🥂 Why There Aren’t More Social Events (And How You Can Help Fix That)

“Why aren’t there more social events?” It’s probably the most common suggestion I get, and trust me, I understand why. You’re living (or temporarily living) in one of the most beautiful places on earth, surrounded by people from all over the world, and it feels like there should always be something fun to jump into! Dinners, hikes, game nights, beach hangouts, wine-fuelled picnics with strangers who become friends.

But here’s something important to know: this whole thing? This entire community? It’s run by one person. Just me. There is no events team behind the scenes, no volunteer squad, no weekly planning meeting where ten people brainstorm logistics over tapas. It’s me, doing my best to keep the space welcoming, helpful, and occasionally entertaining, all while juggling real life on the side.

That said, we’re incredibly lucky to have some wonderful members who regularly organise events! From valuable workshops to casual meetups and outdoor adventures. But they’re also just individuals with limited time and energy, often juggling jobs, travels, and life stuff too. Like everyone else, they can only do so much.

🕺 There’s No Secret Formula (But There Is a Secret)

You don’t need a title, a logo, or a complicated plan to make something happen. If you’re thinking “it would be fun to go for drinks on Saturday” or “someone should organise a board games night,” then guess what: you are that someone.

This isn’t me gently suggesting. This is me encouraging you, directly, to just go for it. You can absolutely be the one who sets the plan in motion. It doesn’t have to be fancy. It doesn’t have to be open to 50 people. You don’t need a Canva graphic. You just need to say, “Hey, I’m going to do this — who’s in?” and put it out there.

💭 What If No One Comes?

Let’s be honest: sometimes you’ll post something and not get a huge response. That’s normal. But here’s something most people don’t realise: over 80% of the activity in Slack happens in private messages. So even if your post doesn’t get a bunch of public replies, it might still be sparking interest, plans, or side conversations behind the scenes.

You might end up with two or three lovely people you’ve never met before, and suddenly you’re having a conversation you didn’t know you needed. Or someone who was too shy to respond publicly might message you privately and say, “Hey, I’d love to come too.”

You don’t need to carry the whole social life of the city on your shoulders. But if you want more things to happen, the best and fastest way to make that real is to create the kind of moment you wish existed.

🌱 This Is Your Community Too

I’ll keep the lights on and the structure in place; making sure the channels work, the information is up to date, and the vibes stay good. But the events? That’s the part anyone can shape. That’s the part where you, reading this, can make a real impact.

So the next time you wish something fun was happening, don’t just wish it. Try it. Post your plan. Invite people. See what happens. Even a simple “anyone want to grab a coffee tomorrow?” can lead to something great. And if you need a bit of support putting the idea into words or choosing the right place to share it, just message me. I’ll gladly help you get it out there.

We’re all looking for connection, and often it just takes one person to break the ice. Why not let that person be you?

You don’t need permission. You just need to start.

And if you’re wondering whether it’s worth it — yes. It is.