“Populus means people, and that’s who it’s for: for all of us.”
“There’s a gap in the market,” tells me founder, Sam Ross, “we’re a group of very motivated students who are committed to reducing the stigma around loneliness, and providing informal spaces for people to come and meet new friends”. Over 500 people have attended their events, a majority of which were hosted in student halls. Afterall, who can resist a Pizza Party or band night? At this point I asked what events they will be hosting in the future: “Informal social events in St Andrew’s… But I’m always open to new ideas!”. When it comes to the Dundee team, Sam is happy to let them implement their own ideas or take inspiration from established ones. Coffee gatherings with free food will always be a hit, as will speed chatting events where you get to meet people you normally wouldn’t cross paths with.
We also had a conversation about the newly appointed Loneliness Minister: “It’s a step in the right direction and it’s good it’s being recognised on a political scale, but it depends on the person in the role,” adding, “being appointed the Minister puts it out there as something we need to speak about a lot more”. A lot of students feel isolated, and St Andrew’s isn’t overly welcoming, with a lot of people saying they’ve never met a lonely student - because of course, the individual will not make themselves available; they will be in their room or walking down the street alone. “These are the perceptions we’re looking to change. We need to emphasise the scale of the problem and that it’s very universal.” Want to get involved? https://www.facebook.com/ populussta/ is where you can!
Mila Georgieva with Sam Ross Illustrated by Iona Sorbie
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From humble beginnings as a small student-led organisation established in June of 2016, Populus have grown in membership, events, and locations - with the latest “mystery location” being announced as Dundee, and many future ones to follow. After gaining charity status in September 2016, they have been able to impact their local community and beyond. But at the heart of it all, Populus is a charity focused on alleviating loneliness and its effects.
Sam speaks from personal experience when she says there isn’t much help for students who feel lonely during semester. She shared a story with me of her first time in halls and how it’s uncommon to walk through your building and say hi to people you pass. Why aren’t we inclined to brighten up someone’s day with a simple “hello”?
COMMUNITY
Populus