My Experience as a Volunteer and Workshop Participant
{WORKSHOPS}
When we first began planning Freedom Fest 2026, I thought my role would mostly involve helping with logistics – arranging rooms, coordinating speakers, and guiding participants. Freedom Fest was designed to bring together technology, open knowledge. One of the most exciting parts of the fest was the diverse range of workshops covering open-source AI, essential digital knowledge, and technical skills.
Preparing the Workshops
In the weeks before the fest, our volunteer team worked closely with mentors to prepare workshop spaces. We checked projectors, ensured systems were ready and tested software installations. Each workshop required different technical setups. Watching everything come together made me realize how much effort goes into creating a smooth learning experience for participants.
Exploring Open Source AI Workshops
The Open-Source AI workshops were some of the most exciting parts of the fest. The “Prompt to Prototype” session showed how simple prompts can quickly become working apps with AI tools. Another workshop explained how to run self-hosted LLMs, giving developers more privacy and control. The AI Agents with LangChain session showed how AI can connect with tools to complete tasks. Workshops on Data Visualization and Python Fundamentals also helped build basic programming skills.
Learning the Philosophy Behind Open Knowledge
The Swecha Essentials workshops focused on open knowledge and responsible technology. Sessions covered Wikimedia contributions, localization of software into local languages, and design thinking. The Internet security workshop taught important online safety practices. Finally, OpenStreetMap showed how communities can create free maps used by many popular apps.
Building Practical Technical Skills
The Technical Workshops were the most hands-on part of the fest, where volunteers helped participants set up tools and fix issues. Sessions included Git version control, Linux administration, and responsive web development. Creative workshops like Excalidraw, Inkscape, and Blender highlighted design and storytelling through technology. Other sessions covered Arduino and IoT, WordPress web development, Scratch programming, and Image Processing with OpenCV, offering learning opportunities for all skill levels.
{EVENTS}
Mock Parliament: Should Religion Influence Nationalism?
One of the most intense and thought-provoking events was the Mock Parliament. The theme was, “Should a religion influence nationalism?” The atmosphere felt like a real parliamentary session. Participants spoke with confidence, respect, and strong arguments. Some argued that nationalism should remain separate from religion to ensure equality and unity. Others presented their views on how religion shapes cultural identity and national values.
Addressing a Growing Concern: Drug Abuse in Society
While the Mock Parliament focused on a different theme, the rest of the events revolved around a serious and urgent issue—the increasing usage of drugs in our society. Many participants highlighted how drugs are destroying the lives of youth and children. They also questioned how powerful suppliers, often backed by influence or wealth, continue to benefit while the younger generation suffers.
Each event approached this issue from a unique angle.
In Idea Presentation, participants shared practical solutions such as awareness programs, community monitoring, and rehabilitation support. Reel Making and Poster Making encouraged creative campaigns to spread awareness. Events like Creative Writing, Creative Drawing, and Just A Minute (JAM) allowed students to express powerful messages through words, art, and short speeches. Finally, AI Image Generation and AI Video Generation showed how modern technology can be used creatively to spread social awareness.
The Joy of Learning Together
What made these workshops and events special was not just the content but the atmosphere with a wonderful decor across campus. Students from different backgrounds – programmers, designers, beginners, and curious learners – sat together experimenting with tools, asking questions, and helping each other. As a volunteer, I often moved between rooms assisting participants. But in many moments, I found myself sitting down and learning alongside them. Seeing participants successfully run their first program, create their first graphic, or connect their first sensor and talk in a group confidently made the effort of organizing the fest completely worthwhile.