PyGraz is a user group of the python programming language in Graz. We meet once a month. I joined in 2011 and frequently gave talks. Why?
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Python is a very neat programming language. It is comparatively well-designed in terms of syntax and stdlib functionality.
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Meeting locally makes it easy for new people to get started. You only need to show up (voluntarily and w/o registration). Then they can get feedback on the topics, they are interested in.
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Giving talks makes you think systematically about topics. Since questions are usually asked during the meetup, you need to defend your statements against provided arguments. This advances your knowledge.
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Organizers define the next month’s topic. Recently, there used to be 3 organizers. Speakers are invited to present their topics.
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Over the years it got easier to find new speakers as more and more people are interested in Python.
As of today, I am stepping back as organizer.
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I don’t program python that often anymore
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I am focusing on organizing RustGraz for the remaining year.
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As a self-employed person (as I used to be), representation, networking with other programmers, and “latest news” is important. As an academic, networking with other academics and deep knowledge is important.
As such, I can observe a shift in interests and this step aligns with it. I am still available as speaker on occasion.