Friendship in the Click of a Button: How My Virtual WI Became a Lifeline

 

I never thought I’d be the kind of person who found real friendships through a screen. Sure, I knew the internet could be a wonderful place, full of cat videos, questionable life hacks, and an endless supply of crafting tutorials. But a space where I could build genuine friendships? A space where I could show up, even on my worst days? That felt like wishful thinking.  

And yet, here I am, grateful for every Zoom call, every message, and every virtual meet-up that has made my WI one of the most meaningful spaces in my life.  

 

 

It turns out, community doesn’t require a physical room, it just needs people willing to show up, whether that’s at full energy or just enough to be present. And as someone who doesn’t exactly thrive in silence, I’ve found my role - keeping the conversation alive, making sure no one feels left in the quiet, and, volunteering to organize the speakers.  

Yes, I somehow became the programme planner, which means I spend a lot of time ensuring our group gets a variety of talks that suit everyone. History, crafts, life hacks, important discussions, it’s all about finding something to spark interest. Because when the screen goes quiet, I’m often the one filling the gaps, throwing out a question, making sure that awkward silence doesn’t settle in too comfortably.  

And the best part? This isn’t just a group of names on a screen, I’ve met some of them in person, turning virtual connections into real-world friendships. Whether it’s online or face-to-face, the warmth stays the same. The kindness, the support, the feeling that, no matter how I show up - talkative, exhausted, fully engaged or just listening, it’s enough.

This virtual WI has become more than just an online meeting. It’s a space where friendships grow without pressure, where laughter carries through screens, and where being seen, heard, and valued isn’t dependent on physical presence.  

So, if anyone ever wonders whether virtual friendships can be real, take it from me - they absolutely can. And sometimes, they’re often the ones that matter the most.  

Why not come and find out more at Virtual Vixens WI?