Career Transitions Toronto

Self-Publishing, Superheroes, and Cultural Vigilantism

**Self-Publishing a Superhero Novel, Podcast & RPG Nights** **REAL PEOPLE. STRANGE IDEAS. EPIC NIGHTS.** **5 PM — TACOS & DRINKS** Tacos • Spicy Coleslaw • Chocolate Mousse BYOB **Red wine gratis. Martinis gratis.** **Round-TABLE CHECK-IN** **Cruel victories. Learned defeats.** What’s new in your adventuring life? **6:30 PM — NATURE WALK** Walk, explore, hang out. **7:30 PM — MUSIC, DANCING & CONVERSATION** **9:30 PM — LAST CALL**

7 Ways You Can Build an Amazing Dev Career in the AI Era

**Note special location: Intuit, 8 Spadina Ave, 19th Floor** **7 Ways You Can Build an Amazing Dev Career in the AI Era** Are you also wondering where you fit in all of this? Every day, you are bombarded with claims that AI will transform software development. Is this an unprecedented opportunity or an existential threat? After more than 30 years in the software industry, I've seen technologies create opportunities, destroy opportunities, and completely reshape careers. Yet... there are always professionals who seem to thrive regardless of the changes happening around them. Why do some become more valuable... while others struggle? This presentation will face the myths around AI head-on and explore how you can create opportunities in the age of AI... instead of being afraid and scrambling to keep up. Because the future may belong to those who understand something deeper than technology itself... **About the venue** Intuit has generously offered to host Toronto JUG in their downtown office at The Well. They will provide some food and drinks. **Speaker Bio** Since 1995, Bruno has been helping Java developers advance their careers and work on exciting projects. A recognized Java Evangelist and Java Champion, as well as a board member of the Java Community Process, Bruno founded and leads SouJava, the Brazilian Java Users Society. In his book, "Developer Career Masterplan," Bruno shares insights on career development for senior developers, topics he further explores in his Code4.life project.

🌿 The Crossroads Meetup 🌿

Come have a coffee and spend some time with a small group of people who are also figuring things out. Maybe you’re thinking about changing careers, moving somewhere new, starting or ending a relationship, trying something you’ve wanted to do for a while, or you just have that feeling that something in your life needs to change. There’s nothing to prepare and you definitely don’t need to have any answers. We’ll hang out for an hour or two, get to know each other, and have some good conversations. I’ll bring a few questions along to help get things started, but I’m not planning to turn this into a workshop or make everyone go around the table answering worksheet questions. Really, I just want to create a space where a few people can get together, talk about what’s going on in their lives, hear some different perspectives, and meet people they might actually want to talk to again. This is the first one, so we’re figuring it out as we go. If that sounds like your kind of afternoon, come join us.

Meetup Event: Business Builders — Coffee + Clarity Session

I get a lot of messages from people who want to connect for different reasons—partnerships, potential investment, help building a leveraged business model, or job opportunities. This meet-up is a casual but **structured** way to meet in person, quickly understand what you’re working on, and determine clear next steps. ### **📍 Location** **Second Cup** 4841 Yonge St · North York, ON ### **🕓 Time** **Aug 20th, 2026** **6:00 PM – 9:00 PM** *** ## **💵 Attendance Fee (Important)** **$10 for business-related attendance**, including: * business model feedback / guidance * partnership discussions * investment-related conversations * strategic support / “how do I move forward?” planning *If you’re coming for both job + business advice, it’s considered business-related and the $10 applies.* *** ## **✅ RSVP (Required)** Please RSVP so I can plan seating and manage time fairly for everyone. *** ## **What this meet-up is (and isn’t)** **This is an intro + screening session** designed to: * meet you briefly * clarify your direction * identify fit * suggest the next best step **This is not** a full consulting session, a guaranteed job interview, or a promise of investment/partnership. Those decisions happen after follow-up, if there’s a fit. *** ## **Format / Timeboxing** To keep it fair, conversations will be **timeboxed (approximately 15–20 minutes per person)** depending on turnout. You may stay and listen to other discussions. *** ## **What to bring (typed + prepared)** ### **If you want help with a business model** Bring a **typed 1-page plan** (rough is fine) including: * what the business does * who the customer is * how it makes money * what you’ve done so far * what you need help with right now ### **If you’re looking for a job** Bring **two printed copies** of your resume. ### **If you want to partner with me** Bring a **typed outline** including: * your concept (clear + simple) * **your responsibilities** (what you will personally do each week) * **your expectation of my responsibilities** * what success looks like (timeline + goals) ### **If you’re seeking investment (or want to discuss it)** Bring a **typed summary** including: * what traction you have (sales/users/LOIs/partnerships—anything real) * how much capital you’re seeking * exactly how the funds would be used * why you’re the person/team to execute *** If this sounds like you, join me at **Second Cup on Oct 15th from 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM**. If you are looking for a job, please use the meetup messaging feature to message me and I will add you to the event.

