TEDx

TO MAINTAIN A GENDER BALANCE ALL MALES MUST ATTEND WITH A FEMALE FRIEND, NO EXCEPTIONS. All females are welcome to attend alone but encouraged to attend with a female friend too for free drinks and food! MUST TAP “ATTEND” and include all guests. UNLIKE other meetups which are overwhelmingly male dominant, we provide ONLY gender balanced events where females also have a chance to meet other females, not only men. WE ARE COMMITTED TO EQUAL GENDER REPRESENTATION IN THE IT INDUSTRY. 8PM EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY (LAST ENTRY STRICTLY 8.30PM) AT 215 QUEEN’S

☕ **Girl Who Boss Coffee Catchup!** ☕ Join us for a relaxed and casual coffee catchup, where like-minded women come together to connect, chat, and share ideas! Whether you're a career professional, entrepreneur, or creative, this is the perfect chance to meet other inspiring women in a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. *** **Here’s the agenda:** 🕚 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Welcome & Mingle 💬 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM: Casual Conversations & Coffee 🤝 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Networking & Wrap-Up No formalities, no pressure—just a space to enjoy great company, share experiences, and make new connections over coffee. ☕💖 These meetups are a great way to ease into networking while building friendships in a laid-back setting. Looking forward to catching up with everyone! 🌟 Feel free to message me if you have any questions. See you there! 😊 Wondering why our events are sometimes ticketed, or have questions about our pricing? We've written about it [here](https://open.substack.com/pub/girlswhoboss/p/accessibility-sustainability-and?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=4apm4h).

We are heading to one of the "Pick Your Own" Sunflowers farms near Ballarat. The tickets are limited. Please note that this trip also involves a shared taxi/uber. The payment shared taxi/uber can be made on the day of the event. Please note that that 1st March is their opening day and the Sunflowers won't be in full bloom. Please follow these three steps to confirm your spot: Step 1: Please RSVP to this event on meetup. Step 2: Please pay the organizer fee ($20 - Early Bird, $25 - Regular) - [https://www.trybooking.com/DJROZ](https://www.trybooking.com/DJROZ) Step 3: Please buy the farm entry ticket ($10) via Trybooking for 1st March: [https://www.trybooking.com/events/1540269/sessions](https://www.trybooking.com/events/1540269/sessions) Organizer fee tickets are non-refundable. There is no option to transfer the ticket to a new date. Organizer fee tickets will be only refunded if the event is cancelled or moved. Organizer fee payments are managed through Trybooking and not Meetup. You will see an "Unpaid" status on your RSVP. The only thing you need is the Trybooking ticket which you will receive by email. **Meeting Point**: Let's meet in the Corner of Spencer Street and Bourke Street (Station Side - Near the steps) at 10:10 AM and take Vline train. We should be back in the city around 5 pm. Please note that meeting at the destination is not an option for this event. Please plan to show up at the meeting point as uber/taxi groups will be formed at the meeting point. **Meeting Point Photo**: [[https://bit.ly/2SkyVL2](https://bit.ly/2SkyVL2)](https://bit.ly/2SkyVL2) \*\* Please make sure you bring your Myki. Please ensure that it has atleast $8. Please ensure that your myki money is added before coming to the meeting point. \*\* Cost: Organizer Fee: $20 - Early Bird, $25 Myki Cost: $8 Sunflower Farm: Tickets $10 Sunflowers: $2 per stem – available for purchase as you leave Shared Taxi/Uber: $20-$30 (To be paid via PayID or cash on the day of the event) This is a rain or shine event. **Pick Your Own Sunflowers** \- Every year since its beginnings\, Sunflower field in Dunnstown has grown into one of Regional Victoria's most popular rural experience\, with visitors flocking from all over Victoria and interstate\. Please carry snacks and water. There are no food options at the farm. Please follow us on Social Media for photos, videos & updates: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@explore-melbourne) \| [Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/exploremelb) \| [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/xpmelb/) \| [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@exploremelbourne) \| [ExploreMelbourne.AU](https://exploremelbourne.au/) Loyalty Card Stamps for this event: If you are not using a discount code: 1 If you are using a discount code: 0 Explore Melbourne is the largest meetup group in Australia. We have eight simple rules in place to protect our community and for everyone to have a positive experience. ❌ Not a dating group! – We’re here to make friends, not find soulmates. No flirty business, please! 📵 No phone numbers, please! – Feel free to swap social media if both parties are cool with it, but let’s keep our digits private. Please don’t add people to WhatsApp or other groups. 🔞 Our events are only open to people aged 18 and older. 📢 Please do not advertise other events or groups. 😅 Don’t be a social octopus! – Give people space to chat with others. Please don't be clingy. 🚗 We don't allow carpooling due to safety incidents/our public liability insurance not covering motor related accidents. 💰 No sales pitches! – No selling, no MLMs, no pyramid schemes, no “life-changing mentorship” offers—let’s keep things scam-free. 📸 Cameras welcome, but… – please refrain from taking photos of our members for privacy reasons. By joining this event, you’re giving us a virtual pinky promise 🤝 that you’ll follow the rules. Break them, and—poof!—you’re out for good. No second chances, no do-overs. Let’s keep it fun, friendly, and drama-free! **Liability Waiver:** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your safety and well-being. By joining this event, you agree to the liability waiver mentioned here: [[https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/](https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/)](https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/)

