When I started attending WordPress meetups in Manila, I took my first steps into a vibrant, supportive community. Imagine this: a shy province girl traveling four hours to the city just to join these gatherings. The journey felt daunting at times, but the warm and welcoming people made every trip worthwhile. Little did I know, those meetups were preparing me for something even bigger—WordCamp Manila.
The Big Question: “Do You Want to Volunteer?”
As WordCamp Manila approached, excitement filled the air. During a meetup, someone casually asked, “Do you want to register as a volunteer?” That one question planted the idea in my mind. My first instinct was doubt—could I really do this? But I took the chance, signed up, and decided to find out.
On the day of the event, I arrived at the venue feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. Volunteers from all backgrounds greeted each other with smiles. Some were seasoned developers, while others shared my enthusiasm as newer members of the community. Our coordinator handed me my assignment: the registration desk. I had to check in attendees, answer their questions, and ensure a smooth flow.
At first, I hesitated. What if I couldn’t answer a question? What if I made a mistake? But as attendees started arriving, I found my rhythm. Each person I greeted with a smile boosted my confidence, and soon enough, I started enjoying the role. Helping people navigate the event felt fulfilling, and seeing their excitement reminded me why I loved being part of the WordPress community.
The Reward of Stepping Out
Even though I couldn’t attend the sessions, I still felt connected to the heart of the event. Conversations buzzed around me, and I met incredible people—fellow volunteers, attendees, and WordPress experts. Everyone shared their stories and enthusiasm, which added to the vibrant energy of the day.
By the time the event ended, exhaustion hit me hard. The long travel, the early start, and the busy schedule took a toll, but the sense of accomplishment made it all worthwhile. Volunteering at WordCamp Manila didn’t just help me grow my skills; it deepened my connection to the WordPress community.
Saying yes to volunteering transformed my journey. It pushed me to step outside my comfort zone, embrace new experiences, and discover a sense of belonging. If you ever get the chance to volunteer, take it. You might just uncover a side of yourself you never knew existed.
Motto: “Sometimes, you have to step out of your comfort zone to discover the amazing things waiting for you on the other side.”
