Career Mentoring Sydney

From EVP & CPO of Walmart US to Advisor for MrBeast: A Chat with Jon Alferness

Some careers shape products. Others shape industries. Join Leading the Product for an exclusive evening with [Jon Alferness](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-alferness-b193a3/) — one of Silicon Valley's most accomplished product leaders, advisor and investor. Jon is a highly experienced technology and product leader with more than 20 years' experience in Silicon Valley and the global retail sector, including recent focus on the food and grocery sector. Across more than two decades, his career has been defined by senior executive roles delivering digital transformation and innovation at some of the world's most influential technology companies, including Google, Pinterest, Lyft and, most recently, as Executive Vice President and Chief Product Officer at Walmart US whilst a Strategic Advisor to MrBeast — a role encompassing eCommerce, Financial Services, Health & Wellness, Merchant Tools, and Last Mile Delivery. Prior to Walmart, Jon spent 13 years at Google, where as Vice President of Product Management, he played a pivotal role in developing Google Ads across Search, Mobile, Shopping, and Travel, driving innovations that shaped the digital advertising landscape. Now, Jon's roles consist of Non Executive Director for Woolworths Group and Advisor/Investor to many companies. Hosted as an intimate Fireside Chat, with Brainmates CEO [Adrienne Tan](https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriennetan/) driving the fireside chat, this is a rare opportunity for the Australian product community to hear directly from someone who has operated at the highest levels of global product leadership. This will be an open, candid conversation exploring what it really takes to build enduring product organisations, lead through constant technological change, make high-stakes decisions, and develop the next generation of product leaders. We'll dive into topics including: * How product leadership has evolved across the world's biggest technology companies. * What separates exceptional product organisations from merely good ones. * Leading through AI, disruption and constant change. * Building products, teams and cultures that scale. * The lessons, mistakes and experiences that only come from operating at the very highest level. Following the fireside conversation, we'll open the floor for an audience Q&A, giving attendees the chance to ask their own questions and engage directly with one of the industry's most experienced product executives. We'll then continue the conversation over drinks and networking with Sydney's product community. **Evening timeline** 5.30 – 6.15pm: Arrive, grab a drink, and connect 6.15 – 7.15pm: Fireside conversation with Jon Alferness and audience Q&A 7.15 – 8.00pm: Networking, conversation, and connection Whether you're an experienced product leader, an aspiring executive, or simply curious about how the world's best product organisations think and operate, this promises to be an evening of practical insights, honest stories, and unforgettable access. A huge shoutout to Dovetail for their gracious hosting at their Surry Hills office. We'll have light food and drinks covered—all we ask is that you bring your curiosity, your questions, and your perspective. RSVP your spot today.

TechWalking - Sydney - Networking Event for Tech Professionals

**TechWalking is here to stay in Sydney!** 🌊🚶‍♂️A huge thank you to our co-hosts — Nitta, Malathy, Felix, Sujata and Akhil — for making it happen! Are you a tech professional looking to network beyond the screen? Join us for a refreshing **#TechWalking** event along the stunning Royal Botanic Garden! It’s the perfect chance to connect with industry peers while getting in some steps! Whether you're in software development, cybersecurity, data science, or any tech-related field, this is the perfect opportunity to expand your network in a relaxed setting. 🌅 **Meeting Point:** Archibald Memorial Fountain, Hyde Park 🏖 **Route:** 4 km walk through the Botanical Garden to the Sydney Opera House 🕙 **Start Time:** 10 AM sharp—don’t be late, or you might have to sprint to catch up! Check out the photos from the last event in Sydney: https://www.meetup.com/it-career-in-australia/photos/35710580/ And video: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/H6_-ZET00I8 **Please note:** unfortunately, dogs aren’t allowed in the Botanical Gardens. A bit sad, we know 🐶💔 Looking forward to meeting you all in real life! **TechWalking Community page: [https://tech-walking.yanamartens.com/](https://tech-walking.yanamartens.com/)** *** Join the TechWalking group on LinkedIn! [https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14477058/](https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14477058/) Just moved to Australia? Grab your FREE guide to landing your tech job! [https://yanamartens.com/first-tech-job-in-australia/](https://yanamartens.com/first-tech-job-in-australia/) Follow me on LinkedIn for more information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yana-martens/ Subscribe to YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ITCareerinAustralia

