Urdu Culture

Having children can be a personal, national and global decision. Globally, human population looks unsustainable. But some countries are seeing greater birth rates decline than others, especially in the developed world. At a personal level, the question involves accounting for career trade-offs and other costs. So, do we really need [more] children? We'll discuss... 1\. Do we really *need* to have children? Why? 2\. Why are birth rates declining internationally? 3\. Should government policies incentivise/reward people who decide to have children? *Join us for a relaxed group conversation where we explore the real life, the grey areas, and how our different cultures and backgrounds shape our views about key topics.* *Expect real talk, no judgment, and a chance to hear how others see it.* **\*Come for the discussion, stay for the friendships. Our weekly discussion series brings together thoughtful people for honest conversations on relationships, life, and society—with warm social vibes before and after.\*** **WHAT TO EXPECT:** * Good vibes only: we chat big topics in a chill, respectful way. No arguing - just open-minded exchange. * We warm up with casual socializing (come solo or with friends!) * The topic starts around 7:45/8pm, wraps around 9:30. * 🍕 There's pizza, drinks, milkshakes and snacks available at the bar (incl plant-based options) * And most people stay until late for drinks and mingling! **DISCUSSION FORMAT:** **Our group conversations are open and flexible - there is a very soft guided flow to ensure we focus on the main questions, and to ensure that everyone gets a balanced opportunity to speak. Here's a typically structure, but we adjust on the day depending on the turnout:** \- Introductions and thoughts *(\~5 mins).* \- Group breakouts per question *(\~20 mins x 3).* \- Final round of opinions *(\~10 mins)*. \- Mix and mingle\, make new friends\, get drinks etc *(\~until late)* **EVENT ETIQUETTE (Rules & expectations)** \- Debate the topic\, not the participants \- no personal attacks\! \- No phones\, no interrupting\, no bystanding \- Always follow the moderator/host instructions and guidelines **WHAT IS WORLD CITIZENS?** We're one of London's longest-running and largest communities. Since 2012 we run socials, cultural activities and stimulating discussions to foster meaningful exchange and learning among London's global professionals. They are inspired by MUN (Model United Nations) and salon discussions and offer a more relaxed and social evening version. **LOCATION DETAILS** What: Discussion session followed by social/networking When: Tuesday, 7:30pm until late. Where: Curzon Aldgate (bar area), 2 Canter Way, E1 8PS Closest stations: Aldgate East, Aldgate, Tower Hill/Gateway Cost: Pay for your own meals or drinks Hosts: We have a rotating team and the actual host of each event varies. Our regular members can also help you out with basic matters. *NOTE: like most guests, our volunteer hosts also attend after work and may happen to arrive after the start time. If you are punctual or earlier than our hosts, we highly appreciate this! Please feel free to start socializing already and/or get something to eat or drink - that’s the point of our events anyway. Our regular members can also help you out with any basic matters.* **\*Our other weekly events\*** \- Friday evening socials every week \- Saturday afternoon cafe in Chelsea \- Canary Wharf socials every other Wednesday \- Outdoor fun \(hiking\, kayaking\, etc\) every weekend \- Dining\, cultural and travel activities on\-demand **JOIN OUR TEAM!** We're all volunteers, so if you enjoy organizing activities or events in your spare time, while meeting great people every week, send a message to our team account "TP"! **DISCLAIMER** We are a 100% volunteer-run team. Though we have high standards in planning, this is a private informal activity so we cannot be liable for any damage or inconvenience. However, we put safety and comfort first. We take all complaints seriously, and take severe action against any harassment, verbal or non-verbal, and anti-social behaviour, towards our guests or team members. We collaborate with the police when needed. We take photos and videos which may include you to help promote the community in line with GDPR Data Protection law, as well as stock photos from Pexels or Unsplash. We may restrict or prioritize guests at our own discretion for safety, quality and logistics reasons. While our team's decisions may not be perfect we ask that you follow our decisions first and raise any disputes to discuss with us later and privately. By attending you understand, agree with and respect all terms of this disclaimer.

