Writing

Join us for some focused writing time on Saturday mornings at 5th View cafe/bar at Waterstones Piccadilly. All writers and all experience levels are welcome; be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. This is not a critique or workshop session so there will be no sharing your work and no one will see what you've written or give unsolicited advice. This session is about getting your writing done and meeting other writers. SCHEDULE: 11:30 - Quick introductions 11:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 12:30 - Break for 15 minutes 12:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 13:30 - The End! Don't worry about being late or leaving early - just get settled and check in with the host whenever you can during the session. Please RSVP if you can so that we have an idea of numbers as we have to reserve tables for the event. Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block the cafe’s overhead music or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Try to make sure laptops are charged in case there aren't enough plug sockets or bring a notebook and pen. Venue Guidelines: Please thank our host venue by purchasing something to eat/drink, if you are able to do so. Please do not bring outside food or drink to the venue.

Salam, Wise, often funny, sometimes heart-breaking, Persepolis, a graphic memoir, tells the story of Marjane Satrapi's life in Tehran, growing up during the Iranian Revolution. Enjoy Iran!

Queer Spirit Winter Solstice Circle We meet for a change at DARK MOON to turn the Wheel of the Year. This circle is our 13th anniversary at the Wheatsheaf Hall. Dark Moon and Solstice falling together is a powerful time for magic. Let's cast our Faerie spells for 2026! Radical Faeries and Queer Spirits gather in south London: Drumming, dancing, social. Dress to express your Faerie spirit! We gather from 7 to set up the space... then the evening will start with **'Light up - a sound journey of healing and illumination' brought to us by Emy and Simon** on the gongs. ([https://www.chokureikihealing.com/](https://www.chokureikihealing.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExNUxLUjl2R3p2UnU4RFU2bnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4FlOTYnXAt8v9m_xg2RyjNrpfTY9nI7UB2loc2VQB6Y2eYITSqLs7B8JTFSw_aem_kM29FpUJ3d4gk7GFeSIKhw)) Plus we'll have spoken word, seasonal pagan songs, finishing off with drums and dance. There are lots of drums and percussion to use. you can also bring your own. also welcome to bring snacks to share and your own liquid refreshments donation requested to cover venue hire. £10 requested this time if you can afford, so that I can pay expenses for our gong stars! cash on door or PayPal to [https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/shokti](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.paypal.com%2Fpaypalme%2Fshokti%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExUVVkallZQ0drVnN6ZUp0WgEeYb6AHQ1mqsP1IaQkNU38u-9Sz2uIflFTDXqiu6_R9OrQBkhxuHbhm3ZA5Ig_aem_DAG1K5BNpEeJ2-nRJ2_NSw&h=AT299I4hcaExYC0ffGWUxGDtY8vnC49Zd8MIHfFjGHsrhT53Yo02YEjwXGE9LvbIg4Gb0pKkDHWuUXe3gEmNpHsGx5Hx0M3L-_ajKUDjHpCVp3NMSlw4xuAe80ZJxh7f5bjd_bbhyI1pQw&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT0OmS91e7Y-ic3JAJtYxaOr9lvfU127UJQdbXhZT9qUW3NH-3jl8kog-NFSXti66U3RiI8CYh4AX7er0RHUXAm2wNriDVkE7GMF3nBPYs-DkFqTqVnh7YXm-hi3bw5P) NOTAFLOF - No One Turned Away For Lack Of Funds. **YOU CAN SIGN UP FOR EMAIL ANNOUNCEMENTS OF THESE CIRCLES AND OTHER RELATED EVENTS AT** **queerspirit.net**

This event will be for people to meet, go off and film, come back and enjoy the results. Whatever you want to do, be it film, act, direct or even just sort of hang around at the back then this is the event for you! MEET AT THE ENTRANCE TO THE NATIONAL THEATRE. If you are wondering what this group can provide for you, it’s above all else friendship with other like minded people, whether you are a screenwriter, director, cameraperson, actor etc etc. With that in mind, on Saturday we will do the following: 1. We’ll meet at the National Theatre on Southbank. 2. We’ll split into two groups (or more if needed) 3. Each team will try and beat the other teams to a pub in EC1 in London and edit (maybe) the film. BUT 4. Each team must make a 2 minute 30 seconds film on the way with a beginning middle and end, a solid story arc for the main character, etc. Remember to bring: 1. You and your enthusiasm 2. A camera (iPhones dslrs whatever) 3. Someone willing to do an edit after we arrive back at the on their computers All teams will then meet-up at a pub in EC1 and watch what we have filmed, happy with what they have learnt! The first team that finishes gets a Small Prize! Hopefully then, you will stick around to have a great time chatting about film, meeting new people, and forgetting about work until the late hours. Look forward to seeing you there! If there are no more places available on meetup then MORE tickets available on eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/ben-52750032443 Please Check Dates as this isnt a weekly meetup

