Contribute, do not only consume

You become part of a community when you give something to it. Answer a beginner's question, share notes, help set up an event, write a short post about what you learned, welcome new members, volunteer at a society stall. Contributors get known, trusted and invited to things; people who only take often stay invisible.

You do not need to be an expert: being one step ahead of someone is enough to help them. Volunteering in your wider community, such as teaching children, helping at a clinic or at a welfare organisation, builds connection and meaning too.