Dating is never as simple as it seems, and for queer people, it can often be even more complex. It introduces a new set of challenges, and finding the right path through them can be a daunting journey.

To celebrate Hinge’s Not-so Frequently Asked Questions resource, a collection of the questions and answers queer daters need answered most, we partnered with the dating app to put together a night of panels and, of course, a party. Taking place in Shoreditch Studios, almost 300 people came down to enjoy the event and gather insight from some of London’s most exciting and prominent voices. Over the course of three different conversations, the panellists unpacked a plethora of topics relating queer dating and gave audiences the ultimate crash course on the subject. 

Here’s everything that went down on Thursday night. 

THE PANEL DISCUSSIONS ANSWERED ALL YOUR BURNING DATING QUESTIONS 

The first, ‘Navigating Spaces’, was hosted by the writer Amelia Abraham, and the panel featured the likes of Nadine Noor, the founder of Pxssy Palace, Tanya Compas, a youth worker and the driving force behind Exist Loudly, and K Bailey Obazee, the trailblazing founder of PRIM. Together they unpacked the intricate art of finding one’s place in queer environments. It questioned the concept of “queer enough”, explored the essence of safe spaces, and the art of discovering and forging a sense of community. Discussing alienation within queer communities, the panels gave top tips on how to make people feel welcome within spaces including inviting people into groups when they feel alone and looking out for one another. They also spoke about how queer spaces can allow room for the community to build with other like-minded individuals. 

SHON FAYE WAS JOINED BY KAI-ISAIAH JAMAL, TATUM SWITHENBACK AND CHLOE LAWS

The second NFAQ Live panel, entitled ‘Myth-Busting, Journeys of Explorations’, was hosted by writer Shon Faye. She was joined by poet, activist, and model Kai Isaiah Jamal, presenter Tatum Swithenbank, and journalist Chloe Laws. Together, they explored the many nuanced paths of sexuality and our constantly evolving identities. They offered insights into finding like-minded individuals and supporting authentic journeys of self-discovery. The panelists also identified confidence as a key component for good dates. Despite it being a struggle for most people, finding inner-confidence can help with making moves on dating apps. Conversations also shifted towards how to navigate interacting with other people and exploring different aspects of oneself when dating.

THE LAST PANEL DELVED INTO ANON NFAQ QUESTIONS

The grand finale of NFAQ Live took a deep dive into the ‘Not-So-Frequently Asked Questions’ from the Dazed audience. Hosted by writer Jason Okundaye, this session welcomed actor Bel Priestley and the multifaceted artist and writer Travis Alabanza. Together, they delved into questions submitted anonymously via audience surveys such as “What does connection look like to you?” and “What is important for a second date?”. Together, the panellists unpacked their best advice including acknowledging that connection cannot be forced and understanding that things look different on a case-by-case basis. The trio also spoke about the act of coming out, explaining how it looks different for each person and is not something you owe anyone.

FOOD AND DRINKS WERE FLOWING ALL NIGHT 

In between conversations, east London culinary duo Hungry Dykes transported guests to the streets of Mexico City. With a menu filled with authentic Mexican fried quesadillas, street corn esquites and croquetas con queso, there was plenty for guests to enjoy. A free bar with everything from Picantes and tropical cocktails to Champagne, beer provided by Heineken Silver and an array of soft drinks were also available.

PXSSY PALACE CURATED A DJ LIST FOR THE AFTERPARTY 

To end the night, panellist Nadine Moor called upon DJs within the Pxssy Palace community, including Tristan Tyom and Keanu, to bring in the party and close the evening with a bang – she even did a set herself!

Look through the images gallery above to revisit the night. To learn more about Hinge’s NFAQ and explore answers to the topics LGBTQIA+ daters struggle to find answers to, visit the platform here.