I caught up with Arjun Bhugra, founder of Social Threads, a grassroots initiative focused on tackling loneliness and helping people feel seen through meaningful human connection. We spoke about social isolation, the limits of digital connection, and why small moments matter more than we think.
📍 Q: You worked in social work supporting vulnerable communities before starting Social Threads. What moments in that work made you realise loneliness is a deeper problem than we often acknowledge?
That’s when I realised loneliness isn’t just about being alone – it’s about not feeling seen or understood. Through my work, and even just connecting with people, I saw how much small moments of connection can matter.
That’s what pushed me to start Social Threads – creating spaces where people can meet, connect, and build the confidence and awareness to form real relationships.”
📍 Q: In a world that is more digitally connected than ever, why do you think so many people still feel invisible or alone?
Arjun: “I think we’ve lost a lot of real-life interaction. Everything is so easy now – you can order food, work, and talk to people from your phone. But because of that, we’re not interacting face-to-face as much. And those everyday interactions are what build connection.
So even though we’re always ‘connected’ online, a lot of people still feel alone. That’s why it’s important to intentionally step out and be part of real communities again.”
📍 Q: What inspired you to move from supporting individuals one on one to building something community driven?
Arjun: “Through my work in healthcare and domestic violence, I kept seeing the same thing – people feeling isolated and disconnected. One-on-one support is important, but it can only go so far. At some point, people need community.
That’s what made me start Social Threads. I wanted to create something simple and grassroots where people could come together and connect.
And it’s not just about meeting people. It’s about helping people build the confidence and understanding to connect better, not just in our events but in everyday life.
Because once people have that, the impact goes beyond one interaction.”
📍 Q: One message for the world
Arjun: “I think we put a lot of pressure on ourselves to do something big to make a difference. But even making someone’s day a little easier – even one percent better – matters. That’s how real change happens, in small and consistent ways.”
✨ Key Takeaway:
Arjun reminds us that connection does not need to be complex or large scale. In a world chasing visibility and impact, sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is simply show up and make one person feel a little less alone.