FREE - Franchise Canada Show Toronto — Fall 2026 (Saturday)

Ready to become your own boss—but don’t want to build a business entirely on your own? Join fellow entrepreneurs, business builders, and opportunity seekers at the **Franchise Canada Show Toronto — Fall 2026**, Canada’s premier franchise exhibition. This free event brings leading franchise brands, experienced operators, and industry experts together under one roof at the Toronto Congress Centre. Whether you’re actively exploring business ownership or simply curious about franchising, this is an opportunity to discover proven business models, compare investment options, and get practical guidance directly from the people who know the industry best. ## What you’ll discover **Explore franchise opportunities across 60+ sectors** Meet representatives from established brands and emerging concepts in food, technology, beauty, construction, professional services, retail, and more. Explore opportunities at a wide range of investment levels and find options that match your experience, ambitions, and budget. **Speak directly with industry experts** Connect face-to-face with franchisors, successful franchisees, and experienced professionals. Ask candid questions, understand the realities of ownership, and gain insights that can help you make a confident, informed decision. **Attend free educational seminars** Learn about financing, legal considerations, marketing, operations, franchise selection, and other essential aspects of building a successful franchise business. Hear practical strategies and real-world lessons from people who have already made the journey. ## Why attend? Since 1996, the Canadian Franchise Association has helped thousands of Canadians explore business ownership through credible franchise systems. The Franchise Canada Show is the CFA’s official exhibition and one of the best places to begin—or accelerate—your search. Come prepared to learn, make valuable connections, and discover what your next chapter could look like. **Get into business for yourself—but not by yourself.** Attendance is free, but advance registration is encouraged. Reserve your place through the official Eventbrite listing: **[Register for the Franchise Canada Show Toronto](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/franchise-canada-show-toronto-fall-2026-tickets-1989674641413?aff=oddtdtcreator)** **Location:** Toronto Congress Centre, Hall F, Toronto, Ontario **Official organizer:** Canadian Franchise Association / Franchise Canada Show *Please note: LeaderSHIFT and Toronto Tech Hangout are sharing this opportunity with their communities and are not the official event organizers.* **Questions or Concerns?** Need support with your LeaderSHIFT Meetup experience? [Submit a support request](https://tally.so/r/68zJZo).

