A few new things
Life updates, Movember, tech plus food.
Those who know me well know there’s more to my life than tech. Yes, I founded the Vancouver Tech Journal, launched Startup TNT’s BC angel investing network, and seem to be moderating or curating a different tech panel every week. But tech is only a slice of what gets me out of bed each day.
I run a small communications consultancy. I write food and drink features for the Georgia Straight. I cook. I do a lot more.
You’re probably the same—there's more to you than your day-to-day job.
To date, this newsletter has focused mostly on my tech work, and has featured Vancouver tech resolutions, VC data, and thoughts on why Alberta might just be a stronger tech ecosystem. Those are my Tech Notes.
But there’s so much more I want to share beyond tech—so today, I’m launching a new newsletter: Life Notes.
What’s in it? Scribbles on everything else going on in my world: what I’m thinking, doing, and learning across all facets of life.
As a longtime reader, you’re subscribed to both, but it’s easy to manage your preferences. Just visit the homepage, click sign-in, and then follow the steps from the account manager. It'll look like this:
Got it? Great—now, onto this special double issue.
Let’s start with Life Notes
(But keep reading for updates on a new tech community I’m building.)
Today, I’m kicking off my Movember campaign. For those unfamiliar, Movember is a global movement focused on men’s health issues like prostate and testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. Since 2003, Movember has funded over 1,250 projects, supporting millions of men with mental health resources and advancing cancer research.
In 2021, my Movember team, Cinnamon & Oak, raised $45,000; in 2022, we hit $79,000; last year, $78,000; and this year, we’re aiming for $100,000. Regardless of whether we reach that goal, we’re likely to cross the $250,000 mark, which is astonishing.
Why Movember matters to me
I’ve written about this before, but it comes down to the need for everyone to look after their mental health—especially men, who often aren’t equipped with the tools, knowledge, and support they need. Movember is my way of supporting the men in my life—my brothers, best friends, and beyond—so they know they’re not alone. There’s a community here to listen, support, and help make life better.
How you can help (and join the fun)
I’ve kicked off my fundraising with a $25 donation to myself. Every bit makes a difference—and if everyone reading this gave just $20, I’d meet my goal in no time. Consider it, and here’s my profile link if you’d like to support: https://mobro.co/notionport. I also want to invite you to these two Movember fundraising events this week:
- Mo for Lowe at Earls Yaletown on Nov 12
- This Sandwich, That Beer Meatball Throwdown at The American on Nov 16
Tech Notes
I’m creating a new micro-community for people in tech who love food. How does it work? Each week, someone will host a meal—be it breakfast, lunch, happy hour, or dinner—and book a table somewhere for 4-6 people. It’s a way to connect and grow your social circle in this often anti-social city. Sign up for event notifications here: techfood.club, and follow along on Instagram at @techfood.club. We'll be sharing the first few meetups soon.
Startup TNT BC Summit X Finale at BDC on November 14
Join us for Startup TNT’s BC Finale Pitch Night! Summit X Finalists will pitch live to angel investors and the startup community. Tickets are only $10, but use this secret link and code friendsofwilliam for a discount.
Thanks for reading,
William
