Make New Friends
Meet other local people interested in Make New Friends: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Make New Friends group.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out make new friends events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the make new friends events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find make new friends events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Make New Friends Events Today
Join in-person Make New Friends events happening right now
Jewellers Bench Hire in Fitzroy
Jewellers can hire a desk in our workshop to make or finish off their own pieces.
This workshop is self run, you need to attend a health and safety induction before working daily unattended.
Basic jewellery making tools are provided and some consumables such as flux, borax, tumbling polish, lathe polish and some drill bits.
Aprons and safety glasses are provided, tie up loose hair, wear enclosed shoes.
Please email claw.creative.studios@gmail.com for any questions or inquiries.
Clara Carija, Director CLAW CREATIVE.
Wednesday Night Bachata: Beginners Class & Social (Queensberry st)
### Your First Bachata Class on Wednesdays is FREE! 💃✨
Welcome to your new midweek rhythm on **Queensberry Street, North Melbourne**!
Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned dancer looking for a friendly community, this is your new Wednesday home.
✨ **THE "ZERO-RISK" FIRST STEP**
Not sure if Bachata is for you? Come and see for yourself with **no commitment**!
* Your first **6:30 PM Fundamentals class is 100% FREE**.
* No partner needed and no experience required.
* Just show up, meet the crew, and have fun.
⭐ **THE RISING STAR MEMBERSHIP SPECIAL**
If you love your first class and want to stick with dancing midweek, we have an exclusive offer for our community:
* **The Deal:** Grab our Rising STAR Membership Card for just $50.
* **What’s Included:** Covers your next 7 classes!
* **Total Value:** Just $7.14 per class — officially the best value dance deal in Melbourne!
*
📅 **WEDNESDAY SCHEDULE**
* 6:30 PM: Bachata Fundamentals (Beginners) — FREE for first-timers!
* 7:00 PM: Bachata Improvers
* 8:00 PM: Bachata Intermediate
* 9:00 PM – Late: Social dancing & community vibes
📍 **WHERE WE ARE**
**Sokol Melbourne**, 497 Queensberry St, North Melbourne
Look for our check-in table at the entrance. We’re the friendly group having a great time!
Why join us? We aren’t just a dance school; we’re a **community**. Since 2018, we’ve focused on **connection, laughter, and making everyone—especially solo beginners—feel welcome** from the moment they walk in.
Come as you are, bring a smile, and let’s make every Wednesday your night of dance! 🥂
[FREE]Language exchange! Make friends & practice English🇦🇺🇬🇧🇫🇷🇯🇵🇮🇳🇫🇷
**📣IMPORTANT📣:** registrations are essential! Attendees that have not registered will be charged $5 to enter. For FREE entry, get your membership below:
[https://bit.ly/LanguageExchangeMembership-FluentFast](https://bit.ly/LanguageExchangeMembership-FluentFast)
**== Find someone to practice with before the event ==**
(Optional:) post the language you're learning (and teaching language) in the comments so the right people can connect with you. E.g. a comment like: "#learnFrench #teachEnglish seeyou all soon :-)".
**Overview:**
Every week, over 150 people from 23+ countries meet at out language exchange to practice a new language and make new friends over a beer.🍻
The first thing you will notice when you go to New To Melbourne is the great community atmosphere; people in our group are friendly and helpful and always welcoming of new group members. I hope you can bring a friend and join us for some language practice :-)
Our language exchange is free and runs every We3ednesday night, there's cheap food & drinks if you arrive at 6pm and want some dinner ;-)🍻🍟
**If you want to attend:**
Event cost: **FREE**! (you must register for free entry: [https://bit.ly/LanguageExchangeMembership-FluentFast](https://bit.ly/LanguageExchangeMembership-FluentFast))
**First Time? / What is a language exchange?**
If you've never been to a language exchange (many people haven't) we wrote an article for first timers (based on our 8+ years of running language exchanges). It's a comprehensive article and well worth reading:
[https://bit.ly/firstTimeAtTheLanguageExchange](https://bit.ly/firstTimeAtTheLanguageExchange)
**===== EVENT FORMAT =====**
When you arrive, you receive a badge with your native language and the languages you would like to learn. Place them on your chest with your native language on the right and other languages you are learning on the left. Then go meet people and exchange languages!
What to bring: Pen and Paper and good vibes!
