'Made For Real Moments’ event revives the art of conversation in Kampala
The occasion was the Gilbey’s Gin “Made For Real Moments” event, a campaign aimed at reviving the culture of genuine social interaction.
It almost turned into a comedy show because of the hilarious stories revellers came up with. Photo by Ignatius Kamya
As the evening wore on Friday, guests at Old Tymerz bar in Ntinda, Kampala, were transported back to simpler times, an era defined by meaningful, uninterrupted conversations.
The occasion was the Gilbey’s Gin “Made For Real Moments” event, a campaign aimed at reviving the culture of genuine social interaction.
Unlike today’s typical bar scene, where patrons are often glued to their smartphones, this gathering encouraged guests to put their devices aside and engage fully with one another.
“Go out and talk to each other” is the campaign’s message. It is an attempt to revive a dying culture: the art of conversation. Becoming a good conversationalist takes skill, and with the advent of social media, such skills are at risk.
In the past, bars were hubs of lively discussion about women, sports, and who had secured the latest vinyl record. That spirit was rekindled as guests reminisced about how they consumed music in earlier decades. In the 1980s, owning a newly released album could elevate one’s social status among peers.
“I am a music collector, and I still keep my vinyl at home,” shared patron Adams Jogoo. “Even today, I enjoy playing it just like we did in the good old times. Those were the days.”
That moment when the moderator puts you on sport about a particular conversation you had with him off the microphone. Photo by Ignatius Kamya
Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed an assortment of drinks and cocktails while host Ronnie McVex steered conversations toward current topical issues. Discussions ranged from the murder trial of Christopher Onyum to Arsenal FC’s struggles in the English Premier League title race, as well as rising fuel prices, geopolitical tensions involving Israel, the United States and Iran, and trending social debates.
The atmosphere was filled with humor, banter, and a sense of connection echoing the charm of past social experiences.
The “Made For Real Moments” campaign is set to continue weekly across different bars in Kampala, inviting more people to rediscover the joy of authentic, distraction-free interaction.