The Life You Built. What's Next? an intimate dinner for people in reinvention

🎟️ This is a ticketed event. Tickets are $110 (includes a welcome drink & dinner) and are purchased on Humanitix **an RSVP on Meetup does not reserve your seat.** Book your spot here → [https://events.humanitix.com/the-life-you-built-what-s-next-an-intimate-dinner-for-people-in-reinvention](https://events.humanitix.com/the-life-you-built-what-s-next-an-intimate-dinner-for-people-in-reinvention) We're seeing a shift: in culture, in trust, in work, even in how we relate to time. This is an intimate gathering for a small group of people who feel a little disconnected from their current chapter. Maybe it's work. Maybe it's the sheer volume of change these last couple of years. Perhaps it's a quieter sense of lost purpose, or lost continuity and the feeling of starting to wonder what's next. This is an evening to share where we are: how we got here. Talk about that we may not know where to go next. A friendly conversation about that space in the middle. You feel like something's shifting. A sense that what you built isn't quite what fits anymore, and you're starting to wonder what's next. This is a dinner for that feeling, that moment in life. Ten to fifteen people around one table, a warm room, and an honest conversation about the in-between: where you've been, what's changed, and what might be calling now. No stage, no expert, no fixing. Just real talk between people quietly navigating the same thing. **What we'll explore:** * What still feels true about the life you've built, and what's started to feel inherited or not something you want to keep doing. * What you might design differently, starting from who you are now **Who this is for:** * Professionals who feel that what they've built no longer quite fits * People sensing a quiet identity shift, curious about what's next * Anyone in the "I did all the things I was supposed to do, but something doesn't feel right" middle **What to expect:** * An intimate dinner: 10 to 15 people around one table * A welcome drink on arrival, dinner, and a guided, honest conversation * Safe, confidential, judgment-free: share what you want, or just listen * A chance to find connection with like-minded people and be part of a community of people wanting to reinvent themselves **What this is NOT:** * Therapy, crisis support, or coaching * A networking event * A pre-set framework, or a quick fix * A sales pitch 👉 Reminder: RSVP-ing on Meetup doesn't hold a seat. This is a ticketed dinner, secure your place ($110, includes welcome drink & dinner) on Humanitix: [https://events.humanitix.com/the-life-you-built-what-s-next-an-intimate-dinner-for-people-in-reinvention](https://events.humanitix.com/the-life-you-built-what-s-next-an-intimate-dinner-for-people-in-reinvention)

Soda Factory Tuesdays // Free Entry + Free Drink + $1 Hot Dogs

Tuesday nights get no better than at The Soda Factory! Join the guestlist for a free drink on arrival plus $8 drinks til midnight! **Make sure to show your ticket at the door to get your free drink voucher and VIP wristband for discounted drinks.** * Free entry all night * Free drink on arrival (before 10pm) * $8 drinks til midnight * $1 hot dogs * Musical bingo 7:30pm-9:30pm * DJ's from 9:30pm-late Download your free ticket: [https://tix.unhinged.party/sodatues](https://tix.unhinged.party/sodatues) **This is not an organized Meetup, just an awesome offer we have for you! Our organized Meetups are our pub crawls on Fridays and Saturdays!** *Please don't leave a negative review as we have informed you that it is not a Meetup and there won't be any host.*

Guided Women’s Business Networking

**A monthly networking experience designed differently!** Our structured networking event is for women who want to grow, not just in business, but as individuals. Through meaningful conversations, thought-provoking reflection questions, and guided table rotations, you’ll gain fresh perspectives, build genuine connections, and challenge yourself to think bigger. **📝 How it works** **1\. Arrive & connect** You’ll be welcomed and seated at a table with a reflection prompt to kick-start the conversation. **2\. Dive into meaningful conversations** Each round explores a different question designed to spark honest discussions around business, personal growth, and the challenges that matter most. **3\. Meet someone new every 20 minutes** We guide every table rotation, so you’ll naturally connect with lots of different women throughout the evening, without any awkwardness. By the end of the night, you’ll leave with meaningful new connections, fresh perspectives, and greater clarity on your next steps. **🔎 How to Find Rabbit Bar** Rabbit Bar can be tricky to spot: 1. Go to the ground floor of **The Galeries** 2. Look for **Toastie Smith** 3. Behind it, you’ll see a semi-enclosed area 4. Walk down into that area 5. On your right, you’ll see a doorway. Enter it 6. Then look for another open door immediately to your right. That’s **Rabbit Bar**! 📲 **Got questions?** Feel free to message me here on Meetup. **Looking forward to a room full of real talk. See you there! xx** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Want to learn more about Her Collective Space?** Follow us on Instagram: [@hercollectivespace](http://www.instagram.com/hercollectivespace/)

