Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Lumos speed networking group. Photo supplied
Local business owners came together once again on Friday as Lumos Speed Networking continued its mission of turning professional connections into lasting friendships.
Originating back in May 2024, the event was started by local business owner Kathy Barker after she found working from home to be an isolating experience.
Having recently launched her own real estate business and wanting to meet more people in the region, Kathy drew on her previous experience running successful networking events to create a welcoming space where local business owners could connect, collaborate and support one another.
What began as an opportunity to build her own business has since grown into a supportive community where members collaborate, share ideas and help one another navigate the challenges of running a business.
“It can be quite lonely when you're working for yourself and working from home,” Kathy said.
“If you've got any hassle and you're needing to look for certain people to help you within your business, then it's very hard when you're on your own.
“So I created the networking event so that we could all support each other.”
Running the last Friday of every month from 7:30am to 8:30am at Lumos Cafe and Restaurant, each session begins with a series of short introductions. This gives everyone the chance to share who they are, what they do and the kind of clients or connections they'relooking for.
“Then pretty much it's kind of open discussion for everybody just to talk about whatever,” Kathy said.
“Discussions vary from all sorts of things, personal life to business life and everything in between.
“It's lovely, it’s become really just like a bunch of friends all getting together.”
While many familiar faces return each month, the relaxed format also welcomes newcomers looking to expand their professional network.
The event is completely free, letting attendees get their own coffee and breakfast before joining the conversation at their own convenience.
“I didn't want to make it a paid event where there was going to be even more pressure for business owners to put their hand in their pocket,” Kathy said.
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