Sustainable Development

**NO PHILOSOPHY EXPERTISE REQUIRED!** **🏛️ WHAT'S PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY ABOUT?** Practical Philosophy is a weekly meet-up that brings critical thinkers together for an opportunity to dive deep on a topic, practice communicating, and building a community. All with no ‘official’ philosophy knowledge required! 😎 Practical Philosophy is based on the idea that philosophy should be accessible to all, and not something reserved only for academics. Each week we choose a topic, and the goal is to use the conversation to develop our critical thinking and communication as we explore that topic. The goal is to help develop our Critical Thinking, Communication, and Community 🙌 **📓 HOW DOES IT WORK?** Each week, we pick one topic and discuss it. The topic for the week is shared, generally in the [Whatsapp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KRy6VgwgGRm3hSGeYlAzDE), along with jump-off points to get the conversation going. When groups get bigger than 7-8 people, it’s important that we break into smaller groups. This way we are able to maintain a conversational flow as opposed to having our meetups feel like a discourse or lecture. **General Meeting Agenda** Each Practical Philosophy meet-up follows this general timeline: * 19:30-19:45 - People arrive and chat, get to know each other before the official start. * 19:45-19:55 - Meeting introduction, explanation of Practical Philosophy and the topic for the week, read the guidelines and the overview so attendees know what to expect in terms of timelines. * 19:55-21:15 - Break into small groups - introduce yourselves and general thoughts on the topic, open discussion afterwards. At this point the group can review the ‘jump-off’ questions as needed, but they are just there to help guide the conversation. It’s not obligatory to answer them. * 21:15-21:30 - Bring everyone back together to discuss conclusions of the topic - each group gives a short 1-minute summary. Organizer concludes the meeting and everyone takes a group photo. * 21:30 - The official meeting is over but it’s a great opportunity to get to know people in a non-structured environment, so we often stick around, chat, and get to know each other. **🧧PRICING?** Practical Philosophy Club is FREE to attend! We just ask that if we are meeting in a café, buy a beverage! Some chapters rent a space for us to meet, and they may ask for donations to help contribute to the cost of rent. Donations will always be 100% voluntary though! **💛 WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY** **🗣** “I feel like Philosophy Club helps someone build their own belief system through a series of perspectives while not promoting what’s right and wrong” - Ekam 🗣 “I got hooked from day 1 and felt it was the right place for me. I feel it is a place where people can go to learn and discuss new perspectives and increase critical thinking and community by interacting with people who might challenge your point of views but at the same time encourage you to have openness and mind flexibility.” - Daniel **🤓 FAQ** * **​What will we talk about? What's the topic?** ​The topic for the week is shared every Sunday in the Whatsapp group. We try to add the topic to the comment section on this event page as well but if you don’t see it, the topic and the jump-off points will be in our [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KRy6VgwgGRm3hSGeYlAzDE). * **Do I need to study or read anything to attend?** No preparation is necessary. This isn’t a study of other thinkers. We want to know what you think about the topic, not what an old philosopher thought. If you have a perspective from a religion or a school of thought to share, throw it on the table and we’ll discuss it. * **Is there a specific philosophy that Practical Philosophy is focused on?** The goal of our meet-ups is to not have dogmatic discussions, and flex our critical thinking muscles. Because of this, we want to hear from every realm of thought, and don't study a particular school. * **Is it mostly men that attend?** Surprisingly, no! Although often, philosophy is seen as a Candelabra affair in a dark room with a bunch of guys, our Practical Philosophy meetups are generally 50/50 between genders, and we don’t meet in any dark rooms. * **Can I come alone?** Of course you can, we encourage it :) * **Can I be late?** Please don't be! We do have a 15 minute grace period where we allow people to funnel in while we hang out, but after that if you arrive too late, it disrupts the flow of the conversation. * **Where do you meet?** The location is posted in Meetup and our [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KRy6VgwgGRm3hSGeYlAzDE) group for this location. It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you join the Whatsapp group! If you want to know what other cities have a Practical Philosophy Club, you can see our chapters on our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club/practical-philosophy-locations/). 🤝**POLICY** To respect our members privacy, we ask that no one privately message a member without first getting explicit consent. (This looks like speaking in person and being asked to message privately.) Contacting or texting other participants without prior consent is not permitted and may result in removal from the group. Practical Philosophy reserves the right to enforce this policy at its discretion to maintain a safe and respectful environment. **PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY CLUB - Philosophy, everywhere. ✨** We started in Practical Philosophy back in 2021 and there are now 50+ chapters in over 25 countries, including Canada, Spain, Japan, Mexico and many more! 🗺️ **\*\*\*** **Join our Toronto [Whatsapp Group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KRy6VgwgGRm3hSGeYlAzDE) 👈** **Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/practicalphilosophyclub/) 👈** **Our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club/) 👈**

