We’re a couple of weeks removed now from WordCamp Canada 2025, and I finally have had the chance to sit down, and reflect on what a whirlwind of an experience this year was.
For some background, I had initially stepped up as the lead organizer for WordCamp Canada 2025, but chose to step back after a few months for personal reasons. Luckily, James Giroux, along with Dan Knauss, Troy Chaplin, Mary Baum, and Rick Radko, were able to take the reigns and run with it. I came back into the picture as an organizer in July 2025, acting as Volunteer Coordinator. This is a role I excel in, having had done it on the flagship WordCamp US level in 2022 and 2023. Cathy Mitchell joined at the same time as me, taking on Attendee Experience.
However, the 7 of us didn’t just “stick to our lanes”. We acted as a team, collaborating and discussing major decisions, while letting each subteam’s lead take ownership needed. As someone who lives for collaboration (ask any of my present or previous work colleagues), this made the stress worth it. What also made the stress worth it? The camp itself.
I didn’t really get to many sessions, as I was running around the floor, checking on volunteers and speakers, as well as chatting with other attendees and sponsors. However, I do have a few personal highlights:
- Being trusted to give the opening remarks both on Contributor Day, as well as the first day of sessions.
- Meeting two of my colleagues (Chris and Mike) in person for the first time
- Introducing Jill Binder’s keynote session
- Carting the big WCEH paper letters through the Lansdowne parking lot, Whole Foods, and into Craft Beer Market for the after-party
Jill’s keynote had a personal connection for me. You see, I was a former lead contributor to the #WPDiversity project from 2017-2020. The importance of getting more folks from under-represented communities involved is SO important. And selfishly, because of my previous work in that project, it in turn had lead to my previous and current job positions.
But back to the camp. Everyone I saw, everyone I chatted with, was just really enjoying things. It felt like WordCamps of old, back when I first got involved. Here, I want to give a shout out to my volunteers. Each and every person was communicative, friendly, open – and it showed. I wasn’t lying when I said volunteers are what makes WordCamps successful. It was certainly the case for us this year.
After we wrapped up the after-party, I immediately went on vacation. Highly recommend this if you are an organizer. It’s a great way to decompress and reflect on having contributed to an amazing experience.
What’s next? I’m not sure. I do know that this WordCamp reiterated why I love the WordPress community, despite tangental drama that I’m not going to spend energy on. I do know that I will be doing everything in my power to attend future WordCamp Canadas, and individual Canadian WordCamps. Not only to learn and contribute, but to travel and see friends.
Because, in a way, isn’t that the essence of the WordPress community? Not just the technology, but the people. And that resonates with me. Greatly.