Why a Leeds Web3 Meetup Meant More Than Expected

There’s something quietly powerful about stepping out of your comfort "the norm" and into a room full of people who share the same passion. In the world of Web3 and crypto where so much of our daily interaction happens through avatars, usernames, and profile pictures those moments are rare. That’s exactly why a recent meetup in Leeds felt so refreshing, so human, and honestly… so memorable.

When people hear “crypto meetup,” they often imagine a formal conference sitting in rows of chairs, someone on stage speaking for hours, maybe even subtle pressure to invest or buy into something. This couldn’t have been further from that.

There were no long speeches. No sales pitches. No pressure.

Instead, it was simple, people coming together, sharing a common interest in crypto and Web3, enjoying some food and drinks, and just… talking. Add in a bit of darts and shuffleboard (which, for the record, feels like curling without the brushes and yes, I was terrible at it), and you’ve got the perfect setting for genuine connection.

What stood out most was how natural everything felt. Conversations flowed easily. If you weren’t talking about crypto, you were talking about life. That balance created an atmosphere that felt less like an “event” and more like a community gathering.

Let’s be honest most of us in Web3 spend a huge amount of time interacting with profile pictures. You build connections, share ideas, even collaborate professionally, all without ever meeting in person.

But meeting face-to-face? That’s different.

There’s a depth, an authenticity, and an energy that simply can’t be replicated online. Being in the same room as people who share your interests adds a layer of trust and connection that’s hard to describe but instantly recognizable when you feel it.

That’s what made this meetup SPECIAL.

One of the most impressive aspects of the evening was the diversity of the people there. Different backgrounds, different ages, different levels of experience in crypto from beginners to seasoned professionals, we even had people that traveled all the way from Manchester to meet us.

That dynamic where everyone brought something unique to the table. Whether it was technical knowledge, industry insight, or just curiosity and enthusiasm, the variety made conversations richer and more engaging.

It’s a reminder that Web3 isn’t just for one type of person it’s for anyone willing to learn, explore, and participate and step out of the normal to experience "different"..

Here’s something people don’t often admit especially me going to a meetup alone can be nerve wracking.

Even for someone who’s comfortable talking, there’s that moment beforehand where doubt creeps in. I started thinking:

What if no one shows up?

What if I don’t know what to say?

What if I’m just sitting there by myself?

At one point, it honestly felt a bit like going on a first date except with 30 people you’ve never met I thought to myself what if I get stood up. ( I knew it wasn't going to play out like that but the thought was definitely there)

But here’s the truth those nerves fade quickly once you’re there, once conversations start, you realize everyone is in the same boat, You'll find out more often than not, people are welcoming, open, and just as interested in connecting as you are.

Looking back, going alone wasn’t a barrier it was part of what made the experience more rewarding.

If this casual meetup was about connection and community, the next event brings a slightly different dynamic without losing that same spirit.

On April 17th, there’s a meetup taking place at Leeds University Union from 5pm to 9pm. This one will include speakers and more structured talks, offering insights from people actively working in the space.

But importantly, it’s not just about sitting and listening. There will still be plenty of time to network, meet people, and build those real-world connections that make these events so valuable.

Behind these meetups, ColuxChain 26 Despite the name, it’s not a blockchain

This company is dedicated and aiming to establish Leeds as a major hub for Web3 in the UK.

For a long time, much of the UK’s crypto and blockchain activity has been centered in London. While that has its advantages, it also creates barriers distance, cost, and accessibility for many people across the country.

What ColuxChain is doing changes that.

By building a conference in Leeds, they’re creating a more central, accessible location. With strong transport links like Manchester Airport and Leeds Bradford Airport and Brilliant train and Motorway routes straight to the event it opens the door not just for people across the UK, but internationally as well.

It’s a step toward decentralizing not just technology but opportunity.

The initiative is driven by a local startup with deep roots in Web3 recruitment. Their experience gives them access to a global network of talent and industry insight, which is already reflected in their partnerships.

They’re working with organizations like:

Solana Superteam UK a community focused on developing and supporting top talent within the Solana ecosystem.

Stand With Crypto UK an organization advocating for a positive business and policy environment for crypto in the UK.

By combining global industry connections with local ties to universities and interest groups, they’re doing something meaningful: putting Yorkshire on the blockchain map.

This isn’t just about meetups or Conferences, It’s about building a community.

It’s about creating spaces where people can learn, connect, and grow regardless of their background or experience level.

It’s about making Web3 feel less like an abstract digital concept and more like a real, tangible network of people.

Would I go again?

Absolutely.

In fact, I’m already looking forward to the next one.

If you’re in the UK especially around Leeds and you’ve ever thought about attending a crypto meetup, take this as your sign. They’re free, welcoming, and genuinely worth your time.

You might walk in feeling unsure just like I did, but chances are, you’ll walk out feeling charged and connected.

in a space built on decentralization, that kind of human connection might just be the most valuable thing of all.

Event Details

*📍 Location: Leeds University Union

* 📅 Date: 17th April

* ⏰ Time: 5pm – 9pm

* 📧 Contact: [kenton@coluxchain.com]

https://luma.com/ckmuf42x for tickets

(mailto:kenton@coluxchain.com)

* 📞 Phone: 0113 868 8369

If you go, don’t overthink it. Just show up for this conference there is a charge, but I'm sure the month after they will be back with more free to attend meetup.

Give them a follow on their social for details on future meetups if you're recruiting in Web 3 or looking for your next job Adventure in the space.

Written by John Balding