Join us for a community-led developer event focused on **AI-assisted coding with GitHub Copilot**. This event brings together developers to explore practical workflows, real-world use cases, and hands-on experiences using GitHub Copilot. Whether you are new to GitHub Copilot or already using it, this event will help you better understand how to apply AI-assisted coding techniques in everyday development. * **Total duration:** approximately 3 hours * Includes: **2 technical sessions AND hands-on workshop (1 hour)** > ***Important*** *This event includes hands-on labs, so you will need to bring your **own laptop** (and power cord), if you would like to participate in the lab.* **Agenda:** 5:15-5:30pm – Check-in & Networking 5:30pm – Welcome & Opening 5:45pm – Session 1: GitHub Copilot in Practice (Dave Lloyd & Max Yermakhanov) 6:15pm – Session 2: From Copilot to Colleagues: Building an AI DevOps Agent Team (Kaan Turgut) 6:45pm – Workshop: Hands-on with GitHub Copilot 7:45pm – Closing & Next Steps

Register here: [https://isha.co/free-toronto-meetup](https://isha.co/free-toronto-meetup) **Facilitated by an Isha instructor, this free session offers detailed information about Inner Engineering, designed by Sadhguru. Learn the benefits of the program along with the practices and tools offered. There will also be an opportunity to have your questions answered.** **An interactive session providing insight on:** * **Stress and its impact on the system** * **How yoga & meditation can be effective tools to relieve stress, develop mental clarity & nurture a healthy lifestyle** Sign up for free. Open to all aged 18 yrs and above. Contact: 647 797-3350 or Toronto@ishafoundation.org

The B2B Collective: Thrive & Connect 👉 Clarity. Connection. Momentum. Thrive & Connect is a monthly seminar + networking experience for entrepreneurs, small business owners, professionals, and purpose-driven leaders who want to grow sustainably—without burnout or hustle culture. This is a space for people who value clarity, connection, and aligned growth. ✨ This Event Is For You If: You’re an entrepreneur, founder, or professional You value growth without burnout You’re looking to connect with like-minded people You want clarity, confidence, and actionable next steps MARCH TOPIC – VISION BOARD If you can see it, you can build it 👀✨ This month we’re creating vision boards with intention, clarity, and strategy—not just pretty pictures. Thursday, March 19th, 2026 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM 💵 $10 investment 🤍 Build success that fits your life 🎁 Returning Guest Perk – Free raffle entry for a biz-boosting gift. (Bring a Gift and receive a Business Spotlight) Let’s connect. Let’s rise. Let’s keep building—together. ✨ RSVP now >>> [https://B2BNE0319.eventbrite.ca](https://b2bne0319.eventbrite.ca/) Seating is LIMITED to 25 people. \*1st 10 People to Register are FREE to attend. Perfect for those who want real tools, meaningful conversations, and a community that supports growth beyond the event. 🤝 Why Attend? This isn’t just another networking event. It’s designed for people who want: Sustainable business growth Authentic conversations and connections Support without pressure or comparison Success that includes health, flexibility, and fulfillment 👉 Register now and join us for Thrive & Connect. [https://B2BNE0319.eventbrite.ca](https://b2bne0319.eventbrite.ca/) Come as you are. Leave inspired, supported, and equipped. Come connect, dream, and design what’s next. 📅 Event Details 30-minute guided workshop Open networking & connection ✨ RSVP now >>> [https://B2BNE0319.eventbrite.ca](https://b2bne0319.eventbrite.ca/) 🌟 Looking for Ongoing Support? Thrive & Connect is part of an ongoing business community. Attendees will have the option to learn about our membership opportunities, which offer continued workshops, accountability, and deeper connection. (No commitment required—come for one event or grow with us long-term.) \*\*\*\*\*\* MARCH: Wellness – Thriving, Not Surviving Burnout is not a badge of honor 🚫 This event is all about wellness for entrepreneurs—how to thrive, protect your energy, and still grow. Because your health is part of the business plan.

