I remember my first professional gatherings. I wore a suit and carried a bunch of resumes. I felt awkward and out of place.
Courtesy of Female Tech Leaders
Now networking events have become almost a hobby. I smile, extend my hand and introduce myself. I ask questions - smart or not - and volunteer to get up stage if requested. I exchange contact details, congratulate the organizers, then go home, my head buzzing with ideas.
However, even when mastering the social conventions, the technical concepts and the local language, it still happens to stand out, because of the way one looks, dresses or talks. I usually don't mind, because the reason I attend is to learn and exchange. But I admit that the gatherings that I enjoyed the most were those with a diverse audience.
The O'Reilly Software Architecture Conference brings together world experts in the field of software. Many guests belong to companies who not only set up the foundations of modern software practices, but also deeply care about their social impact. By making their knowledge accessible to every class of society all around the world, they are breaking down the barriers which separate minorities from success.
By attending this conference, I wish to not only honor their efforts, but also help promote these values which are so dear to me, hoping that one day I will be able to give in return.