From casual networking to deep conversations: introducing Friends With Her’s new ‘extra’ event series

Posted on 5 August, 2025

Two years ago, Friends With Her began as casual networking events to foster connections in Canberra. Now, it’s evolved into something much deeper – a premium event series tackling the topics women are genuinely curious about.

Exploring everything from intimacy to hormone health, Friends With Her: Extra promises everything you know and love from the free event series – including the chance to mingle and make new friends – while exploring a timely topic that attendees are genuinely curious about.

Bringing together like-minded women to share passions, stories, and unforgettable experiences, founders Claudia Harrison McKee and Madeline Bonfini say that Friends With Her: Extra is a natural evolution of their event series created in response to the growing desire in the community for more curated, meaningful experiences.

“We saw a gap in Canberra for events that are set up in a way that will spark connection over similar interests. We also wanted to do this while focusing on celebrating the amazing local talent and businesses we have here,” explains Madeline.

“These premium events give us the opportunity to elevate the experience with things like expert-led conversations, supporting and experiencing the great venues we have in Canberra, and thoughtful inclusions like drinks or goodie bags.”

Offering real, relatable conversations that break the ice and help women connect more meaningfully, the first event in the Friends With Her: Extra series will kick off on Friday 22 August at Blackbird bar with Intimacy, served by Sexologist Eleni.

The event promises to be an eye-opening experience where you can learn all about fostering deeper connections and enhancing intimacy in your relationships, with Eleni sharing her personal journey of becoming a sexologist. She’ll also be answering anonymous questions about all things sex.

“Every speaker is chosen for their ability to lead with authenticity and spark connection,” says Claudia.

“Friends With Her: Extra is just that – an extra layer – created for those who want to explore deeper themes, enjoy premium touches, or connect around specific topics. We’re keeping ticket prices as low as possible to make sure they remain accessible, while also ensuring that our incredible hosts, facilitators, and venues are fairly compensated.”

Friends With Her: Extra will be exploring include Seed Cycling and hormone health with Melissa Kovacevic in October, and Claudia and Madeline are also hoping to host a cocktail-making workshop (among other things), but they say no matter the focus of the event, the ethos of Friends With Her remains the same.

“Whether we’re hosting a health-focused workshop or a glam event, the goal is the same: make friendship easier, and make connection feel natural,” explains Claudia.

“We’re excited to expand into areas like women’s health, beauty, fashion, identity, relationships, creativity, and personal growth. We’re also passionate about aligning events with local causes, so we can turn connection into community impact.”

The duo are still hosting their free bimonthly networking events (you can register for the next one on Thursday 21 August here), but numbers are strictly limited for Friends With Her: Extra.

With plans to evolve Friends With Her into a safe space for unspoken questions, Claudia and Madeline want to foster bold, authentic dialogue in a trusted environment where everyone feels like they belong.

“What started as a casual meet-up has become something truly special, and it’s all because of the incredible women who keep showing up,” says Madeline.

“Whether you come for our free monthly events or a premium event, we want you to feel like you belong. Because no one should feel alone in a city full of potential friends.”

*Friends With Her is open to people of all gender identities, not just those who use her/hers pronouns.