Cape Town, South Africa
News about PyConZa
High Profile Lineup of Sponsors Confirmed for inaugural PyConZA
Testament to the significance of the first ever PyCon being held in South Africa, the event has the financial backing of Google, Amazon, Thoughtworks, Basho, Python Software Foundation, St James Software, Clickatell and Unomena. These sponsors are in addition to the founding sponsor, Praekelt Foundation. PyConZA will see developers of the open-source Python programming language gather at a scenic venue in Cape Town from October 4 – 5 2012.
“We have a great list of sponsors, all of whom truly represent and stand behind the innovative and pioneering spirit of PyConZA,” says Gustav Praekelt, founder of the Praekelt Foundation. “It is very encouraging to have the support of such high calibre companies for the country’s first ever PyCon gathering, and we are thrilled to be partnering with them.”
Organised for the local Python community by the Praekelt Foundation, the event will provide programming enthusiasts with a rare chance to interact and share ideas in an informal setting. PyConZA is modeled on the popular PyCons which take place annually around the world, and reflects the growing role that local developers are playing in global IT. Attendees will be challenged to come up with innovative solutions to nurture IT on the continent, and participating sponsors will play a major role in directing the future of the industry.
“PyConZA will provide a unique opportunity for talented developers to get together and share their ideas, network and celebrate the limitless possibilities within IT,” adds Praekelt. “It will also be a chance for Python enthusiasts to showcase their skills and encourage others to experiment and have fun with the platform.”
Indeed, a major goal of Python developers worldwide is making Python fun and compelling to use. This sentiment is reflected in the origin of the name - derived from the television series Monty Python’s Flying Circus - in the common practice of using Monty Python references in example code.
Elzbeth Schmidt, spokesperson for Amazon said “Amazon Development Centre South Africa is delighted to sponsor PyConZA. We’re big fans of Python and are pleased to be able to support the local Python community.”
“The Python Software Foundation is very excited about the energy surrounding PyCon ZA,” says Edwa Jodlowska from PSF. “We're always happy to see the Python conference landscape growing each year and wish everyone the best in the Cape Town event.”
"St James Software are excited about the growing interest and activity around Python in Cape Town, and the opportunity to support and be involved in this great event," adds David Fraser from St James Software.
PyConZA, which has had a huge response and is already sold out, will be held at The Pavilion Clocktower in the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa from the 4 - 5 October 2012.