Afrosocial is changing the game for Afro-Caribbean professionals in Manchester

Forget awkward networking events and forced small talk—Afrosocial is flipping the script on what it means to connect as a Black professional in Manchester.

This is about much more than swapping LinkedIn profiles or exchanging business cards; it’s about building real friendships, creating opportunities, and making sure no one feels like they’re navigating the city alone.

Founded by David Chipfupa, a remote tech worker, Afrosocial has rapidly evolved in just over a year from a single social event into a thriving hub for Manchester’s Afro-Carribean professionals.

The community has exploded into a thriving hub of over 4,000 members, spanning industries from tech and law to the arts and healthcare.

Whether it’s a game night, a panel on property investment, or a showcase for Black creatives, Afrosocial is proving that networking doesn’t have to be stiff—it can be fun, empowering and life-changing.

More than just a networking group, AfroSocial is a space where Black professionals can connect, grow, and support each other in both their personal and professional journeys.

The need for Afrosocial

Despite Manchester’s Black population making up around 12% of the city, there are few dedicated spaces where Black professionals can meet, collaborate, and form friendships. Recognising this gap, David set out to create an inclusive, empowering space that went beyond professional networking.

“I was working remotely, which at first seemed like a dream—flexible hours, no commute—but over time, I realised how isolating it could be,” David explained.

“I wanted a place to meet people, especially other Black professionals, without the need for a religious setting or say, a club environment. I ran a few generic networking events, but I kept seeing African and Afro-Caribbean attendees looking for something more tailored to their backgrounds.”

The demand was evident. Within months of launching Afrosocial as a niche community, 80 people showed up to the first official event, eager for more. What started as a casual gathering soon transformed into a structured organisation catering to the social, creative, and professional needs of Black professionals in Manchester.

A space for every profession

Afrosocial structures its events around three main categories: creative, professional, and social.

Creative events

Manchester has a thriving creative scene, and Afrosocial is ensuring Black artists, musicians, and creatives have a space to showcase their talents. Whether it’s spoken word nights, live music showcases, or photography workshops, these events foster a sense of belonging and provide networking opportunities within the creative industry.

Professional networking events

Afrosocial’s industry-specific events are tailored to professionals in sectors like property, technology, healthcare, and law. These gatherings feature expert panels, keynote speakers, and networking opportunities, helping members expand their career prospects while engaging with successful Black professionals in their fields.

“We recently hosted a tech networking event, and in the past, we’ve organised panels on property investment and career development,” David says. “Next, we’re focusing on legal and healthcare professionals, ensuring our members have access to the right connections and resources.”

Social gatherings

For those looking to build friendships in a relaxed environment, AfroSocial offers a range of engaging activities, from game nights and karaoke sessions to fitness meetups and sober socials.

“One of our most successful initiatives has been our sober social events,” David explains. “Not everyone enjoys drinking, so we wanted to create an alternative where people could bond over shared interests like fitness or board games. It’s all about making everyone feel included.”

Beyond events, Afrosocial also acts as a guide for newcomers to Manchester, helping them navigate everything from where to buy cultural foods to finding community hubs.

Tackling loneliness and mental health stigmas

One unexpected yet powerful impact of Afrosocial has been its role in combating loneliness. “A lot of people don’t realise how hard it is to make new friends as an adult,” David reflected. “People move to Manchester for work, lose touch with old friends, and suddenly find themselves without a social circle. Our events are structured so that even if someone attends alone, they’ll be welcomed, introduced to others, and leave feeling connected.”

Beyond friendship and networking, Afrosocial has also taken steps to address deeper issues affecting the Black community—particularly mental health. Recognising the stigma surrounding therapy in African and Afro-Caribbean cultures, AfroSocial has partnered with Black Minds Matter UK, an organisation dedicated to connecting Black individuals with Black therapists.

You can find out more about Black Minds Matter UK by clicking here

“There’s still a reluctance in our community to talk about therapy,” David acknowledges. “By working with Black Minds Matter, we’re normalising these conversations and offering people discreet access to mental health resources. It’s not just about networking—it’s about overall well-being.”

Expansion and the future of AfroSocial

As AfroSocial continues to grow, its impact is extending beyond Manchester. Liverpool was the first city outside Manchester to host AfroSocial events, with over 70 attendees at the most recent gathering. “Liverpool professionals were already travelling to Manchester for our events, so it made sense to expand there,” David says. “But that’s just the beginning. We want to create AfroSocial hubs across the UK, giving Black professionals in every major city a space to connect.”

The digital presence of AfroSocial is another area of focus. Plans are underway to create a video platform showcasing debates, panel discussions, and industry insights, making their events accessible to a wider audience.

Moreover, AfroSocial’s growth is fuelled by its members. The community-driven nature of the organization allows passionate individuals to introduce new initiatives. “One member started a book club, another runs fitness events. It’s becoming a self-sustaining ecosystem where people bring their skills and passions to the table, which is amazing to see.”

A movement, not just an organisation

What makes AfroSocial so impactful is its ability to foster both professional and personal growth within a welcoming community. It’s more than a networking group—it’s a movement addressing the unique challenges Black professionals face while creating spaces where they can thrive.

Whether it’s helping a newcomer settle into Manchester, connecting a creative with industry leaders, or breaking down barriers to mental health support, AfroSocial is proving that when a community comes together, everyone benefits.

With its commitment to inclusion, growth, and well-being, AfroSocial is not just changing the networking landscape in Manchester—it’s setting a new standard for professional communities across the UK.

As the organisation continues to expand, its message remains clear: community comes first, and when people come together, incredible things happen.

You can find out more about Afrosocial and get involved with the community on their Instagram here