Please [here ](https://online.innerengineering.com/en/program-details/inner-engineering-in-person-cityprogram-toronto-botanical-garden-ontario-ca-mar-19-2026)to learn more and register. This is a paid program. Inner Engineering Total is offered as a 4-day or 7-day, in-person program. The course combines the tools from Inner Engineering Online and transmission of Shambhavi Mahamudra Kriya, a 21-minute life-transforming practice. This format includes Upa Yoga, a set of practices that activate the joints, muscles and energy system, powerful meditative processes and practice support through personalized corrections. Program Date and Timings: Thursday, March 19th, 6:00 PM - 9:15 PM Friday, March 20th, 6:00 PM - 9:15 PM Saturday, March 21st, 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM Sunday, March 22nd, 7:30 AM - 7:00 PM Attendance to all sessions is mandatory. Open to ages 15 years and above. Program Guidelines & session information: Programs are on Thursday and Friday evenings for 3 1/4 hours and continue all day on Saturday and Sunday. Vegetarian lunch is provided on Saturday; Vegetarian breakfast & lunch on Sunday. Program Fee: 375 CAD. Early bird price of 330 CAD expires on February 17, 2026. Group discounts are also available - please email or call the city contact listed above to register as a group: * $350 for groups of 2-4 * $325 for groups of 5 or more Contact information: [toronto@ishafoundation.org](mailto:toronto@ishafoundation.org) \[\(647\) 797\-3350\]\(tel:\(647\) 797\-3350\)

Many Canadian businesses are missing out on thousands - even millions - in government funding simply because they don’t know where to look or how to qualify. Join Emerge Elite for an exclusive workshop with **Shake (Shekhar) Dewan**, former consultant at Deloitte and Fractional Chief AI Officer at Paperstack, and founder of AI Forward. This session combines **business consulting expertise, entrepreneurship, and AI strategy** to help founders and business owners understand how to access and leverage Canadian government funding programs to scale. Shake brings real-world consulting experience helping companies grow using **data-driven strategy, AI implementation, and non-dilutive funding opportunities**. ### What You’ll Learn * Overview of Canadian government funding programs and grants * How startups and businesses qualify for funding * How to position your business for approval * How AI and innovation impact funding eligibility * Common mistakes founders make when applying * How consulting frameworks can help scale your business ### About the Speaker **Shake (Shekhar) Dewan** is an AI strategist, business consultant, and founder of AI Forward. With experience as a Deloitte consultant and Fractional Chief AI Officer, he specializes in helping businesses integrate AI, optimize operations, and scale using intelligent, strategic solutions. His mission is to help companies grow faster using **innovation, funding, and data-driven decision making**. ### Who Should Attend * Entrepreneurs and startup founders * Business owners * Consultants * Tech founders and innovators * Anyone interested in government funding or AI ### Tickets * **Early Bird:** $11.30 (limited quantity) * **General Admission:** $20

