Workplace

We are hosting another "Super Night" on Tuesday, 12th May 2026. We will hear from: **Akanksha Malik will discuss Foundry Toolkit Discoveries:** The Foundry toolkit has been evolving rapidly, and with new extensions and features come new possibilities — and new things to discover. This session shares a guided tour through recent toolkit additions, exploring what's changed, what's new, and what's worth paying attention to. **Ronak Vachhani will show us what's new in Fabric:** There are a lot of new features in Microsoft Fabric. Join Ronak, a Cloud Solution Architect at Microsoft, to hear about the new features and announcements. **Come and share pizza, great conversation and free learning.** Schedule: 5.30-6.00 Pizza and Networking 6.00-7.30 Interactive sessions Teams link: [https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/48853399287851?p=m5rSbulYjgJ9AkN3tD](https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/48853399287851?p=m5rSbulYjgJ9AkN3tD "Meeting join")

We’re still working to get more people into these Meetups, but our goal is to give PlayYourCourt members a few social tennis outings each week in addition to your practice sessions and Challenge League matches. These Meetups are co-ed, super laid back, and all skill levels are welcome. Post your skill level and a suggested court in the comments section so we can round up as many players as we can for some tennis fun! Also, if you’re looking to meet new practice partners or play some matches and you aren’t already in the PlayYourCourt Community, you can go here to see what we’re all about and sign up: https://www.playyourcourt.com/tennis-community/melbourne-vic/meetup/ If you love tennis, we’d love to have you! Be sure and watch the quick video that explains how everything works. Happy hitting! - Scott

Join us for a relaxed LinkedIn networking walk — a casual way to connect with others in a friendly way. This event is only open to people who have an active LinkedIn account. Whether you're working, studying, running a business, or figuring things out, you're welcome here. It's a great opportunity to grow your LinkedIn network and meet like-minded people. We ask that everyone comes with the intention to build genuine connections — not to pitch or sell. Please remember to RSVP to this event if you wish to attend. **Please note:** We won’t accept RSVPs from individuals who have previously breached our group guidelines. **Meeting Point:** Let's meet infront of Timeout at Fed Square at 7 PM. We will be at the meeting point till 7:10 PM before walking. We will finish the walk around 8:30 PM at Fed Square. Please don't be late. Map: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/CnfUeKQ4XQZwkbrb8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/CnfUeKQ4XQZwkbrb8) **Total Walking Distance:** 4km, Easy, mostly flat Cost: FREE Please follow me on LinkedIn for updates: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheolsu](https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheolsu) Explore Melbourne is the largest meetup group in Australia with more than 43,000 members. We know these group rules won’t suit everybody, and that’s okay—there are many other groups where you might feel more at home. To keep things safe, fun, and positive, we have 8 simple rules for people attending our events. Over the past 9 years, we’ve removed 342 people (around 0.8%) for breaking them—so please read carefully! ❌ Not a dating group! – We’re here to make connections, not find soulmates. 📵 No phone numbers, please! – Feel free to swap LinkedIn if both parties are cool with it, but please don’t share or ask for phone numbers. 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. 🚗 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.** By joining an event, you agree to follow these rules. Breaking them means removal from all our groups—no exceptions. Thank you! **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/")

## **The Reality Check** 90% of organisations are seeing some value from AI, but there is a massive gap between the “experimenters” and the “performers.” Most are stuck in Pilot Purgatory—burning through budgets while boards demand proof of return. *** ## **The Session** We’ve bought out from the United States, **Laks Srinivasan** (CEO, Return on AI Institute) to share with our market the global research the Institute has undertaken and published in Harvard Business Review along with the great AI Native offering for Enterprises from AI-Native by Scaled Agile. 1. **The Research:** Laks Srinivasan (CEO, Return on AI Institute) breaks down a global study of 1,000+ executives. He’ll share the “Value Gap” data—revealing exactly what distinguishes organizations winning with AI from those just spending money. 2. **The Blueprint:** We’ll dive into the Scaled Agile AI-Native system. This isn’t just about tools; it’s about the [AI-Native Foundations](https://prettyagile.com.au/course/ai-native-foundations) and [Change Agent](https://prettyagile.com.au/course/ai-native-change-agent) and [Leading the AI-Native Organisation](https://prettyagile.com.au/course/ai-native-leader). Frameworks that rewire how teams work, from prompt fluency to enterprise-scale workflows and how Executives lead AI Native Enterprises. *** ## **The Mix** **5:00 pm Welcome drinks + nibbles** **5:30 pm Data & Strategy:** * Laks presents the Harvard Business Review global research featured findings and the AI Money Map. **6:00 pm Group Jam** * A facilitated “unfiltered” discussion. We’ll explore how to move from scattered AI insights to an executable, AI-Native strategy. **6:30 pm Mingle with drinks + nibbles** *** ## **What’s in it for you?** * **Executives:** Get the metrics and “Board-ready” data to justify AI spend. * **Leads/Agilists:** See the AI-Native Change Agent roadmap to scale AI beyond small pilots. * **Engineers/PMs & Teams:** Learn how to redesign workflows to be “AI-First” without losing agility with AI-Native Foundations.

