it is unbelievable that it's already been a month since Devoxx UK 2024 and it is a good time to reflect on it.
It was my 6th (or 7th?) When I was there helping as a volunteer and as always I had an incredible time, being part of the great team, who delivers the best possible #conference for the global #developer #community.
This year though, I was there in the 2nd role too. As a presenter, for the 1st time at any conference. My previous experience was limited to giving talks at my workplace, or local community events such as London Java Community #jug. These attempts are important for me, as they are a confirmation that public speaking is something I want to do as a professional and that I like to share my knowledge and help others by talking about my experiences. But speaking at Devoxx is a much higher level. It's like you've just learnt how to walk and decided to run a marathon, even if it was only a 15-minute presentation. The worst was the stress before. It was building up in weeks before the conference, with a culmination minutes before my talk. I even had thoughts that maybe I should find some excuse to cancel my presentation 😅.
And here I am, standing in the room, with the flashlight, sharing my thoughts about the topic close to my ❤️. How important is it to actively participate in local communities? Why is it that communities need you, normal folks, who think they have nothing special to contribute?
Was it perfect? No. Did I like the experience? Yes! Even though I still have a long way before I reach the level of my colleagues Simon Maple, Steve Poole and many others who are my inspiration. But they have started from the same level as me, right?
Discover the importance of active participation in local communities and realise the impact of your ideas, support & efforts. Hear Marcin Kruglik's experiences with the London Java Community and get inspired to make a difference in your local community.
View talk @ devoxx.co.uk/talk?id=5717