By Maisie Laughton
With social media providing an invaluable hub for meeting new people, it’s no surprise that online communities are forming.
Individuals are able to immerse themselves in niche groups and meet like-minded folk who share similar hobbies and interests, even meeting up in person away from the screens.
One County Down woman created her own Facebook group to connect with local individuals after seeing a similar set-up on the platform based in England.
Named the Adventuring Women Of The Wild NI, the group aims to do exactly that, offering ladies from across Ireland the opportunity to go out together.
Orla Campbell, founder of the group, explained: “I made a Facebook group for women in Northern Ireland to go on adventures together and meet new people as we go.”
“Lots has happened in between and we have had so many amazing wild camps, wild swimming, adventure days, bbqs, beach days, paddleboarding, surfing, picnics, hikes, painting parties, boat trips etc..”
After gaining rapid popularity, the group now houses nearly 3,000 Facebook users, ranging from 18 year olds to 65 year olds, all of whom engage both online and as part of the meet ups.
The group has enabled the women to find new friends whilst also continuing on with experiences and activities they enjoy.
Orla said “We have all made new friends and continue to do so and make loads of memories together.”
“The group has done so much for all of us and the group just keeps growing every day.”
So far, they have embarked on several expeditions, including hiking, swimming and general outdoor ventures for those who would rather be amongst friends than go out by themselves.
Orla said “Our group is for women who are looking to meet new people or are nervous about doing things alone or don’t have friends into that sort of thing like camping.
“The first event I went to only one lady showed up, then the second event there were around 23 and that’s where it all kicked off.”
“We hiked to the blue Lough in the Mournes after just meeting for the first time and we bonded, hiked, swam and ate together from my portable BBQ and it was amazing.”
As well as offering a familiar face to meet up with, Orla says that there have been blossoming friendships stemming from the organised outings and online conversations.
“The biggest benefit I have seen is the group’s ability to create long lasting friendships. It also creates friendships that we are able to fit around our lives.“
“The group has given me new friends from all walks of life & an even bigger kick to do all I can to help as many women as I can.”
“I have met people who have pushed me out of my comfort cone and helped me do things I never thought I would. All the ladies say this for themselves too.”
“The group is great because you pick and choose which events you’d like to go to and you’ll always have someone there with you to experience it with.”
It’s safe to say the group has benefited the lives of many of its members, giving women from throughout the country an outlet to speak to people as well as the option to get out of the house for a change.
Orla said “We hear a lot of stories of how the group has changed their lives for the better.”
“We are all facing our own struggles whether we talk about them or not – the group is a safe space to get away from everything and be with a group of supportive women to take your mind off things.”
“We are a safe place for you to experience new things with. The group has given all of us so much confidence.”
To find out more on Adventuring Women Of The Wild NI, go to: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2873840686209957/