What we’re about
Ever wanted to chat with a stranger, but didn’t know if they’d be open to communication? You’re not alone! A Social Project recently conducted in Victoria (The Fifty First Dates Project) has shed light on the growing desire for real connection between strangers.
We took matters into our own hands, deciding to start a monthly gathering where strangers can connect with each other. The “Meet A Stranger” events happen in public, during daylight. Strangers are paired at random, and the two have up to one hour to get to know each other, and view life from a someone else’s perspective. The free gathering is open to any adult who wishes to participate in a shared human experience.
In addition to building a sense of community, the monthly gatherings also aim to help soften the edges of judgement, and find common ground beyond social labels. This platonic meeting is a chance to get to know a complete stranger – if only for one hour. All are welcome.
Read this article to know a bit more about the Meet a Stranger project: https://www.vicnews.com/local-news/50-first-dates-project-spawns-monthly-meet-a-stranger-events-in-victoria-7456408
Both Carrie and Jacinthe are delighted to announce that as of July 25, 2024, their "Meet A Stranger" Initiative is now officially sponsored by the City of Victoria and the Fairfield Gonzales Community Association. Thank you to both sponsors for their support!
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Meet a Stranger - SPECIAL LANGUAGE INCLUSIVE EditionFairfield Gonzales Community Centre, Victoria, BC
French, Spanish, and English speakers join us for this special language inclusive edition of Meet a Stranger. The intent of this special edition is to also give non-native English speakers the opportunity to participate in their native tongue.
Participants will choose one of these three prompts for their pairing :
- I would like to speak in English.
- J'aimerais parler en français.
- Yo quiero hablar en español.
New location!
We are so thrilled to be sponsored by the Fairfield Gonzales Community Association for this event. This will be our first indoor event and we look forward to starting this new format with you.Still, we strongly encourage you to come dressed according to the weather to allow you to step outside for the hour, as there’s nothing like fresh air for a good conversation. Anyone preferring to stay indoors will be most welcome to grab a chair and chat in the Arbutus room.
We get access to the room at 2 pm, please be there for 2:15 pm.
Meet in the Arbutus Room at the Fairfield Gonzales Community Association, 1330 Fairfield Road, Victoria, BC V8S 5J1 Saturday, September 21 at 2:15 pm.
Fall Fairfield - Meet a Stranger is going rogue!
Come say hi the following day at Fall Fairfield, where we’ll be offering new ways to connect with a stranger while encouraging our local economy. We can’t wait to get your input on our new idea.