Wildlife Conservation

This meetup is about exploring one of the biggest human questions: What is the meaning of life? Together, we will share ideas, stories, and feelings about why we live, what makes life valuable, and what gives us a sense of purpose. There is no right or wrong answer—only different perspectives shaped by culture, beliefs, experiences, and dreams. The goal is to think deeply, speak freely, and listen respectfully while discovering what life means to each of us. Questions we will discuss: • What does the “meaning of life” mean to you? • What makes your life feel meaningful right now? • Do we find meaning, or do we create it? • Is happiness the same as meaning? Why or why not? • How do love, family, and relationships shape your purpose? • Does work or success give life meaning? • Can pain or struggle have meaning? • If you had to explain the meaning of life in one sentence, what would you say? Fee: Fee: 100 AED per person Whatsup group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GlsuhqVZBu22r92gv68g85 Mob:553253516

**Hop on board rail journey of a lifetime on longest train in the world for TREKKUP to Mauritania.** Atop heaps of iron ore and below the stars we journey most daring way and surely you will earn star status as true adventure seeker! Journey begins in Nouakchott along the Atlantic Ocean before our 4x4 caravan heads into the vast dunes of the Sahara. Most attractive Moorish oasis town of Chinguetti along the “coast” of the great Saharan sand ocean with labyrinthine lanes along stone mosques and libraries. We’ll trade wares and ride camels along ancient trade routes and watch sunsets on oceans of sand. Highlight of our journey will be hopping on board train in Choum along the eastern corner of Western Sahara. We’ll pack our provisions and warm blankets for the night before climbing on board the longest train in the world at nearly 3 kilometres of rail cars packed with iron ore. As it lumbers through the desert sands we’ll sit atop heaps of ore for comfy night under stars and truly unforgettable experience! With 7th Century oasis villages, endless golden sand dunes, and most unique rail journey in Western Africa, this trip will make you true traveller to places unknown. This time we invite you to join us for an extended journey to check out on enigmatic Western Sahara, safe but disputed territory between Morocco and self-proclaimed Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. **Let's go!!** **Day 00 // JAN 23 // Departure** Meeting at 1pm at DXB T1 for Royal Air Maroc to Casablanca at 15:15-20:55. **Alternatively, meeting at Casablanca airport at 21.45,** for connecting flight to Nouakchott, 23.50-01.45 (+1). **Day 01 // JAN 24 // Noaukchott** Arrival and visa formalities before transfer to hotel in Nouakchott. After breakfast and first look at city, obtain provisions and begin journey through sand swept vistas, caravan routes and sand dunes on the way to Chinguetti. Arrival late afternoon and catch the sunset atop the dunes overlooking Tenewchert Oasis before returning to hotel for dinner and rest. **Day 02 // JAN 25 // Tergit Oasis / Chinguetti** Our first stop will be the ancient library and ruins of Chinguetti. We’ll meet the local librarian for poetry and stories before continuing to Ouadane to wander the many hidden corners of this 7th century city on a hill. Along the way we’ll pop out to see the great and mysterious African Eye, visible from space and a true geological oddity! Dinner and night in hotel. **DAY 03 // JAN 26 // Africa Eye / Ouadane** **Day 04 // JAN 27 // Art Rock / Pass of Amogjar / Azoughi** **Day 05 // JAN 28 // Night on the Wagons** After quick breakfast we head to the mud-hut town of Choum where our train journey begins. With our blankets and provisions ready we’ll hop aboard the longest train in the world, atop the iron ore and under the stars we sleep. **Day 06 // JAN 29 // Train Arrives in Nouadhibou** After hopping off the train, hop on 4x4s for quick ride around town and absorb the amazing journey before heading to hotel to wash off the dust. After lunch we’ll check out from Mauritania and cross the border to Western Sahara or, **in case of** **any train delays (which are nothing new),** we’ll spend a night in Nouadhibou. **Day 07 // JAN 30 // Nouadhibou (WESTERN SAHARA)** Drive across the plains of Sahara to Dakhla. Visit city and surrounding dunes: Lasarka peninsula, old lighthouse, ostrich park and few other curiosities, given the time allows. **Day 08 // JAN 31 // Dakhla (WESTERN SAHARA)** In the morning return flight to Casablanca, VIL-CMN 11:45-13:45 and further back home. **Level of Difficulty:** Easy with limited facilities ahead. Open train ride is somewhat rough experience. **Activities:** Light trekking, off-roading, sightseeing, open-wagon riding. **Duration:** 8 days. **Accommodation & Meals:** Basic hotels and meals included, double sharing. **Cost: 7680 AED** excluding flights, **until JAN 18. On this date we will close the list.** **Flights on Royal Air Maroc** at approx. 3900 AED are excluded from trip budget: DXB-NKC JAN 24 15:15 - 01:45 (+1) VIL-DXB JAN 31 11:45 - 01:40 (+1) **Visa:** Mauritania: e-visa UAE residents get visa on arrival to Morocco. See yah in Mauritania x Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [docs@trekkup.com](docs@trekkup.com) Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](http://linktr.ee/trekkup)

The mission of **Building Leaders Toastmasters Club** is to provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth. We meet every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month form 06:00 PM to 08:30 PM.

