How Phoenix’s ‘thyrd space’ is making room for real connection

PHOENIX, Arizona — A pair of Phoenix creatives is quietly rewriting the script on what it means to belong in the Valley.

Friends Laila Kabongi and Chris Joseph, both Arizona State University graduates, moved through the familiar rhythm of work and home after graduation years ago, but still felt something missing: real, face-to-face connection with their peers, neighbors, and community. The isolation of the pandemic turned that feeling into a deeper question about how young adults find each other again.

RELATED: Owner of Lit Twis’t reflects on a year of her mobile book store

Out of that question came thyrd space: a Phoenix-based collective inspired by the idea of a “third space,” not home and not work, but a welcoming in-between where you can exhale, show up as yourself, and feel seen. Their vision is simple and hopeful: create intentional spaces that make it easier for young adults to get to know one another and grow in a positive, impactful way.

Their gatherings, also known as “salons,” are a nod to living room gatherings and historic circles where artists and thinkers shared ideas and art. At thyrd space, that looks like Love Island talk-backs, cozy book swaps, album listening parties, and conversations that use pop culture as the doorway into deeper topics like dating, therapy, vulnerability, and the “intimacy epidemic.”

When asked about some of their events, Laila described their Love Island-themed salon by saying:

“We used that as a case study to talk about what’s happening in our modern dating relationships.”

She goes on to describe how using a show “as polarizing and ridiculous” as Love Island leaves an entry point for discussion and connection.

“How do we pull from that and use very real tools to enrich the way that we communicate with each other? Because we understand that things just kind of feel a little heavy right now,” said Laila.

Chris says their events feel like a mix between a TED Talk and a happy hour: smart, social, and warm.

“It’s kind of that transitional space where you feel comfortable and good fellowship with people, and it’s a place for you to continue building community with those folks,” he said.

As word spreads, thyrd space is helping reshape Phoenix’s social culture, especially for young adults who want depth without the pressure. Laila and Chris hope their work reminds people that a more connected city is not some far-off dream; it starts with knowing your neighbor’s name, showing up, and choosing to gather a little slower.

In the heart of Phoenix, thyrd space is planting something new. They’re building a rhythm of community where conversations linger, friendships take root, and the future feels a little more connected.

To learn more about upcoming salons and how to get involved, visit their Instagram.

You can now watch 12News content anytime, anywhere, thanks to the 12News+ app! 

The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like “Today in AZ” and “12 News” and our daily lifestyle program, “Arizona Midday”—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV. 

12News+  showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona. 

Users can also watch on-demand videos of top stories, local politics, I-Team investigations, Arizona-specific features and vintage videos from the 12News archives. 

Roku: Add the channel from the Roku store or by searching for “12 News KPNX.” 

Amazon Fire TV: Search for “12 News KPNX” to find the free 12News+ app to add to your account, or have the 12News+ app delivered directly to your Amazon Fire TV through Amazon.com or the Amazon app. 

Explore amAZing people, places and things across our state on our 12News YouTube playlist here.