PyCon 2025 in Pittsburgh was more than just a conference — it was a moment where the past, present, and future of Python collided in the best possible way. This year’s event was packed with energy, deep technical conversations, and unforgettable personal moments — including the opportunity to meet Guido van Rossum, the creator of Python, in person.
In this post, I’ll share highlights from the event, dig into what I learned about Free-threaded Python (PEP 703), and reflect on the direction our community is heading.
August 20, 2024, is a day that I’ll never forget. Standing on the barren launch field just outside Timmins, Ontario, I watched with my heart racing as ‘Borealis,’ a rocket designed and built entirely by students at the Waterloo Rocketry Team, soared into the sky. It was not just any rocket, but the first-ever Canadian liquid bi-propellant rocket—a historic milestone that I had the privilege to be part of.
Embarking on the academic journey at the University of Waterloo as a Mathematics and Computer Science student has been nothing short of an exhilarating adventure. With its rich legacy in both disciplines, Waterloo has provided me with a unique platform to delve into the depths of theoretical mathematics while simultaneously exploring the practical applications of computer science. As I reflect on my time here, I can't help but marvel at the myriad of experiences and opportunities that have shaped my academic learning.