Connect Beyond the Screen: Professional Singles Speed Dating (Ages 33–52)💓

This is a ticketed event… and trust me, you’ll want to be there 😉✨ Secure your spot before it’s gone 👇 https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1992043784584?aff=oddtdtcreator Ready to meet other professionals looking to spark something real in a fun, fast-paced speed dating night? Connect Beyond the Screen: Professional Singles Speed Dating (Ages 33–52) Ready to meet someone who truly aligns with your lifestyle, ambition, and career drive? Skip the endless swiping and join us for a sophisticated evening of speed dating designed specifically for established professionals aged 33–52. Hosted at Shark Bar Sydney, this event is curated for career-driven singles who are tired of dating apps, over the guessing games, and ready to connect face-to-face in a relaxed and stylish social setting. Expect an evening surrounded by like-minded professionals, great energy, and a room full of people genuinely open to meaningful connections — whether you’re looking for a long-term partner or hoping to expand your social circle. Why Join Us? ✨ No More Endless MessagingSkip the weeks of online chatting and meet real people who are showing up with the same intention — to connect. ✨ Structured & SeamlessEnjoy a series of curated 5–7 minute dates designed to create natural conversations while ensuring everyone has the opportunity to meet. ✨ Hosted ExperienceYour host, Angie from Love Bite Club, will be there to welcome guests, break the ice, ease nerves, and make sure the evening feels comfortable, relaxed and enjoyable. Event Details 📍 Venue: Shark Bar Sydney 📅 Date: Wednesday, 19 August 🕡 Time: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM 👥 Audience: Professional singles aged 33–52 🥂 Inclusion: One complimentary drink included (house wine or beer) How the Night Works You’ll take part in a series of fun and engaging speed dates, followed by the opportunity to continue conversations, enjoy the atmosphere and mingle with the connections you’ve made. Shark Bar provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxed and social evening where genuine conversations can happen naturally. No apps. No digital noise. Just real conversations, real chemistry, and the chance to meet someone who matches your wavelength. Please Note: Tickets are strictly limited to maintain a quality, balanced and curated experience. This is an exclusive ticketed event, not an open-door mixer. Secure your spot today: lovebite.club 💓

PMM - Pack4Dignity Charity Day

Start with Why ~ Coffee catchup where every sip sparks a new perspective.

PLEASE BE ADVISED! We will be outside the cafe, near the stairs to the chessboard area. NOT IN THE CAFE. Discover your ‘why’, build with intention, and connect with like-minded people who are ready to create, grow, and 10X their lives. A friendly meetup with like-minded people that love learning and growing🙌Let’s grab a cuppa coffee or matcha and connect over what fuels our growth. Whether you're into books that challenge your mindset, habits that build a better you, or future goals that you are excited about, lets enjoy talking about how we evolve—this is a friendly space to share ideas, swap inspiration, and cheer each other on!🤗 Hi I've a book recommendation! " Woman living Deliciously" by Florence Given. Great for Men and Woman ! For self esteem!

Master your Social Skills and 10x your Income LIVE MASTERCLASS

**Boost your confidence, connect like a pro, and watch your income soar at this live social skills masterclass!** ## Master your Social Skills and 10x your Income LIVE MASTERCLASS Ready to level up your game? Join us in person for this supercharged masterclass where you'll learn how to boost your social skills and watch your income soar! No fluff, just real tips and tricks that work. Don't miss out on this chance to transform your life and connections. Let's get social and get paid! This will be a game-changer if you are an Introvert who wants to break out of their shell or brush up your social skills overall, make an impact and grow your leadership and most importantly.... Multiply your income. ### **Get ready for this immersive experience and full of breakthroughs!!** Please buy your ticket from this link [https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/master-your-social-skills-and-10x-your-income-masterclass-tickets-1995451335661?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/master-your-social-skills-and-10x-your-income-masterclass-tickets-1995451335661?aff=oddtdtcreator) **Speaker Profile:** Sam Lee is the Founder and CEO of Connect with Confidence, A Multi Award-Winning and Certified Social Skills Coach, 2x Published Author of “The Social Way” and “Connect with Confidence” which are Self-Help books currently sold through Amazon and Dymocks platforms. He is also a motivational and keynote speaker. He is involved in Non-For Profit Organisations such as Vice-President of Media and Communications for the Australian Vietnam Business Council, Executive Committee of the Hong Kong Australia Business Association and President of Hong Kongers Sydney Social Networking Community. After starting his career as a real estate agent, Sam moved into Helping Introverted Professionals to Master their Social Skills and Multiply their Income. Recently celebrating 6 years of Social Skills coaching over 1000+ students ranging from University students, Teachers, Lawyers, IT Professionals, Accountants, Small Business Owners, Entrepreneurs, Top Executives and CEOs. He is also featured in media such as TV and Radio shows and worked with the NSW Government and other listed companies for training purposes. Please buy your ticket from this link [https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/master-your-social-skills-and-10x-your-income-masterclass-tickets-1995451335661?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/master-your-social-skills-and-10x-your-income-masterclass-tickets-1995451335661?aff=oddtdtcreator)

Sydney SEO Collective - Despina Gavoyannis (From SEO Tactician to Leader)

