In a time when most social interactions are reduced to quick texts and carefully curated online moments, something refreshingly different unfolded in Ntinda last Friday.
At Old Tymerz, the “Made for Real Moments” campaign came to life with the debut of Gilbey’s Hangouts, a new in-bar experience designed to put genuine human connection back at the center of nightlife.
From the moment guests stepped in, the atmosphere felt intentional. This was not just another night out, but a carefully curated space where conversations could breathe and moments could unfold naturally.
The evening opened with crafted Gilbey’s cocktails, served in two distinct flavour profiles, a sweet orange-infused blend and a refreshing lime-based option. The drinks quickly became more than refreshments. They set the tone, easing guests into relaxed, unhurried interactions as groups settled in across the venue.
There was no rush, no pressure to perform, just an environment that encouraged people to be present.
Guiding the flow of the evening was media personality Ronnie Mcvex, whose engaging style helped break the ice and draw people into conversation. Through interactive moments with the audience, guests were encouraged to share their thoughts and experiences openly.
What followed was a shift from casual chatter to deeper, more meaningful dialogue.
Conversations naturally evolved to touch on themes many young adults navigate today, relationships, financial realities, personal growth and the complexities of modern life. In one moment that captured the spirit of the evening, a guest shared that while financial stability matters in relationships, true connection and understanding remain just as important.
The soundtrack of the night added another layer to the experience. Old-school hits from the 80s, 90s and early 2000s filled the space, creating a sense of nostalgia that resonated with the largely millennial crowd and brought a comforting familiarity to the atmosphere.
Speaking after the launch, Gilbey’s Brand Manager Raymond Karama explained that the idea behind the Hangouts is simple but powerful, creating spaces where people can step away from the noise of everyday life and connect without pretense.
The result was clear to see. Conversations lasted longer, laughter came easier and the energy in the room felt genuine.
As the night stretched on, it became evident that this was more than just an event. It was a shift in how people experience social spaces, moving away from surface-level interactions toward something more real.
With Gilbey’s Hangouts set to roll out across different locations every Friday, what started at Old Tymerz could signal a new rhythm for Kampala’s social scene, one where the best nights are defined not just by where you go, but by the moments you create and the connections you build.