The FriendZone, London’s premier social networking event, is set to return on October 10, 2024, at the glamorous Stereo in Covent Garden. This unique event, dubbed “social skydiving” by its creators, aims to revolutionise how Londoners connect in a post-pandemic world.
Event details:
- The FriendZone
- Date: October 10, 2024
- Time: 18:00 – 21:00
- Venue: Stereo, Covent Garden, London
- Tickets: £16 and available at www.thefriendz.one
Launched in 2014 by co-founder Asia Diaz, The FriendZone is London’s answer to the growing challenge of social isolation in bustling urban environments. This innovative concept offers a refreshing departure from traditional networking events, creating a vibrant, pressure-free space where genuine connections flourish naturally.
She says:
“About 10 years ago, a friend and I found ourselves caught in a cycle of disappointment. We’d constantly seek out events in London, only to be met with a recurring sense of dissatisfaction. At each event – whether it was a musical show, a comedy gig, or a game night – we’d end up as mere spectators, alongside other attendees. Despite being surrounded by people our age, we weren’t interacting, making new connections, or forming friendships. We were just there, watching.
This frustration sparked our creativity. We decided to tackle the problem head-on, putting our heads together to create something born from our feelings of dissatisfaction. We wanted an event where we could have a genuinely fun experience, one that catered to our different interaction styles. As an ambivert myself and with my friend being more introverted, we aimed to create something that suited various personality types.
We recognised how challenging it can be to talk to strangers, especially in London. Traditional networking often felt tedious, formal, and anxiety-inducing. Our vision was to offer people the option to engage in activities – some, but not necessarily all – in a seamless and fun way. That’s how The FriendZone was born: a night of games and interactions on different levels, with various entry points for different character types and personalities.
The FriendZone is more than just an event; it’s a social movement. We’re creating a space where people can be themselves, have fun, and make real connections without the awkwardness often associated with meeting new people.”
What to expect:
- Interactive group games and activities
- Quiet spaces for more intimate conversations
- Trained ‘Minglers’ to facilitate introductions
- Themed areas catering to various interests
- A mix of physical and mental challenges to break the ice
Appeal across demographics:
- Young Professionals (25-40): Opportunity to expand social and professional networks
- Newcomers to London: Perfect for building a social circle in a new city
- Introverts and extroverts: Activities catering to all personality types
- 40+ age group: Specialised events for mature adults seeking new connections
Praised by Time Out London for its unique approach, The FriendZone combines fun, interactive experiences with a mission to combat loneliness. As post-pandemic studies highlight escalating levels of social disconnection in London, The FriendZone’s return couldn’t be more timely. It stands as a beacon of real-world interaction in our increasingly digital landscape, providing a much-needed platform for meaningful engagement.
The event’s philosophy of ‘social skydiving’ encourages attendees to step out of their comfort zones and connect with others in a supportive, engaging environment. Whether you’re a longtime Londoner or new to the city, an introvert or an extrovert, The FriendZone offers a fresh, exciting way to expand your social circle and rediscover the joy of face-to-face interactions.
- Francesca Baker-Brooker