**In-person event!** ## **The Reality Check** 90% of organisations are seeing some value from AI, but there is a massive gap between the “experimenters” and the “performers.” Most are stuck in Pilot Purgatory—burning through budgets while boards demand proof of return. *** ## **The Session** We’ve bought out from the United States, **Laks Srinivasan** (CEO, Return on AI Institute) to share with our market the global research the Institute has undertaken and published in Harvard Business Review along with the great AI Native offering for Enterprises from AI-Native by Scaled Agile. 1. **The Research:** Laks Srinivasan (CEO, Return on AI Institute) breaks down a global study of 1,000+ executives. He’ll share the “Value Gap” data—revealing exactly what distinguishes organizations winning with AI from those just spending money. 2. **The Blueprint:** We’ll dive into the Scaled Agile AI-Native system. This isn’t just about tools; it’s about the [AI-Native Foundations](https://prettyagile.com.au/course/ai-native-foundations) and [Change Agent](https://prettyagile.com.au/course/ai-native-change-agent) and [Leading the AI-Native Organisation](https://prettyagile.com.au/course/ai-native-leader). Frameworks that rewire how teams work, from prompt fluency to enterprise-scale workflows and how Executives lead AI Native Enterprises. *** ## **The Mix** **5:00 pm Welcome drinks + nibbles** **5:30 pm Data & Strategy:** * Laks presents the Harvard Business Review global research featured findings and the AI Money Map. **6:00 pm Group Jam** * A facilitated “unfiltered” discussion. We’ll explore how to move from scattered AI insights to an executable, AI-Native strategy. **6:30 pm Mingle with drinks + nibbles** *** ## **What’s in it for you?** * **Executives:** Get the metrics and “Board-ready” data to justify AI spend. * **Leads/Agilists:** See the AI-Native Change Agent roadmap to scale AI beyond small pilots. * **Engineers/PMs & Teams:** Learn how to redesign workflows to be “AI-First” without losing agility with AI-Native Foundations.

Do you run your own business or work for yourself and wish that you had a community of like-minded women who share the same experiences as you? If so, join us for a freelancers/entrepreneurs/self-employed networking night where we can share our stories over dinner. Entrepreneurship and self-employment can be a lonely journey. We go through unique things and experiences, and our ups and downs can feel a lot more intense. But there's no reason why we need to go through this experience alone, when we have a community of women who have experienced what you have, and might even be able to point you in the right direction. It doesn't matter if you're a startup founder, a self-employed designer, or a part-time freelance consultant; anyone and everyone who runs a business is welcome.

Join us for a relaxed, no‑pressure networking evening designed to bring Melbourne’s business community together with purpose. There’s no formal agenda—just quality conversations and genuine connections, hosted by the team at [PropertySensor](https://www.propertysensor.com). **What to expect** A connection‑first environment (no sales pitches) Opportunities to expand your professional network Potential client introductions and new business leads - without the hard sell **Good to know** Cost: Free to attend (limited places — please register early) Food & drink: Available for purchase at venue restaurant / bar prices Bring: Your business cards and an open, collaborative mindset All Melbourne business professionals are welcome. Come to connect, share ideas and discover opportunities.

