GENDER ROLES

We've spent decades dismantling gender roles in the workplace, in politics, in public life, largely in pursuit of a more equitable society. But as women claim new freedoms and men navigate shifting expectations, the tricky business of building vulnerable, intimate relationships is arguably trickier than ever. 

What does it mean to be vulnerable when strength is no longer gendered? To pursue or be pursued when neither role is prescribed? To desire equality while still craving mystery, polarity, romance?

In this supper, we’ll be joined at the table by Olivia Petter (award-winning journalist and host of the Independent's Millennial Love podcast for 6 years) and David Chambers (otherwise known as 'The Authentic Man', Male Dating coach with over 15 years' experience) to explore: How have changing gender roles shaped how we approach intimacy today?

Olivia Petter is an award-winning journalist, author and broadcaster based in London. She is a columnist at The Independent and has also written for The Sunday Times, The Guardian, British Vogue, Stylist, and Grazia, among others. She hosted The Independent’s chart-topping Millennial Love podcast (later renamed Love Lives) for six years. In 2023, she was named one of Forbes’ ‘30 under 30’. She wrote her first book, Millennial Love, in 2021, which was followed by her debut novel, Gold Rush, in 2024.

David Chambers, under his brand The Authentic Man, is a male dating coach that empowers men to create the exciting and deeply connected dating lives, sex lives and relationships they long for by developing their true authentic selves and embodying healthy masculinity.

Supper will be lovingly cooked by Nicoletta Loiacono. Nicoletta (or Nicky, as she is known) is an Italian-born chef, trained at prestigious culinary schools in Italy before moving to London in 2016. Having worked everywhere from 5-star hotels to Michelin-starred restaurants and artisan bakeries, she is now the proud owner of a new neighbourhood restaurant called Simplicity. (You might recognise Nicky from Bake Off: The Professionals!).

Menu to be announced soon!