How about we kick off the best day with a jog and coffee together? Trust me, you won't want to miss out! 🏃‍♂️Training menu🏃‍♂️ Every Sunday 8:00~ Fed Square Assembly 【https://maps.app.goo.gl/zmPQ6U533pUDcNSA9?g_st=ic】 If you have luggage, please consider using the lockers at the station. 💥40~60 min Jog+Walk Pace: Easy pace, suitable for beginners. If you got tired, let's walk together. 【schedule】 8:00 Gathering 8:10 Start 9:00 End of training Challengers we are waiting for you 😊

**\*\*\*This is a pre-booking event. Please visit [artmasterclass.com.au](https://www.artmasterclass.com.au/) choose your lamp, use the MEETAMC10 coupon code, and make a reservation.\*\*\*** Join us for a hands-on workshop where families can learn the art of creating beautiful Turkish lamps together. This unique and engaging class will guide parents and kids through crafting intricate and colorful lamps. No prior experience is required, as our expert instructors will provide step-by-step instructions on design, assembly, and decorating techniques. This workshop is perfect for families and friends to bond, unleash their creativity, and take home a stunning handmade craft that can brighten any room. Come discover Turkish lamp-making's magic with your little ones in a fun and supportive environment. In this 2.5-hour workshop, you'll lose track of time and end up with a beautiful lamp to take home!

**Join Us for a Special Clean-Up Event This March!** This month, we're switching things up and hosting our event on a Sunday - for a great reason! Our clean-up will coincide with **Clean Up Australia Day** on **Sunday, 1st March**, making it an extra special occasion. But that’s not all - we’re also celebrating the **8th birthday** of the **Maribyrnong River Rubbish Club!** To mark the occasion, we’ll be providing a **light vegetarian lunch** after our usual clean-up, and we’d love for you to join us. **\*\*\* EVENT DETAILS \*\*\*** **What to Expect** Enjoy fresh air, good conversation and light exercise, all while making a positive impact on our local environment. We’ll be collecting rubbish along the banks of the Maribyrnong River. **What to Bring** * Water, sun protection and closed-toe shoes * We encourage you to bring your own gloves and sunscreen, but we’ll have extras available * All clean-up equipment, including rubbish bags, will be provided **Meeting Point** We usually meet at **Footscray Wharf, near Waterside Metal Art**. However, locations may change, so please check the event page beforehand. If you have trouble finding us on the day, call **0418 184 457 or 0415 635 063**. **Weather Policy** We meet every month, except in cases of extreme weather. If you’re unsure, check the event page on the morning of the clean-up for any updates. Come along, get involved, and help us celebrate eight years of making a difference!

