The SAFAR Society Launches in St Andrews

From undergraduate to PhD level, guests gathered at Space Café on South Street, stepping into a setting that felt both familiar and quietly transformed. After hours, the café became a space for something more intentional: a curated evening shaped by ideas, inspiration and meaningful connections.

SAFAR, originally founded in Zurich, has always been rooted in the idea of bridging East and West – not only geographically, but culturally and intellectually. Through The SAFAR Society, that vision takes on a more immediate form, bringing people into the same room to share perspectives and experiences.

An Evening of Connection and Exchange
As guests arrived, the atmosphere was relaxed and open. A simple introductory activity encouraged conversation from the outset, making it easy to step beyond familiar circles. Some found themselves reconnecting with acquaintances in unexpected ways, while others met for the first time – discovering shared interests, overlapping academic paths or common creative pursuits. The evening was designed to feel personal rather than formal. Carefully arranged seating and subtle, thoughtful details created a sense of intention. Editor-in-Chief Marina S. Haq welcomed guests with a short introduction to SAFAR Magazine and the idea behind The SAFAR Society – a space where meaningful exchange can emerge naturally, in an environment that feels both considered and at ease.

A Curated Experience
As the evening progressed, guests settled into a rhythm that felt both relaxed and engaging. The setting encouraged conversation to flow easily across tables, shaped by curiosity and a shared openness to new perspectives. A selection of café-style bites and drinks complemented the atmosphere. There was a sense of presence and participation, where each exchange added to the character of the evening.

From Magazine to Gathering
“Safar,” meaning journey in Arabic and Persian, speaks to exploration – of places, ideas and ways of seeing the world. As a publication, SAFAR moves between culture, travel and fashion, guided by a perspective that is intellectual, inspirational and international. The SAFAR Society extends this approach beyond the page. It is not simply an event, but a way of bringing people together – creating space for encounters that feel meaningful.

We would like to extend our gratitude to Space Café for generously providing the venue and to everyone who joined the evening. With its first gathering, The SAFAR Society offers a glimpse into what these moments can become – a growing community shaped by curiosity, openness and connection.

Interested in joining one of our events?
Please express your interest at: info@safarmagazine.com