Weait.com

The first Open Everything event was held yesterday in Toronto. The event was brought to my attention by a couple of my favorite Open Source people and that was enough for me to decide to participate. I didn't know exactly why I should be there and I didn't know exactly what to expect but with a couple of friends there I knew that I could find some fun.

So I went with no expectations and an open mind. I couldn't have been more impressed.

Open Everything had aspects of Barcamp, networking and team building events. I learned that Open has gained traction in many more arenas than just Free Software. Open isn't just Open Source. It was eye-opening to see so many people with differing expertise each implementing and advocating more openness. Free Software and Open Source now have powerful allies in architecture, science, academic publishing, theatre, documentary film making, neighbourhoods, education and many other areas.

There were perhaps a dozen people that I was able to speak with in depth during the event and over dinner. I enjoyed learning from each of them and look forward to working with them where our interests intersect.

Highly recommended. Here are the dates and locations from OpenEverything.net

• Centre for Social Innovation, Toronto, Canada - June 4, 2008 - half day chat [wiki]
• Shuttleworth Foundation, Cape Town, South Africa - August 2008 - half day chat
• Hollyhock, Cortes Island, British Columbia - September 3 - 6, 2008 - three day retreat [wiki]
• Lien Centre for Social Innovation, Singapore - September 15, 2008 - half day chat
• Young Foundation, London, England - November, 2008 - half day chat