Rocky Kev | From Outsider to Organizer: Building Communities That Matter
What happens when an introvert who hates crowds decides to build a thriving local tech community? This talk is about the awkward, vulnerable, and sometimes painful journey of showing up — even when you're scared. You'll hear what it's like to organize meetups when no one comes, how to handle toxic behavior, and why creating safe spaces in tech matters more than ever. Whether you're an organizer, an attendee, or someone who's never felt like they belonged in tech, this talk will show you how to start small, build with intention, and create something that lives beyond you.
Get to know Rocky!
Rocky Kev is a senior software engineer and community organizer based in Portland, Oregon. Since 2017, they've hosted tech meetups across the Pacific Northwest — including in Spokane, Salem, and Portland — with a focus on creating safe, welcoming spaces for people who don’t fit the traditional tech mold. They're currently a co-organizer for Code and Coffee Portland and passionate about creating inclusive, real-world spaces for people often overlooked in tech.