On November 20th, the i.c.stars community came together at mHUB for one of our most energizing gatherings of the year—TechBash 2025.
With 225 guests in attendance and 50 technology leaders serving as speed-networking hosts, the evening was a powerful testament to what happens when Chicago’s tech community shows up with intention, curiosity, and a shared commitment to lifting up emerging talent. Tarina Williams from Salesforce served as our emcee, guiding the night with energy, warmth, and encouragement.
From the moment guests arrived, mHUB buzzed with connection. Attendees jumped into rapid-fire networking rounds, swapped stories about career pivots and bold ideas, and spent time engaging directly with i.c.stars interns and alumni—each conversation reinforcing the night’s theme of failing fast, but failing forward. At TechBash, mistakes aren’t setbacks, but catalysts, and our community embraced that spirit with enthusiasm.
And the impact? Extraordinary.
Together, we raised $5,131 during the event, which was generously matched with an additional $5,000 from an anonymous i.c.stars board member. These dollars go straight back into the heart of our mission—fueling opportunities, resources, and pathways for the next generation of technologists and civic leaders.
Thank you for your energy, generosity, and belief in what’s possible when we learn boldly, lead boldly, and fail forward together.
