Empowering Newcomers: Tech Networking Walk with ISSofBC
- Date
- 2024-10-05
- Location
- Rain or shine, we’re always ready to lead the walk! Don’t miss out on this chance to learn, connect, and grow your network., Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Host
- Tech2Step Events
About this event
If you’re new to Vancouver’s tech community, the hardest part is often not learning the industry, it’s finding a natural way in. Empowering Newcomers: Tech Networking Walk with ISSofBC creates that opening with a format that feels more human than a standard mixer: walking, talking, and meeting people in a setting built for real conversation. This is a chance to connect with others who are also building their networks, exploring opportunities, and figuring out where they fit in the local tech ecosystem. Instead of trying to work a crowded room, you’ll meet people side by side, one conversation at a time. About the Event This event brings together community, networking, and movement in one accessible in-person meetup. Hosted as a tech networking walk, it is designed to help newcomers and community members connect in a low-pressure environment where introductions happen more naturally and conversations have room to develop. The focus is practical: helping people expand their network, learn from others, and feel more confident engaging with Vancouver’s tech community. Whether you’re looking for peer support, industry insight, or simply a better way to meet people in the field, the walking format gives you time and space to talk without the formality of a panel or the intensity of a traditional networking event. Because this is an in-person community gathering, the value comes from the people in the group and the conversations that happen along the way. You can expect a friendly atmosphere where curiosity, openness, and shared experience matter more than having a polished elevator pitch. What to Expect The evening begins at 5:30 PM PDT on Friday, October 4 and centers on a guided networking walk in Vancouver. The structure is simple on purpose: show up, meet the group, start walking, and let conversations build naturally as you move through the event together. You can expect a mix of informal one-on-one chats and small group conversations. Walking side by side often makes it easier to ask questions, share your background, and learn about other people’s paths into tech. If you’ve ever found traditional networking stiff or awkward, this format is meant to lower that barrier. Likely highlights of the experience include: Casual introductions with other attendees interested in tech and community Organic conversation while walking, rather than forced speed networking New local connections with people navigating similar career and settlement questions A supportive setting to talk about goals, interests, and next steps The event is also a good place to practice how you talk about yourself. You do not need a perfect story or a fully formed plan. Showing up with openness, a few questions, and a willingness to connect is more than enough. Why Attend For newcomers, access matters. It is easier to grow in a new city when you know people, understand the local professional culture, and have a few trusted connections you can continue talking to after the event. This walk is built to help make those first and second connections happen. There is also real value in meeting others at different stages of their tech journey. You may meet someone exploring their first role, someone transitioning from another field, or someone who can share insight about navigating the local ecosystem. Those conversations can lead to encouragement, practical advice, and a stronger sense of momentum. Attending can help you: Grow your network in a more personal, less transactional way Build confidence introducing yourself in professional settings Learn from peers who understand the newcomer experience Discover community beyond online groups and job boards Leave with follow-up connections you can continue building after the event Most importantly, this event recognizes that networking does not have to feel performative to be useful. It can be thoughtful, welcoming, and grounded in genuine conversation. Practical Details This is an in-person event in Vancouver, Canada. The format is a walking meetup, so be prepared to be outside and moving with the group for at least part of the event. One of the clearest things to know in advance: the walk takes place rain or shine. If the weather shifts, the event is still going ahead, so dress appropriately for outdoor conditions and wear comfortable shoes you can walk in easily. Key details at a glance: Event: Empowering Newcomers: Tech Networking Walk with ISSofBC Date: Friday, October 4 Time: 5:30 PM PDT Location: In person in Vancouver, Canada Format: Outdoor networking walk and community meetup Weather: Rain or shine A few simple ways to get the most from the evening: Arrive ready to introduce yourself in a sentence or two Wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable footwear Bring an open mind and a few questions for others Be prepared to follow up with people you connect with afterward If you’ve been waiting for a more approachable way to meet people in Vancouver tech, this is a strong place to start. The format is simple, the purpose is clear, and the conversations you begin here could make the city and the industry feel a lot more accessible.
Who should attend
This is for you if you want networking to feel more natural, more welcoming, and more useful than a typical event. - You’re **new to Vancouver or new to Canada** and want an easier way to start building local connections in tech. - You’re **curious about the tech community** and want to meet people without the pressure of a formal conference or mixer. - You’re **early in your career, job searching, or exploring your next move** and would benefit from real conversations with others on similar paths. - You prefer **walking and talking over standing in a crowded room**, and you know you connect better in smaller, more organic conversations. - You want to **practice introducing yourself, sharing your goals, and asking thoughtful questions** in a supportive environment. - You value **community as much as opportunity** and are looking for people you can stay in touch with after the event. If you’ve been wanting to expand your network but needed a format that feels approachable, grounded, and genuinely social, this event is a strong fit.