SFIZ  Guide: Keeping It Fun and Respectful!

We are taking an opportunity to reinforce a few key principles and clarify the purpose of the WhatsApp group and netiquette guidelines. Doing so will help us foster a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for everyone who attends our meetups.

Purpose of the WhatsApp Group

The WhatsApp group is primarily intended for:

• Last-minute updates about changes or important information regarding meetups.

• On-site communication to assist participants in finding their way around the meetup location.

• Sharing relevant resources such as links or materials related to ongoing discussions during meetups.

Netiquette & Guidelines

1. Respectful Environment

   • Any form of hate speech, discrimination, or offensive behaviour is strictly prohibited. Our group is dedicated to creating a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere for all.

2. No Advertising

   • Please refrain from promoting products, services, politics, or any other form of advertising within this group. The focus is on building connections and meaningful conversations.

3. Direct Messaging Policy

   • Direct messaging fellow group members without prior consent is discouraged. Some participants, particularly women, have expressed discomfort when contacted by strangers. If this occurs, please inform us immediately so we can take the necessary action.

   • Note that WhatsApp groups share members’ contact details, such as phone numbers, with all participants. If you have privacy concerns, you are welcome to leave the group. Information about meetups is readily available on the sfiz.fun website and Meetup.com.

4. Alternative Communication

   • You do not need to be in the WhatsApp group to attend our meetups. Simply show up at the designated location and time to join. Meetup.com also provides a secure way to connect with other participants if you didn’t exchange contact details during the meetup.

Meetup Etiquette

• Join the Conversation In-Person:
  If you have something to share or discuss, the best place to do so is during the meetup. Face-to-face interactions are where connections truly thrive, so feel free to join and engage with anyone who’s willing to listen.

• Respect and Consideration:
  Please be courteous and thoughtful in all interactions, respecting diverse opinions and perspectives.

• Punctuality:
  Try to arrive on time and respect the meetup schedule. While you can stay as long as you wish, the idea is to enjoy a relaxed drink or two (Let’s not pull an all-nighter! We can lock it in for Friday or Saturday.), engage in multilingual discussions, and plan activities for the weekend and beyond.

Planning Activities

SFIZ.FUN does not organise events, except in rare instances clearly stated in the event description. Instead, the focus is on encouraging participants to exchange ideas and plan joint activities during meetups.

• Tailored Interests:
  Not everyone will share the same interests, which is perfectly fine! Some may prefer hiking, exhibitions, or dining, while others might enjoy films, sports, or clubbing. Share your ideas and connect with like-minded people during the meetup.

• Use of Other Channels:
  If you wish to continue planning activities beyond the meetup, you are free to choose the communication tools or platforms that best suit you.

Your Input Matters

Your ideas, suggestions, and feedback are invaluable in making SFIZ.FUN meetups even better. Collaboration and the sharing of ideas are at the heart of this community, and together we can create an even more welcoming and enjoyable space for everyone.

Thank you for being part of SFIZ.FUN! Let’s continue to make this community thrive.

Warm regards,
The SFIZ.FUN Team