Talks - Juliana (Jules) Barros Lima: How to amplify diversity inside a Python community?

Learn practical strategies for building a more inclusive Python community through diverse leadership, accessible events, mentorship programs, and sustainable growth initiatives.

Key takeaways
  • Embrace diversity by acknowledging different cosmovisions and cultural perspectives within the community, rather than trying to fit everyone into one mold

  • Create safe and inclusive spaces through strong codes of conduct, transparent leadership, and clear communication channels

  • Implement transparent financial reporting and inclusion funds to support underrepresented groups’ participation in events

  • Build partnerships with universities, local startups, and related tech communities to strengthen reach and impact

  • Ensure events are accessible through hybrid formats, live broadcasting, and proper documentation

  • Avoid tokenism - don’t just include diverse members for show, but give them real leadership opportunities and decision-making power

  • Establish horizontal leadership structures where newcomers can grow into organizers and leaders

  • Provide mentorship and documentation to help new community members and organizers succeed

  • Consider family-friendly accommodations like playgrounds for attendees with children

  • Make pronouns and identity expression clear and normalized in community spaces

  • Create regular annual events to maintain community bonds and engagement

  • Share resources openly and avoid gatekeeping knowledge/information

  • Support volunteer efforts and properly acknowledge their contributions

  • Join forces with other diversity-focused groups (like PyLadies) to increase impact

  • Focus on sustainable growth through documented processes and shared leadership responsibilities