HLN10: The Power of Storytelling | 29.10.2026
Welcome to our October HLN In-Between!
For this edition, we are doing things a little differently, again: we are bringing together meaningful networking, an inspiring conversation about storytelling and an opportunity to experience one of the City's exclusive fitness clubs.
Setting the Scene
On Thursday, 29.10.2026, we will be heading to Virgin Active Bank for a lunchtime gathering designed to leave you with fresh ideas, new connections and perhaps a little extra motivation to look after yourself.
Our In-Betweens are intentionally smaller and more informal than our main HLN events. They give us the opportunity to step away from the usual format, explore interesting venues and spend more time getting to know one another. Because the best connections aren't always made in a crowded room and sometimes, a smaller gathering makes all the difference.
And this one comes with a rather special extra. Keep reading.
The Opening Scene: HLN10 Storytelling Event Details
Date: Thursday, 29 October 2026
Time: Lunchtime event from 12.30 to 3 PM
Location: Virgin Active Bank, City of London
Speaker: Maryam Pasha
Theme: The Power of Storytelling
Plot
Think less formal networking event, more inspiration, conversation and a chance to try something new... Think being part of the story...
Here is the plan: 12.30 Welcome to HLN10
13.00 Fireside chat with Maryam Pasha on the Power of Storytelling
13.30 Virgin Active team on nutrition
13.45 Open networking
There will be a welcome drink and nibbles served, and you will have the chance to talk to the Virgin Active team and enjoy the facilities.
The way we communicate can influence our professional relationships, businesses and everyday interactions, and this event will have an impact on the way you look at life afterwards.
During the event, you can expect:
Meaningful networking with fellow HLN members and guests
An engaging session with Maryam Pasha
Insights into storytelling, communication and confident public speaking
Lunch, refreshments and plenty of opportunities for conversation
An exclusive opportunity to experience Virgin Active Bank
Small gatherings, good conversations and something valuable to take away, and that's what our In-Betweens are all about.
Enter Our Main Character: Maryam Pasha
We are delighted to welcome Maryam Pasha, a published author and respected speaking coach who has worked with Nobel Prize-winning academics, billionaire philanthropists, business leaders and students, helping them tell better stories and tell stories better.
Maryam has also worked with TEDxLondon speakers and professionals across a wide range of industries, helping them communicate with greater confidence, clarity and authenticity.
“I help people speak so others listen.”
At HLN10, Maryam will share insights from her book and explore how storytelling can help us become more confident, engaging and effective speakers. And we will do this in an unusual way for HLN events. We will do this as a fireside chat.
Either way, we will have time to learn about all the important things, and you will leave with ideas to help you when you are pitching to a prospective client, presenting to colleagues, building your personal brand or preparing for a Teams meeting with colleagues. Getting your message across more effectively; the ability to tell a compelling story is a valuable skill.
And there's another little treat: Maryam will be bringing copies of her book, fresh off the press!
We look forward to hearing more about her journey, her experience coaching TEDxLondon speakers and what she's learnt about the stories that make people listen.
The Unexpected Plot Twist: Virgin Active Bank
Our hosts at Virgin Active Bank are generously giving every HLN10 attendee a complimentary day pass to experience the club.
This means you can do more than simply visit the venue for our event. You will have the opportunity to explore the facilities and discover what the club has to offer.
Fancy checking out the weights area? Perhaps a swim, a session in the sauna or even reformer Pilates sounds more appealing?
There is an opportunity to explore all of these and more.
The Virgin Active team will also be on hand to answer your questions about nutrition, memberships and personal training.
They will share some practical advice on nutrition, covering the basics of how what we eat supports our fitness and wellbeing.
It's a lovely addition to our event and a reminder that investing in ourselves isn't just about professional development. Looking after our health and wellbeing matters, too.
Please arrive early to check class availability and any booking requirements, health and safety with the Virgin Active team if you'd like to experience this day fully.
Your Part in the Story: Making the Most of HLN10
Our In-Betweens are designed to make networking feel natural, not like another meeting in the diary.
You don't need a rehearsed elevator pitch or a pocket full of business cards. Come ready to meet people, exchange ideas and have a few conversations you might not otherwise have had.
To make the most of the event, why not challenge yourself to:
Speak to someone new and discover what they do
Share a professional challenge or idea with the group
Take away one insight from Maryam's session and put it into practice - tell a story
Explore the Virgin Active facilities and ask the team a few questions - please bring a gym bag and swimming costume, and a padlock
Follow up with someone afterwards and continue the conversation
And remember, networking is a two-way street. Be curious, be generous with your knowledge and give others the opportunity to share theirs.
The Next Chapter: Join Us at HLN10
We are excited to bring the HLN community together for another In-Between: one that combines professional development, meaningful connections and a little wellbeing in an unexpected setting.
A brilliant speaker, a fascinating topic, an exclusive venue and the chance to spend time with people who understand the value of building genuine professional relationships.
Whether you are a regular attendee at HLN or joining us for the first time, we would be thrilled for you to be part of it.
We look forward to seeing you there!
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