A #1 New York Times bestseller. Human beings have never had it better than we have it now in the West. So why are we on the verge of throwing it all away? In 2016, New York Times bestselling author Ben Shapiro spoke at the University of California–Berkeley. Hundreds of police officers were required to protect his speech. What was so frightening about Shapiro? He came to argue that Western civilization is in the midst of a crisis of purpose and ideas; that we have let grievances replace our sense of community and political expediency limit our individual rights; that we are teaching our kids that their emotions matter more than rational debate; and that the only meaning in life is arbitrary and subjective. As a society, we are forgetting that almost everything great that has ever happened in history happened because of people who believed in both Judeo-Christian values and in the Greek-born power of reason. In The Right Side of History, Shapiro sprints through more than 3,500 years, dozens of philosophers, and the thicket of modern politics to show how our freedoms are built upon the twin notions that every human being is made in God’s image and that human beings were created with reason capable of exploring God’s world. We can thank these values for the birth of science, the dream of progress, human rights, prosperity, peace, and artistic beauty. Jerusalem and Athens built America, ended slavery, defeated the Nazis and the Communists, lifted billions from poverty, and gave billions more spiritual purpose. Yet we are in the process of abandoning Judeo-Christian values and Greek natural law, watching our civilization collapse into age-old tribalism, individualistic hedonism, and moral subjectivism. We believe we can satisfy ourselves with intersectionality, scientific materialism, progressive politics, authoritarian governance, or nationalistic solidarity. We can’t. The West is special, and in *The Right Side of History*, Ben Shapiro bravely explains how we have lost sight of the moral purpose that drives each of us to be better, the sacred duty to work together for the greater good. ═════ Discussion questions: TBD Facilitator: Andrii ═════ $$ Refundable deposit: We'd like to make sure everyone on the RSVP actually intends to join us and enjoy the event. Please make a **refundable** deposit of $5 to hold your spot, via Paypal or Interac e-transfer to [toronto.nonfiction@gmail.com](mailto:toronto.nonfiction@gmail.com), when you RSVP or shortly thereafter. If you are waitlisted please wait until a spot opens up for you before making a transfer. You'll get your $5 back in cash if you join us at the event. If you decide to drop out later or not attend, consider this a donation to support our meetup and zoom subscriptions, which aren't cheap. Thank you! ═════ Meeting format: * We meet to discuss the book after having read it beforehand. * A facilitator guides the discussion ensuring that everyone has a chance to speak, one person at a time. * Warning: Participation in a book club is a dangerous activity. You may encounter opinions different from yours. By joining the group you agree to assume all risks.

### Each Crossroads & Connections workshop is a fast, friendly mash-up: short demos, paired practices and intentional reflection. We keep it light, embodied, and social—so wisdom lands in your muscles and your circle, not only your mind. There isn’t one technique that fixes everything, for everyone, in every situation. ### What is it? We pair complementary domains to spark shared flow, fresh insight, and unforgettable “aha!” moments. You leave with lived skills, not just notes. * **Dialogue** gets you out of solo spin: small-group formats expose blind spots and sharpen “shared reality,” so your next move matches *this* person and *this* moment. * **Imaginal** practice is guided “as if” rehearsal you look *through*, not *at*: walking the beats before the scene means your body recognizes turns when stakes rise. * **Mindfulness** steadies the camera: attention stops jerking around, drama gets de-amplified, and you can catch the instant you’re narrating motives and swap in one honest question. * **Embodiment** makes it actionable through direct, non-verbal experience and how your inner experience matches your outer expression. Facilitators: Varies Fee: $30USD [Please visit here](https://awakentomeaning.com/crossroads-and-connections/) for registration and more information.

[Summary] This meetup is for those who are interested in code, web development, design, cloud, or AI. All levels are welcome, so feel free to bring your laptop and discuss what you are working on or what you are learning. You can share your projects and ideas with other participants freely. There are outlets and WiFi, drinks are about $5 for tea, they take card only. [Price] Attendance is FREE. But you need to buy something from the venue. [Policies] \- We do not tolerate harassment of our members \- We remind users that that this meetup is intended for networking and hobby development\, and any attempts at using this meetup event as a dating platform will not be not be tolerated Further information: https://torontostack.exchange/

