Working Single Moms

Doing Great Work Isn’t Enough Grinding away quietly won't get you the leadership impact you deserve, we're going to talk about what to do instead. We'll break down how influence actually works: it's not just about authority or French & Raven power plays. It's mapping your allies and advocates, boosting visibility without the cringe, and taking those "do hard things" steps like leading meetings or connecting with tricky stakeholders. **Agenda (time in Melbourne/AEST)** * 5:30pm Networking * 6:00pm Welcome * 6:05pm Main Presentation * 6:35pm Q&A * 7:00pm Networking * 7:30pm Close **This will be a HYBRID event:** **Zoom link -** will be posted 1hr before event starts. **In person attendees -** head up straight up to level 2 via the lift and a volunteer will greet you at the office entrance **Our Speaker** **Gretchen Scott** Gretchen Scott is CEO of Kaleida, helping organisations grow high-performing, inclusive tech teams. A former Cloudflare Community Manager and Linc.sh COO, she specialises in leadership development, influence, and career growth. Gretchen is a regular speaker and emcee across Australia’s tech community.

We are moving to a new platform and will be only running the new platform in 2025. please signup here: [https://www.downtomeet.com/Melbourne-Writers](https://www.downtomeet.com/Melbourne-Writers) The Wharf Hotel by the river. Southern Cross Station is closest. Ask at the bar to find us. Or call us 0403193785. Tonight's Social Evening Schedule: (Ideas welcome) 6pm to 6.45pm: Socializing​​ 6.45pm to 6.55pm: Introduction and overview of the evening by Jim including go-around introduction​​ 6.55pm to 7pm: A word from Mat our founder​​ 7pm to 7.10pm A paired connection question to get people talking with one another​​ 7.10pm to 7.30pm: Guest Topic: Lee is a very successful podcaster and has been both an interviewer and an interviewee on podcasts. He will provide an overview of the podcasting world and give advice on how to be a successful interviewee on someone's podcast. 10 mins talk. 10 mins Q&A. 7.30pm to 8.15pm: Readings section open to all to read out something from their work up to 4 minutes. Feedback optional.​​ 8.15pm to 9.30pm: Socializing. Optional. Many of us love this as a chance to connect personally in a screen-addicted culture. • Come out and meet some like-minded folks who enjoy writing and other entertainment and creative outlets. We'll hang around until at least 8.30pm, but often later. All age ranges, all writing types (and entertainment types), all the way from never writing and up to published authors. • This night is about you. So chat to people, read out your work, give feed back, get to know everyone... Or, feel free to sit back and chill. It's your night, enjoy it how you see fit. **Please only RSVP if you can make it.** **We're booking the area, so we will need you to turn up if you say you are coming.** **We have added an attendee limit, so please update your RSVP if you can not make it.** Thank you, Melbourne Writers. The Wharf Hotel food menu: https://www.wharfhotel.com.au/eat-and-drink Great Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelbWriters Website: www.worldwriterscollective.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/MelbCityWriters Blog: http://melbournewriters.wordpress.com **Help us by getting in contact so you can add to these social pages and site - matclarke.author@gmail.com**

🇦🇺 **HELP AUSTRALIA WIN THE COMMONWEALTH SONG CONTEST!** 🇦🇺 Dear Meetup friends, I’m excited and honoured to share that my song *“Should Words Fail”* (performed by Gentmuse Souls) has been selected to represent AUSTRALIA as a GRAND FINALIST in the Commonwealth Song Contest! 🎶✨ Voting is NOW OPEN until **31 MAY**, and I would truly appreciate your support. I created this event for the votes. ✅ PLEASE VOTE FOR AUSTRALIA ✅ SHARE THIS EVENT WITH FRIENDS ✅ HELP US SPREAD THE WORD Every single vote can make a difference! 🗳️ VOTE HERE PLEASE: **[commonwealthsongcontest.com](https://www.commonwealthsongcontest.com)** 🎵 SONG: *Should Words Fail* 🎼 Songwritten by Jacques Mario Gentil 🎤 Performed by Gentmuse Souls Thank you so much for supporting Australian music on the international stage. Your encouragement means more than words can say. If each and every one of you follow the link and put a vote for AUSTRALIA, we will be in great standing of winning. I have been there for helping you with your music, the least I am asking in return here is to put a vote for Australia. Thank you so very much. 🇦🇺 Let’s bring this home for Australia! 🇦🇺 ***Jacques*** (Organizer, Mentor, Awards-Winning Songwriter)