ANSARI QADIRI RIFAI SUFI ORDER (AQRT) - UK TUESDAY ZIKR/MEDITATION The Ansari Qadiri-Rifai Sufi Order (London branch), under the guidance of Shaykh Taner Vargonen Ansari, is pleased to invite men and women, regardless of your faith or beliefs to our weekly Tuesday zikr. We are a Sufi order whose origins started with two great Saints of early Sufism: Shaykh Abdul Qadir al Geylani and Shaykh Ahmed er Rifai. Our Tradition is one of inclusiveness and of welcoming. This tradition has passed down to us through the current Spiritual Guide of the Order: Shaykh Taner Vargonen Ansari, who now resides in New York and is helping establish Sufism in the West. Come, Come whoever you are, wanderer, worshiper, lover of leaving. Our's is not a caravan of despair. Come even if you have broken your vows a thousand times, Come, come yet again. (Mevlana Rumi) Sufism is the spiritual/ mystical path of Islam. During the Zikr (the ceremony of remembrance) we practice some simple movements accompanied by frame drumming, hymn singing and chanting. In Zikr, each member of the group effaces him or herself in the remembrance of God using the energy of the entire group synergistically for the development of all. We start at 19:15 with the group zikr for about one hour. We welcome everyone who comes in peace. The Zikr is free but a donation to help with the venue hire would be greatly appreciated. We hope to see you soon. Please contact : Rita on 07941 653337 (ritaglh@yahoo.co.uk) or Reeyaaz on 07875 569921 (smreeyaaz@gmail.com) if you want any information about our Sufi order or Sufism in general.

**03 Mar- Day 1- Welcome to Guatemala** Welcome to Guatemala. On arrival we will take a private transfer to Antigua. Once checked in you can join your guide and fellow group members for dinner. **04 Mar- Day 2: Antigua-UNESCO World Heritage Site** After breakfast we walk round this beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site. Antigua’s well-preserved colonial buildings and cobblestone streets with volcanoes in the backdrop will certainly wow you. We visit the Santa Catalina Arch, La Merced Church, and explore local markets. **05 Mar- Day 3: Antigua-Visit Chichi’s Colourful Market** We will travel to Chichicastenango a small Mayan town in Guatemalan Highlands to visit this stunning craft market, the largest in Central America. Alternatively today- depending on your fitness levels you and choose to hike an active volcano and witness incredible vistas. You must have a high level of fitness to do this. **06 Mar- Day 4: Travel to Stunning Lake Atitlán** Today we will travel to Lake Atitlán, surrounded by volcanoes and indigenous villages. The stunning scenery of one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. You have an optional Sunrise hike to Indian Nose for panoramic views. You need to have good fitness levels to do this and will need to prebook as departs in the early hours of the morning. **07 March -Day 5: Lake Atitlán** Today we will Take a boat tour to visit villages like San Juan La Laguna and Santiago Atitlán, two of the villages around this beautiful lake and walk through local markets and workshops in the villages, experiencing the vibrant culture and traditions of the indigenous communities. **08 March- Day 6: Lake Atitlán to Flores** Today we travel to Guatemala City to take a 1-hour flight to Flores, the gateway to Tikal. We will take an evening stroll around the charming island town with a picturesque setting on Lake Petén Itzá. **09 March -Day 7: Tikal National Park** Today we set off on our Full-day exploration of Tikal, one of the largest and most impressive Mayan ruins. Climb Temple IV for panoramic views of the jungle canopy. Feel the wow factor standing atop ancient Mayan temples surrounded by dense jungle. **10 March -Day 8: Tikal to San Ignacio, Belize** Today we Cross the border into Belize and travel to San Ignacio. We will explore the town and visit the Green Iguana Conservation Project. **11 March-Day 9: San Ignacio (Cave Adventure)** Today we will go on an adventurous tour to the ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal), an ancient Mayan archaeological site with ceremonial artifacts and skeletal remains. Exploring a cave that offers a unique combination of natural beauty and ancient history. **12 March-Day 10: San Ignacio to Caye Caulker** Today we travel to Caye Caulker, a relaxed island off the coast of Belize. The laid-back Caribbean vibe and crystal-clear waters. Relax and kick back and enjoy some beach time. **13 March- Day 11: Caye Caulker -Explore the Island** Today you can rent bikes or golf carts to explore the island. Enjoy local seafood, visit The Split, and relax on the beach. Experiencing island life with no cars, just bikes, and golf carts. **14 March 12: Caye Caulker – Free Day** Today is a free day, maybe join a snorkelling tour to Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley and see colourful corals, swim with nurse sharks, and spot rays in one of the top marine reserves in the world. **15 March:Day 13: Caye Caulker to Belize City for flight home** Today we take go back to the mainland and head for Belize City for your flight home taking with you beautiful memories of the trip. The cost will be £1999.00 per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single supplement £399.00. The price is guaranteed for all deposits paid by 01 July 2025. Places will be limited, so reserve your place now to avoid disappointment. If you are interested in reserving a place, click the link below to pay your deposit of £250.00. (Deposits are refundable if the trip gets cancelled due to government advice.)(Travel Insurance is mandatory for all trips. Places will be limited so places will be offered on a first come first serve basis on receipt of deposit. Please also ensure you have 6 months validity on your passport. **\*\*Please do not book your flights until we give the go ahead\*\*** Entry Requirements Guatemala https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/guatemala Entry Requirements Belize https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/belize Deposit Link [https://buy.stripe.com/7sI9AUcsrgp5bVS6uS](https://buy.stripe.com/7sI9AUcsrgp5bVS6uS) **What’s Included?** · Sharing a twin room at 3 and 4-star hotels with breakfast (single supplement £399.00) · All transfers in private air-conditioned vehicles · All sightseeing and entry fees as mentioned · English-speaking local guide · Domestic flight from Guatemala City to Flores · Airport Transfers if arriving on recommended flights