Hello everyone, **\*\*Kindly Read Carefully\*\*** Please join me and my other groups for a great **Saturday afternoon and Saturday night in** **Port Credit.** If you have never been; it's a great place to enjoy the sun, the water, the trees, the flowers, grab a coffee, ice cream, go for a leisure walk by the lake and then enjoy a tasty meal. Port Credit is also known for it's live music and dancing too (Event is both indoor and outdoor) I'm going to show us all around Port Credit, play a couple new ice breaker games and then had to a wonderful cozy restaurant in the main strip of town with a great dinner menu. \*The walking portion will be roughly 2 hours with some stops along the way; then we will head for dinner and more mingling. This will be a fun day and evening gang! We will meet at **Star Bucks (111 Lake Shore Rd. West) in Port Credit** where you are welcome to grab a beverage or pastry if you like. This will give us an opportunity to introduce ourselves as everyone arrives; then make our way on our small evening adventure through **Port Credit.** More details below: Sincerely, Steve Flemming (Organizer/Host) **Event Details:** **\*\*SATURDAY NATURE WALK and NIGHTLIFE IN PORT CREDIT\*\*** **(Walk, Talk & Flock!)** -A great day as we explore some of the best area's of Port Credit near the water, board walk and entertainment strip (lots of live music too) -We can stop and rest at different spots, take some lovely scenic photos, group photos and share some laughs together -Play a couple ice breaker games near the beginning as well to help us get to know one another \*A great way to naturally make connections, get some fresh air and enjoy our Saturday in November together :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Event Fee:** 10 dollars (cash only) when you arrive (HST is included) or e transfer in advance to Steveflemming11@gmail.com \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Time and Location: Where to meet us?** We will meet at **Star Bucks (111 Lake Shore Rd. West) in Port Credit** where you are welcome to grab a beverage or pastry if you like. \*Arrive early if you like (however we will meet out front at 2::30 p.m. (we will wait for everyone to arrive until roughly 3:00) Go Train will take you there by Union Station too :) Plenty of parking in that area too- especially near Front Street and the Library :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ***Thanks for reading everyone, remember to RSVP and see you real soon!*** :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-

Networking? No. Boxing, AND networking? Yes. This boxing movement networking experience is designed to stimulate your brain and wake up your body where Yvette will teach fundamental boxing movement with fun, and drills! Trainer, Entrepreneur and boxing ring announcer [@yvetteraposo](https://www.instagram.com/yvetteraposo/) \- will lead an interactive networking event where you actually get up and move like a boxer 🥊 An electrifying and empowering workshop led by a boxing ring announcer, entrepreneur, and 2023 Empowerment Award Winner - Yvette Raposo. What to Expect This experience combines three powerful elements: ### Entrepreneurial Mindset Workshop Learn how the mental discipline of elite athletes can help entrepreneurs develop resilience, stay focused, and maintain confidence in uncertain situations. ### Interactive Boxing Movement Session Participants will get up and try **basic boxing movements and fun drills** designed to energize the room and help you embody the mindset of a fighter. No boxing experience required — this experience is designed for **beginners and all fitness levels**. Expect movement, laughter, and connection. ### Networking Mixer Connect with entrepreneurs, professionals, and aspiring leaders in a welcoming and empowering environment. What You’ll Learn • How a fighter’s mindset applies to entrepreneurship • Techniques for staying calm within chaos • How to focus your energy and build confidence • Leadership lessons from elite athletic training • Strategies for resilience in business and life ### About Yvette Raposo **Yvette Raposo** is a speaker, boxing ring announcer, and former boxing champion known for inspiring audiences through powerful storytelling, demonstrations, and mindset coaching. Using real lessons from inside the boxing ring, she helps individuals discover their inner fighter and develop the confidence, focus, and leadership needed to succeed in today’s fast-paced world.

Greens is still a top favorite place. Lets get another nice big turn out. Be sure to update your reservation. No show create problems for restarants who reserve the seats at the expense of paying customers. Please be respectful of your reservation.

