Create and Connect - A new kind of networking lands in Leeds

Most networking events follow the same script. You turn up, pick up a name badge, clutch a coffee, and spend the next two hours trying to look interested while silently hoping someone rescues you from a conversation about procurement systems.

Create & Connect was never meant to be that kind of event.

On 13th November we launched our first ever Create & Connect session at humanSpaces on South Parade in Leeds — and what a morning it turned out to be. A room full of business owners, professionals, freelancers, and curious first-timers all came together for something a bit different: two hours of relaxed networking, quick creative activities, and genuine conversation without any of the usual pressure.

And the best bit?
It actually worked.

A networking event without the dread

One of the strongest pieces of feedback we kept hearing was how different the atmosphere felt.
One attendee said:

“When I go to networking events, I often have this feeling of dread in my tummy. I didn’t have that at all with this. Having an activity takes the pressure off the conversations.”

That’s exactly why we created the format.
Networking shouldn’t feel like a chore or a performance. If people can relax, switch off the self-promo voice, and do something with their hands, they naturally start talking like real human beings — not walking LinkedIn profiles.

Create & Connect gives people a way into conversations without forcing it. No stiff intros. No “So, what do you do?” icebreakers. Just simple creative prompts, shared laughs, and space to meet people without it feeling like work.

A creative reset for your working week

Anyone who’s been to our workshops knows we’re big believers in the power of creativity, especially for wellbeing and team connection. But this event made it clear how effective creativity can be for networking too.

As one person put it:

“I’m not an artist, but it was incredible to get an introduction to art. I’d recommend it to anyone.”

That’s the point — Create & Connect is not an art class. It’s not about producing a masterpiece or testing people’s drawing skills. It’s about giving people permission to play, unwind, think differently, and make new connections without pressure.

Others who do have an art background enjoyed dusting off old skills:

“I’ve got a bit of an art background, so it was getting all my old tricks out the bag again.”

Creativity breaks the ice, brings out people’s personalities, knocks down barriers, and makes conversations flow. It’s the bit traditional networking forgets.

Real conversations, not sales pitches

One of the biggest compliments of the day came from someone who summed up the whole spirit of Create & Connect:

“You’re not focusing on doing a sales pitch or networking. You’re actually just making friends and relaxing.”

And that’s exactly why it worked.
With quick creative icebreakers, table rotations, and simple shared tasks, people talked without forcing it. The room felt warm, open, and friendly — the kind of networking environment people genuinely want to return to.

Another attendee said:

“It was a great couple of hours. What a day. The feedback has been phenomenal.”

By the end, the room was buzzing. People swapped details, shared ideas, made plans to meet again, and left with something you don’t always get from networking — ene

Why this format matters

Traditional networking is built around talking.
Create & Connect is built around doing.

And that tiny shift changes everything.
Doing something creative puts everyone on the same level. It stops the peacocking. It quietens the nerves. It gets people into the moment — which is exactly what good conversations need.

In a world where burnout is high, attention is short, and most people are juggling too much, a relaxed two-hour creative reset is exactly what many professionals didn’t realise they needed.

It’s good for wellbeing.
Good for confidence.
Good for meeting new people in a way that feels natural.

It’s also good for business — but not in the pushy sense. When you take the pressure off, the right conversations happen anyway.

More Create & Connect events on the way

Our first session sold out and the feedback has been brilliant. People have already asked when the next one is, which makes us very happy — because we’ve already booked more dates.

We set out to create a different kind of networking event for Leeds and Yorkshire.
Something relaxed.
Something uplifting.
Something creative.
Something people actually look forward to.

Judging by the first event, we’re on the right track.

So, if you fancy a couple of hours to switch off, meet good people, and try a bit of creative fun then you can click here to book onto the events we've got planned in 2026.

Create & Connect: networking without the nonsense.
Come and see what happens when creativity does the talking.