Age Group: 18+
**===== FREE BEER AND PIZZA FOR FRIENDLY VOLUNTEERS! =====**
We're looking for friendly volunteers who want to help out and welcome newcomers to the group. We provide free beer/drinks and food (pizza wedges etc) and a friendly team of other volunteers to hang out with. If it's your first time at the event, you're welcome to applt - our volunteers are often newcomers too :-)
To find out more about volunteering at our language exchange, please see the link below:
[https://bit.ly/NTM-Lang-Exchange-volunteering](https://bit.ly/NTM-Lang-Exchange-volunteering)
**===== Group Rules =====**
We pride ourselves on running events where people feel safe and open to making new friends. To protect our group members, we have several rules in place:
1\. This is \*not\* a dating group\, please do not ask for people's numbers / socials\. Contact them via the meetup\.com private chat if you want to get in touch\.
2\. Please do not advertise other groups / events / tours on this page or to this groups attendees during / after events\.
3\. Please do not advertise products and services \(e\.g\. MLM / mentorship\)\. Please do not ask our attendees to complete surveys\.
4\. Please do not add people to wechat / whatsapp groups\.
By join our group or attending our events, you agree to these rules. If you attend an event and someone is breaking these rules, you can speak to the host if you wish.
**===== MENU🍔 =====**
The management gave us a special menu with some cheap eats :-)🍟 This section will be updated soon.
**===== NEW TO MELBOURNE! =====**
This event is run by New to Melbourne! We run fun and affordable event for people mostly between 18-35 including: international students, backpackers and even some locals :-)
You can find all our upcoming social events and tours here:
[https://bit.ly/FF-Free-language-exchange](https://bit.ly/FF-Free-language-exchange)
See you soon! :-)
Wednesday Night Chill Run
Let's have fun while watching the night view with our friends!
🏃♂️Training menu🏃♂️
Every Wednesday 6:00p.m~
Fed Square Assembly
【https://maps.app.goo.gl/zmPQ6U533pUDcNSA9?g_st=ic】
If you have luggage, please consider using the lockers at the station.
💥40~60 min Jog+Walk
Pace: Easy pace, suitable for beginners. If you got tired, let's walk together.
【schedule】
6:00 p.m Gathering
6:10 p.m Start
7:00 p.m End of training
Challengers we are waiting for you 😊
[FREE]Language exchange! Make friends & practice English🇦🇺🇬🇧🇫🇷🇯🇵🇮🇳🇫🇷
**Every Wednesday and Friday!** (Friday starts on 4th Oct!)
**📣IMPORTANT📣:** registrations are essential! Attendees that have not registered will be charged $5 to enter. For FREE entry, get your membership below:
[https://bit.ly/LanguageExchangeRegistration](https://bit.ly/LanguageExchangeRegistration)
**== Find someone to practice with before the event ==**
(Optional:) post the language you're learning (and teaching language) in the comments so the right people can connect with you. E.g. a comment like: "#learnFrench #teachEnglish seeyou all soon :-)".
**Overview:**
Every week, over 150 people from 23+ countries meet at out language exchange to practice a new language and make new friends over a beer.🍻
The first thing you will notice when you go to New To Melbourne is the great community atmosphere; people in our group are friendly and helpful and always welcoming of new group members. I hope you can bring a friend and join us for some language practice :-)
Our language exchange is free and runs every We3ednesday night, there's cheap food & drinks if you arrive at 6pm and want some dinner ;-)🍻🍟
**If you want to attend:**
Event cost: **FREE**! (you must register for free entry: [https://bit.ly/LanguageExchangeRegistration](https://bit.ly/LanguageExchangeRegistration))
**First Time? / What is a language exchange?**
If you've never been to a language exchange (many people haven't) we wrote an article for first timers (based on our 8+ years of running language exchanges). It's a comprehensive article and well worth reading:
[https://bit.ly/firstTimeAtTheLanguageExchange](https://bit.ly/firstTimeAtTheLanguageExchange)
**===== EVENT FORMAT =====**
When you arrive, you receive a badge with your native language and the languages you would like to learn. Place them on your chest with your native language on the right and other languages you are learning on the left. Then go meet people and exchange languages!
What to bring: Pen and Paper and good vibes!