**RSVP TO ATTEND THIS EVENT. ALL TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE TO ATTEND THIS EVENT..** **Welcome to Socialite Connections – Network & Pitch: Breakfast Mixer** Socialite Connections is a vibrant community where like-minded professionals gather to connect, collaborate, and grow their businesses over a cup of coffee. Our events provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for building meaningful relationships, exchanging valuable ideas, and fostering new opportunities. Join us for an extraordinary morning of strategic networking, inspiration, and collaboration designed exclusively for ambitious startup founders and visionary entrepreneurs! You must book a ticket via the link: https://fatso.ma/2Zgm Book here via: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/10breakfast-networking-mixer-at-drake-morgan-kings-cross-tickets-1828971154959?aff=ebdsoporgprofile **We start the event at 10.00am with a warm welcome.** Having an open-minded approach is ideal, as it will enable you to establish new connections. We have hired the private room downstairs. **Drake & Moran Kings Cross –** The venue unfolds across two gorgeous rooms, blending rich leathers, polished woods and vibrant emerald accents. Inside, you’ll find two striking bars, a stylish restaurant, a welcoming lounge, and a mix of semi-private and private spaces. Ideally located just steps from King’s Cross Station, Drake & Morgan is built for versatility. **Event Schedule** **10\.00 – 12:00 \| When you arrive\,** your name will be checked off the guest list, you will be given a name badge and you will be introduced to each other. **10\.30 – 11:00 \| One Minute Elevator Pitch:** All attendees will be given the opportunity to introduce themselves to everyone in the room to talk about your startups or ideals. (Pitch starts at 10.30am sharp, please dont be late) **11:00 \- 12:00 \| Network & chill:** It will be a free form event where guests can mingle amongst each other in a relaxed environment, when the pitches are finished. **Why Attend?** **Business Networking for Startups & Founders.** This exclusive business networking event is open to all entrepreneurs, business people, investors, and company directors who wish to partake in this extraordinary opportunity. This is an electrifying networking event where innovation meets investment! This exclusive event brings together visionary entrepreneurs, strategic investors, and dynamic startup founders ready to transform groundbreaking ideas into remarkable business opportunities. **One Minute Elevator Pitch:** All attendees will be given the opportunity to introduce themselves to everyone in the room talk about your startups or ideals. (Pitch starts at 11:00am sharp, please dont be late) **Who Should Attend** Connect with Startups & Founders, Working Professionals in a relaxed setting. **Early stage start-ups & founders, Angel investors and venture capitalists, Technology innovators, Business development professionals, Entrepreneurial ecosystem leaders,** **Emerging Entrepreneurs, Business Mentor, Innovation Enthusiasts,** **Working Professionals.** **Tickets are limited to just 40 attendees.** We like to make sure everyone gets the opportunity to talk to each other. You must book a ticket via the link: https://fatso.ma/2Zgm Book here via: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/10breakfast-networking-mixer-at-drake-morgan-kings-cross-tickets-1828971154959?aff=ebdsoporgprofile You are invited to join the dedicated Whatsapp group for the event and start networking before the actual event. Register now to secure your spot and be part of this transformative networking experience! **Tickets need to be bought online in advance to attend this event. Tickets are not available at the door.** **Refund policy: There is no refund at this event. Your ticket can be reassigned to another person of your choice.**

Orpington BSL conversation group. Open to anyone wishing to brush up or practice their British Sign Language skills in a relaxed, unstructured setting with like minded people. We meet on the third Saturday of the month at The Second Home café, in Orpington High Street (BR6 0NB), from 11am to 1pm. Come join us for a cuppa and brunch whilst practicing your BSL. This is an unstructured group, so anyone is welcome. We only ask that you are respectful of each other, regardless of gender, religion, sexuality and beliefs. During our conversation meetings, we appreciate if we all adhere to a 'voice off' policy, to maximise our BSL use. If you don't know a particular sign, don't just say the word... Fingerspell it; gesture it; paraphrase what you mean with the signs that you know, write it down in paper... Anything is good, as long as you give it your best!