Join us for drinks and music chat at an East London pub. We will judge the latest S+V playlist, split into teams for a mini music quiz, and head to a nearby venue for a free live gig! **Meet at Burke’s Warehouse, arrive any time from 6-7pm.** At 7:30pm we will go to a free gig at The Shaklewell Arms The live bands include Le Lamb, Brain Leak & Hannah the Big Bad Wolf. Read more at the Dice link below. Gig Link: [https://dice.fm/event/dka3lo-le-lamb-brain-leak-hanna-the-big-bad-wolf-3rd-mar-the-shacklewell-arms-london-tickets](https://dice.fm/event/dka3lo-le-lamb-brain-leak-hanna-the-big-bad-wolf-3rd-mar-the-shacklewell-arms-london-tickets) **The event is free:** The gig is also free, but I recommend you reserve a free ticket on Dice using the link. I also have some spare gig tickets in case anyone forgets :) **S+V Playlist:** There is a music playlist for this event. This includes suggestions from the group on the theme of “Crime and Punishment”. We will judge our favourite (and least favourite) tracks from the playlist, so do check it out before the event: [https://open.spotify.com/playlist/31xZFzcVLpz7vHWqlM6QdM?si=ab1edb94dfda45c8](https://open.spotify.com/playlist/31xZFzcVLpz7vHWqlM6QdM?si=ab1edb94dfda45c8) Come along to this event and you can make suggestions for the next S+V playlist. This will be on a new theme announced at the event. **How to get there:** The pub and gig venue are walking distance from Dalston Kingsland & Dalston Junction (both on the Overground Mildmay & Windrush lines). Burke’s Warehouse Map: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/AWq5v9ysD3QJ89Xe7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/AWq5v9ysD3QJ89Xe7) Shaklewell Arms Map: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/KxxJmkia3BvS8WyP6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/KxxJmkia3BvS8WyP6) If you can't find us when you arrive, join our WhatsApp group here: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/G66shC1b7Z5BWSTV6Am9DE](https://chat.whatsapp.com/G66shC1b7Z5BWSTV6Am9DE)

Yijia is a singer-songwriter from China interested in exploring her cultural identity and diverse traditions through music-making. Yijia attended 'Sing My Song’ at the age of 16 and launched her music career as a singer-songwriter in China after winning the 16th CMA (Chinese Music Awards) for ‘Media’s Choice Album’ and the nomination for ‘Best New Chinese Female Artist’ for the Chinese Media Music Awards. After coming to the UK, Yijia has established a career in traditional Chinese folk singing and Guzheng playing, having performed at WOMAD festival, Victorious Festival, BBC Radio 3, Asia House’s ‘One Voice’ documentary series and Sofar Sounds London. Yijia is endorsed by Arts Council UK as a Global Talent and holds a degree in Music from the University of Oxford and SOAS (University of London). [Listen here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kkMPD744dY&t=235s) for Yijia speaking about her multigenerational musical journey and performing her recently released composition, Yi the Sun. Get your tickets from the [St Ethelburga's website](https://events.stethelburgas.org/events/stethelburgascentreforreconcilliationandpeace/1974373).