Age Group: 18+
**===== FREE BEER AND PIZZA FOR FRIENDLY VOLUNTEERS! =====**
We're looking for friendly volunteers who want to help out and welcome newcomers to the group. We provide free beer/drinks and food (pizza wedges etc) and a friendly team of other volunteers to hang out with. If it's your first time at the event, you're welcome to applt - our volunteers are often newcomers too :-)
To find out more about volunteering at our language exchange, please see the link below:
[https://bit.ly/NTM-Lang-Exchange-volunteering](https://bit.ly/NTM-Lang-Exchange-volunteering)
**===== Group Rules =====**
We pride ourselves on running events where people feel safe and open to making new friends. To protect our group members, we have several rules in place:
1\. This is \*not\* a dating group\, please do not ask for people's numbers / socials\. Contact them via the meetup\.com private chat if you want to get in touch\.
2\. Please do not advertise other groups / events / tours on this page or to this groups attendees during / after events\.
3\. Please do not advertise products and services \(e\.g\. MLM / mentorship\)\. Please do not ask our attendees to complete surveys\.
4\. Please do not add people to wechat / whatsapp groups\.
By join our group or attending our events, you agree to these rules. If you attend an event and someone is breaking these rules, you can speak to the host if you wish.
**===== MENU🍔 =====**
The management gave us a special menu with some cheap eats :-)🍟 This section will be updated soon.
**===== NEW TO MELBOURNE! =====**
This event is run by New to Melbourne! We run fun and affordable event for people mostly between 18-35 including: international students, backpackers and even some locals :-)
To get notifications about upcoming events, click the subscribe button on our events page here:
**www.facebook.com/NewToMelb/events**
You can follow us here:
Facebook: **https://www.facebook.com/NewToMelb**
Instagram: **https://www.instagram.com/Newtomelbourne**
Seeyou soon! :-)
Flinders Lane Toastmasters
Come join us and practise public speaking! All levels are welcome.
Take the first step to overcome your fears, build confidence and learn to speak with impact in a friendly, supportive and encouraging environment.
Start you public speaking journey with us now to improve your communications skills and elevate all aspects of your life.
Please arrive 10 minutes early so we can settle everyone in for a 5.30pm start. See you soon!
Make New Friends Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Find Your Personality Match - Make Friends (30 -50yrs)
🌟 **A new one-on-one, personality-based connection experience**
Over the years, I’ve seen how hard it can be to find people you truly click with as adults. Small talk goes nowhere, and most events don’t give you the space for real conversation. Well… here it is - a new version, more intentional, and built around something I care about : **matching people based on personality.**
NOTE : THIS IS A TICKETED EVENT. LINK IN COMMENTS. RSVP ON MEETUP DOESN'T GUARANTEE YOUR SPOT.
💫 **What to Expect**
This is not speed dating, and it’s not a big mixer.
It’s a curated, one-on-one connection experience where you’ll meet a few people who’ve been matched to you based on personality and vibe.
Expect:
* A cosy, comfortable venue
* A hosted structure so you’re never left awkwardly standing around
* A series of guided one-on-one conversations
* A relaxed atmosphere where you can genuinely be yourself
* This is not dating focused event, there will be a seperate one for dating
Each conversation is designed to feel natural — because the match is based on compatibility
Get your tickets here - https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1982142483526?aff=oddtdtcreator
🧭 **Before the Event**
Once you get your Eventbrite ticket, you’ll receive a **short personality test (If you have already taken the test at a previous event you don't need to do it again)**.
It takes only a few minutes but helps us understand your communication style, energy, and compatibility factors.
This is how we curate meaningful one-on-one pairings for the event.
🌿 **Come Join Us**
If you’re tired of small talk and ready to meet people who truly fit your personality, this is for you.
A warm, intentional space created for deeper conversations and genuine chemistry - whether it becomes friendship, something romantic, or just a surprisingly great chat.
RSVP now — spots are kept limited to ensure quality one-on-one time.
Find Your Personality Match - Make Friends (20 -40yrs)
🌟 **A new one-on-one, personality-based connection experience**
Over the years, I’ve seen how hard it can be to find people you truly click with as adults. Small talk goes nowhere, and most events don’t give you the space for real conversation. Well… here it is - a new version, more intentional, and built around something I care about : **matching people based on personality.**
NOTE : THIS IS A TICKETED EVENT. LINK IN COMMENTS. RSVP ON MEETUP DOESN'T GUARANTEE YOUR SPOT.
