From Sevilla with Purpose: How Team 25 Europe Redefined What Community Means

Sometimes the most meaningful takeaways from an event aren’t about technology at all. They’re about connection, courage, and growth. My experience at Team 25 Europe reminded me why community is the real driver of innovation — and why sharing that journey matters.

Building Community, Building Confidence: Lessons from Team Europe and Beyond

When I joined the Atlassian Community as the new ACE Champion for Sevilla, I knew it would be exciting — but I didn’t realize how much it would teach me about people, purpose, and growth.

Last week at Team Europe, surrounded by community leaders, partners, and innovators, I had one of those moments where everything clicks. I understood that what we’re building in Sevilla isn’t just another local chapter. It’s the seed of something bigger — a space where ideas, collaboration, and shared curiosity can thrive.

A Community Is More Than an Event

Before attending Team Europe, I thought community leadership started with organizing a good event. I’ve since learned that it starts much earlier — with intention.

Being an ACE Champion means asking why we gather before deciding how. It’s about building connections that last longer than a meetup and creating spaces where people feel they belong.

I’ve realized that a great community isn’t measured by attendance numbers, but by energy — the spark you see when people start exchanging ideas, offering help, or realizing they’re part of something that can grow together.

Learning from the Best (and from the Rest)

At Team Europe, I had the privilege of speaking with some truly inspiring people — champions, partners, and Atlassian team members who have been doing this for years. Their generosity with advice and encouragement reminded me of what makes this ecosystem special: everyone genuinely wants you to succeed.

One conversation in particular helped me redefine what I want ACE Sevilla to stand for. It’s not just about technology; it’s about collaboration, creativity, and creating opportunities in our local ecosystem.

That insight has given me a new kind of confidence — the kind that comes from knowing you’re not building alone.

Starting Small, Thinking Big

Sevilla has a vibrant tech scene full of potential, and our community can be a bridge between local talent and the wider Atlassian world.

Yes, beginnings are tough. The first steps always are. But I’ve learned that it’s okay to move slowly if you’re moving intentionally. It’s okay to adapt, to listen, to experiment — because that’s how you build something that lasts.

Each conversation, each idea, each small collaboration helps shape what ACE Sevilla will become. My goal is to nurture a community that reflects who we are as professionals, but also as people — curious, open, and driven to make an impact.

What I’ve Learned So Far

If I could summarize what the past weeks have taught me, it would be this:

1. Community grows through authenticity. People respond to genuine enthusiasm far more than polished perfection.
2. Listening is leadership. The best ideas often come from someone else’s story.
3. You don’t need to have all the answers. You just need to create the space where answers can emerge together.

And maybe the most important lesson: it’s okay to learn out loud. To share your journey as it unfolds — not when it’s finished, but while it’s still taking shape.

Looking Ahead: From Sevilla to the World

The journey as an ACE Champion is just beginning, but already it’s changing how I see my work, my city, and the power of shared purpose.

I’m excited to see where this goes — not just for me, but for everyone who decides to join, contribute, or simply show up. Because that’s what community is, at its core: people showing up for each other, one conversation at a time.

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