Gek Yeo is a Sap Quality Expert who was the official reporter at the EuroSTAR Conference 2023 in Antwerp. In this blog. Gek shares her experience from Europe’s biggest software testing conference:
After a long hiatus due to the pandemic, I had the privilege of attending #EuroSTARconf 2023, my first software testing conference in person. The conference, held in the stunning venue called “A Room with a ZOO” next to the Antwerp Zoo in Belgium, provided an awe-inspiring setting to reconnect with industry professionals. In this blog post, I will share the highlights of my EuroSTAR experience, from the fascinating talks and engaging panel discussions to the vibrant atmosphere and the joy of connecting with peers from around the world.
A Captivating Setting
EuroSTAR Conference 2023 was hosted in the magnificent “A Room with a ZOO” venue, where the majestic gorilla, Matadi, served as the mascot. Beyond the conference, the venue’s commitment to nature conservation, animal welfare, and education resonated deeply with #testautomation attendees, reminding us of the importance of aligning our actions in the software industry with the preservation of our ecosystem.
Engaging Activities and Swag
Upon arrival, the EuroSTAR Conference organizers welcomed participants at the reception, offering them tote bags filled with exciting swag. Attendees could stay updated on the conference schedule and engage with fellow participants through a dedicated app. Volunteer heroes in green were readily available to assist delegates, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience throughout the event. The interactive booths, showcasing a wide array of test automation tools, provided an opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in hands-on experiences and collect stamps on their passports for a chance to win a grand prize.
Inspiring Talks
The conference schedule encompassed a diverse range of talks, catering to both technical and soft skill topics. I had the pleasure of attending two impactful sessions. Andrew Brown’s talk on “How to Prevent Your Next Software Release Ending in Disaster” offered valuable insights and mitigation strategies for avoiding catastrophic outcomes. Lina Zubyte’s session on “How Minimalism Helps Build High-Quality Products” struck a chord with me as a minimalist enthusiast, emphasizing the power of simplicity in software development.
A tightly knitted QA Community
#EuroSTARconf provided a platform to connect with fellow QA professionals from all corners of the globe such as Austria, Israel, Berlin, Netherlands, Iceland and Belgium. Engaging conversations with this community of QA peers enriched my understanding of different testing practices and automation solutions. The vibrant atmosphere at the conference was fueled by the enthusiasm of attendees exploring the booths, playing games, and collecting swag, fostering a sense of camaraderie and excitement. As a volunteer reporter, I had the privilege of interviewing some of my QA peers. The popularity of talks on “Gamification” and “Why Testers are the True Rock Stars of IT” highlighted the shared interests and passion within the QA community. Stay tuned on my LinkedIn profile in the coming weeks for video clips featuring these insightful conversations.
Conclusion
EuroSTAR Conference 2023 was an exhilarating conference experience that reignited my enthusiasm for software testing. The engaging talks, vibrant atmosphere, and connections forged with fellow professionals made this event truly transformative. As we move forward, I am inspired to implement the lessons learned and continue nurturing a thriving QA community.
See Gek’s second experience blog.
The EuroSTAR Conference has been running since 1993 and is the largest testing event in Europe, welcoming 1000+ software testers and QA professionals every year. Join us at our next events.