FOSS4G SOTM Oceania 2024

Keynote - Inspiring the Next Generation: My Journey in Open Source and Community Building
11-06, 10:00– (Australia/Hobart), Main Auditorium

In this keynote, I will share my experiences and milestones, highlighting the projects and initiatives that have shaped my career. I will discuss the challenges and triumphs encountered along the way, and how these experiences have fueled my passion for open-source development.


Over the past eight years, my career has been deeply intertwined with the world of open-source geospatial software. From my early days of exploring the potential of open-source tools to becoming a key contributor and advocate, my journey has been one of continuous learning, collaboration, and community building.

In this keynote, I will share my experiences and milestones, highlighting the projects and initiatives that have shaped my career. I will discuss the challenges and triumphs encountered along the way, and how these experiences have fueled my passion for open-source development.

A significant part of my journey has been dedicated to inspiring and empowering young Pacific Islanders. Growing up in a region often underrepresented in the tech industry, I have made it my mission to provide opportunities and mentorship to the next generation. By sharing my story, I hope to demonstrate that with determination and support, anyone can make a meaningful impact in the world of technology.

I will also delve into the importance of having a purpose and building a strong community. Through various initiatives, I have seen firsthand how a supportive community can drive innovation and foster a sense of belonging. My goal is to encourage others to find their purpose and contribute to the growth of the open-source community.

Join me as I reflect on my journey, celebrate the power of community, and inspire the next wave of open-source contributors from the Pacific Islands and beyond.

Lanieta is an accomplished environmental scientist with valuable experience in conducting comprehensive assessments of climate risks and vulnerabilities, across Fiji and the Pacific Region. She works with strong relationships with local communities, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations to ensure that climate adaptation plans are tailored to the specific needs of each region within Fiji. Lani is adept at utilizing advanced geospatial analysis tools and climate with data modelling techniques to develop data-driven solutions that enhance climate resilience and mitigate potential impacts.Lani is also actively involved in a lot of voluntary work in the geospatial and remote sensing space in Fiji and the Pacific. She is passionate about meeting new people, visiting new places, and connecting with communities.