We are a multi-disciplinary group of PhDs and academic staff who write together regularly and help one another to achieve our writing goals through supportive community, focus and a structure that works. We welcome anyone who wants to get some writing done in a collegial, supportive, encouraging environment. You don’t have to be from University of Melbourne (you don’t have to be from university at all!). We use the Pomodoro method, which means we write in timed intervals of silence, then chat and catch up for 5 mins and repeat the cycle. Arrive when you like, leave when you like. The goal is to keep our writing projects progressing and reduce the isolation that can be part of the academic and/or writing life. **Session Outline:** Welcome: 9.00-9.05 (5 mins) Pomodoro 1: 9.05-9.30 (25 mins). Break: 9.30-9.35 (5 mins) Pomodoro 2: 9.35-10.00 (25 mins) Break: 10.00-10.05 (25 mins) Pomodoro 3: 10.05-10.55 (50 mins) Break: 10.55-11.05 (10 mins) Pomodoro 4: 11.05-11.30 (25 mins) **A note about the format** We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://www.shutupwrite.com). **Other Important Details:** WiFi name/password: There is free public wifi available at the Melbourne Connect Superfloor (speak to the concierge for details). University of Melbourne staff and students can connect to the university wifi; staff and students from other universities can join Eduroam using their home institution's log in credentials. Travel / Parking info: Public bike parking along Swanston and Grattan Streets. Tram routes 1, 3, 3a, 5, 16. 16, 64, 67, 72 along Swanston Street (Stop 1) and 19 along Royal Parade (Stop 10). The nearest train station is Parkville Metro Station. Bus routes include 200, 207, 250, 251, 401, 402, 403, 505, 546. There is no public parking available at Melbourne Connect, however the area is well serviced by nearby public carparks, including Cardigan House Parking at 96 Grattan Street and the University of Melbourne Eastern Precinct Car Park at 375 Grattan Street. A taxi rank is located on Grattan Street.

Singles Improvisation has arrived. An 2 hour drama improvisation class where singles can act, play, entertain and laugh with each other as a way to introduce and get to know each other. The class is a two hour class will involve 10 singles of each gender which will involve playing different games and participants will get a chance to have a short improvisation with each participant from another gender. Tickets available for purchase here. https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/singles-improvisation-35-47-tickets-1985702667131?aff=ebdssbdestsearch The games are aimed at an introductory level and you do not need to be an experienced improviser to join this class, however, a willingness to be open minded and step outside of your comfort zone is encouraged to get the most out of this class. Participants are encouraged to wear loose comfortable clothing as improvisation classes can involve working on the floor. The venue is the Creative Hub (Formerly Business Hub) 1st floor of Kensington Town Hall. When: Saturday 23rd of May, 2-5pm (Class from 2pm - 4pm - Drinks at Doutta Gala 4pm-5pm) Please note: There will be a fair on in other rooms, so please use the map to find this room.

Enjoy brunch with the sat crew!

