DjangoGirls is a free one-day programming workshop for women, organized by volunteers. Since 2014 there have been over 500 events in almost 80 countries all over the world.

Three years ago at a local Python meetup (PyGrunn) Reindert-Jan said he wanted to organize a workshop. He had visited the DjangoGirls event in Amsterdam and decided that Groningen needed one too. He was looking for coaches with Python knowledge and with enthusiasm for their profession. Not knowing what to expect I signed up to be coach. I've been a coach seven times now including an edition in Novi Sad, Serbia. It has been a while since the last edition of DjangoGirls Amsterdam. So I'm happy to announce the next edition of DjangoGirls Amsterdam will be organized together with Xebia and take place at the office at the Wibautstraat.

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During the workshop you'll work in a small group of 3 learners. This is a hands-on, experience-oriented workshop. You'll stand by on the sidelines, not in front of them. As a coach you are 100% focused on the learners and always be there when needed. Make sure their experience is positive and that they have fun. For the participants it is usually an intensive day. They are with strangers, in a different environment, learning about abstract subject matter. Some are afraid to ask questions, in fear of judgement. Be supportive, celebrate small steps, do not judge and appreciate their (in-)abilities. Personally it helped me to become a better at listening and explaining. The workshop made me see programming from a different perspective. 

Do you have what it takes to be a coach? As a coach you will be helping the participants who are working their way through the tutorial. The tutorial includes every step from installing Python to having a local development server and from the introduction of html/css to deploying their blog to the cloud. However, as a developer you know how many things can and often do go wrong. The goal is not to finish the tutorial, the goal is to have a good experience and learn a little while doing so. No experience with Python/Django? Don't worry, your enthusiasm will save the day!

Sounds like something for you? Apply to become a coach for DjangoGirls Amsterdam at Saturday 3th of Februari 2018. Do you know someone who wants to be a participant? They can apply on the website as well. Spread the word!