[PHPForumParis2021] Slideshow Karaoke and Other Surprises – AFUP Team
The AFUP team brought a lively and unconventional close to Forum PHP 2021 with their Slideshow Karaoke session, a creative blend of improvisation, humor, and community appreciation. Featuring six volunteer speakers, including notable contributors like Damien Seguy, the session challenged participants to present on unfamiliar slides, showcasing their adaptability and wit. The event also served as a heartfelt tribute to the organizers who navigated the challenges of hosting a hybrid conference. This post covers three themes: the karaoke format, celebrating community resilience, and acknowledging key contributors.
The Karaoke Format
The AFUP team introduced the Slideshow Karaoke as a playful yet demanding exercise, where speakers like Damien Seguy and others were given random slides to present within a tight two-minute window per slide. This format tested their ability to think on their feet, weaving coherent narratives from unrelated visuals. The session’s lighthearted chaos, filled with laughter and applause, highlighted the PHP community’s creativity and camaraderie, making it a memorable highlight of the conference.
Celebrating Community Resilience
Beyond the entertainment, the session underscored the resilience of the AFUP community in organizing Forum PHP 2021 amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The team reflected on transitioning from online to hybrid events, overcoming logistical hurdles like venue changes. By sharing anecdotes about their efforts, they celebrated the collective spirit of volunteers who ensured the event’s success, reinforcing the importance of community-driven initiatives in sustaining the PHP ecosystem.
Acknowledging Key Contributors
The AFUP team concluded by honoring key figures who played pivotal roles in the conference’s success. They recognized individuals like Cécile, the president, for her leadership in managing volunteers, and Amélie for her decade-long support. The session also acknowledged logistical heroes who secured new venues under pressure. This tribute emphasized the collaborative effort behind Forum PHP, inspiring attendees to contribute to future events and strengthen the community’s bonds.