The first time I got to meet and hang with people into blogging, design, development and accessibility it was all brought together by WordPress volunteers.
It struck with me how charming and friendly the organisers and volunteers were and I remember thinking that’s typical WordPress.
WordCamp Dublin 2017 soon popped up and I met the familiar faces of who had by then become exclusive members of ‘people I follow on Twitter’. At the beginning of day two, there was a call made for volunteers and organisers for WordCamp Belfast 2018. I went to the lunchtime meeting added my name to the list of those interested in helping out.
Admittedly I was super nervous to begin with. I hadn’t worked in this context before. What could I offer? What if I screw up? How does one make a WordCamp?
I got an email asking us about any areas we specialise in or any areas we would like to help out with and I was then invited to our first organisers call. I was still super nervous, still feeling out of my depth, but after a few hours chatting with the rest of the team I felt so much better. The rest of the team are super experienced and experts in their own field, but they made sure I felt my contributions were worthwhile and needed. I felt encouraged not pressured even when I felt a little timid. I was one of the team.
Earlier this year I had to take time off from work due to a family bereavement. The rest of the team were really supportive and picked up all the bits I was taking care of. I have only recently jumped back in the fold. I had sorely missed the team, I now felt I really belonged to.
I am delighted I had offered to be part of the organising team of not only a WordCamp but one in Belfast, this city is class. The people are great and that has only been continuously reinforced by working with folks behind WP Belfast Meetup and WordCamp Belfast. I have learnt a ton on logistics, catering, health and safety! Inspiring I know! But not just that, I have also had the privilege of getting to know the speakers and their work, crafting a welcoming experience for people arriving in this wonderful city and getting to be creative with designing t-shirts, writing for the blog and thinking up dog puns… don’t ask… or do!
Next time I do this I reckon I will do tens times a better job knowing what it takes and having been part of a team that is inclusive and focused on delivering a great learning and sharing event while also being supportive. I definitely recommend getting involved with your local Meetup or WordCamp. You for sure, have a lot to offer. I can’t guarantee your team will be as cool as mine but knowing the WordPress community it’s more than likely. And who knows? We might be on the same team and I’m proper class! 😉
Neil Hainsworth
neilorangepeel.com