Are you craving some conversations with other big thinkers? The Movers & Shakers monthly coffee is for the creative's who are driven, are hustlers, are actively seeking to grow and look for new opportunities and are wanting to be around other dreamers and action takers. If you're seeking out those conversations that inspire you, that leave you feeling motivated, then this event is for you. The Creative Hustle is a social events community for professional creatives in Melbourne's arts industry. STRUCTURE: 15 min - casual networking/order your coffee 40 min - round table intros and questions 30 min - guided conversations topics in small groups Finish with casual networking MINIMUM SPEND: Everyone who attends this event is required to purchase something from the cafe, minimum of 1 drink.

**Please sign up using Luma -** https://luma.com/x9tq0e88 A series of lightening talks on the topic on **The Measurement Problem** *"Are You Measuring the Right Things? SLOs, Toil, and the Metrics That Actually Matter.* After these talks we'll open the floor for discussion and Q&A with our presenters. **SCHEDULE** **5.30pm** 🍕Doors open – food and drinks served **6:00pm** ⚡️Three talks and Q&A and discussion with speakers **7:00pm** 🍻 Networking and drinks **7:30pm** 👋 Doors close

**Who Wants to be a F&^%ing Design Leader?** Fresh off their high-energy takeover at **The Design Leadership Roundtable**, the duo you didn’t know you needed, **David Bacon** and **Amir Ansari**, are bringing their hit gameshow to Melbourne Design Thinking. Let’s be real: transition into leadership is messy, loud, and full of questions no one actually answers in textbooks. On **May 14th**, we’re ditching the dry slide decks for a fast-paced, interactive gameshow that puts your instincts to the test. **What’s on the line?** Too many talented designers hit a ceiling not because they lack skill, but because they’re playing by the wrong set of rules. In this session, David and Amir will help you navigate the chaos of leadership with a "no-BS" approach. **What you’ll experience:** * **The Hot Seat:** Watch (or join!) as we tackle the real-world dilemmas that make or break a design leader * **Strategy over Guesswork:** Move past overthinking and learn how to make decisions that actually move the needle for your team and career. * **Identifying Your Edge:** Pinpoint the specific leadership patterns and "unfair advantages" that set the greats apart. * **Visibility Without the Noise:** Learn how to signal credibility and value to stakeholders without just being the loudest person in the room. **The Details** * **Date:** 14th May * **Host:** Melbourne Design Thinking Meetup * **Special Guests:** David Bacon & Amir Ansari Whether you’re already leading a team or just wondering if the "F&^%ing Design Leadership" life is for you, this is the roadmap you’ve been looking for, delivered with a lot of laughs and full fluff. **Are you ready to play?**

We're thrilled to invite you to our next Microsoft Student Accelerator event on **Thursday, May 14th at 3:00 PM** at the **Microsoft Melbourne Office**! 🎉 Whether you're looking to understand different tech roles, learn how to best prepare for tech interviews, or learn about how to make your LinkedIn stand-out, this meetup is for you. Join us for an engaging afternoon filled with insights, practical guidance, and opportunities to connect with industry professionals and fellow students. ## What’s on the agenda: 📝 **Interview Preparation & Tips** – Learn what kinds of questions to expect in tech interviews and how to best prepare for them. 💬 **Crafting your LinkedIn Profile** – Get some tips about how to make your LinkedIn profile stand out. 🔦 **Role Spotlights** – Discover different tech pathways through short talks from professionals across multiple disciplines. 🤝 **Networking & Food** – Connect with peers and industry professionals to wrap up the afternoon. 📍 Microsoft Melbourne Office - Level 5, 4 Freshwater Place, Southbank VIC 3006 🗓 Thursday, 14th May 🕒 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM (AEST) (Please note: meetup event shows time in AWST, this event is at 3PM Melbourne time) We can't wait to see you there! 🤩 Best regards, The MSA Melbourne Team

Enjoy lunch at this cafe in fabulous Hyatt hotel

Attendance is $35 (cash, credit/debit card, or ApplePay - paid at the door), which includes water/soda/coffee, bread, choice of a plated lunch entrée, and a dessert assortment. Parking is also validated in the Reston Station garages (3 hours of validation). Join one of Northern Virginia's most successful business networking groups (part of BNI). Open to the public and is typically attended by business owners, business developers, and entrepreneurs. Meetings are typically attended by 30-40 members and guests. \*\*\*PLEASE RSVP here: [REGISTER HERE](https://square.link/u/0WvC6Eir) \*\*\*If you do not register on the BNI website, there may not be a seat available for you.