Join us for a friendly and relaxed English meetup in South Melbourne! This gathering is perfect for anyone who wants to practise English, meet new friends, and feel part of a welcoming community. Whether you’re an international student, new to Melbourne, or simply looking to connect with others, you’ll find a supportive space to learn and grow. Each week, we run **two simple sessions**: **Daily English**, where you learn useful everyday vocabulary, and **Learning English from the Bible**, where we explore short passages in clear, beginner-friendly English. You’ll also meet people from different cultures and enjoy meaningful conversations in a warm, inclusive environment. Come along, make new friends, and enjoy learning English in a place where everyone is welcome. We’d love to meet you!

**The Harm and Value of Religion** We are looking at religion and what harm it does or what value it has for society if any. And why the recent increase in interest by intellectuals and atheists despite thinking it's obsolete. **VIDEOS** [We DON'T need RELIGION - Sam Harris vs Jordan Peterson](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fpIUjbWd5k) [Why Religion Does more Harm than Good in the World](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gp3pW_2E2BM) [Eric Weinstein - Why Nobody Believes In Anything Anymore](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QwylZPb-HWs) **Discussion Outline** 1\. Can we perceive the world without a structure? 2\. Is religion harmful? 3\. Atheist: "Religion is interested in you whether or not you give a shit"

**At our March book club, learn about the forces behind the rise of women's sports and why it matters.** We will be reading and discussing *Girls Don't Play Sport: The game-changing, defiant rise of women's sport, and why it matters*, followed by a watch party for the first game of the Women's Soccer Asian Cup of 2026, where the Matildas take on the Philippines. **About the book** Chloe Dalton, the founder of The Female Athlete Project and Olympic gold medalist, shines a light on the interlinked quagmires of respect, opportunity, representation, and pay that continue to stall the progress of women's teams around the world. **What you will learn** * Why we should all care about women's sport * How it has evolved and where the future could be * What we need to do to embrace the untapped potential that it has We will start the book discussion at 6:00 p.m, and kick-off for the game starts at 8:00 p.m for those who wish to stay behind to watch the Matildas take on the Philippines in the first game for the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 Purchase link: [[Girls Don't Play Sport: The Game-Changing Defiant Rise Of Women's Sport and Why It Matters](https://www.allenandunwin.com/browse/book/Chloe-Dalton-Girls-Don't-Play-Sport-9781761068751)] If you've RSVPd and are not able to make it, please let us know 48 hours in advance.

Turn Anxiety into Happiness! Become your natural self again. Discover the drug-free way to a healthy mind. This educational talk is based on the book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health by New York Times bestseller author L. Ron Hubbard. Dianetics is an exact science of the mind. In this educational talk you will learn about the hidden source of all irrational thoughts and behavior as well as unwanted emotions (anxiety, fear, suppression, and apathy) and how to handle them forever. Free entry and free parking. Please send messages to host if you have any question.

✨ **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.

Please join us this Sunday as we discuss work, labour, machines and the good life. Ilya will be leading this session. It's a big topic and we are likely to continue talking about it next Sunday. **We will meet at the Queensberry Hotel, 593 Swanston Street, Carlton (100m north of previous location) at 2pm for a 2:15pm start sharp.** **We kindly ask attendees to pay $5 to attend to help with MeetUp costs & venue costs. This is not mandatory, but if you are a regular member it would be appreciated. Any extra moneys will go towards buying food and drinks for the table. The venue also expects us to spend money as a group, so grateful if everyone could buy a drink from the venue.** There is no pre-requisite preparation necessary, nor a philosophical background, all that is required is a curious mind. These discussions are both a Socrates Cafe style discussion and lively metaphysical dojo, in the spirit of learning and friendly debate, so please feel free to challenge assumptions and be prepared to have your own assumptions challenged. Find below some questions to consider, however these are free-ranging events and the below serve as a springboard for the discussion: **Why we work** 1\. If there was no economic necessity – would you still choose to work? 2\. Would you do similar work to what you currently do or something else? 3\. What is “work” as opposed to leisure or other activity? 4\. Is doing work essential to living a ‘Good Life’? 5\. Do you feel guilty when not working? 6\. Is becoming competent at a profession important for identity formation? **Paradox of productivity** 7\. Why is it that no matter how much the economy is industrialised and automated\, there have always been enough new jobs created to keep unemployment low? 8\. In 1930\, the prominent economist John Maynard Keynes predicted that within 100 years technological improvements would result in a 15\-hour work week\. Why hasn’t this happened? 9\. We live in a society where much has been simplified to ‘a click of a button’\, yet why do we feel busier than ever? 10\. Has the removal of bottlenecks caused us to live at a more frenetic pace? 11\. Does difficulty and friction create meaning? Do resistance and constraint force us to slow down and better appreciate life? **Work in my backyard** 12\. To what degree does work \(and associated competition\) function as a necessary ‘sorting mechanism’ for status and resources? 13\. Competition for many jobs – especially those that are prestigious \- is increasingly global\. Has it become harder for people who want a ‘normal’ job \(and the good life\)? 14\. How does the globalisation of work affect how we see the ‘relevant moral community’\, such as between Australia and developing nations? 15\. Is globalised work a trend towards greater justice or injustice? **Augmented Indolence?** 16\. While the advent of every technology introduced thus far has not reduced human labour in aggregate\, with AI will it finally be different this time? 17\. If AI replaces numerous types of jobs wholesale\, what new work may be created \(or greatly expanded\) for humans to do? 18\. If aggregate human labour was drastically reduced\, is it more likely that people will feel liberated from economic necessity\, or beset by a crisis of meaning? 19\. What is worse – a life of constant work\, or no work at all? Hope to see you there!