Join us on March 19 for an in person a11yTO session focused on accessibility in game design. We all want our games to be engaging and enjoyable. But what happens when the mechanics that make a game fun create barriers for some players? How do we build accessible games while preserving the core loops and interactions that define the experience? In this 40 minute talk Rick will share lessons learned from building accessible first web and mobile games at Relish Digital & Games. Accessibility was not treated as an afterthought. It was a requirement from day one. Working with organizations such as TFO, PBS Kids, the American Heart Association, and the NFL, Rick and his team developed games designed specifically for children with a wide range of disabilities including blindness, low vision, Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities, physical impairments, neurodiversity, and intellectual disabilities. He will walk us through real examples of the games they built, the challenges they encountered, and the practical decisions made to preserve gameplay while embedding accessibility throughout the experience. You will learn: * How to integrate accessibility into core mechanics instead of layering it on later * Ways to design meaningful customization options * What works and what does not when building inclusive interactive experiences * How lessons from children’s games can apply to broader digital products Whether you design for kids or adults, web or mobile, games or other interactive experiences, this session will provide practical insights and inspiration for building products that welcome more people into the experience. Register at: [https://tickets.a11yto.com/e/34/designing-accessible-games-without-compromising-the-fun](https://tickets.a11yto.com/e/34/designing-accessible-games-without-compromising-the-fun) **Registration is required to attend and space is limited so please be sure to secure your spot in advance.**

It's better when we're together. Come and experience the power of the WHM with a wonderful group of people. We breathe, we go into the cold and we teach our bodies to heat up properly. We develop resilience and the mindset to use these powerful healing tools over and over again, all year round. This gathering is fully guided by Wim Hof instructor Steve Beattie. If you are new to this, come on down, enjoy the support and practice in a safe way with us. If you already have a WHM practice this meetup is a great way to take it to the next level, and make lots of new friends. There will be a fire, snacks and drinks shared by other attendees. We have been doing this 6 for years! **What to bring?** * Yoga mat * Weather-appropriate clothing (better to dress too warm!) * Bathing suite, towel * Water shoes (optional) In extreme weather being prepared is very important. Especially if it's your first time, please read up on how to come prepared [here.](https://www.breathinginnature.com/wim-hof-method-meetup/) Learn more about our Wim Hof meetups, workshops, breath classes, wilderness trips, medicine work and special events at **[Breathing in Nature](https://breathinginnature.com/)**. Join the "**[Wim Hof Toronto](https://www.facebook.com/groups/1714218015474146/)**" group on Facebook to see all of our local events. This is a free event made possible by our Gift Economy. You can learn more about the Gift Economy [here](https://breathinginnature.com/gift-economy/).

Discover Kiro, AWS’s innovative development environment that adapts to your workflow. Whether you prefer specification-driven development or a more intuitive, vibe-based approach, Kiro empowers you to build applications your way. In this session, speakers will explore Kiro’s core functionality and its evolution through re:Invent 2025, along with demonstrations of prompts used to create APIs, hooks, and steering documents. In the latter part of the session, watch as we build a complete example from scratch, showcasing Kiro’s agentic AI workflow in action for spec-driven development and vibe coding. What You'll Learn - Core Kiro concepts and development philosophy Feature evolution: pre and post re:Invent 2025 Practical examples: API creation, hooks, and steering docs Live coding demonstration with real-time problem solving Who Should Attend - Developers, solutions architects, and technical leaders interested in modern AWS development tools and AI-assisted coding workflows. **Speakers Bio:** Matthew Jorat: Matthew Jorat is a Customer Solutions Manager at AWS with nearly three decades of expertise in AI, cloud transformation, migration, modernization, IT, technology, and business. His career spans infrastructure engineer, solutions architect, security auditor, customer success director, support and services director, and operations officer. He was an early adopter of AWS services as a customer, and his current role at AWS uniquely blends his technical and business skills as he partners with executive teams to translate strategic priorities into measurable business outcomes through cloud adoption, AI implementation, and operational excellence. Matt leads end-to-end AI initiatives for enterprise customers, identifying high-impact use cases and maintaining relentless focus on measurable ROI. He holds eight AWS certifications and serves as Adjunct Professor at Franklin University teaching cloud computing and AWS architecture. His expertise encompasses GenAI, agentic AI systems, migration, modernization, and optimization strategies that drive transformation at scale. [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattjorat/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattjorat/) Girish Bhatia: Girish Bhatia is a seasoned technology delivery leader with deep expertise in cross-domain program management. He holds multiple AWS certifications, including AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate, AWS Certified Developer – Associate, and AWS Generative AI Practitioner, and is also an AWS Community Builder. Girish brings over two decades of experience in the information technology industry. Throughout his career, Girish has led major technology-driven business transformation from modernizing on-premises applications to driving large-scale cloud migrations. His work includes API-based integration platforms, data-center and mainframe modernization, and enterprise cloud adoption initiatives. Based in Columbus, Ohio, Girish works at a tech-forward fintech company. He is passionate about AWS serverless architectures, Generative AI and emerging cloud technologies. An avid learner and builder, he continues to explore and apply the latest innovations in AWS to help organizations accelerate their digital transformation. https://www.linkedin.com/in/girishbhatia/[https://www.linkedin.com/in/girishbhatia/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/girishbhatia/) **THANK YOU** *Franklin University* for hosting our meetup! To learn more about *Franklin University*, please visit their website: https://www.franklin.edu/ **DIRECTIONS** Franklin University Fisher Hall 300 E. Main St, Columbus, OH 43215 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jxjBA2hUmS5qrvhq8 Parking is FREE! Please park in Lot C in front of Fisher Hall. See attached map. NOTE: Map the address only. When mapping with Google Maps it may use the Fisher Hall at OSU, which is NOT correct. **Want to sponsor the pizza and/or bar tab?** Please contact me if you would like to sponsor this meetup's pizza and/or bar tab: angelo@mandato.com

