Devfest Eket 2023, held on October 21, 2023, was a resounding success, bringing together over 500 plus tech enthusiasts, industry experts, and community members to explore the latest advancements in technology and its potential to drive local growth and global attraction. As one of the co-organizers, I'm thrilled to share the insights and challenges that led to this remarkable event.

From Idea to Reality: The Planning Process

The journey to Devfest Eket 2023 began in July 2023 with a series of meetings, brainstorming sessions, and market surveys. We were determined to make this year's event bigger and better than ever, catering to a wider audience and leaving a lasting impact on the tech community in Eket.

One of our biggest challenges was the perception of Eket as not being a "techie and collaborative" town. To overcome this, we devised a comprehensive publicity strategy that involved reaching out to hubs, high schools, universities, colleges, churches, and business centers. We also enlisted the help of enthusiastic volunteers to spread the word and generate excitement about the event.

A Venue Fit for Innovation: Setting the Stage for Success

We envisioned Devfest Eket 2023 as a memorable event, and finding the perfect venue was paramount. After an extensive search, we discovered the ideal location: Choicy Events Center, a spacious and appealing venue that could accommodate our growing number of attendees compared to Devfest Eket 2022.

A Curated Selection of Speakers and Topics: Catering to All Levels

Our speaker selection process was rigorous, with over twenty local and international speakers vying for the opportunity to share their expertise at Devfest Eket 2023. We carefully narrowed down the list to eight speakers, ensuring that they represented a diverse range of backgrounds, industries, and topics.

Our goal was to create a program that catered to all levels of tech experience, from novices to experts and non-techies.

Bridging the Gap with High School Students

We were determined to engage high school students in the event, not just as passive observers but as active participants. The quiz competition was designed to foster inclusiveness and encourage their involvement in the tech world. We also recognized the challenge of obtaining permission from schools to allow students to attend. To address this, we introduced a cash prize, which proved to be an effective incentive. While only two schools out of ten responded to our invitation, it was a significant improvement over previous years.

Empowering Innovation through the Hackathon

The hackathon served as a platform for individuals to transform their ideas into tangible products. It provided an opportunity for them to showcase their skills, gain hands-on experience, and develop a sense of ownership over their creations. While the cash prize was not the sole motivator, the practical knowledge and experience gained were invaluable assets.

Striking the Right Balance: Fun and Games

In the midst of the event's intellectual stimulation, we also incorporated fun games to provide attendees with moments of relaxation and lightheartedness. The dance competition, in particular, brought everyone together, spreading joy and laughter throughout the venue. The positive feedback from attendees reinforced our belief that tech events should not only be focused on serious discussions but also incorporate elements of fun and entertainment.

Overcoming Challenges: A Testament to Resilience

Event planning is often perceived as an effortless task, but it demands unwavering dedication, countless hours of effort, and even personal sacrifices. Devfest Eket 2023 was not immune to challenges. The lack of sponsorship and publicity were significant hurdles we had to overcome. Additionally, we faced the disappointment of volunteers who pledged their time and support but failed to deliver.

A Heartfelt Expression of Gratitude

Despite these challenges, Devfest Eket 2023's success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of my fellow co-organizers, our tireless volunteers, our esteemed speakers, and our generous sponsors. Their contributions were instrumental in making this event a catalyst for change in our tech community. We are incredibly grateful for their unwavering support.

Devfest Eket: A Legacy of Innovation

Devfest Eket 2023 transcended the boundaries of a mere tech event. It served as a catalyst for innovation, fostering connections, expanding knowledge, and embracing the transformative power of technology. We are immensely proud of the impact it has had on our community.

Looking Forward to Devfest Eket 2024

As we wrap the year's events with Devfest Eket 2023, we extend a warm invitation to all who wish to be a part of next year's event, whether as volunteers, speakers, or sponsors. Together, we can continue to elevate our tech community and make Eket a beacon of innovation and growth.

Photos from the event

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