Brunch & Banter: Networking that creates Meaningful & Lasting Connections

‍“It started with one thought over the December holidays – what was missing in my work life in 2023? After much reflection, I realized it was fresh connections. But where does one find new people to connect with today if you have already maxed out connections from your personal and work life?”

~ Sunehra Lakhotia, who initiated and organizes ConnectOne’s Brunch and Banter

Traditional networking events often feel awkward and unproductive, with people wandering around aimlessly, making forced small talk, and itching to leave. The large groups of unfamiliar faces can be intimidating, causing attendees to seek out familiar faces and stick with them. There is always a theme, a panel discussion, and facilitated conversations. Photos are taken to post on social media, but meaningful connections are rare, leaving the whole format feeling outdated.

And so with that, we launched “Brunch and Banter” in January 2024. 

The Brunch & Banter Difference

Unlike typical networking events, Brunch & Banter offers a structured yet relaxed environment. We curate the audience, limit the number of attendees, and ensure common ground among participants. Over a leisurely brunch, people sit down together, engage in meaningful conversations, and connect on a deeper level. 

Six Months In

It's been six months now, and we've successfully curated participants from fields such as marketing, finance, and HR, as well as individuals interested in sabbaticals and community development.

It's everything we dreamt of and more – forget making new connections, we have started a new type of networking where there is no awkwardness or stress, just fun. 

"I went to Brunch and Banter to support Elena's new initiative. To my surprise, it was such a lovely experience. It was open and well planned. With the self-paying of food, it also presented a sense of agency and choice where people who were there, not just wanted to be there but were also ready to contribute. The curation of the group was solid - and to my surprise, I continued to meet up with four of the people after and had solid, genuine conversations that had great resonance."

~ Jael Chng

Why should you look out for our next Brunch & Banter?

1.Foster genuine and lasting connections 

Our networking format addresses all the usual pain points of traditional networking. It's relaxed, with a curated audience that shares common ground. Instead of forced small talk, participants dive into meaningful conversations right from the start. The relaxed setting and intentional curation ensure that every participant can build valuable and lasting relationships without the usual networking pressures.

2. Learn from like-minded people 

By curating the audience with common interests and backgrounds, Brunch & Banter creates an environment ripe for knowledge sharing and mutual learning. Participants bring diverse yet complementary perspectives, leading to rich and insightful discussions. This curated mix ensures that everyone has something valuable to contribute and gain from each other. You'll leave each session with fresh ideas and insights to apply in your professional life, enhancing both personal and professional growth.

3. No agenda

There are no panel speakers, forced discussion topics, or business cards to exchange and forget. You can leave with only the memory of a pleasant lunch. There's no need to report back or follow up with anyone. No photo opportunities—just a monthly Friday opportunity to relax, unwind, and listen. Importantly, there's no sales talk, ensuring that conversations remain genuine and focused on building real connections without the pressure and awkwardness of business pitches.

"Brunch and Banters gave me a safe space to share my community work and learn from other practitioners in the field. It was an exhilarating 2 hours of hive minding.”

~ Kimmy Paulino

In just six months, Brunch & Banter has become a cornerstone for participants seeking more from their networking experiences. Traditional networking's pitfalls—awkward small talk and fleeting interactions—have been replaced by a relaxed yet purposeful environment. Here, curated groups of like-minded individuals gather not just to network, but to foster genuine friendships and meaningful collaborations. Participants consistently praise the event for providing a supportive space where ideas flow freely and where relationships deepen naturally. Brunch & Banter isn't just an event; it's a valuable opportunity for every attendee to feel welcomed, valued, and part of a community where connections made over brunch extend far beyond the table.