## **1 Million Cups Loudoun – Resource Presentation** **What You Really Need to Know from an HR Professional** **Presented by Donna Giarratana** **Wednesday\, May 27 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun** Join us for a practical and insightful resource presentation designed to help small business owners navigate one of the most critical — and often overlooked — areas of growth: **Human Resources**. *** ## **About the Session** As your business grows, so do the complexities of managing people, processes, and compliance. Many entrepreneurs wait too long to think about HR — and by the time they do, they’re already reacting instead of planning. In this session, **Donna Giarratana** will break down what small business owners *really* need to know about HR — in a way that is clear, actionable, and relevant to your stage of growth. This conversation is designed to help you move from uncertainty to confidence when it comes to building and managing your team. *** ## **What You’ll Learn** * When it’s the right time to hire * How to set your business up for success before bringing on employees * Why HR matters — even for small businesses * Common pitfalls and how to avoid them * The foundational HR knowledge every business owner should have *** ## **Who Should Attend** * Entrepreneurs preparing to hire their first employee * Small business owners currently managing a team * Founders looking to strengthen operations and compliance * Anyone who wants to build a business with a strong, scalable foundation *** ## **Why Attend?** * Gain clarity on one of the most important aspects of business growth * Learn how to avoid costly mistakes before they happen * Ask questions and get real-world insight from an HR professional * Walk away with practical knowledge you can apply immediately *** ## **About 1 Million Cups** 1 Million Cups is a national program that brings entrepreneurs and communities together to learn, connect, and grow through presentations and discussion. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays each month. Join us on **May 27** for coffee, connection, and a conversation that will help you build your business the right way from the inside out. We look forward to seeing you there.

Please join Robert Brandau, our Founding Director, for coffee, conversation, job search assistance and just the ability to get out of the house and be with others as we look for **QUALITY** Employment. Bring your laptop, (if you need a new one, please let [Career-Confidence.org](http://career-confidence.org/) know.) there will be plenty of time for us to work seperately. Occassionally we have "on the spot" interviews with others at Fairfax Coffee. Often times some of us will go out to lunch or a simple dinner afterwards.

Hello everyone! Who doesn't love discussing AI over mini-golf! We'll be meeting at Starr Hill Tysons Biergarten at the top of the Capital One Building. There's mini-golf, corn-hole, and beer on tap. Come have some fun! Guaranteed fun time, or else your first putt is free :) **Location:** Starr Hill Tysons Biergarten, 1805 Capital One Dr S Suite 1100, Tysons, VA 22102 **\*\* We're on the Roof! \*\*** **Overview:** Join us at AI Innovators Network for our upcoming meetup in Tysons dedicated to exploring the latest trends in Artificial Intelligence. Whether you're an AI enthusiast, a professional, or someone curious about the intersection of technology and AI, this event is perfect for networking, learning, and sharing insights. Connect with like-minded individuals from DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland as we dive deep into the opportunities and challenges of integrating AI. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation driving innovation and progress in Artificial Intelligence.

Hybrid registration links at https://greatcareers.org/events-calendar/career-success-group-job-seeker-accountability-networking-hybrid/ The Career Success Group is a networking meeting held on the 2nd Monday and a hybrid meeting 4th Thursday of each month from 9:30-10:30 AM ET with [Kevin Keene](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinekeene/). Join us if you are looking for a new opportunity, to grow your career, or if you are in a job transition. 1. Practice your elevator pitch in a safe space 2. Check-in for accountability 3. Set goals for your job search for the week 4. Meet others to build your LinkedIn network 5. Learn about upcoming events 6. Ask questions **CHAPTER LEADER** [Kevin Keene](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinekeene/) kekeene@comcast.net

Let us check it out! * We booked the area by the patio, in the back bar, for this event * Drink specials including the usual suspect Mer-Tini:) * Event is 21+ * Come one, come all; this is the most friendliest event you have ever attended! * Feel free to invite your friends. They don't necessarily have to be a member

Shut Up & Write meets at Cascades Library in Room D. We hope to see you there! *Shut Up & Write is not affiliated with the Loudoun County Public Library.*