More Than Desire: Men, Intimacy & Connection - Panel Discussion

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Please arrive on time. Unfortunately, we won’t be able to open the door after the event begins. This helps ensure everyone receives the introduction and is informed of the group agreements.

OPEN TO ALL GENDERS.

Autumn is here, and we’re looking forward to gathering again, around meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and genuine connection.

This time, we come together to explore masculinity, intimacy, desire, and emotional connection. Are men really less interested in emotional connection? Are they less likely to become attached through physical intimacy? And how much of what we believe about men and women is shaped by cultural expectations rather than our actual experiences?

We’re often told that women seek affection and emotional connection, while men are more comfortable separating physical intimacy from feelings. But research, and lived experience, paints a much more complex picture.

In this panel, we’ll look beyond these familiar stereotypes and explore how dominant ideas of masculinity influence the ways men approach desire, affection, vulnerability, and connection. What happens when we challenge these expectations? And can we create more space for men to experience and express intimacy in different ways?

Masculinity scholar Cecilie Mueenuddin will lead the conversation, joined by sexologist Anders Abraham Røynebergand Zoran Dovedan, an active member of our community, bringing both professional perspectives and lived experience to the discussion.

There will also be space for questions, reflections, and contributions from the audience. You’re welcome to simply listen or bring your own experiences into the conversation.

Host

Cecilie is an anthropologist, feminist, and masculinity scholar with a PhD from the University of Oxford and a Master’s in Gender Studies from SOAS. Her work explores masculinity, gender, relationships, and social expectations across cultures. She believes that understanding men’s lives and experiences is an essential part of creating a more gender-equal society.

Guests

Anders Abraham Røyneberg is passionate about men’s sexual health and works as a sexologist and therapist in his private practice. He has a background as a psychiatric nurse and further education in sexology and trauma therapy (EMDR). He is also trained in psychedelic therapy and, in addition, has a background as an agronomist and a strong interest in plant medicine. He also writes books and teaches about plants, gardening, and cultivation.

Zoran Dovedan is a curious human, bookworm, and geek with a deep appreciation for meaningful connection and community. Through several years within Oslo’s sex-positive communities, he has explored alternative relationships, sexuality, gender fluidity, kink, and the norms that shape how we relate to ourselves and one another. For him, curiosity, openness, and authentic connection are at the heart of it all.

Please note that tickets are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled by us.

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