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Humans have an innate need for social connections; human social connections have physical and mental health benefits. However, making new friends gets more challenging with age, especially when you move to a new place.

Fortunately, the Kenyan culture encourages hospitality and goodwill towards others. The country ranked 2nd in the 2022 World Giving Index Report published by the Charities Aid Foundation.

Consequently, Nairobi is less cliquey than most cities, with most people eager to bond over shared interests. So, below are social groups and communities you can join as you embark on a quest to find your Nairobi-based tribe.

Our WonderHouse

Our WonderHouse is a community built on the foundation that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness. The community brings together “wonderers,” people from all walks of life with a yearning for self-awareness and meaningful connections. It offers a safe space for “wonderers” to explore and express their ideas and passions free of judgment.

Dubbed a lab for the soul, Our WonderHouse hosts different experiences where “wonderers” meet, learn, and share. Such experiences include expert-led guided conversations on holistic living, skill development workshops, and community activities like sharing a meal, yoga, and meditation.

Besides the experiences, Our Wonderhouse launched a residency program that leverages the magic of intentionality. The program lasts 1-3 weeks and supports “wonderers” seeking a serene retreat where they can explore, transition, launch or reset. You can check their experience calendar for upcoming experiences.

Jenga Jungle

Jenga Jungle

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“Jenga” is the Swahili word for building something, and Jenga Jungle is a great place to build professional connections. The Jenga ecosystem features three core pillars, Jenga Leo, Jenga Fit, and Jungle Restaurant. Jenga Leo is an all-inclusive co-working space that includes communal spaces to encourage synergy and collaboration.

Second is Jenga Fit, a premium fitness center established to promote healthy living through customized workouts and meal plans. The center includes a yoga and wellness studio for mental well-being, and a Jenga Leo membership grants you access to Jenga Fit facilities.

Third is Jungle restaurant, the perfect hangout spot with 360-degree views of Nairobi. The spot serves the best food and hosts fun social activities, including Taco and Board Games and a pub quiz.

Jenga Jungle also hosts networking events, including panel discussions, speed networking, trainings, workshops, and book launches. The Jenga Ecosystem creates the perfect setting to work, play, and connect on a Nairobi trip.

Urban Swaras

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If running is your jam, the Urban Swaras recreational running club is right up your alley. The club hosts weekly 10km-30km runs around Nairobi and its environs every Saturday and is open to running enthusiasts with different capabilities.

Nothing beats doing what you love among like-minded individuals while you explore Nairobi's scenery. Moreover, the club’s committee recruits teams for organized local and international charity and competitive running events.

Mountain Club of Kenya (MCK)

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The mountain club of Kenya (MCK) is a haven for thrill seekers. It organizes outdoor group activities, including hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and running, at various locations, including Mt. Kenya, Lukenya Hills, and Hells Gate. Moreover, members can recommend new climbing sites.

Besides climbing, MCK hosts social events at various city venues, where members catch up over climbing reports. Any individual interested in joining MCK can sign up on its website.

Pedalwise Cycling Club

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A bike and a spirit of adventure are the entry requirements to join the Pedalwise cycling club. The club hosts weekly cycling events/circuits where they cycle through different parts of their country to challenge their skills.

Additionally, it partners with various organizations, including running clubs, to facilitate charity activities for different causes. The Perks of being a Pedalwise cycling club member include a chance to discover beautiful sites and a robust support system.

A sense of community is vital during long trips like sabbaticals to any destination. So contact us for curated trips with itineraries that accommodate intentional social interactions in Nairobi.

Resources:

https://www.cafonline.org/about-us/publications/2022-publications/caf-world-giving-index-2022

Header Photo by Harshil Gudka on Unsplash

Meet New People and Connect: Communities and Social Groups To Join In Nairobi