This is our Beehive Poetry Club meet-up. This is a space to both read poetry that we have felt inspired by and also a chance to have a go at writing something or having a go at a technique. Roughly each week will look like the following: 13.30 - Arrive for coffee + intoduction 13.40 - Poetry reading (anything you may have written or enjoyed reading) 14.20 - coffee break 14.30 Free write or writing activity 15.30 - finish

**Coworking for writers in your area!** Join us for some focused writing time. All writers and all experience levels are welcome and don’t worry, no one will see what you've written. This session is about getting your writing done and meeting other writers in your area. When you show up, say hello to everyone, grab a drink, and get your writing tools ready. Once you’re all settled, take some time to chat with your fellow writers. Once everyone’s arrived, I will lead quick introductions and then set the timer for our quiet and focused writing session. Afterward, we’ll have time to chat and get to know each other. We often talk about our successes and challenges as writers. If you don’t have time to stick around, no worries! **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://shutupwrite.com). **Other Important Details:** Please note we will be sitting upstairs :)

[Check our other group for details](https://www.meetup.com/haringey-filmmaking-meetup-group)

This month we are reading , My Friends, a piece of political fiction by the Libyan writer Hisham Matar the novel that won the Pulitzer prize and was shortlisted for the Booker Prize in 2024. The novel is inspired by the events of the Libyan embassy in London in 1984. A wonderful story about friendship, homeland, and exile, written by a masterful author gifted in description and characterization. I believe the best person to speak about the novel is the writer himself, in this truly remarkable interview where he talks about his unique life experience with Muammar Gaddafi’s regime: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/w3ct5pdl?partner=uk.co.bbc&origin=share-mobile

Do you want to meet new people in a relaxing chill atmosphere surrounded by new books? Do you dislike loud and smelly places like pubs and clubs? This is the event for you. Science and Philosophy Book Club is creating a new kind of meetup where people who love books and knowledge can meet new friends in a big book shop. We will explore around different sections of the book shop together as a group while making interesting conversations with each other. We will go to both fiction and non-fiction areas. If you feel shy and feel nervous to come alone, I will make sure you will feel comfortable and accomodate to your needs. I will help introduce you to others so you can go over the barrier of anxiety when approaching a new person. We will meet on the ground floor lounge area of Doubletree Hilton Hotel at 6 p.m. It is an amazing cosy bar with classy vibes. We will wait for everyone to show up while getting some drinks and socializing. At 7 p.m we will head to the Waterstones book store near Russel Square and UCL. After we explore the book store, we will come back to the hotel bar and stay there for the rest of the night. This event requires £3 donation to cover the venue fees. You can pay via cash or card. Thank you for helping the book club!

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm the second & fourth Wednesday of every month at Two Dollar Radio Headquarters (HQ). Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens around 6:45pm. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Two Dollar Radio HQ! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! Other customers are welcome at Two Dollar HQ at the time, so please bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **ACCESSIBILITY:** Two Dollar Radio HQ's entrance door on Cline Street is wheelchair accessible, they have two gender-neutral bathrooms that are both wheelchair accessible, and their ordering and table-seating area is as well. Working service dogs are allowed. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Two Dollar Radio HQ does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public street parking on all surrounding streets, on both sides of Parsons Ave. You are also welcome to park in the Columbus Metropolitan Library parking lot across the street (1113 Parsons Ave). Two Dollar Radio HQ has a bike rack on the corner of Cline and Parsons, and the library has bike parking (across Parsons). * **FOOD/BEVERAGE:** Two Dollar Radio HQ is a bar and vegan cafe. Their food is 100% vegan and made from scratch, with love. They also serve a range of wine, beer, and cocktails, as well as coffees and teas. If you're able to, please consider thanking our venue by purchasing something!!

**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!**

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm the second & fourth Wednesday of every month at Two Dollar Radio Headquarters (HQ). Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens around 6:45pm. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Two Dollar Radio HQ! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! Other customers are welcome at Two Dollar HQ at the time, so please bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **ACCESSIBILITY:** Two Dollar Radio HQ's entrance door on Cline Street is wheelchair accessible, they have two gender-neutral bathrooms that are both wheelchair accessible, and their ordering and table-seating area is as well. Working service dogs are allowed. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Two Dollar Radio HQ does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public street parking on all surrounding streets, on both sides of Parsons Ave. You are also welcome to park in the Columbus Metropolitan Library parking lot across the street (1113 Parsons Ave). Two Dollar Radio HQ has a bike rack on the corner of Cline and Parsons, and the library has bike parking (across Parsons). * **FOOD/BEVERAGE:** Two Dollar Radio HQ is a bar and vegan cafe. Their food is 100% vegan and made from scratch, with love. They also serve a range of wine, beer, and cocktails, as well as coffees and teas. If you're able to, please consider thanking our venue by purchasing something!!

**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!**