Keen to share your love of tech, film, or gaming? Did you know there are social groups that cater specifically to geeky interests? Whether you’re visiting Joburg or have lived here for years, there are social groups perfect for connecting with fellow techies, geeks, and gamers. These groups are an excellent starting point for networking and making friends.
Makerlabs ZA
MakerLabs is a community of makers with a focus on open-source software and hardware. This group is a hub for enthusiasts of 3D printing, Repraps, electronics, Arduino, Raspberry Pi, Python, welding, woodworking, sewing, and more.
Members bring their projects, seek input, and bounce ideas off each other. This allows everyone to enjoy the process of building their imaginations. While members should bring their own materials, some electronic parts, metal, and plastic are available for those interested in trying something new.
MakerLabs welcomes all ages and skill levels, providing a safe space for everyone who enjoys creating.
Geeks with Jobs
Geeks with Jobs is a community for those who grew up with games and geek culture. It’s a place to find like-minded friends for conversation and community. Despite the name, having a job isn’t a requirement to join.
The group hosts online gaming nights and in-person gatherings. These include movie meetups, drawing sessions, and discussions on specific anime. Communication mainly happens over Discord. This keeps discussions organized and ensures members can communicate safely without revealing personal information.
Ladies that Code
Ladies That Code is open to anyone, regardless of age or skill level, who is eager to learn about the tech world. The group aims to introduce newcomers to the tech industry, even if they have no prior experience.
Understanding that the tech space can be intimidating, the group offers a blend of tech topics and soft skills. This ensures there’s something for everyone. The basics are taught in a relaxed and fun environment, where everyone starts as a beginner.
Online talks cover a variety of topics. These range from practical skills like time management, self-worth, and leadership, to technical skills such as coding, working with AI, and cloud computing.
JHB Startup Founder 101
JHB Startup Founder 101 brings together aspiring and experienced tech entrepreneurs. The group provides opportunities to discuss, meet, and collaborate on building innovative startups and advancing the local startup ecosystem.
The group hosts numerous events where participants can learn best practices from seasoned entrepreneurs. These events offer chances to meet local founders and investors, exchange ideas with experts, and get feedback on startup ideas. Additionally, participants can join various workshops.
Topics typically covered include developing strong startup ideas, understanding legal basics, perfecting your pitch, and raising funding. Whether you’re starting a company or just curious, this community is a valuable resource.
Joburg Connect
Joburg Connect is a social group dedicated to attending various cultural, arty, educational, geeky, and nerdy events. Members get together offline, aiming to make connections while exploring Johannesburg’s social scene. Activities include dining at new restaurants, attending concerts, and playing board games.
Regular board game sessions allow attendees to bond over their favourite games. On the last Wednesday of each month, Joburg Connect hosts a Silent Book Club, where members gather to read and discuss their favourite books.
This group is perfect for those looking to make new friends and explore the city’s offerings.
Lego® Serious Play® – ZA
Lego® Serious Play® is an immersive facilitation technique designed to engage, unlock thinking, and extend creativity. It generates innovative results for individuals, teams, and groups.
For those new to Lego® Serious Play®, taster and facilitated sessions are available both online and in person. These sessions are led by a certified and experienced facilitator and provide an introduction to the technique and its benefits.
The core process involves posing a question, constructing a model, sharing it, and reflecting on it. This method creates time and space for participants to think, create, communicate, solve problems, and envision future possibilities.
For those interested in becoming a Certified Facilitator in Lego® Serious Play®, globally recognized training is offered in South Africa. The training program spans two days and equips participants with the skills needed to effectively use this innovative facilitation technique.
