Behind every inspiring talk, networking session, and workshop at EuroPython lies countless hours of dedication from our amazing volunteers. From organizing logistics and securing speakers to welcoming attendees, these passionate community members make our conference possible year after year. Without their selfless commitment and hard work, EuroPython simply wouldn't exist.
Here’s our recent conversation with Naa Ashiorkor Nortey, who led the EuroPython 2025 Speaker Mentorship Team, contributed to the Programme Team and mentored at the Humble Data workshop.
We appreciate your work on the conference, Naa!
EP: Had you attended EuroPython before volunteering, or was volunteering your first experience with it?
My first experience volunteering at EuroPython was in 2023. I volunteered at the registration desk and as a session chair, and I’m still here volunteering.
EP: What's one task you handled that attendees might not realize happens behind the scenes at EuroPython?
I can’t think of a specific task, but I would say that some attendees might not realise the number of hours volunteers put in for EuroPython. Usually, a form might be filled out with the number of hours a volunteer can dedicate in a week, but in reality the number of hours invested might be way more than that. There are volunteers in different time zones with different personal lives, so imagine making all that work.
EP: Was there a moment when you felt your contribution really made a difference?
Generally, showing up at the venue after months of planning, it just hit me how much difference my contribution makes. Specifically at EuroPython 2025, where I had the opportunity to lead the Speaker Mentorship Team. I interviewed one of the mentees during the conference. She mentioned that it was her first time speaking and highlighted how the speaker mentorship programme and her mentor greatly impacted her. At that moment, I felt my contribution really made a difference.
EP: What surprised you most about the volunteer experience?
The dedication and commitment of some of the volunteers were so inspiring.
EP: If you could describe the volunteer experience in three words, what would they be?
Fun learning experience.
EP: Do you have any tips for first-time EuroPython volunteers?
Don’t be afraid to volunteer, even if it involves leading one of the teams or contributing to a team you have no experience with. You can learn the skills needed in the team while volunteering. Everyone is supportive and ready to help. Communicate as much as you can and enjoy the experience.
EP: Thank you for the interview, Naa!