club Melbourne The official venture capital club at the University of Melbourne. Dedicated to connecting innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment resources across Melbourne and beyond, providing students with early-stage investment knowledge and industry connections. ### Monash Chinese Student Association Officially recognized student association and the only one acknowledged by the Consulate’s Education Office. With five major departments and thousands of members, it supports students throughout their academic journey. ### RMIT Chinese Students & Scholars Association Founded in 1980, RMIT CSSA is a non-political, non-religious, non-profit organization recognized by the Consulate’s Education Office. It promotes cultural exchange and provides support to Chinese students and scholars in Melbourne. 「Corporate Participation Opportunity」 ## 2026 S1 Melbourne New Student Meet-up 📣 Sponsorship opportunities closing soon! Limited spots remaining! If you are looking to increase brand exposure, please contact: 📧 **business@jiangren.com.au** Or add us via WeChat (QR code below). ## 📍 Event Location **Drill Hall, Multicultural Hub** (Opposite Queen Victoria Market) 26 Therry St, Melbourne VIC 3000

**Black Hill Regional Park → Paris Baguette (Germantown)** **Sunday \| March 22\, 2026 \| 10:00 AM** **Join us for a Sunday morning in nature, centered on meaningful conversation along the trail.** **We’ll meet at the Black Hill Regional Park Visitor Center parking lot around 10:00 AM and spend about 60–90 minutes on the scenic lake trails, surrounded by water, trees, and open sky. The morning setting offers space to be present, notice the landscape, and let conversation unfold naturally as we walk.** **After our time on the trails, we’ll continue on to Paris Baguette in Germantown Town Center for coffee or a pastry and keep the conversation going.** **This group is for gay men who enjoy being outdoors, care about how food is grown and gathered, appreciate thoughtful conversation, and value authentic friendships built at a natural pace. This is not a hookup space, a dating pool, a nightlife extension, or a professional networking circle. The aim is simply to share time outdoors, exchange ideas, and see what connections take root from there.** **What to bring:** * **Comfortable walking shoes** * **Water** * **Weather-appropriate layers** **Feel free to arrive a few minutes early so we can gather and get started together.**

Join our new group’s third meeting. Meet fellow tech enthusiasts west of the beltway. ​Because our group is new, we have a poll for the direction we want to take this new group. ​[https://submatrix.net/article/Meetups/e9ym4fr8Ca](https://submatrix.net/article/Meetups/e9ym4fr8Ca) ​For this event, we will be running a working meetup. ​Our meetings are a great place to work on and show off what you do. We are always welcoming. ​Our format is great for people who have started on but not finished one or several side projects. ​We will start off with basic introductions and what we are working on and what our goals are. We’ll break the rest of the meeting into two working sessions. In between, we’ll do a quick check-in to see how folks are going.

Join us for an all plant-based meal at the always popular Sunflower Vegetarian Restaurant in Vienna, VA. We've made a reservation for 20 attendees, so don't delay in RSVPing as this will fill up. You can preview Sunflower's menu [here. ](https://www.crystalsunflower.com/menu) Parking is available in the restaurant's lot and the Vienna Metro station is 1.6 miles away. Rides may be available from attendees with cars so please communicate needs/availability in the comments below. Please note that there is no outdoor dining at this venue and that this is an indoor event. **Update Your RSVP** Out of respect for others interested in attending this limited-space event, please update your RSVP promptly as your schedule changes. **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

**A Divine Connection to Nature (Free Event)** **Who is responsible for taking care of the earth?** **We talk about the environment in many contexts – politically, economically, socially and morally – but do we also have a spiritual responsibility to the world around us?** **Concern over the changing climate continues, with more and more questions about what it means for our future. And there doesn’t seem to be a consensus on what to do about it, leaving us overwhelmed and confused. But what if the way we’re treating the planet is really a symptom of something else? Is it actually an indication of how we’re treating ourselves and each other? How might our actions change if we wanted the best for others just as much as we do for ourselves? Can a spiritual lens help us see the way forward to having healthy and growing societies and also a healthy environment?** **Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the truths that unite us all – as we discuss the spiritual perspectives offered by the Bahá’í Teachings on the earth and its natural environment. Join us for a lively discussion as we explore how we can work together for the betterment of us all.** **“Consider how all created things eloquently testify to the revelation of that inner Light within them.” – Bahá’í Teachings** **\*\*\*This event is free and open to all regardless of background or belief. Donations will not be accepted.**