**Important time note:** Please plan on arriving between 5:30 and 6:00 as the elevators lock after 6 and you'll need to message us and we'll need to come get you. The building address is 4450 Bridge Park The entrance is 6620 Mooney St, Suite 400 **Abstract** Web Forms gave .NET developers a powerful abstraction for building reusable UI controls long before design systems were a thing. Web Components finally bring that same idea to the browser natively. This session explores how the Web Forms mindset translates into Custom Elements, Shadow DOM, and HTML templates. We’ll examine how Web Components enable design systems that work across frameworks, how they differ from server‑driven controls, and why they’re becoming a foundational layer for modern UI. Whether you’re maintaining legacy apps or building greenfield projects, you’ll leave with a practical understanding of how to apply familiar patterns in a modern, standards‑based way. **YouTube Link** TBA

Join us for the Spring edition of [Nature Loving Fest](https://www.facebook.com/events/895148649812928), a small, thoughtfully curated outdoor gathering celebrating vegan eats, handmade goods, and the beauty of the season. Formerly known as our Vegan Pop-Up, this new chapter reflects what the event has always been — a space rooted in nature, community, and intentional living. Expect around 20 local vendors offering seasonal vegan eats, small-batch bakes, handcrafted goods, and earth-conscious products. Come support local makers, share good food, and celebrate the beginning of a new season with us. Admission is Free.

**Web Design Decoded: Tools, Practices, and Proven Processes:** **Semantic HTML** At WebDev Columbus, we are exploring some of the most important topics of professional high-end web design and page building. Primarily focused on site building in the WordPress environment, our group explores tools, tips, and techniques for building the best WordPress sites possible. Additionally, we focus on disciplines and technologies that take website design from visually appealing to optimized spaces for delivering you and/or your client's message effectively and with a nod towards extended reach. Each session combines practical demonstrations with real-world insights, giving you actionable knowledge you can apply immediately. Whether you're a seasoned developer looking to enhance your design skills or a newcomer wanting to understand design best practices, this series offers valuable insights for every skill level. **What to expect:** * Hands-on demonstrations of popular design tools * Best practices for design-to-development workflows * Tips for creating responsive, accessible designs * Real-world problem-solving scenarios * Interactive Q&A sessions * Networking opportunities with fellow developers **Each meetup features:** 60 minutes of focused presentation 30 minutes of live demonstrations 30 minutes for questions and discussion **See you there!** Our casual, collaborative environment encourages learning from both presenters and fellow attendees. Bring your questions, share your experiences, and connect with Central Ohio's web development community! **Stay tuned for specific session topics and dates.**