**REGISTRATION THROUGH WHATSAPP : 0552176382** Looking to kick a ball around and have fun? Join us for a friendly game of football! Whether you're a seasoned player or just getting started, all skill levels are welcome. This event is perfect for players who want to improve their fitness while enjoying a social game of football in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. We cater to all types of players, from experienced footballers to beginners who want to learn and have fun. Our group is all about providing a positive and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. Join us on the pitch and let's have some fun together! As always, we will be playing outdoors, so please remember to bring appropriate footwear, comfortable athletic clothing, and water to stay hydrated. Don't miss out on a great opportunity to meet new people, get in some exercise, and indulge your love for the beautiful game. See you on the field!

If you’ve been daydreaming about fresh powder and wide-open slopes, **Pakistan delivers a winter escape you probably didn’t see coming**. Nestled high in the Swat Valley, **Pakistan's cheeky answer to Switzerland, minus the cuckoo clocks** or eye-watering prices, feels like the universe's best kept secret finally spilling the beans. At 2,800 metres, Malam Jabba Ski Resort is now one of the region’s top winter destinations. The surrounding **Swat Valley blends jaw-dropping mountain scenery with a deep historical and cultural layer**: Gandharan Buddhist ruins, the emerald-green Swat River, and pine forests that stretch as far as you can see. The resort has everything you need for a solid ski trip: an **800-metre groomed main run, gentler green slope, a modern chairlift,** affordable equipment rental, and a ski school with patient instructors. Whether you’re charging the red run or the type who still whispers “bismillah” before pushing off the turn, you’ll feel right at home. In recent years Malam Jabba has even hosted international winter events, proof of how far the facilities have come. While minor logistical challenges exist, the overall experience is highly rewarding, with fresh local cuisine, new infrastructure and an atmosphere of genuine welcome that characterises travel in northern Pakistan. All in all, this is your chance to discover a different side of Pakistan: snow on the Hindu Kush, crisp pine air through the window, endless white peaks and sky. **Open your eyes, you’re inside a postcard!** Ready? Let’s roll. **DAY 1 // FRI // DEPARTURE** Meet at DXB Terminal 1 at 15:00 for the 17:00 direct flight to Islamabad. Touch down around 21:00 local time, clear immigration, and head straight to our hotel in the quieter northern part of the city. **DAY 2 // SAT // FIRST SNOW** Early wake-up and we’re rolling north on Swat Expressway. Four to five hours of stunning scenery later. pine forests, the turquoise Swat River flashing by, roadside chai stops until we arrive at Malam Jabba around midday. Check in to our hotel, grab lunch with mountain views, then head to the rental shop for boots, skis/snowboard and passes. Afternoon: first ride up Pakistan’s longest chairlift, a gentle recon lap on the slopes, and plenty of time to breathe that crisp high-altitude air. Sunset from the terrace with hot kahwa is non-negotiable. Overnight Malam Jabba. **Day 3 // SUN // FULL SKI DAY** Breakfast overlooking the peaks, then straight to the slopes. Unlimited runs on the red and green pistes all day. Late afternoon options: hike up for fresh tracks, or take the chairlift at golden hour for one of the best views in Pakistan. Evening wind-down: board games and tea in the hotel lounge, or join the optional night walk under a sky packed with stars. Overnight Malam Jabba. **DAY 4 // MON // LAST SKIING & RETURN** One final morning session – usually the snow is perfect and the slopes are quiet. Ski till your legs smile, then check-out at 11:00. Lunch at the resort, then we hit the road back to Islamabad. Quick look at capitol if time allows, drop off at airport for return flight home. **Grade:** Easy to moderate, available for fit beginners. **Activity:** Skiing, cultural immersion. **Accommodation/meals:** Hotels, double sharing. Two dinners are included; lunches and meals on transfers are excluded. **Cost:** **3380 AED incl. flights until JAN 07.** **Past this date cost will change.** **Specifically excluded:** * Visa, * COMPULSORY Insurance, ie. Heymondo.com, AXA, AIG or similar, * Lunches and meals on transfers, * Gear rental / ski instructor fees. **Visa:** Simplified visa process in now available within mobile app. More info: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Pakistan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Pakistan "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Pakistan") See you on the chairlift! 🏔️❄️ Trekkup Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238 "https://wa.me/971504848238") / [linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup "https://linktr.ee/trekkup") Find all trekkups at [linktr.ee/trekkup](http://linktr.ee/trekkup)