The Sydney SEO Collective is back for our August 2026 meetup. This month we're talking about what it takes to move beyond SEO delivery and become the person shaping search strategy across a business. We're welcoming Despina Gavoyannis, AI Search Visibility Strategist at Ahrefs and Vivid Fish, as our keynote speaker. She'll be presenting "How to Level Up from SEO Tactician to Search Visibility Leader." Strong technical and tactical skills can build a career in SEO, but they will only take you so far. Despina will explain how to turn that expertise into strategic influence, communicate the commercial value of search and develop the skills needed to move into more senior, better-paid roles. She'll also look at what businesses need from their search teams as AI changes how people find information. That includes personalisation, keywordless discovery, conversational and spoken search, and the growing role of wearable AI. You'll leave with practical ideas you can share with your team and start using at work the next day. Despina has worked in SEO for more than 10 years, specialising in revenue-driven strategy and collaborating with UX designers, developers and marketers. Before joining Ahrefs, she worked as an SEO consultant, advising and training in-house and agency teams. Her work has helped brands generate more than $125 million in additional annual organic revenue. She is also the author of a book and two SEO courses, and has written extensively about SEO and AI search. [https://www.linkedin.com/in/despina-gavoyannis/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/despina-gavoyannis/) **Make sure to RSVP and grab your ticket!** **Keynote Presentation:** How to Level Up from SEO Tactician to Search Visibility Leader **Sponsored By:** [Finder](https://www.finder.com.au/) [Prosperity Media](https://prosperitymedia.com.au/) **Location:** Finder AU Level 10, 99 York St, Sydney NSW 2000 **Hosts:** Regan McGregor - SEO Lead at [Airtasker](https://airtasker.com/) James Norquay - Founder at [Prosperity Media](https://prosperitymedia.com.au/) **Running sheet:** 6pm - 6.30pm - Arrive, Finder AU - Level 10, 99 York St, Sydney NSW 2000 6.30pm - Introduce SEO Collective, Speakers 6.30pm - 6. 45pm - SEO news, algorithm updates, SERP volatility 6.45 - 7.00pm - Intermission **7pm - 7.45pm - Keynote: Despina Gavoyannis - How to Level Up from SEO Tactician to Search Visibility Leader** **7.45pm - 8pm - Q & A Session** 8.00pm - Networking **SEO Collective Organisers:** Regan McGregor - https://www.linkedin.com/in/regan-mcgregor/ James Norquay - https://www.linkedin.com/in/norquay/ Aaron Taylor - https://www.linkedin.com/in/aarontaylorseo/ Dejan Mladenovski - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dejan-m/ Nik Ranger - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nik-ranger-06086a27/ Peter Macinkovic - https://www.linkedin.com/in/inkovic/ Peter Mead - https://www.linkedin.com/in/petermeadseo/ Paula Glynn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-glynn/ Sally Mills - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sally--mills/ **SEO Collective Background:** SEO Collective is an extension of the Melbourne SEO Meetup, which started when the Brisbane SEO group first met up at the Ship Inn, Brisbane Southbank, 7th Nov 2008. The feedback we've had is that the Collective events have been a great way to meet others in the industry in a relaxed environment and share some tips and hints on what you might know that can help them become a better web marketer or developer. It's about asking those tough questions and getting group consensus on what is the possible implications or complications on a particular method or technique you're thinking of using. We encourage a mix of business owners, web developers, affiliate marketers, SEM and SEO professionals as we all have small tips that will help you perform better online and play smarter. SEO Collective is just a relaxed and informal session on digital and web marketing, come along and meet others in your community no matter if you're a business owner, consultant, in-house or part of a larger agency. ## RSVP now to claim your free ticket!

Escape the Rat Race

You’ve done everything right. Built the career. Earned the title. Carried the responsibility. Kept going. From the outside, your life looks successful. From the inside, however, it feels exhausting. The money is good. The title looks impressive. But deep down, you know this cannot be it. You cannot keep doing this for another 10 years. But walking away feels reckless. There is a mortgage. A family. A reputation. People depending on you. So you stay - not because it is right, but because it feels safer than change. If this resonated with you, let's catch up for a coffee and explore the possibilities to escape the Rat Race to live the life on our own terms.

Drummoyne Toastmasters Meeting @ Club 5 Dock

Join us to Develop 'YOU'. Improving your confidence, leadership skills, public speaking and communication skills are all benefits that could have a great impact on your personal life and career. Members of Toastmasters find unlimited opportunities for personal and professional growth and development. Joining Toastmasters could change your life. Great time, great venue, great Club. Supporting you in: * Giving prepared speeches * Talking “off the cuff” * Giving evaluations * Telling jokes and stories * Chairing meetings * Meeting management skills * Handling props * Using audio-visual equipment This is a place where you will: Continue to grow; Enhance your social skills; Be entertained; Laugh...... and HAVE FUN! Our meetings are held at **Club Five Dock RSL**. To **confirm your attendance** please RSVP or email your details to **president.drummoyne@toastmastersD70.org**