**🪷 COST:** You must register with this link to attend- [Register Here!](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/woodland-and-water-resonance-a-forest-therapy-and-sound-bath-walk) **🌿 Description:** Early March, by the water, carries a different kind of awakening — **softer, reflective, spacious.** 🌊 Nestled around a 350-acre reservoir, Beaverdam Park offers wooded paths, natural-surface trails, and peaceful lake views. Forest and water meet here, creating the perfect setting to slow down and listen. ✨ We’ll begin with a **gentle, guided forest therapy walk** through the trees, pausing along the way to notice the stillness of the reservoir and the subtle signs of early spring. After enjoying a snack & sipping foraged tisane/tea while sitting near the water, we’ll settle in for an **immersive outdoor sound bath**. 🎶 Singing bowls and resonant instruments will blend with the soft lapping of water, breeze through branches, and birdsong overhead. The lake amplifies and carries sound in a uniquely soothing way — supporting nervous system reset, emotional clarity, and deep restoration. We’ll close with a silent walk back along the trail, taking in the serenity of forest and water. 🌿 **A morning of reflection, resonance, and renewal.** **🥾 What we'll do:** We will walk \~2 miles, depending on timing and the desires of the group. This is an out and back hike with minimal elevation gain or loss. **👋🏼 Meeting point:** Meet at 9:50am in the parking lot. We will start at 10am. **🚙 Parking:** Park by the National Recreation and Park Association building adjacent to Brambleton Community Park West. Google map location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qBEq9qVXnamC6H6E8 **🚻 Miscellaneous:** We will have access to a bathroom along the way. **🎒Preparation:** * Water * Layers of clothes based on the weather * A snack if you would like * ​Sturdy comfortable shoes * Bug spray * Sunblock & a hat **🪷 COST:** You must register with this link to attend- [Register Here!](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/woodland-and-water-resonance-a-forest-therapy-and-sound-bath-walk) **🌐 WEBSITE: [https://imaginebeingwell.org/](https://imaginebeingwell.org/)** 🌐 **NEWSLETTER:** [CLICK HERE](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/newsletter-form/sign-up-for-the-imagine-well-being-newsletter) to Sign Up to join Imagine Well Being’s mailing list to stay informed on the latest news and upcoming events. **⭐️ LIABILITY RELEASE:** With my RSVP, I hereby stipulate that I am physically sound to participate in this event. I understand and agree that all classes, gatherings and workshops are undertaken at my sole risk and that Imagine Well Being guides and instructors shall not be liable for injuries or damages to my person or property arising out of or connected to any of these activities. I authorize Imagine Well Being guides and instructors to call 911 in the event that I appear to require emergency medical care, and I assume responsibility for all associated costs. I have carefully read this agreement and understand its contents. I agree that it is a complete release of liability for any injuries or damage that I may sustain due to Imagine classes, gatherings, and workshops. I authorize Imagine Well Being guides and instructors to call 911 in the event that I appear to require emergency medical care, and I assume responsibility for all associated costs. **I have carefully read this agreement and understand its contents. I agree that it is a complete release of liability for any injuries or damage that I may sustain due to Imagine classes, gatherings, and workshops.**

\#\# Details ## **What to Expect:** A Laid-Back Environment: Brew, Food, and Like-Minded Individuals. Grab a beer at the bar and join in! Networking: Short and Sweet Introductions to Kick Things Off. Connect with fellow tech professionals, exchange ideas, and broaden your network horizon. Our meetups are designed for meaningful interactions and creating a supportive community. (Just talk and have fun!) Agenda: 1\. Introductions 2\. Talk and Meet New People 3\. Enjoy Drafts\, Food\, and Conversation 4\. \*Drive Home Safely\* \*\*\* ATTENTION \*\*\* We are meeting at Bunnyman Chantilly. Address: 14140 Parke Long Ct A-C, Chantilly, VA 20151

Join the [Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy](https://www.loudounwildlife.org/) and [A Fighting Chance Foundation](https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about) for a special fundraising event at Lost Rhino Brewing in Ashburn VA on Friday, March 13th. Come out to enjoy a fun Friday night of music, friendship, and great food and drinks, all for two great causes! **Special musical guests** – The Outpatients (Northern VA band well known for their Americana musical mayhem). **Tickets: $10** at the door, with all proceeds benefiting Loudoun Wildlife and A Fighting Chance. Lost Rhino is also graciously donating **10%** of all sales to both organizations. Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy is a volunteer-powered nonprofit working to protect, preserve, and restore wildlife habitat while shaping a Loudoun where people and wildlife thrive together. Learn more at: [https://www.loudounwildlife.org](https://www.loudounwildlife.org/) A Fighting Chance is ensures that all pets are given the best chance possible to recover from a life-threatening medical condition or accident regardless of the financial circumstances of their caregivers. Learn more at: [https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about](https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about)