FOSDEM is an annual event that gathers open-source enthusiasts, developers, and communities from around the world. It usually takes place in Brussels, Belgium. The event typically spans a weekend and features a diverse range of presentations, workshops, and discussions covering various aspects of open-source software, technology, and related topics.

Participants at FOSDEM often include representatives from major open-source projects, as well as independent developers and contributors. The event is known for its decentralized and community-driven structure, with multiple tracks running concurrently, covering topics such as programming languages, operating systems, networking, security, and more.

Attendees have the opportunity to engage with experts, learn about the latest developments in open-source technologies, and network with like-minded individuals. FOSDEM has gained a reputation for its inclusivity and collaborative spirit, making it a significant annual gathering for the open-source community.

The open-source community gathered in Brussels, Belgium, to hear a talk about the 30th-anniversary celebration of NetBSD (in 2023) at the renowned FOSDEM event. The occasion marked three decades of resilience, collaboration, and innovation within the NetBSD project, one of the oldest and most versatile free and open-source Unix-like operating systems.

The conference hall buzzed with excitement as enthusiasts, developers, and long-time contributors eagerly awaited the keynote speaker, Benny Sieger, a distinguished figure in the NetBSD community. The stage was set, adorned with banners and imagery showcasing the evolution of NetBSD since its inception.

Benny Sieger, a core member of the NetBSD project and an instrumental figure in its development, took the stage amidst a warm round of applause. With a smile reflecting years of dedication, he began to reminisce about the early days of NetBSD, its humble beginnings, and the challenges the community overcame to reach this significant milestone.

“Thirty years ago,” Benny started, “a small group of passionate individuals embarked on a journey to create a free, portable, and secure Unix-like operating system. Little did we know that this journey would lead to the vibrant community and robust platform we have today.”

Benny Sieger's talk delved into the history of NetBSD, highlighting key milestones, technological advancements, and the collaborative efforts that shaped its development. He spoke about the project's commitment to portability, emphasizing how NetBSD's design principles had allowed it to run on a wide range of hardware architectures, from the smallest embedded systems to powerful servers.

As Benny continued, he also acknowledged the diverse community that had formed around NetBSD. He shared stories of contributors from around the world, each bringing unique perspectives and skills to the project. The audience listened attentively, gaining insights into the collaborative spirit that had sustained NetBSD over the years.