EuroPython thrives thanks to dedicated volunteers who invest hundreds of hours into each conference. From speaker coordination and fundraising to workshop preparation, their commitment ensures every year surpasses the last.
Below is our latest interview with Doreen Peace Nangira Wanyama. Doreen wore many hats at EuroPython 2025, including being the lead organizer of the Django Girls workshop during the Beginners’ Day, helping in the Financial Aid Team, as well as volunteering on-site.
Thank you for contributing to the conference, Doreen!
EP: What first inspired you to volunteer for EuroPython?
What inspired me was the diversity and inclusivity aspect in the EuroPython community. I had been following the EuroPython community since 2024 and what stood out for me was how inclusive it was. This was open not only to people from the EU but worldwide. I saw people from Africa getting the stage to speak and even the opportunity grants were there for everyone. I told myself wow! I should be part of this community. All I can say I will still choose EuroPython over and over.
EP: What was your primary role as a volunteer, and what did a typical day look like for you?
I had the opportunity to play two main roles. I was the Django Girls organizer and also part of the Financial Aid organizing team. In the Django Girls, I was in charge of putting out the call for coaches and Django Girls mentees. I ensured proper logistics were in place for all attendees and also worked with the communications team to ensure enough social media posts were made about the event. I also worked with coaches to set up the PCs for mentees for the workshop i.e. Django installation.In the Financial Aid Team, I worked with fellow team mates by putting out the call for finaid grants, reviewing applications and sending out acknowledgement emails. We prepared visa letters to accepted grant recipients to help with their visa application. We issued the conference tickets to both accepted online and onsite attendees. After the conference we did reimbursements for each grant recipient and followed up with emails to ensure everyone had been reimbursed.
EP: Did you make any lasting friendships or professional connections through contributing to the conference?
Yes. Contributing to this conference earned me new friends and professional connections. I got to meet and talk to people I would have hardly met out there. First of all, when I attended the conference I thought I would be the only database administrator there, well the EuroPython had a surprise for me. I met a fellow DBA from Germany and we would not stop talking about the importance of Python in our field. I got the opportunity of meeting the DSF president Thibaud Colas for the first time, someone who is down to earth and one who loves giving back to the community.I also got to meet Daria Linhart, a loving soul. Someone who is always ready to help. I remember getting stuck in Czech when I was looking for my accommodation. Daria used her Czech language skills to speak with my host and voila!
EP: How has volunteering at EuroPython impacted your own career or learning journey?
Volunteering at EuroPython made me realize that people can make you go far. Doing it all alone is possible but doing it as a team makes a big difference. Working with different people during this conference and attending talks made me realize the different areas I need to improve on.
EP: What's your favorite memory from contributing at EuroPython?
My favourite memory is the daily social events after the conference. Wow! EuroPython made me explore the Czech Republic to the fullest. From the speakers' dinner on the first day to the Django birthday cake we cut, I really had great moments. I also can’t forget the variety of food we were offered. I enjoyed the whole cuisine and can’t wait to experience this again in the next EuroPython.
EP: If you were to invite someone else, what do you think are the top 3 reasons to join the EuroPython organizing team?
A. Freedom of expression — EuroPython is a free and open space. Everyone is allowed to express their views without bias.
B. Learning opportunities — Whether you are a first timer or a seasoned conference organizer, there is always something to learn here. You will learn new ways of doing things.
C. Loving and welcoming community — Want a place that feels like home, EuroPython community is the place.
EP: Thank you, Doreen!