Networking Event for Professionals - Oct 15th, 2026

### The Hip Haus presents: [Professionals Networking Event](https://thehiphaus.com "https://thehiphaus.com")! Hosted at Aitch ### \*\*\*\* What is The Hip Haus? \*\*\*\*The Hip Haus is an organization that exists to empower young and experienced professionals alike in the GTA and help the growth of local business. As professionals (especially post pandemic world) it is sometimes difficult to network with other like minded individuals, get good career advice or simply make connections with others you may be able to help or get help from. The Hip Haus is committed to providing social gatherings in an atmosphere where such networking can take place. \*\*\*\* Who Should Attend? \*\*\*\*The Hip Haus events are ***19+***. The focus however is the growth and development of professionals in the GTA. It doesn’t matter if you are a business owner, have a job, are looking for a job, recently graduated university/college, still in university/college, looking for others to launch a new idea or just want to meet other professionals, our events are for you. Remember that Industry is Industry. One is not better than the other to The Hip Haus. We are expecting a diverse range of industry professionals. Our events in clude professionals from Tech & AI to Entrepreneurs, Musicians, Artists, Bankers, I.T Professionals, Accountants, Investors, Advertising/Marketing Professionals, Bloggers, Authors, Lawyers, Doctors, Dentists (This List Can Clearly Go On). ALL ARE WELCOME! \*\*\*\* What to Expect at Our Events? \*\*\*\*Bring Business cards or have your LinkedIn QR code at the ready. Networking! That is the key to these events. Sure it can be a great place to hang out and have a beer with a few friends but it is important to come with an open mind to meet new people and make new connections. Build your network of friends/colleagues/advisors to help yourself as well as them. The Hip Haus wants the professionals of the GTA to come together to help foster personal and professional development. \*\*\*\* Dress Code! \*\*\*\*This is a tricky one. There is NO strict dress code but remember this; you are meeting professionals in an informal manner and we all know first impressions last forever. Come dressed in a way that would allow you to be comfortable and professional according to your industry. Consider This…would a professional musician/artist necessarily dress the same as an investment banker at work? Be who you are or who you want to be. #YoungProfessionalsNetworking #ProfessionalsNetworking #EntrepreneurNetworking #FounderEvents #FounderNetworking #AINetworkingToronto #TechNetworkingEvents #YoungProfessionalsAI #EntrepreneursAI #AIandTechToronto #NetworkingEventsGTA #IssabellsToronto **\*\* Let's Get Social!\*\*** WEB: [www.thehiphaus.com](http://www.thehiphaus.com/ "http://www.thehiphaus.com/") [INSTAGRAM](m/thehiphaus/ "m/thehiphaus/") \| [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/thehiphaus "https://www.facebook.com/thehiphaus") \| [TWITTER](https://twitter.com/thehiphaus "https://twitter.com/thehiphaus")

FREE - Franchise Canada Show Toronto — Fall 2026 (Sunday)

Ready to become your own boss—but don’t want to build a business entirely on your own? Join fellow entrepreneurs, business builders, and opportunity seekers at the **Franchise Canada Show Toronto — Fall 2026**, Canada’s premier franchise exhibition. This free event brings leading franchise brands, experienced operators, and industry experts together under one roof at the Toronto Congress Centre. Whether you’re actively exploring business ownership or simply curious about franchising, this is an opportunity to discover proven business models, compare investment options, and get practical guidance directly from the people who know the industry best. ## What you’ll discover **Explore franchise opportunities across 60+ sectors** Meet representatives from established brands and emerging concepts in food, technology, beauty, construction, professional services, retail, and more. Explore opportunities at a wide range of investment levels and find options that match your experience, ambitions, and budget. **Speak directly with industry experts** Connect face-to-face with franchisors, successful franchisees, and experienced professionals. Ask candid questions, understand the realities of ownership, and gain insights that can help you make a confident, informed decision. **Attend free educational seminars** Learn about financing, legal considerations, marketing, operations, franchise selection, and other essential aspects of building a successful franchise business. Hear practical strategies and real-world lessons from people who have already made the journey. ## Why attend? Since 1996, the Canadian Franchise Association has helped thousands of Canadians explore business ownership through credible franchise systems. The Franchise Canada Show is the CFA’s official exhibition and one of the best places to begin—or accelerate—your search. Come prepared to learn, make valuable connections, and discover what your next chapter could look like. **Get into business for yourself—but not by yourself.** Attendance is free, but advance registration is encouraged. Reserve your place through the official Eventbrite listing: **[Register for the Franchise Canada Show Toronto](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/franchise-canada-show-toronto-fall-2026-tickets-1989674641413?aff=oddtdtcreator)** **Location:** Toronto Congress Centre, Hall F, Toronto, Ontario **Official organizer:** Canadian Franchise Association / Franchise Canada Show *Please note: LeaderSHIFT and Toronto Tech Hangout are sharing this opportunity with their communities and are not the official event organizers.* **Questions or Concerns?** Need support with your LeaderSHIFT Meetup experience? [Submit a support request](https://tally.so/r/68zJZo).

