At PyConDE 2026, community leaders, educators, and Python tooling builders explored how Python is evolving in the age of AI — and why human connection, mentorship, and strong fundamentals matter more than ever. Jessica Greene (Ecosia / PyLadies Berlin) spoke about her work as a machine learning engineer and community organizer. She highlighted PyLadies Berlin’s role in creating inclusive spaces for learning, networking, and career growth, and emphasized that AI should be seen as an amplification tool—not a replacement for solid engineering or people skills. Cheuk Ting Ho (JetBrains) discussed her role on the PyCharm team, where conferences are key for gathering feedback and staying connected to the community. She shared insights from her talk on free-threaded Python and her approach to technical storytelling across talks, blogs, videos, and informal interviews. Sebastian Raschka reflected on his work as an AI educator focused on “from scratch” explanations of machine learning and LLMs. Driven by curiosity, he prefers creating new talks over repeating old ones and aims to help people understand what happens under the hood—especially with reasoning models. Kyle Into (Meta) introduced Pyrefly, a Rust-based Python type checker designed for large codebases. He explained how type checking improves both human and AI-assisted development by making interfaces explicit, reducing risk, and strengthening project structure. Valerio Maggio shared his journey from data science into developer advocacy and community organizing. He emphasized that conferences rely on volunteers, that lightning talks boost accessibility and energy, and that sustainable processes are essential to avoid burnout. Tereza Iofciu discussed her “Data Diplomat” coaching framework, helping data professionals navigate leadership and uncertainty. She noted that AI and lean teams are raising expectations, making it crucial to think strategically, build fundamentals, and invest in real networks. Irina Saribekova described her transition from organizing Python events in Saint Petersburg to supporting PyData Berlin and PyConDE. She highlighted that conferences are built on trust, relationships, and clear systems—and that developer relations extends this work through talks, writing, and community engagement. Jessica Greene Machine Learning Engineer at Ecosia, PyLadies Berlin co-organizer, and chair of the PyLadies Germany fund. Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica0greene/ Cheuk Ting Ho Developer Advocate at JetBrains working with the PyCharm team and active in the global Python community. Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheukting-ho/ Sebastian Raschka AI educator, author, and machine learning researcher focused on LLMs, reasoning models, and educational “from scratch” implementations. Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastianraschka/ Kyle Into Engineer at Meta working on Pyrefly, a fast Python type checker built for large-scale codebases and AI-assisted development. Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyleinto/ Valerio Maggio Data scientist, developer advocate, community organizer, and long-time contributor to PyCon Italia andPyConDE. Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriomaggio/ Tereza Iofciu Data coach, trainer, community contributor, and creator of the Data Diplomat framework for data professionals and leaders. Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tereza-iofciu/ Irina Saribekova Developer relations specialist and Python community organizer involved in PyData Berlin, PyConDE, and conference community building. Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irinasaribekova/