Please join us this Sunday as we discuss work, labour, machines and the good life. Ilya will be leading this session. It's a big topic and we are likely to continue talking about it next Sunday. **We will meet at the Queensberry Hotel, 593 Swanston Street, Carlton (100m north of previous location) at 2pm for a 2:15pm start sharp.** **We kindly ask attendees to pay $5 to attend to help with MeetUp costs & venue costs. This is not mandatory, but if you are a regular member it would be appreciated. Any extra moneys will go towards buying food and drinks for the table. The venue also expects us to spend money as a group, so grateful if everyone could buy a drink from the venue.** There is no pre-requisite preparation necessary, nor a philosophical background, all that is required is a curious mind. These discussions are both a Socrates Cafe style discussion and lively metaphysical dojo, in the spirit of learning and friendly debate, so please feel free to challenge assumptions and be prepared to have your own assumptions challenged. Find below some questions to consider, however these are free-ranging events and the below serve as a springboard for the discussion: **Why we work** 1\. If there was no economic necessity – would you still choose to work? 2\. Would you do similar work to what you currently do or something else? 3\. What is “work” as opposed to leisure or other activity? 4\. Is doing work essential to living a ‘Good Life’? 5\. Do you feel guilty when not working? 6\. Is becoming competent at a profession important for identity formation? **Paradox of productivity** 7\. Why is it that no matter how much the economy is industrialised and automated\, there have always been enough new jobs created to keep unemployment low? 8\. In 1930\, the prominent economist John Maynard Keynes predicted that within 100 years technological improvements would result in a 15\-hour work week\. Why hasn’t this happened? 9\. We live in a society where much has been simplified to ‘a click of a button’\, yet why do we feel busier than ever? 10\. Has the removal of bottlenecks caused us to live at a more frenetic pace? 11\. Does difficulty and friction create meaning? Do resistance and constraint force us to slow down and better appreciate life? **Work in my backyard** 12\. To what degree does work \(and associated competition\) function as a necessary ‘sorting mechanism’ for status and resources? 13\. Competition for many jobs – especially those that are prestigious \- is increasingly global\. Has it become harder for people who want a ‘normal’ job \(and the good life\)? 14\. How does the globalisation of work affect how we see the ‘relevant moral community’\, such as between Australia and developing nations? 15\. Is globalised work a trend towards greater justice or injustice? **Augmented Indolence?** 16\. While the advent of every technology introduced thus far has not reduced human labour in aggregate\, with AI will it finally be different this time? 17\. If AI replaces numerous types of jobs wholesale\, what new work may be created \(or greatly expanded\) for humans to do? 18\. If aggregate human labour was drastically reduced\, is it more likely that people will feel liberated from economic necessity\, or beset by a crisis of meaning? 19\. What is worse – a life of constant work\, or no work at all? Hope to see you there!

