Brew up new friendship over a cuppa in Durban North
Hobbs said he copied the concept over from the North Coast Coffee Club and hopes to see the group grow as numbers have not been steady.
A Glen Hills resident who noticed that there are several people who are trying to socialise since the various lockdown levels were lifted, has started a coffee club in Durban North for individuals who want to get out again but may not have the company to do so.
Grant Hobbs, who is a baker by profession, started the Durban North Coffee Club in January 2023. People meet at different coffee spots in the area on a monthly basis at their own cost.
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“I noticed that since Covid people have stopped socialising, especially the elderly. I think it could be because we were told to stay indoors for so long, our minds have become conditioned to being more introverted,” he said.
“We meet once a month, sometimes twice, and get to know each other and make new friends. The feedback I’ve received so far has been only positive,” he said.
Hobbs added that what was so great about the club was that there were no member fees, people can choose if they want to come or not and each meeting can be done according to their budget as there were no set fees.
“Some people want just coffee while others want to have a sandwich and that’s fine. People can come at their own will and do what they feel most comfortable with,” he added.
“We chose local venues because we want to support our local businesses. Sometimes we have a speaker who gives us a talk voluntarily. I’d love for more people to join and for speakers to offer us a talks on relevant and interesting topics,¨ said Hobbs.
He added that some people who may be depressed or lonely, and don’t have the money or the means for professional counselling or don’t have any friends, are more than welcome to join their next meeting this June.
“It may just lift their spirits. People also work from home. We need to get out of the house but I must say that the intention of the club is not to network but if you happen to, then so be it. Recently more newly retired people joined our meetings which is great,” added Hobbs.
For more information or to join, visit Durban North Coffee Club on Facebook or WhatsApp Hobbs on 076 955 1280.
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