🎉 **KISMETRIX \| TRUE CONNECTION** [Ticketed Event](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/may-23-kismetrix-social-a-hosted-singles-evening-at-secret-garden-tickets-1988384078304?aff=oddtdtcreator) **Kismetrix Social — Drinks, Conversation & Connection Under the Sunflowers** Hosted by KISMETRIX \| True Connection 📍 Secret Garden Bar: 7/60 Fitzroy St, St Kilda VIC 3182 📅 Saturday 23 May 2026 🕖 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM *(venue open late)* ## A SATURDAY NIGHT TO ACTUALLY CONNECT There's a place in St Kilda where sunflowers hang from the ceiling, the garden feels like a secret you've stumbled into, and the night just slows down a little. That's where we're hosting Kismetrix Social — our most relaxed evening, designed for singles who want real conversation, good company, and a Saturday night that actually feels like one. Think less "dating event"… more a Saturday night you'd actually choose to go out for. ## 💫 ABOUT THE EVENT Tired of dating apps that go nowhere? Over environments that feel forced or awkward? So were we. KISMETRIX \| True Connection was created for people who want something more human — real conversation\, real presence\, genuine connection\. You'll walk into a room full of people who: 🌻 Are open to meeting others 🌻 Enjoy good conversation and social energy 🌻 Prefer real-life interaction over apps 🌻 Are simply here for a good, intentional night out Come for a drink. Stay for the vibe. See where the night goes. ## 🌻 THE VIBE Picture it: warm lighting, hanging sunflowers above your head, the garden buzzing softly around you, and the kind of crowd where it's actually easy to start a conversation. Expect: 🌻 A welcome drink in your hand within a minute of arriving 🌻 A warm, hosted welcome so nobody walks in feeling lost 🌻 Hosted introductions early in the evening to help conversations get started 🌻 Free-flowing mingling with light support from our hosts throughout the night 🌻 Conversation prompts on each table, if the room needs them 🌻 A relaxed, social crowd of intentional singles No rotations. No forced formats. No hookup-bar energy. Just a thoughtfully designed night under the sunflowers, with people who actually want to meet someone. ## 👥 AGE GUIDE: 28–45 Kismetrix Social is open to all singles who care about meaningful connection. We provide an age guide so you know what to expect — most of our guests will fall within this range. The focus of our events is intentional people, not strict age groups. If you're slightly outside this range and the format feels right for you, you're welcome to book. ## 🎯 WHO THIS NIGHT IS FOR This event is for singles who: 🌻 Prefer a relaxed, social way to meet people 🌻 Enjoy conversation without forced formats 🌻 Want something more grounded than the apps 🌻 Appreciate good venues, good drinks, good company 🌻 Are open, friendly, and easy-going Come solo or with a friend — most people come solo. You'll be in good company. ## 🍽️ FOOD & DRINKS Your ticket includes a welcome drink on arrival. Secret Garden has a great food and drinks menu throughout the night, available directly from the venue. Perfect if you'd like to make a full evening of it — and many of our guests do. ## 🎟 TICKETS 🌻 Early-Bird — $39 🌻 Bring-a-Friend Early-Bird — $35 each (paired bookings only) 🌻 General — $45 🌻 Last Minute— $55 Welcome drink included at every tier. Tickets are limited to maintain a comfortable, social atmosphere — early booking is recommended. ## 💡 WHY PEOPLE LOVE KISMETRIX EVENTS 🌻 No swiping. No apps. Just real people 🌻 No awkward formats or forced interactions 🌻 Thoughtful structure without rigidity 🌻 A genuinely enjoyable night — even if you come solo 🌻 Hosted by people who actually care about how the night feels Many guests come "just for a drink"… and end up staying all night. ## ✨ WHERE KISMETRIX SOCIAL FITS Kismetrix Social is our most accessible event — a relaxed, hosted evening for singles who want real connection without the structure of our Elevated Evenings or the formality of our Dinners. It's the easiest way to experience how we do things, and many guests go on to join our other events from here. ## 🔔 IMPORTANT NOTES 🌻 This is a hosted social experience — not speed dating 🌻 A welcome drink is included; additional drinks and food are available at the venue 🌻 Participation in introductions is always optional 🌻 Respect, boundaries, and good energy are essential 🌻 Tickets are non-refundable but transferable ## 🔗 STAY CONNECTED WITH KISMETRIX \| TRUE CONNECTION 📧 [social@kismetrix.com.au](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/may-23-kismetrix-social-a-hosted-singles-evening-at-secret-garden-tickets-1988384078304?aff=oddtdtcreator) 🌐 [www.kismetrix.com.au](http://www.kismetrix.com.au/ "http://www.kismetrix.com.au") 📱 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook & Eventbrite 📄 Important Notice: By registering for this event\, you confirm that you have read and agree to Kismetrix \| True Connection's Terms & Conditions\, Privacy Policy\, Disclaimer and Code of Conduct\. 🤝 Collaborations: [collabs@kismetrix.com.au](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/may-23-kismetrix-social-a-hosted-singles-evening-at-secret-garden-tickets-1988384078304?aff=oddtdtcreator)

**We're bringing you a new series in 2026: *Depth, Discovery and Discussion*.** Girls Who Boss Melbourne is creating a space for real talk, shared wisdom and genuine connection — and you’re invited. This new series is all about coming together as a community to explore meaningful topics in a way that feels safe, intentional and refreshingly honest. This month's theme? **Ambition** — think deep discussions about tips and tricks, what keeps us motivated, and the conflicts we have to work through in order to find balance. This isn’t a speech, seminar or expert-led workshop. It’s a guided conversation shaped by all of us. Girls Who Boss will bring a set of thoughtful prompts and questions to spark dialogue, but the insight will come from the stories, perspectives and lived experiences we each bring to the table. Expect a day of: ✨ Deep chats without the pressure ✨ Discovery through shared perspectives ✨ Discussion that feels grounding, supportive and fun ✨ Connecting with women who want to grow, reflect and boss up together Whether you come with something on your mind or simply want to listen and connect, this is a space for curiosity, vulnerability and community-led learning. Come join the conversation — we can’t wait to dive deeper with you.

