Why Anna, 31, Believes in Building Meaningful Connections After 5
“When you’ve rebuilt your life more than once, friendship stops being optional — it becomes essential.”
Why I Want to Be an After5 Connection Curator
I want to become an After5 Connection Curator because this community reflects something I truly believe in: women supporting women through genuine connection. After5 has already brought warmth, laughter, and meaningful friendships into my life — and now, I want to give that feeling back.
I know what it’s like to start over. I’ve changed countries three times, rebuilt my social circle from scratch more than once, and learned that belonging doesn’t happen automatically — it’s created. After5 doesn’t just organize events; it creates space for women to find their people. Being an ambassador feels like a natural next step for me: helping other women feel seen, welcomed, and at home.
Meet Anna
Hi! I’m Anna, 31 years old, originally from Russia and currently living in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. I work in tech as a QA engineer, and alongside that, I’m building my personal blog as a creative outlet — a space where I reflect, write, and express myself beyond my professional life.
Living in different countries taught me how powerful meaningful connections are. When everything around you changes, people become your anchor. That understanding shaped how I choose friendships — and why communities like After5 matter so much to me.
“Home isn’t always a place. Sometimes, it’s a group of women who get you.”
Friendship, the After5 Way
One of the most beautiful surprises of After5 has been how effortless the connections feel.
Recently, my After5 friends and I spent evenings exploring Amsterdam together — from cozy local spots to fancy restaurants, and even a spontaneous wine-bar “marathon.” This autumn, we went to an incredible wine festival, squeezed into a photo booth, and laughed until our cheeks hurt.
Those moments weren’t about doing something extraordinary. They were about feeling comfortable, joyful, and completely yourself — exactly what I hoped to find when I joined After5.

Two Friendships, Two Different Magic Stories
Through After5, I’ve formed two very special friendships, each meaningful in its own way.
With one friend, our bond grew through deep conversations and the realization that our life experiences — though lived in different countries — mirrored each other in surprising ways.
With the other, everything is lighter and louder. We laugh, tease each other, and share the same sense of humor. It’s playful, easy, and full of joy.
“Friendship doesn’t have to look one way to be real.”
Both connections remind me that there’s no single formula for closeness — and that’s what makes it beautiful.
Looking Ahead: Growth, Confidence, and Connection
In 2026, my focus is becoming a more confident version of myself — both personally and professionally. I’m working toward growth in my tech career, staying consistent with my blog, and nurturing the friendships that make me feel supported and inspired.
Because success feels different when you’re not doing it alone.
See You After 5
After5 represents exactly the kind of community I believe in — one built on openness, friendship, and shared experiences. Becoming an ambassador isn’t about a title for me; it’s about helping create spaces where women feel they belong.
So, maybe I’ll see you at the next After5 event. 😉