A chill hangout for deep thinkers, curious minds, and lovers of raw, real conversations—with or without a drink in hand. No strict rules, no set topics—just a bunch of interesting people talking about life, beliefs, and everything in between. 💵 Fee: AED 30- pay by [clicking here](https://pay.ziina.com/dsh/e73sWOArW) For more info message us at +971 50 355 1536 **Who shows up?** Open-minded folks from all walks of life—no racists, no sexists, no judgmental vibes. Expect friendly debates, weird tangents, occasional cranks, and surprisingly smart convos. **Quick etiquette tip:** Disagree freely, but respectfully. We’re here to learn from each other—not win arguments.

[https://chat.whatsapp.com/KG7fdhl2YkcEju2ZjzYu5d](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KG7fdhl2YkcEju2ZjzYu5d)

Sunset Hatha Yoga at Sunset Beach 🧘🏽‍♀️🌊🏝☀️🧘🏼 Join us for a gentle, mindful yoga practice by the sea. We’ll move through breathwork (pranayama) and postures (asanas), perfect for all levels, as we connect with the natural rhythm of the waves and the setting sun. What to Bring: - A mat or towel - Water to stay hydrated Energy Exchange- AED 40 Time: 5:00-6:00PM Location: Sunset beach (exact location to be shared on WhatsApp) Please join this WhatsApp group for updates and live location https://chat.whatsapp.com/FIuHE1UIjvyDx2pqzsafdL See you at the beach!

*Perfect January weather for an outdoor gathering* 🌿 Come enjoy laughter, fun, and togetherness as one happy family for an evening filled with good vibes and meaningful conversations PS: Please do bring a dish to share – it's a potluck! 📍*Dubai* - Zabeel Park, Gate 1 or 2 Date*Saturday, 24 January* ⏰ *4.30pm* All are welcome! Please register https://www.mbplife.ae/events-1/spiritual-jamboree-1-7

All the women in our group say they want to make friends 💕 So we dug into the psychology 🧠. Many said they *want* to go to weekly café meetups ☕️… but somehow they don’t. The event exists. The location exists 📍… so what’s missing? 🤔 We've got a psychology major on the team and here's what they suggested. Watch explainer video [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEZk4cpnqog](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEZk4cpnqog) Go to the pod portal [https://eseek.app/pods/](https://eseek.app/pods/) Get the only women-only events app that hosts all our events [https://eseek.app](https://eseek.app) Introducing a simple first step: **Pods** ✨ A **Pod** is a small group of **3 women**, assigned to you each week 👯‍♀️👯‍♀️. You can opt in to attend our weekly event together. Once you opt in, you’ll see which women in your Pod are also going 🙌. Amazing — you’re not the only one showing up. No public RSVP, no pressure 🙅‍♀️. You already have a friend to go with 💖. DM each other 📩, swap WhatsApp numbers 📱, coordinate your arrival, and show up together. On the day, you’ll find your pre-connected pod-friends you've already chatted with plus other women waiting at the venue 🤍✨ Making friends just got a whole lot easier 🌸

*Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy registration requested at* [The Disappearance and Persistence of Bees (Virtual) - Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy](https://loudounwildlife.org/event/persistent-native-bees/) The demise and disappearance of bees is well documented, yet bees still persist. Wildlife biologist Sam Droege shares a more nuanced look at the current state of native bees based on his research. This presentation is co-sponsored by the Loudoun County Public Library and Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy. ***Questions:*** *Contact [info@loudounwildlife.org](mailto:info@loudounwildlife.org)*.

Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy registration at [Birding Gilbert’s Corner - Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy](https://loudounwildlife.org/event/birding-gilberts-corner-january/) Join Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy for a bird walk at the relatively new [Gilbert’s Corner Regional Park](https://www.novaparks.com/parks/gilberts-corner-regional-park) in Aldie (see map below). With a combination of scrub, brush and meadow, this park is a great birding hotspot in southwestern Loudoun. *Limit 14. **Registration required.*** ***Questions:*** *Contact Joe Coleman at [jcoleman@loudounwildlife.org](mailto:jcoleman@loudounwildlife.org)*.

Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy registration at [Young Birders Walk at Gilbert’s Corner - Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy](https://loudounwildlife.org/event/young-birders-gilberts-corner-jan/) Join Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy’s Young Birding Program for a bird walk exclusively for young birders at [Gilbert’s Corner Regional Park](https://www.novaparks.com/parks/gilberts-corner-regional-park) in Aldie. With a combination of scrub, brush, and meadow, this park is a great birding hotspot in southwestern Loudoun. Bring binoculars if you have them. *Note: This program is exclusively for young birders ages 10-18; a parent/guardian is welcome. **Registration required*** ***Questions:*** *Contact Young Birding Program Coordinator Patrick Lewis at [plewis@loudounwildlife.org](mailto:plewis@loudounwildlife.org).*

Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy registration required at [Birding Algonkian - Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy](https://loudounwildlife.org/event/birding-algonkian-feb/) Join Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy on a search for birds at Loudoun’s top birding hotspot, ***[Algonkian Regional Park](https://loudounwildlife.org/2016/11/algonkian-park/)*** in eastern Loudoun, for the monthly bird walk. Combining extensive frontage along the Potomac River, rich bottomland forests, wetlands, and extensive grassy areas, this can be a very productive place to bird. Bring binoculars if you have them. We’ll meet at the boat ramp next to the parking lot. ([Boat ramp location.](https://goo.gl/maps/Pz1S69mqSuX1z3FW8)) ***Registration required.*** ***Questions:*** *Contact [bhenson@loudounwildlife.org](mailto:bhenson@loudounwildlife.org).*

Birds of prey numbers increase dramatically each winter in the county as our resident birds are joined by many others. Join Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy to search for winter raptors. We will drive the back roads of Loudoun until dusk with frequent stops to find and identify the many hawks, hopefully an owl or two, and any other birds that overwinter here. Bring binoculars if you have them. *Limit 16.* ***Registration required.*** Registration for Searching for Birds of Prey Field Trip **https://loudounwildlife.org/event/birds-of-prey-field-trip/** ***Questions:*** *Contact [info@loudounwildlife.org](mailto:info@loudounwildlife.org)*, if **registration is full,** ask to be added to the waitlist by emailing . Please include the event name and date in your email. You’ll be notified if space becomes available. My car can fit 3 additional people & I have spare binoculars. Or we can go separately. ###

Join Nextgen Birders for a fun-filled day of birding at **Lake Fairfax Park** followed by a board game session at the **Northern VA Bird Alliance (NVBA) HQ**! Feel free to join us for the **morning walk**, the **afternoon game session**, or **both**! ***Agenda:*** * **9:00 am - 11:00 am:** Birding around Lake Fairfax Park * **11:00 am - 1:00 pm:** Board games and trivia at NVBA HQ ***Morning Birding Detail*s** (Lake Fairfax Park) * **Meeting Spot:** Main parking lot (near the restrooms and playgrounds) * **Address:** 1400 Lake Fairfax Dr, Reston, VA 20190 * **The Walk:** We will walk a portion of the trail along the lakeshore, looking for waterfowl and other birds of interest. * **Trail Note:** The trail includes both paved and unpaved sections. We highly recommend wearing **closed-toed shoes**. ***Afternoon Board Game Details (NVBA HQ)*** * **Location:** National Wildlife Federation Building (approx. 12 mins drive from the park) * **Address:** 11100 Wildlife Center Dr suite 100, Reston, VA 20190 * **Games:** We will have multiple sets of **Wingspan** as well as bird-themed **trivia** and more! * **Refreshments:** Light snacks and drinks will be provided. You are welcome to bring a festive treat to share! ***Additional FAQs:*** * **Parking:** Parking is **free** at both Lake Fairfax Park and the NVBA HQ. * **Metro:** The closest Metro stop is **Wiehle-Reston East** (Silver Line). Please note that both locations are a sizeable walk from the Metro, so taking an Uber or bus from the stop is likely the easiest option. We look forward to seeing you there!

Register at Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy at [Writing in Nature (New Location) - Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy](https://loudounwildlife.org/event/writing-in-nature-february/) Join Nancy Morgan, Director Emeritus, Georgetown Lombardi Arts and Humanities Program, for this regular monthly workshop, presented by Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy, to enjoy the combined health benefits of time spent in nature and writing thoughts and feelings. Writing is often considered a solo, reflective practice, but writing in the company of others can be a supportive, community building activity that encourages regular practice. Each session is a stand-alone event – come when you are able. Registration for each session is open through the morning of the workshop. For directions, click on the Google Map link at the bottom of this page. ***Registration required.*** ***Questions:*** *Contact [info@loudounwildlife.org](mailto:info@loudounwildlife.org)*.