November 12, 2025
“The Community Zone is the best place all of PASS Summit, you run into so many people, have so many conversations. It’s a chance to rejoin and have a reunion with the #SQLfamily”. Monica Morehouse, Consultant at Denny Cherry and Associates.
Monica perfectly sums up the purpose of the Community Zone at PASS Data Community Summit. It’s a casual setting designed for attendees to network, share ideas, and build connections that enhance professional and career development. But more importantly it’s a place to form friendships.
As well as being a comfortable and open space to take time out or mingle with likeminded attendees throughout the day, you’ll also find a range of sessions on topics from getting started as a public speaker to mentoring a high school robotics team. These informal sessions are run by the community, for the community with hosts who can offer first hand tips from their own experience.
So, what can you expect from the Community Zone?
The Community Zone opening hours are as follows, and also listed in the session listings:
Throughout the event, you’ll find our ever-popular bean bag chill-out zones for a comfy break and a sticker exchange where you can drop off and pick up new designs. Plus, challenge fellow PASS attendees to a game of giant Jenga or unwind in our Crafting Connections Corner with a variety of creative activities designed for a moment of mindfulness.
Wednesday November 19
Community Meet & Greet | First timers mingle
Time: 9.30-10.15am
New to PASS Data Community Summit? Join us for the First Timers Mingle, a relaxed and welcoming opportunity to help you make the most of your experience from the very start. Whether you’re attending solo or with colleagues, this is your chance to meet fellow first-time participants, connect with friendly faces, and get insider tips on navigating the event in a casual, low-pressure setting. Come curious, leave connected!
Community Conversation | From “What If” to “Why Not”- Real Stories of Becoming a Public Speaker
Speakers: Ben Weissman joined by New Stars of Data alumni
Time: 12.45-1.30pm
Everyone starts somewhere – and for our panellists, that somewhere was their very first talk in the New Stars of Data program, an initiative helping new voices shine in the data community. Now, a few months or years later, they’re back to share what happened next. In this fast-paced, story-driven session, 10+ speakers will each take just a few minutes to reflect on their journey, from nervous debuts to confident presenters, community contributors, and even MVPs. You’ll hear honest lessons, funny behind-the-scenes moments, and advice for anyone who’s ever thought, “I could never do that.” Whether you’re a future speaker, a mentor, or just here for inspiration, this is your chance to see what happens when you take the leap – and keep going.
Community Conversation | Beyond the Data – Building Meaningful Connections in the Global Community
Speakers: Tonie Huizer, Abhi Jayanty, Deborah Melkin, Louise Domeisen,
Time: 1.40-2.25pm
The global data community is more than just a network, it’s a vibrant space to learn, share, and grow together. Our guests will share how they make the most of this amazing community by building genuine relationships, attending events, and embracing the power of asking for help. Whether you’re looking to expand your knowledge, connect with peers, or simply find support when you need it, this discussion will show you how to turn community engagement into a rewarding experience.
Thursday November 20
Community Meet & Greet | New Stars of Data
Time: 9.30-10.15am
Join us for a relaxed and inspiring meet & greet with some of the amazing former and new New Stars of Data! Whether you’re curious about what it’s like to take your first steps as a speaker, want to reconnect with alumni, or just enjoy great conversations with people who share your passion for the data community – this is the place to be. Hear stories, exchange experiences, and get inspired by those who’ve taken the stage (and those who soon will). Come say hi, make connections, and celebrate how far our New Stars have come!
Community Hobby Huddles
Speakers: Rodney Kidd, Andy Levy, Ed Pollack, Lenore Flower, Grant Fritchey
Time: 12.40-2.15pm
Hosted in the Community Zone, Hobby Huddles sessions are a fun way for people in the community to showcase their passions and hobbies outside of everyday work life. There will be a designated seating area for you to join these highly entertaining and informative back-to-back mini sessions:
Friday November 21
Community Meet & Greet | Community Leaders Assemble
Time: 9.30-10.15am
This is your space to connect with fellow community leaders and share what makes your group thrive. Community Leaders Assemble is an informal networking session designed for open conversation—no presentations, just people talking about their communities. Bring your stories, challenges, and successes, and discover fresh ideas from others who share your passion for building engaged, vibrant groups.
Community Hobby Huddles
Speakers: Reid Havens, Brian Hibberd, Frank Geisler, Deepthi Goguri
Time: 12.40-1.55pm
Hosted in the Community Zone, Hobby Huddles sessions are a fun way for people in the community to showcase their passions and hobbies outside of everyday work life. There will be a designated seating area for you to join these highly entertaining and informative back-to-back mini sessions:
All these sessions are available in the session listing and ready for you to add to your schedule builder.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Community Zone for a catch up, community session and maybe a game of giant Jenga!
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