**🕙 Time** We meet at **10:00 AM** and will start walking shortly after. The walk lasts around **60–75 minutes**. **📍 Where to Meet** We’ll meet at the **Clapham Common Bandstand**. A message with the **exact spot and a visual cue** (what I’m wearing) will be posted in the event comments on the morning of the walk.

An opportunity to come together in the blessed month of Ramadan to break-fast at a cozy South Asian spot in Whitechapel. Full course: Samosa, ¼ chicken, lamb curry, chicken curry, pillow rice/white rice, dhal curry, salad, drink, dessert. 1️⃣ Joing the waiting list 2️⃣ Make the payment (see details below) 3️⃣You'll be added to the going list *(depending on capacity - first pay/first come).* ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 💳 ❌ £21 (Deadline passes) *PLEASE MAKE SURE NO FEE IS CHARGED (Send as Friends & Family / otherwise ask for bank details).* ⌛ Deadline: Sunday 1st March 4:00pm Message via below with your **Meetup** name once you've made the payment and you will be added to the going list *(if there is still availability otherwise you will be refunded).* [My Whatsapp](https://tinyurl.com/5n68255b) *ℹ️ This event is hosted at cost: We are unable to issue refunds but you can often find someone to replace your spot if you cannot attend.* ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ Closest Station: **Whitehapel Station** (Elizabeth line; the Windrush line of the London Overground; and the District and Hammersmith & City lines) **TBC:** Meet at the venue or outside **Whitecapel Station** by **5:30pm** (5 mins walk from station). **Iftar/Maghrib is at 5:54pm.** *The address of the venue will be posted near the time.* Prayer: We have space at the venue to pray and Whitechapel mosque is just 5 minutes walk. **[@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims)** *(Follow for latest events updates)*

🌙 Another opportunity to walk to Regent's Park Mosque and participate in their free Iftar, pray Maghrib and then walk to the Ramadan Lights which is in it's 5th year in London 🏮 **Important:** We need to arrive 30-40 minutes before Maghrib prayer to collect our iftar parcels, after breaking fast, we pray Maghrib, then exactly 25 minutes after Maghrib Fard prayer ends, we meet outside for the walk to the Ramadan lights. Alternatively you can stay at the mosque for Tarweeh. *There is also a restaurant in the basement where you can purchase additional food.* 🟢 **WALK:** 📏9km (5.6 miles): 🕌 ➕ 📏 3.5km (2 miles): 🏮 💓 Av.Pace 5km/h ✊ *Note: Active Muslims is equally about focusing on the actual activity, in this case, it is a paced walk (and not a stroll), therefore it is advised to approach and attend these events with that mindset, intention and [purpose](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBhPWpdIMKq/?igsh=MWVjdnZrdGZwd3dmYw%3D%3D).* ⏳ Meet from **2:50pm** 📍 Outside **Angel Station** (Northern Line) ⌚ Walk starts **3:11pm** **sharp insh'Allah** *(Magrib: 5:56pm)* ↪️ Start: **Angel Station** 🕌 Iftar: **Regents Park Mosuqe** ↩️ Ends: **Leicester Square / Piccadilly Circus** ➡️ Covers: Regent's Canal > Camden > Primrose Hill > Regent' Park, Regent's Park Mosque / > Ramadan Lights 🎒 What to bring: appropriate clothing/shoes. At least some food to open fast (in case food parcels are short/we are late) 🚻 Regent's Park Mosque ⛑️ You are responsible for your own safety and your own belonging at all times. 🗂️ "No shows" for previous events may be moved to the waitlist to prioritise reliable attendees / new joiners - ***when there is a waiting list, priority is given by attendance records / new joiners.*** 📊 [[why it matters](https://tinyurl.com/28sh83cn)] 🌐 [@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims/) *(Follow for latest events updates)* ``` 🚦 Walk/Hike Levels: 🟢 Easy 🟡 Average 🟠 Moderate 🔴 Challenging ⚫ Very Challenging ```

Let's read Modern Standard Arabic together and help each other. This get-together continues weekly. Please disregard attendee numbers, as most members come without registering here. There is no charge for this time together.