We are recruiting new group leaders for virtual men's groups! Our primary groups are outdoor movement groups, but we are launching virtual groups for the state of Ohio and beyond and the groups will move outside in the spring, creating room for men's groups, women's groups and coed groups all over the country. Read below to learn about our groups and click the links at the bottom to apply. ### **What is an Outdoor Empowerment Group?** Our Outdoor Movement & Community Empowerment Groups are simple, guided experiences designed to help people reconnect with nature, themselves, and others. We combine some form of movement (hike, walk, run, bike, yoga, workout) and meaningful conversation within a simple community circle to create a space where individuals can support each other while prioritizing mental and physical well-being. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, personal growth, or community, our groups offer everyone a unique and welcoming environment. ## **Why Join?** * **Improve Mental & Physical Well-Being** – Movement, nature, and supportive conversations reduce stress and promote balance. * **Feel Less Alone** – Build genuine connections with like-minded people in a safe, welcoming space. * **Gain Clarity & Perspective** – Step outside daily routines and into a space designed for personal growth and reflection. ## **The Ideal Group Leader** The ideal group leader * Has a born-in passion for mental health, movement, connecting with nature and building community. * Has 5 extra hours per week to dedicate to a meaningful cause for at least one year. Yes, you can leave any organization at any time and we can also ask you to leave, but we are building with legacy in mind and we need people who can commit and be ALL IN on this mission to build with us. * Is independently financially stable with the ability to volunteer with no expectation of pay. This is a deeply beautiful journey of service that all participants commit to at Speak Your Mind. * An ability to manage groups with high emotional intelligence and desire for human connection. * An ability to self-motivate and market/promote their group on Facebook and other social platforms. * Nature informed therapy or clinical therapists/psychologists a plus. ## **Our Impact**  Since launching, we have helped thousands find support, connection, and healing through our Outdoor Movement Groups. 100% of participants surveyed have reported: * A noticeable improvement in mental clarity and emotional well-being. * An increase in social connection and a sense of belonging. * Said they would return again. We believe mental health should be accessible, community-driven, and rooted in nature. Join us and take the first step toward a more connected, grounded, and supported version of yourself. ### **Why Our Groups are Donation-Based** Our Outdoor Movement Groups are made possible through a donation-based model. This approach allows us to keep our events accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances, while also ensuring that we can continue expanding our reach. It’s a great way to pay it forward and support the growth of this beautiful mission! Every contribution helps us: * **Cover Essential Costs** – Donations allow us to pay essential legal, marketing, insurance, and admin costs as well as nourish the important people who run the organization. * **Grow Our Mission** – With your support, we can bring these healing experiences to thousands more people in the future and execute our long term plan to expand across the USA, affecting up to 500,000 people per year. By choosing to contribute, you’re not just leading an event—you’re helping build a mental health movement that supports long-term well-being and connection for all during a severe mental health epidemic. ## **Come Join Us!** We’d love to have you be part of this growing community of people prioritizing their mental health, movement, and connection. 🔹 **Visit Our Website to Learn More:** https://speakyourmind.men/joinusoutside 🔹 **Apply Here to Lead Your Own Group!** – https://form.jotform.com/taketimespeakyourmind/sym-group-leader-application 🔹 **Support the mission**: If you resonate with the mission and want to support, feel free to join a group before applying or donate to help us reach our goals to help more people! You can donate here: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/angels-for-angels/speak-your-mind Please text Mario with any questions: (808) 855-8831

OpenClaw, NemoClaw, personal assistants, 24/7 agents. What does it all mean? How does it all work and what should we know about it? Whether you’re deep in the field or just getting curious, come connect with others building and exploring AI in Columbus. Sponsored by [Transform Labs](https://www.transformlabs.com/services)

So this month's prompt is more general. I think we can all agree that we are living in "unique" times that require coping skills. I think that one role and/or purpose of philosophy is to help us deal with our daily lives and our "unique" times. So, let's share our feelings and thoughts about which philosopher/philosophy we turn to in order to deal with our crazy events. Who/what helps you stay focused in your daily life and helps you sleep at night. I find that Stoicism with a little philosophical pessimism mixed in goes a long way in helping me deal with what I see as very destructive, fearful and mean spirited public policies at both the state and federal levels. Hope to see you on March 28th!