If you are doing something you love, your passion will often lead you to meet the people you really need or want to meet. People will feel your passion and “connect” you to anyone else they know who shares your joy or aliveness.
I like networking events where an activity happens like a dance lesson or a drum class. Something that breaks the ice and lets you have fun and “drop the mask” with people. Personally, I find parties to be the best place to meet people because if i’m having a good time I will go and talk to anyone. Stick me in a business networking event and I’ll be all shy and self-deprecating