Sharing Insights and Accessibility at JsConf Budapest 2024
Over the course of two days in June 2024, I had the enriching opportunity to speak at the JsConf Budapest held in the historic Urania National Film Theatre. I delivered two lighting talks focused on the complexities of TypeScript at scale and real-life accessibility issues. The audience was engaged, and the inclusion of interpreters heightened the event’s accessibility.
On the summer in Budapest, the historic and beautiful Urania National Film Theatre transformed into a lively center for tech lovers for JsConf Budapest on June 27-28, 2024. I was all set to share my thoughts through my two lighting talks: “Navigating towards Production-Grade TypeScript at Scale: How Effect Helps You Reach Your Goals Without Drowning in Complexity” and “Inaccessible ‘Accessibility:’ Real-life Stories.” checkout the schedule.
On the first day (June 27), Kicking off with my first talk, I dove into TypeScript and discussed how the ‘Effect’ can simplify complex coding challenges. The room was full with developers and tech enthusiasts who seemed engaged and interested, were reflecting on the points raised.
I was standing next to the big TV that showcased my slides, I looked out their faces were great gathering in the audience. The interpreters were also there besides me, and prepared to make the event inclusive and accessible. My aim was simple: to enlighten and hopefully inspire all of us.
The next day (June 28) Moving onto my second talk about ‘Accessibility,’ the vibe became a bit more serious. Sharing real-life stories that highlighted often overlooked challenges, we all felt connected by the importance of the subject. Yet, despite the seriousness, we also shared lighter moments. in the afternoon on that same day, we also discussed about “Accessibility and Inclusive Design with Isabela Moreira, Ante Tomić”.
Speaking of the events, a recent unexpected experience with a delicious coffee - espresso embassy - blend that tasted like peanuts mixed with coffee-seeds! Sharing this brought smiles all around and made everyone feel more like old friends than mere conference attendees.
During breaks, we enjoyed strolling through the Urania atmosphere, appreciating its dual charm as a cinema and a modern conference venue. The easy access to snacks and drinks while chatting about tech was a definite plus, making the experience super comfy and friendly.
One of the highlights for me was seeing how some attendees were eager to learn more about the ‘Effect’ after my talk, with some even picking up a bit of sign language. It was incredibly heartwarming to see their enthusiasm and willingness to learn something new right away.
Regarding an accessibility issue that occurred on the first day, the closed captions were significantly delayed and not very accurate. I reached out to the team, and we discussed how to resolve this. We were using the closed caption tool built into Microsoft PowerPoint, but some issues, such as the font size, color, and position, could not be adjusted at that moment. Despite these minor accessibility challenges, 
this experience taught me how to shape and improve such accommodations. I’ve taken notes and will work on refining these aspects further. 
This conference was my first time speaking at JsConf Budapest. engaging with such a diverse group was both enlightening and humbling.
New ideas and happy memories of connections filled me. As the event wrapped up, I felt a mix of fulfillment and excitement for the future. I walked away from the Urania National Film Theatre inspired and looking forward to hopefully taking on a bigger stage at another major tech conference soon.
Tim and me -> Cheers!