Coding Meetup in Osaka (all Japanese)
In April, I had the opportunity to attend my second in-person coding meetup, and it turned out to be an experience unlike my first. While my initial meetup was filled with fellow foreigners, this time, I found myself the only non-Japanese participant. The shift in dynamics was fascinating, and it offered me a unique glimpse into the local coding community.
Hosted by Xserver: A Familiar High-Rise Setting
The meetup took place at Xserver’s Osaka office, much like the previous event at Cybozu. Nestled in a high-rise building, it provided a similar atmosphere of modernity and inspiration, showcasing the bustling tech scene in the heart of Osaka.
A Different Focus: WordPress Workshop
One major difference this time was the tech stack we worked with. Instead of exploring new technologies like Astro and Hygraph, we focused on WordPress, a familiar but constantly evolving platform. The workshop was hands-on and practical, allowing us to dive deep into WordPress’s capabilities and its various plugins and themes.
Breaking the Ice: Introductions and Language Barriers
A notable part of the meetup was the introduction session. As the only non-Japanese attendee, I was a bit nervous about introducing myself in Japanese. I wondered if the other participants expected me to know the language or if they were concerned about communicating with me. Despite my initial anxiety, the introductions went smoothly, and I managed to convey my thoughts in Japanese, much to my relief. It was a small but significant personal victory.
Networking and Community: Building Connections
Just like my first meetup, this event was a great opportunity to meet new people and make valuable connections. The local developers were welcoming and eager to share their knowledge. Conversations flowed easily once the initial language barrier was crossed, and I learned a lot about the local tech industry and their experiences with WordPress and various other endeavors.
Reflecting on the Experience
Attending this meetup reinforced the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone. Whether it’s navigating a different language or adapting to a new tech environment, these experiences are invaluable for personal and professional growth. The diversity in backgrounds and perspectives at these meetups is what makes them so enriching.
Conclusion: Keep Exploring and Connecting
If you’re considering attending a coding meetup, I highly recommend it. Each event brings new challenges and learning opportunities, and the connections you make are invaluable. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the community, learn from others, and share your own experiences.
Checkout the video recap of this meetup on my YouTube channel here.
Until next time, let’s keep coding and growing!
GO HARD IN THE CODE
Zach (WebDevJapan)