🌟 **A new one-on-one, personality-based connection experience** Over the years, I’ve seen how hard it can be to find people you truly click with as adults. Small talk goes nowhere, and most events don’t give you the space for real conversation. Well… here it is - a new version, more intentional, and built around something I care about : **matching people based on personality.** NOTE : THIS IS A TICKETED EVENT. LINK IN COMMENTS. RSVP ON MEETUP DOESN'T GUARANTEE YOUR SPOT. 💫 **What to Expect** This is not speed dating, and it’s not a big mixer. It’s a curated, one-on-one connection experience where you’ll meet a few people who’ve been matched to you based on personality and vibe. Expect: * A cosy, comfortable venue * A hosted structure so you’re never left awkwardly standing around * A series of guided one-on-one conversations * A relaxed atmosphere where you can genuinely be yourself * This is not dating focused event, there will be a seperate one for dating Each conversation is designed to feel natural — because the match is based on compatibility Get your tickets here - https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1982142483526?aff=oddtdtcreator 🧭 **Before the Event** Once you get your Eventbrite ticket, you’ll receive a **short personality test (If you have already taken the test at a previous event you don't need to do it again)**. It takes only a few minutes but helps us understand your communication style, energy, and compatibility factors. This is how we curate meaningful one-on-one pairings for the event. 🌿 **Come Join Us** If you’re tired of small talk and ready to meet people who truly fit your personality, this is for you. A warm, intentional space created for deeper conversations and genuine chemistry - whether it becomes friendship, something romantic, or just a surprisingly great chat. RSVP now — spots are kept limited to ensure quality one-on-one time.

[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).

Join other experienced and aspiring agile coaches and professionals to: * develop and practice your coaching skills in a peer-to-peer environment * share current successes and challenges in your work environment and get support from each other * learn from each other, build better relationships and experiment with new ideas

The Humanist Monthly Program is our longest running event and still a community favorite. In the old days it used to be called "Going to HCCO" and we still like to think of it as our flagship event. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Our March speakers are Molly Gaines and Zack Parrish, co-organizers of the Secular Education Association: They will share their story of how a small group of Ohio parents grew into a national organization tracking released-time religious instruction and other church–state issues in public schools. The presentation will cover SEA’s early wins and hard lessons, what we’re seeing nationally right now, and how local advocates can play a meaningful role in protecting public education. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the landscape — and practical ways to get involved. 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

## Overview Networking event for aspiring school leaders interested in building their own high-quality K-12 public school in their community. **About the Event:** Aspiring school founders in the Columbus, OH, area are invited to join us for this special in-person networking event where you will be able to ask questions, learn more about the BES Fellowship and make sure you are prepared for the application process and beyond. In addition to meeting like-minded leaders who are also committed to transforming education and bringing a high-quality K-12 option to their community, you’ll have the opportunity to meet our team and gain special insights from Dr. Chaundria Smith, BES Senior Director of Fellowship Coaching, who works closely to support BES Fellows. During this event, you can also learn more about the various regions across Ohio we are prioritizing for the BES Fellowship to ensure that new schools will respond to the needs of their community. **About the BES Fellowship:** Leaders in the BES Fellowship embark on a multi-year process to design, found, and lead an excellent K-12 public school that reflects and responds to community needs. We are currently accepting applications to the 2026 BES Fellowship. The extended deadline is March 30, and the 2026 Cohort will begin August 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all spots are filled. Learn more at [bes.org/fellowship](http://bes.org/fellowship "http://bes.org/fellowship").