Once a month Elni hosts our Port Phillip and Bayside socials. It’s a great opportunity to meet others. Our emphasis is on fun and enjoying each other’s company whilst supporting anyone who might need it. We each pay for our own food and drinks. This time, we’ll meet for dinner at Sons of Mary, a lovely place with a relaxed, elegant vibe. It’s a cosy spot with great service and a warm atmosphere — perfect for a friendly dinner and good conversations. We’d appreciate it if you could update your RSVP the day before so we can provide an exact headcount for the reservation. The table is booked under the name Elni. We hope to see you!

🎾 **KISMETRIX \| True ConnectionFriday Morning Pickleball Social \| Play\, Move & Meet** Hosted by KISMETRIX \| True Connection 📍 PicklePlay Dingley Village: 352 Boundary Road, Dingley Village, VIC 3172 📅 Every Friday — starting Friday, 8 May 2026 🕙 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Hosted) ### A RELAXED MORNING TO PLAY, CONNECT & MEET NEW PEOPLE Some of the best conversations don't start with a question… They start with a game. Join us every Friday morning for a casual, social pickleball session — where movement, laughter, and connection come naturally. No pressure. No awkward setups. Just real people, shared moments, and an easy way to start your Friday. ### 🎾 WHAT TO EXPECT * Casual pickleball games in a friendly, social setting * Rotating play so you naturally meet different people throughout the morning * All skill levels welcome — beginners absolutely included * A relaxed, low-pressure vibe (rallies over scores) * Paddles available if you don't have your own * Limited spots to keep the experience social and enjoyable Come solo or bring a friend — most people attend on their own. ### 💛 WHO THIS IS FOR * Adult singles who enjoy staying active and meeting new people * Those who prefer a relaxed, social environment over structured formats * Beginners curious about pickleball * People open to connection — whether friendship, community, or something more * Those who value genuine, in-person connection over apps This is an inclusive, open event for all adult singles — no age segmentation, no categories. Just everyone in the room, playing together. ### ✨ THE KISMETRIX EXPERIENCE This is not a typical singles event. It's not speed dating, and it's not about pressure or performance. At Kismetrix, we create spaces where connection feels natural — through shared experiences, movement, and presence. At Kismetrix, we create spaces where connection feels natural — through shared experiences, movement, and presence. * No swiping * No forced interactions * No awkward games * Just real people, in real life ### 🔁 A WEEKLY RHYTHM This is a recurring Friday morning series. You're welcome to come once, occasionally, or make it part of your week. Familiar faces, easier conversations, and a low-key community that builds naturally over time — no commitment required. ### 📋 WHAT TO BRING * Comfortable clothes you can move in * Clean indoor court shoes * A water bottle * A relaxed, open mindset Paddles are available to borrow if you're new or travelling light. ### 💌 AFTER THE EVENT You'll have the option to stay connected through our "**Continue the Conversation**" form — whether for friendship or something more. ### 🔗 ABOUT KISMETRIX \| TRUE CONNECTION Kismetrix is a Melbourne-based social experience designed to bring people together in real life. No swiping. No endless texting. Just real people, real conversations, and genuine connection. ### 🔔 IMPORTANT NOTES * This is a social connection experience — outcomes are never guaranteed * Respect, boundaries, and consent are essential to maintaining a safe and welcoming space * Tickets are non-refundable but may be transferable * Please arrive a few minutes early so we can start on time **Hosted by** KISMETRIX \| True Connection 📧 [social@kismetrix.com.au]() 🌐 [www.kismetrix.com.au]() Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix]()_ By attending this event\, you acknowledge and agree to Kismetrix \| True Connection's Terms & Conditions\, Privacy Policy\, Disclaimer\, and Code of Conduct\.