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We want to establish Leeds Tea Society because we have experienced first-hand how something as simple as a cup of tea can bring people together, bridge cultural differences and create meaningful friendships.

Our idea grew out of our own experience of meeting through the Persian Society’s Chai and Chill event. Despite coming from different cultural backgrounds, we connected over tea, sharing our experiences, discussing different traditions and discovering how much we had in common. What began as a simple conversation over different teas, from Iranian chai and Indian masala chai to English Earl Grey, developed into a genuine friendship. This experience inspired us to create our own group and turn an idea we were passionate about into a society that could bring the same opportunities for connection to other students.

We want to recreate that welcoming atmosphere for the wider Leeds student community: a place where students can meet people outside their usual circles, discover different cultures, share stories and form friendships naturally. University can sometimes feel overwhelming, and making new friends is not always easy. We hope to make that first step less daunting by providing relaxed, inclusive and affordable opportunities for students to come together, whether they arrive with friends or attend on their own.

Through tea tastings, cultural socials, matcha and chai sessions, and informal gatherings where students can unwind, catch up and, of course, spill the tea, we want to create a community that combines fun with meaningful connection. We also hope to collaborate with other societies, celebrating the diversity of Leeds and the many traditions that make tea special around the world.

Our motivation goes beyond a shared interest in tea. We want to build something that gives students a sense of belonging, encourages cultural exchange and makes university life more sociable and memorable. The friendship that inspired this idea showed us what is possible when people are given a simple reason to sit together and talk. We now want to create that opportunity for others and establish a lasting society where conversations spark friendships, cultures are celebrated and everyone feels welcome.