💫 **What to Expect**
This is not speed dating, and it’s not a big mixer.
It’s a curated, one-on-one connection experience where you’ll meet a few people who’ve been matched to you based on personality and vibe.
Expect:
* A cosy, comfortable venue, happy hour cocktails
* A hosted structure so you’re never left awkwardly standing around
* A series of guided one-on-one conversations
* A relaxed atmosphere where you can genuinely be yourself
* This is not dating focused event, there will be a seperate one for dating
Each conversation is designed to feel natural — because the match is based on compatibility
Get your tickets here - https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1982601686013?aff=oddtdtcreator
🧭 **Before the Event**
Once you get your Eventbrite ticket, you’ll receive a **short personality test (If you have already taken the test at a previous event you don't need to do it again)**.
It takes only a few minutes but helps us understand your communication style, energy, and compatibility factors.
This is how we curate meaningful one-on-one pairings for the event.
🌿 **Come Join Us**
If you’re tired of small talk and ready to meet people who truly fit your personality, this is for you.
A warm, intentional space created for deeper conversations and genuine chemistry - whether it becomes friendship, something romantic, or just a surprisingly great chat.
RSVP now — spots are kept limited to ensure quality one-on-one time.
Melbourne Speed Dating - For First Timers
**💝 Speed Dating for First Timers – Meet Like-Minded Local Singles from Home!**
� **Anxious about meeting in person?** We get it! Online speed dating is perfect for first-timers. Meet like-minded local singles from the comfort of your own home – no pressure, no crowded venues, just genuine connections in a safe, welcoming environment.
🎯 **Perfect for:**
- Curious first-timers wanting to explore speed dating
- Singles who prefer a safe, comfortable online environment
- Anyone nervous about traditional dating scenes
- First-time speed daters seeking a welcoming, easy experience
**⚠️ IMPORTANT: Register to Secure Your Spot**
**Your RSVP on Meetup does NOT guarantee a spot!** You must click the registration link below for your age group to complete your registration now.
**Age Groups & Registration**
- **Ages 18-32** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=quiet-river-singles-matrix&ar=18-32)
- **Ages 30-46** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=quiet-river-singles-matrix&ar=30-46)
- **Ages 40-58** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=quiet-river-singles-matrix&ar=40-58)
- **Ages 55+** Event → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=quiet-river-singles-matrix&ar=55+)
**Event Details**
- **Format:** Zoom-based experience – connect from the comfort of your own home
- **Location:** Your cozy space – meet from wherever you feel most comfortable
- **Host:** Friendly host who makes first-timers feel welcome and at ease
- **Vibe:** Low-pressure connections with welcoming Melbourne first-timers – fun and easy
**How It Works**
1. Register for Your Age Group - Choose the session that matches your age range above.
2. Complete a Quick Personality Quiz - We'll match you with compatible first-time speed daters.
3. Speed Dating Rounds - Guided, structured conversations with friendly Melbourne singles.
4. Connect from Home - Meet someone special from the comfort and safety of your own space.
---
✨ The best first-time experience happens at home – hosted on Zoom, welcoming and easy. 💖 ✨
Let’s Socially Connect @ GARDEN STATE HOTEL (Friday/After Work Drinks)🍹 🍺
Welcome everyone to my meetup events. 😃 We are heading back to Garden State hotel on a friday night, after work drinks.
🏨 🍹 🙎♂️🙎♀️🙍🏾
More venues, more people, more connections, and more fun ☀️ 🌞
I will be bringing you Melbourne's hottest summer venue bars in Melbourne, where we can enjoy after work drinks
More venues, more people, more memories, more connections, and more fun ☀️ 🌞
Loved by many Melbournians 👩❤️💋👨❤️
Garden state hotel is a great venue because it’s one of the best and most popular venues In Melbourne 🏢🏣🏨
Its also a cosey venue with a beautiful beer garden, live music, and soon to feauture a (rooftop balcony area)
Beer Garden 🪴
DJ dance floor 💃 🕺
Food to dine in 🍔🍕
Get out of your comfort zone and come join me with my other host (Scotty Hanson) and Ozay @ Garden State hotel, whilst we meet new people, socialise, expand your social circle, make new friends, and connect.
THE MEETUP WILL BE HELD DOWNSTAIRS, BOTTOM LEVEL, BASEMENT ROSE GARDEN. TAKE THE STAIRS 🪴
This meetup will be hosed on friday 27th of February, starting at 8pm
Location
Address
101 flinders lane 📍
Relish exclusive access to….
