Articles FROM

Troy Chaplin

  • You Never Forget Your First: WordCamp Toronto 2009

    You Never Forget Your First: WordCamp Toronto 2009

    Thinking about attending WordCamp Canada but not sure what to expect? New to WordPress and wondering if you’ll feel out of place?

    Let me tell you about my first WordCamp.

    I get it, some tech conferences can feel formal or even a bit intimidating. But a WordCamp? It’s more like hanging out with a couple hundred passionate, friendly folks who speak your language, whether you’re a designer, developer, blogger, or just curious.

    Back in May 2009, I went to my very first camp, WordCamp Toronto. I’d only just started working professionally with WordPress at Carleton University earlier that year, and I was still finding my way after being introduced to it in late 2007.

    I didn’t know what I was walking into, but I was eager to learn as much as I could. I’ll be honest. I don’t remember many of the actual sessions, it was 16 years ago, after all, but what’s stuck with me are the people, the vibe, and a few memorable moments that made the experience special.

    Star Trek

    The Star Trek reboot with Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto had just been released, and one evening a few of us, including a couple of guys we just met who were working at an Ottawa agency, decided to grab dinner and catch the movie. I wasn’t a huge Star Trek fan, I’ve always leaned more Star Wars, but that didn’t matter. What stood out wasn’t the film, it was the chance to relax and connect with others outside the venue. Moments like that highlight one of the best parts of WordCamp: the community.

    Accordion Guy

    One talk I do remember was by Joey deVilla, better known as Accordion Guy. He spoke on Living Better Through Blogging, but what made it unforgettable was his energy. Joey wasn’t just engaging, he was fun. He played his accordion. He cracked jokes. He had me remembering my grandfather, who also played when I was a kid. It’s funny how something small like that can stick with you after all these years.

    Bonus Swag

    At the end of Joey’s talk, during the Q&A, he started handing out Xbox games to people who asked questions, a fun and unexpected perk. There was also a small booth selling WordCamp Toronto t-shirts. I still remember picking one up and thinking every camp should do this. It’s a simple thing, but having something you can wear home makes the experience feel even more memorable. I wish more camps offered shirts like that today, they make great keepsakes and conversation starters.

    Ready for Your First WordCamp?

    Sixteen years later, what I remember most about my first WordCamp isn’t the tech or the talks, it’s the people, the conversations, and the unexpected moments in between. WordCamps are built on community, and that’s what makes them special.

    If you’re on the fence about attending WordCamp Canada, take the leap. Whether you’re brand new to WordPress or have years of experience, you’ll find a welcoming space to learn, share, and connect. You never forget your first, make this one yours.


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  • WordCamp Canada Flier for Meetups

    WordCamp Canada Flier for Meetups

    Here’s a short PDF flier (below) to share at your WordPress Meetup or anywhere else the WordPress community gathers. (Here it is as a Google Doc if you’d prefer that.)

    If you’d like to share the same information online, please use this post:

    As well, our logo and graphics are free to download and use to help promote WCEH.


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  • Spread the Word: WordCamp Canada 2025 is Coming!

    Spread the Word: WordCamp Canada 2025 is Coming!

    About WordCamp Canada

    Whatever you do with WordPress—just starting out? A designer? A content creator? Maybe you’re a publisher or a developer, or you build for the community— you’ll find great people to meet and lots to discover at WordCamp Canada. 

    Set against the backdrop of Ottawa’s Richcraft Hall at Carleton University, this event will help our community peer into the future of the open web, figure out where AI belongs in content creation, and shape the evolving role of WordPress.

    Expect two full days packed with hands-on workshops, enlightening talks from experts you trust, and lots of time to meet old friends and new contacts—so you can grow, connect, and learn. 

    Whether you’re exploring new tools, mastering WordPress best practices, or expanding your network, you won’t want to miss a minute.

    Event Details

    Dates: October 16–17, 2025
    Venue: Richcraft Hall, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON
    Website: canada.wordcamp.org/2025

    Call for Speakers

    Have a topic you’re passionate about? Share your expertise with the WordCamp Canada community! We’re accepting speaker applications for sessions on the following topics:

    • The Future of WordPress in an AI-Driven World
    • Keeping the Web Open in the Age of Closed Platforms
    • Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

    Deadline: June 15, 2025
    Apply to speak here →

    Call for Volunteers

    Want to help make WordCamp Canada happen? It only happens if you volunteer—to help attendees, guide sessions, support speakers, or do lots of other things. Whatever you do, you’ll have a great time, get behind-the-scenes experience, and connect with other WordPress people.

    Sign up to volunteer →

    Call for Sponsors

    Showcase your brand to a passionate, engaged audience, in a very special space, at WordCamp Canada. A variety of sponsorship packages let you match your budget to your visibility—but of course, a great idea can always take you farther!

    Learn more about sponsorship opportunities →

    Stay Connected

    Join the conversation and stay updated on all things WordCamp Canada 2025:

    Visual Assets

    Need logos or promotional materials? Download high-resolution assets for WordCamp Canada 2025 here in a single .ZIP file.


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