A Response to Loneliness in the City
Loneliness and polarization are two of the great challenges of our time — especially in big, international cities like Berlin. But what if the answer to both could begin with something as simple as meeting a stranger? In a time marked by disconnection and political division, even the smallest acts of human connection can feel revolutionary. That’s the thinking behind a new event happening in Berlin on Wednesday, June 25: Friendship Speed Dating — an initiative by Meduza, the largest independent Russian-speaking news outlet operating from exile.
But this isn’t your typical speed-dating event. It’s not about romance — it’s about friendship. Because making new friends as an adult, especially in a foreign city, is tough. And yet, connection is more important than ever.
No Awkward Games — Just Real Connections
Held in the beautiful and usually off-limits Chapel at Bethanien, the evening is designed to make meeting new people fun and low-pressure. No cringey contests or forced mingling — just light conversation starters, playful games, and group activities that encourage meaningful connections. There’ll be time to chat, sip a drink, and maybe even dance.
The event is being co-hosted with Candlelight Döner, who have curated the evening’s program with a distinct Berlin flair — thoughtful, creative, and welcoming.
Part of a Bigger Conversation: The “No” Exhibition
This one-night event is part of the broader “No” exhibition, which runs through July 6 in Berlin. Curated by Meduza, the exhibition explores how ordinary people resist and survive in extraordinary times, through contemporary art and documentary storytelling.
Themes like polarization, loneliness, and solidarity run throughout the show — making this community-driven event a natural extension of its message.
The exhibition has already drawn attention from Tagesspiegel, taz, Süddeutsche Zeitung, and The Berliner, and offers free admission. Curator-led tours in English are also available, along with a sharp, limited-edition merch collection.
Join the Movement — One Conversation at a Time
Tickets for Friendship Speed Dating are €11, and space is limited.
🗓️ Date: Wednesday, June 25
🕒 Language: English
🎟️ Register now: thenoexhibition.io/en/events
This summer, Meduza isn’t just hosting an exhibition — they’re creating a platform for connection. Come for the art, stay for the people, and maybe leave with a new friend (or three).
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