Garden state hotel 🏨
Garden state hotel is a heritage bar/pub venue located in the famous flinders lane.
Garden State Hotel is a a popular bar, pub and beer garden. Smokers area, Beer garden outside, and a RnB room downstairs, basement rose garden.
Great staff, good music, drinks (cocktails, jins, beers, martini, wine, mocktails) food,dance floors on both levels.
They play RnB music upstairs and downstairs with 2 live DJs on both levels.
Drinks are reasonably priced and quick service. Very cool space
You wouldn’t wanna miss out on this event, which will be hosted on a Friday night 27th of February, starting at 8pm 🗓 🕰️
What are you waiting for? 🤷♀️ 🤷♂️
RSVP today in order to participate to Garden State Hotel 🏢🏙️🌇😁 as we meet u and greet u
It’s one of my absolute favourite venue. This place knows how to put on a show!
Good music, great lighting, drinks and welcoming door staff 👌 Ubelievable food, this place is a must try, service always lovely with a stunning environment
Day
Friday, 27th February
Time
8pm ⏱
Address
101 FLINDERS LANE, MELBOURNE📍🏙
✅ Free Entry😃
✅ No booking/ No Guest list to enter
✅ Live DJ 🎧🎶🎵
✅ Upstairs area/ & downstairs
✅ Beers/ cocktails/ Martini/ Wine drinks 🥤🍺
✅ Public Bar 🍺
✅ RnB music 🎶
✅ Courtyard Beer Garden 🪴
✅ Memories 🙆♂️👨👩👧👨👩👦 🧑👨👩🏽👦🧒
✅ Social/Connections 👨👩👧👨👩👦 👩👧👧👩👩👧👨👩👧👨👩👦👩❤️💋👨
✅ Friends 👩👧👧👩👩👧👨👩👧👨👩👦👩❤️💋👨
If this is your first time attending my group, I welcome you. 🙋♂️
Or, if this is your first time attending this venue, then you’ll get the opportunity to experience Garden State Hotel 😊
Attention, people 🚨
Please read carefully to the rules ⚠️
If you’ve RSVPd and you’re intention ISN’T to attend my meetup, please don’t RSVP. 🛑 ✋
-Only Rsvp if you’re actually keen on attending. ✅
AGAIN, IF YOU DECIDE NOT TO ATTEND, CHANGE IT TO “not attending” ONE HOUR BEFORE THE EVENT STARTS
Again! Don’t RSVP if you’re not 100% attending. By u Rsvping and not attending, I see it as “playing games”. 😡I take my meetups events seriously
Why it’s important to join meetups ?
It’s in our DNA to connect with people. Let’s face it, we are social creatures and we need to be connected with one another. If you go back to our grandparents, they would be connected in a community (or village) and everyone would know each other.
Nowadays, we no longer live like this because there are big cities and we are continually moving fast, and disconnection has been widespread. This is why connection is important. We need to bring back connection.
If you have any questions, please feel free to inbox me me a direct message.
Looking forward to seeing u all there.✌🏽peace Kind regards, Abraham
Thought Experiment: A What-If Scenario Event (Remember Me)
Ever wondered how humanity would respond to an asteroid heading for Earth? Or how the world might react to first contact with aliens?
Welcome to **The Thought Experiment** — a new kind of meetup where we explore big *“What if…?”* scenarios in a fun but thoughtful way. Each session, we’ll pick one scenario (from global crises to wild sci-fi situations) and work together to imagine solutions, strategies, and possibilities.
This is for **curious minds of all kinds** — students, professionals, creatives, or anyone who enjoys thinking differently. Some people might bring research, others just bring imagination.
Either way, we’ll brainstorm together and see where the discussion takes us.
[Thought Experiment Site](https://thoughtexperiment.au/)
**We ask everyone to Buy a drink at the venue**
**You Need to have Conversational English.**
**This is a 3PM start event.**
**Format:**
* Quick intro to the scenario
* Small-group discussions
* Share back with the group
* Wrap up + (optional) post-discussion drinks
For our first meetup, we’ll introduce the format, get to know each other, and jump into a scenario together.
***Story Arc: Cosmic Dread***
Keywords: *Generational Ship, Nature*
**Scenario: Remember Me**
The launch was flawless.
