From Code to Community: Why developers call DevFest home

Ricardo Costeira, a software engineer from Coimbra, Portugal, shares his transformative experience at DevFest, the largest developer community-led event hosted by Google Developer Groups. Initially seeking to connect with like-minded individuals, Ricardo discovered DevFest through social media and attended his first event in 2018, where he was captivated by the welcoming atmosphere and the sense of belonging it instilled in him. This experience sparked a personal transformation, leading him to become a GDG Lead and actively participate in organizing future events. Ricardo highlights the value of community at DevFest, emphasizing the connections made with industry leaders and companies, as well as the opportunities for professional growth. As he looks forward to DevFest 2019, he aims to inspire new attendees and foster the same sense of awe and community he experienced, encouraging them to engage with others and find their place within this inclusive environment.