**Confidence in Bloom: How Creativity Builds Confidence** What happens when creativity becomes an intentional practice? In this month’s Confidence Lab, we’ll gather at **Petals That Inspire: The Flourish Studio** for an evening exploring the connection between creativity and confidence. How making with our hands, engaging our senses, and allowing space for expression can shift how we see ourselves and what we believe is possible. Our featured speaker, **Amanda Lorenzetti**, owner of Petals That Inspire, will share how creativity has shaped her own confidence journey and why creative environments play such a powerful role in well-being, resilience, and personal growth. Drawing from her work leading an experience-driven floral studio and a community-centered workforce development program, Amanda will reflect on creativity as both a personal and collective catalyst. Amanda will also guide us through a **hands-on floral design experience**, creating a fresh arrangement in a wide mouth mason jar. No prior floral experience is needed, just curiosity and a willingness to engage the process. This evening is an invitation to slow down, create, and reconnect with the part of yourself that grows through care, attention, and imagination. You’ll leave with a floral arrangement to take home, and a deeper understanding of how confidence can be cultivated through creative practices. **Featured Speaker: Amanda Lorenzetti** Amanda Lorenzetti is the owner and founder of [Petals That Inspire](https://www.petalsthatinspire.com/) and The Flourish Studio, a social enterprise florist based in Columbus, Ohio. She brings more than a decade of experience in wedding and event sales, paired with hands-on expertise in floral and event design. Amanda’s connection to the floral industry began early, spending time alongside her godmother, a professional florist on the East Coast. After earning her business degree, she returned to her hometown in Connecticut to work as a floral and event designer, blending creative artistry with strong operational and client-focused skills. In 2020, Amanda returned to the floral industry with a renewed purpose, driven by a desire to build a business rooted in creativity, community impact, and sustainability. During this pivotal time, she founded Petals That Inspire—an innovative floral concept that reimagines the traditional florist model by combining event florals, workshops, and experiential offerings with a mission-centered approach to workforce development. Today, Petals That Inspire is a thriving social enterprise known for its thoughtful design, educational experiences, and commitment to empowering young adults facing barriers to entry in the workforce. Amanda is deeply passionate about building businesses that are both profitable and purpose-driven, and she leverages her strong business acumen to create a scalable & sustainable model that inspires creativity while giving back to the community. **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.*

Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! For this event, we’ll help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents, wash dishes and clean surfaces at Fath Mission – Grant Kitchen. We have a great little community of Movie Group friends so rather than see a movie this time, we’ll help “Create a better world” by helping serve those in need. Here are complete details and our plan for this event: FAITH MISSION – GRANT KITCHEN: The Faith Mission kitchen and dining room serves residents 3 meals a day, every day of the year. Our group will help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents in the dining room, wash dishes, and clean surfaces. PLAN: We will be preparing / serving / cleaning for BRUNCH from 10:30am to 12:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 10:15am and wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. LOCATION: Faith Mission – Grant Kitchen is located at 245 N. Grant Ave. Enter the kitchen at Dock 1, indicated in the attached map. On-site and street parking are available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details: \* LSS Volunteer Guidelines: Uploaded to photos. \* Parking Map Info: Uploaded to photos. \* LSS Faith Mission Orientation Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bp46_6ay6iA \* Link with Additional Details / Info: https://lss.vomo.org/opportunity/faith-mission-grant-kitchen-2025 IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing the all of the volunteers on this day so a firm RSVP count is essential. Please only sign up if you are certain you’ll be able to attend. If something unavoidable comes up, please update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With very few exceptions, no shows or cancelations within 1 week of the event will not be eligible for future CMG Gives Back events. I appreciate your understanding as we try to ensure the agencies have the volunteers needed to provide the essential services they provide to the vulnerable population they serve. THANK YOU: This CMG Gives Back event provides an opportunity for YOU to get involved in helping others! Benefits go well beyond the help we give to others. Volunteering provides a wide range of personal benefits, including positive effects on mental and physical health, reduced stress/depression/anxiety, increased happiness and improved purpose, life-satisfaction and personal well-being! Plus, the opportunity to get involved, connect with others and help those in need. PARTNER AGENCY: This event is hosted by Lutheran Social Services (LSS), which serves thousands of people in need each day in 27 Ohio counties by addressing the four core societal issues of food, shelter, safety and healing. LSS offers food through the LSS Food Pantries, housing and supportive services through LSS Faith Mission and LSS Faith Mission of Fairfield County homeless shelters, domestic violence services through LSS CHOICES for Victims of Domestic Violence, senior living and health care, affordable housing communities, and other services that uplift families and strengthen communities. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

This meeting will be an open discussion about the book "an Immense World" by Ed Yong