Gentle people, It is my pleasure to invite you to Part III of Italian artists at the V&A, and a luscious afternoon of socialisation at the Grand Cafe at the V&A which is absolutely stunning. **Please note that there is no social before the tour, but only after.** I will be giving a guided tour of the Italian artists to the members of LGBT Culture Lovers group, throughout this year in multiple parts. **There's no need to have attended previous sessions as I always recap.** ***In the third event of the series, we will be looking at the sculptures of quattrocento and cinquecento.*** Included are works by **Donatello, Andrea del Verrocchio**, **Michelangelo, Raphael**, & many others. The tour will last around 60 minutes. **And here is the agenda:** * 1:45pm: Meet at the Italian style entrance on Cromwell Gardens (not the brutalist one on Exhibition Road). We will wait for 15 minutes. * 2pm: The tour starts right on the dot. * 3pm: Social at the V&A Grand Cafe! (appreciate a drink😜) I really encourage you to watch the two short videos in the further resources section, if you can. I hope to see there. J x **Further Resources** [Donatello's marble carving technique](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dn8F06y5mc)*,* V&A, video. [Donatello's clay modelling technique](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcoRoP3Abt8), V&A, video. *Due to the high demand of these tours, and the amount of preparation it takes, those with poor or problematic attendance will be moved to the waiting list, to give the space to more committed members.*

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Join us as we get together to see SIRAT, an Oscar-nominated Best International Film from Spain that follows a father, accompanied by his son, goes looking for his missing daughter in North Africa. Here’s a description, trailer and our plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: A father, accompanied by his son arrive at a rave deep in the mountains of southern Morocco while searching for his daughter who vanished months ago at one of these endless, sleepless parties. As their search continues, the journey forces them to confront their own limits. The film is directed by Oliver Laxe and stars Sergi Lopez, Bruno Nunez Arjona and Richard Bellamy. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ww-IXHXvS70 BUZZ & ACCLAIM: SIRAT has already won numerous awards, including 4 at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, along with the Chicago, Montclair and Toronto International Film Festivals! It also earned a whopping 11 nominations at the 40th Goya Awards, including Best Film and Director, and was nominated for Best International Feature Film and Best Sound at this year’s Academy Awards. The film is earning a stellar 92% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes which calls it “an unforgettable exercise in tension” and “a brutal reminder that the journey can be more important than the destination.” PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will confirm/announce details as the date gets closer. Once showtime is confirmed, advance purchase (via GFC website preferred) is advised! Once you have your ticket, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. PARKING: Close, convenient parking is available in the nearby garage (located between 9th and 11th, just off High St). Bring your ticket with you and have it validated at the theater and for $2, you’re covered for the night! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

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

**We are expanding our creative programming opportunities with Queer Quills, a quiet writing and sharing space. Queer Quills features some prompts, supplies and friendly faces to help get some inspiration or feedback for your writing. Hope to see you there!**

Bring your Raspberry Pi, Arduino, microcontroller, or any other electronic project and join fellow electronics makers for a night of creativity and collaboration! This session is open forum to share your current projects—whether complete or in progress, it’s all interesting! Whether you’re deep into embedded systems, exploring new ideas, or just getting started, you’ll find a welcoming space to collaborate, share, and get inspired. **New to electronics or curious about tinkering?** You’re absolutely welcome. If you’re a beginner and want to experiment, I’ll have a couple of starter kits available so you can try things out—whether that’s blinking your first LED, putting something on a display, or experimenting with simple sensors. No pressure and no experience required—just an interest in learning and building. While we continue to pursue a more permanent venue for this Meetup, we’ll be using public library facilities based on availability. This session will be at the Worthington Park Library in the Olentangy Meeting Room.