Men's Group Open Circle - Arka Brotherhood

**Experience the Arka Brotherhood: A Transformative Community for Growth-Oriented Men** Looking to connect with other men on a deeper level? This gathering is a chance to experience *Men’s Work*—a powerful space for growth, reflection, and connection. Led by members of the **Arka Brotherhood**, this free 75-minute session offers a glimpse into the kind of work we do in our weekly circles. **What to Expect:** * A short intro: “What is Men’s Work?” * Core practices and activities from our weekly meetings **This Is For You If:** * You’re seeking real connection and community with other men * You want to develop leadership, self-discipline, or emotional intelligence * You’re ready to confront limiting beliefs and grow * You’re curious about Men’s Work but not sure where to begin *** **Event Details** 📅 **Date:** Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026 🕕 **Time:** Doors open at 6:00 PM, event starts promptly at 6:15 and ends at 7:30 PM 📍 **Location:** 348 Danforth Ave, Toronto, M4K 1N8 In Carrot Commons, Room 212 🎟️ **Free to attend. RSVP required - space is limited.** *** **About the Arka Brotherhood** Arka is a weekly men’s group committed to integrity, accountability, and brotherhood. Our members come from diverse backgrounds and share a commitment to personal growth. We welcome all men - regardless of age, race, faith, or sexual orientation - who are ready to show up honestly and do the work. **Learn more about our 14 Point Code and values:** [The Code – ARKA Brotherhood](https://arkabrotherhood.com/the-code/)

Relaxation and Healing Breath Technique

Instructions on developing breath as in yoga and Zen - increasing health, calmness and happiness. Lots of time for tea and conversation too. Please note - this meetup will only run with a minimum of 7 ppl and will be automatically re-scheduled 'till the following week if less than 6 ppl RSVP. Blessings! GJ

💘 Founders & Executive-Level October Singles Mixer

**Designed for business owners & senior level pros seeking meaningful connections with others who match their ambition and lifestyle.** **When:** Wednesday\, Oct 14\, 2026 \| 7:30pm – 10:00pm **Where:** Powder Room **Tickets:**[ \[Buy Here\]](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/toronto-dating-hub-founders-executive-level-october-singles-mixer-tickets-2001400078511?aff=meetup) **(must buy ticket from website - RSVP from Meetup doesn't count)** #### **Who is this event for?** This mixer is designed for **high-achieving founders, business owners, and senior-level professionals** who are serious about meeting someone aligned with their lifestyle, values, and ambition. #### You’ll feel at home here if you identify as someone like: **Founders & Entrepreneurs** * Startup Founder / Co-Founder * Small Business Owner * Agency Founder / Creative Director * E-commerce Brand Owner * Tech Founder / Product Builder **Senior Professionals & Executives** * Director / Senior Manager / VP * C-suite (CEO, COO, CFO, CMO, etc.) * Strategy / Operations / Consulting Lead * Corporate Law / Finance Leadership **Established Professionals Across Fields** * Senior Lawyer / Associate / Partner * Investment Banker / Wealth Manager / Analyst * CPA / Accountant / Financial Advisor * Healthcare Professional in senior or specialized roles * Tech Lead / Engineering Manager / Product Manager If your life looks like: * Full calendar, high responsibility, big goals * You’re intentional about dating (not just casual swiping) * You want someone who understands ambition — not intimidated by it * You value emotional maturity + long-term partnership potential …you’ll feel like this room was built for you. Can’t make it? Follow **[Toronto Dating Hub](https://www.torontodatinghub.com/)** for upcoming mixers & events!

Toronto Young Professional & Startup Enthusiast Meetup

Welcome to the Toronto Young Professional & Startup Enthusiast Meetup Group! Navigating work/personal life in this mega city can be challenging ! We welcome all the Toronto young professionals & startup lovers to join this community that provides you an inclusive and casual platform to share, discuss, and grow! No matter what career stage you are at, what industry you work for, or what startup idea you are brainstorming, this inclusive & vibrant community aims to help you embark on your new personal/work journey! If work sounds annoying to you or you are new to the city, you can just come have a coffee and meet new people! Let's exchange ideas and create new memories together! We welcome you to join us at Sweetway Cafe. We plan to meet weekly or biweekly at various locations in Toronto. If you have any suggestions for meeting locations or activities, feel free to let me know!

SAVE THE DATE: Oct 2026 LCL Meetup