The systems are stable.
The mission is progressing.
The crew remains calm.
All readings align with the original departure data.
After months in deep space, nothing appears out of place.
Except for one detail.
Every star we pass
looks strangely familiar.
Saturday 3–5 PM
Oxford Scholar.
A small group.
Big imagination.
No right answers.
Just curiosity, debate and fun.
🌆 Meet People, Walk Melbourne – Thursday Afternoon
**Meet People, Walk Melbourne – Thursday Afternoon**
**When**: Thursday, 26 February — 3:00 PM to \~6:30 PM
**Where**: Meet at the stairs of Federation Square, Melbourne
Join us for a relaxed social walk through some of Melbourne’s most iconic spots, offering a perfect blend of movement, conversation, stunning views, and fun outdoor activities. Whether you’re new to the city or just looking to meet great people, this is an easygoing afternoon for everyone.
**Itinerary**
**3:00 PM – Meet & Welcome**
• Gather at Federation Square
• Quick introductions and group briefing
• Time to meet new people before we start walking
**3:15 – 3:30 PM – Walk toward the Shrine of Remembrance**
• Easy stroll along the city streets and the Yarra River
• Casual conversations and scenic city views
• Perfect warm-up walk at a relaxed pace
**3:35 – 4:15 PM – Explore the Shrine of Remembrance**
✨ A moment to pause, take in the views, and appreciate Melbourne from above.
• Discover one of Melbourne’s most meaningful landmarks
• Climb the stairs to the rooftop for panoramic city views
• Great photo opportunities and time to connect as a group
**4:20 – 4:35 PM – Walk to the Botanical Gardens**
Leaving the city behind, we step into Melbourne’s natural oasis.
• Gentle walk surrounded by greenery
• Transition from city energy to peaceful nature
**4:40 – 6:00 PM – Relax at the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne**
Good vibes, games, and new friendships in one of Melbourne’s most beautiful parks.
• Picnic and chill time on the grass
• Play charades and social games
• Music, laughs, and relaxed conversations
**6:00 PM onwards – Optional Hangout**
☀️ Stay longer, make plans, and keep the afternoon going.
• Free time to continue chatting, exploring, or grabbing food or drinks together nearby
• Optional group visit to the language exchange at Diesel Bar & Eatery for those who’d like to keep socialising
✅ **Tips for Participants**
• Wear comfortable walking shoes
• Bring water and optional snacks or picnic food
• Sunscreen and a hat recommended
• Open to all fitness levels, relaxed pace
From Awkward Openers to Engaging Conversations
## *Practising Extroversion the Neurodivergent Way*
## 🌟 From **Small Talk → Real Talk**
Do you want to be more social but without forcing yourself to be loud, performative, or overwhelmed?
Do you want to feel confident starting conversations in groups or crowds… **and** know how to gently take them somewhere meaningful when the moment is right?
This session is a **practice lab** for exactly that.
***
## 💬 **What This Session Is About**
Many neurodivergent people actually enjoy connection, but struggle with the *starting*, the *spontaneity*, and the *surface-level phase* of conversations.
This workshop helps you practise:
* starting light, surface-level conversations
* building courage to speak to new people
* rotating through conversations with ease
* and learning how (and when) to guide a chat from small talk into something more engaging and meaningful
All while **honouring your nervous system**, your need for processing time, and your personal boundaries.
You don’t need to become a “social butterfly”
…but you *can* become socially confident, relaxed, and deeply appreciated for who you are.
***
## 🧠 **Why Surface Talk Matters (Yes, Really)**
Small talk isn’t the enemy, it’s the *bridge*.
Weather, study, work, hobbies… these are entry points.
When you know how to use them skillfully, they become doorways into richer conversation.
We’ll practise how to:
* respond with curiosity instead of pressure
* notice which threads are worth pulling
* ask follow-up questions that invite meaning
* and sense when someone is open to going deeper
The *right* people will appreciate this often more than you expect. ✨
***
## 🔄 **How the Session Runs**
The session is structured, flexible, and supportive:
* Short teaching segments (clear, simple, practical)
* 20-minute practice blocks with different drills
* Quick rotations so you experience variety and spontaneity
* Optional participation, nothing is compulsory
* Live feedback and adaptation based on how the group is feeling
* Space for pauses, grounding, and regulation as needed
You’ll practise both:
* **starting conversations**, and
* **deepening them gently and appropriately**
***
## 🌱 **What You’ll Practise**
* Initiating conversations without overthinking
* Being socially present without masking
* Bridging from surface topics into meaning
* Sharing a little more of yourself, safely and wisely
* Reading social energy and pacing yourself
* Honouring when you need space, silence, or rest
***
## 👋 **A Note From the Facilitator**
I’m an autistic, neurodivergent coach and this was once *extremely hard* for me.
