On a balmy Friday evening in Melbourne, a diverse group of women gather at a Cameroonian restaurant, their laughter and chatter filling the air. To an outsider, it might seem like a reunion of old friends, but in reality, most of these women have only just met. They’re part of the First Timers Club, a unique social group that brings people together to try new experiences and form meaningful connections.
Penelope Jordan, the founder of the First Timers Club, explains that the idea was born out of a desire to break free from the usual social activities like getting coffee or drinks. Along with two friends, she wanted to explore new adventures and activities without breaking the bank. “We did a free salsa dancing class, free tai chi, we did group dating once,” Penelope recounts, highlighting the variety of experiences they sought out.
The club truly gained momentum when Penelope returned to Melbourne after six months of studying overseas. Feeling the challenges of meeting new people and craving spontaneity, she took to her personal Instagram to gauge interest in the First Timers Club. The response was overwhelming, with over 60 followers expressing their eagerness to join. From there, the club evolved organically, moving from a private message group on Instagram to a dedicated WhatsApp group and, finally, to its own Instagram account.
One of the most appealing aspects of the First Timers Club is its ability to bring together a diverse group of individuals who share a common goal: to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new experiences. The club’s attendees are primarily women in their twenties and thirties, a demographic that often faces significant life transitions and a desire for genuine connections. “It’s this really fun cohort of people who are just wanting to give it a go … or know what it’s like moving to a new place and having to meet new people, and so they’re willing to [turn up],” Penelope explains.
Despite the club’s growing popularity, Penelope admits that she still experiences nerves before each event. The fear of no one showing up or the awkwardness of making new friends as an adult can be daunting. However, the shifting attendance at various activities, from dance classes to comedy gigs, consistently surprises and delights her. The willingness of participants to put themselves out there and connect with others is a testament to the club’s welcoming and supportive atmosphere.
As the First Timers Club continues to gain traction, Penelope remains committed to fostering a sense of community and prioritizing in-person interactions. While she appreciates the online following the club has garnered, she believes that the true magic happens when people come together face-to-face. The impact of the club has already been felt by many, with some individuals even crediting it as a factor in their decision to move to Melbourne.
The potential for the First Timers Club to expand and adapt to different demographics is vast. Penelope envisions the concept thriving in smaller towns and cities, where newcomers and locals alike can benefit from the opportunity to connect and explore together. She also sees the value in introducing similar social clubs in retirement villages and aged care homes, providing a platform for older adults to continue learning, growing, and forming meaningful relationships.
In a world where loneliness and isolation are increasingly prevalent, initiatives like the First Timers Club offer a refreshing antidote. By creating a space where people can come together to try new things and forge genuine connections, Penelope Jordan and her team are fostering a sense of belonging and adventure. As more individuals discover the joys of stepping outside their comfort zones and embracing new experiences with like-minded people, the First Timers Club serves as a reminder of the transformative power of human connection and the endless possibilities that arise when we open ourselves up to new adventures.
