Manchester — Week of 17 Aug 2026

with Phil Whittaker (Staff Engineer, AI, Umbraco)

AI has left many developers caught between excitement and existential dread — one minute the most empowering technology we've ever seen, the next a threat to make hard-won expertise obsolete. In this honest and personal talk, Phil Whittaker (Staff Engineer, AI at Umbraco and co-founder of Practically AI) shares his journey from panic to a more balanced perspective on what AI means for our work, our identity and our future. A story about adaptation, agency, and why the human parts of our jobs may matter more than ever. Hosted by the Manchester Statistical Society at Cross Street Chapel.

A relaxed networking evening for Manchester's fintech scene — startup founders, product builders, developers, finance professionals and early-stage investors exploring the future of finance technology, from payments and DeFi to tech-enabled traditional finance. No pitches or panels, just open conversation and a welcome drink. Part of Network One's recurring Manchester meetup series.

Venture Café Manchester's final Thursday Gathering before its two-week summer break. Whether you're an independent artist, designer, writer or innovator, The Art of Creating: Cultivating Your Creative Edge is built to help you sharpen your craft, discover vital support systems, and build meaningful networks within Manchester's creative and tech community. A relaxed, open evening of programming and connection at SISTER (the former Renold Building) on the Oxford Road Corridor — free and open to all.