Through years of lived experience, recruitment work, interviewing, dating, friendship-building, and formal coaching training, I’ve learned how to make social connection **a skill and habit**, not a vague personality quirk that people can't replicate.
This session is about practising that skill together, so it becomes something your body knows how to do — not something you have to force.
***
## 📝 **Before & After**
You’ll be invited (optionally) to share:
* what feels hardest about socialising in groups
* where surface-level conversations tend to stall
* what you want more confidence with
And at the end, you’ll be invited to give feedback so future sessions can be shaped around what you actually need.
Make New Friends Events Near You
Connect with your local Make New Friends community
Happy Hour!
*Happy Hour fans?* Each month, our group is going to try to meet at some of the best happy hours around town!
This month, let's meet for drinks and small bites at **[Rail Craft Kitchen](https://www.railcraftkitchen.com/menu?menu=happy-hour#1)** in Dublin on Frantz Road. *Happy Hour is 3-6pm weekdays*. Every drink or shareable is only $6.00!
**Happy Hour** is inherently social. It’s a time when people come together to unwind and enjoy each other’s company. For many, it’s a way to catch up with friends, network with colleagues, or simply meet new people in a relaxed setting. The casual atmosphere of happy hour encourages conversation, making it easier to bond over shared interests and experiences.
Bowling and Drinks
Let’s knock down some pins and knock back a few drinks while we’re at it.
Bowling is one of the best stress relievers out there, so bring your A game and let’s see what you’ve got.
It’s $20 per person, which includes free shoe rental and two hours of open bowling.
We’ll start with six people per lane. Once we have six, we’ll grab our lane and get rolling. If more people show up after that, we’ll snag the lane right next to us and keep the party going.
Come ready to have some fun.
Beginner Friendly Adults Skate Night
**Adults Only** Roller Skating — Don’t Miss This
We’re bringing back childhood — but this time it’s adults only.
Music. Lights. Good vibes. **Beginner-friendly**
No experience needed — just show up and roll.
This is our first paid event so we can host bigger, better experiences going forward. Limited spots. Cross posted **20 rsvp max**
✅ Adults-only session
✅ Newbie friendly (help included)
✅ Great workout (burn up to 600 calories/hour)
✅ Possible drinks after
Skate Zone 71
Meet 8:20 PM (arrive before 8:35)
**You will still need $13 admission + $6 skate rental** (or bring your own) bring cash I can often get us a $2 discount!
Dinner Game Night
Come ready to play.
We’re turning dinner into a full-on game night. Card games, competitive chaos, and yes, those long strategic nerd games my friends love to play. We’ll also have Jackbox games on the big screen so everyone can jump in and talk a little trash.
There will be pizza. There will be drinks. There will be snacks. There will absolutely be laughter.
Pull up, grab a slice, pick a game, and let’s make it a night.
\* This will be at someone's house so address will be given night before the event.
Brunch Club: Make New Friends
⚠️ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up and buy a ticket here to attend:**
[https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/)
**Join the Columbus City Brunch Club and make new friends!**
Each meetup brings together 4–6 people for casual conversations over brunch. We use the Groupvibe platform to facilitate the meetup and ensure everyone’s a good fit.
👉 **To attend, you’ll need to complete registration via this link:**
[https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/)
We’ll share the exact location of the upcoming meetup the night before only if you have bought a ticket or membership plan.
**Why this works:**
\* Smaller groups make real conversations easier.
\* Discover new restaurants in your city, together.
\* Curated lunch venues with good food and vibe.
\* If you hit it off with your group, there’s plenty of time to hang out afterwards.
**Note:**
RSVPs on Meetup don’t reflect total attendance. Many attendees register directly via our website. The event on [Meetup.com](http://meetup.com/) is only a placeholder.
This meetup is organized by Groupvibe, a small team passionate about helping people form meaningful friendships offline.






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