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Buildup

Schedule

Section titled “Schedule”

When: Friday 12:00-21:00 (max 9 hours, one-time task)

Where: ULB Solbosch campus, coordinated from Infodesk K

Team size: 50+ volunteers

Timeline:

  • 12:00-13:00 - Van unloading
  • 13:00-18:00 - Main setup across campus
  • 18:30-19:30 - Volunteer dinner
  • 19:30-21:00 - Final touches and cleanup

What is the buildup task?

Section titled “What is the buildup task?”

The buildup is the massive effort to transform the ULB campus into FOSDEM! Everything you see during the weekend - from infodesks to signage, from video equipment to cloakrooms - needs to be set up on Friday.

This is a very dynamic task where you’ll be assigned various jobs based on what needs doing and what skills are needed. It’s hard work but also lots of fun, with a great team atmosphere and food provided at the end!

Requirements

Section titled “Requirements”
  • Physical fitness - this task involves lifting, carrying, walking, and being on your feet for several hours
  • Good knowledge of English (spoken) for communication with the team
  • Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team
  • Flexibility - you may be asked to do different tasks throughout the day
  • Team player attitude - we’re all working together to make FOSDEM happen

What you’ll be doing

Section titled “What you’ll be doing”

You’ll be assigned tasks based on what’s needed and your abilities. Examples include:

  • Unloading - vans, equipment, furniture across campus
  • Setting up infodesks - tables, computers, merchandise, kitchens
  • Video equipment - helping position cameras and cables in devrooms
  • Indoor Signage - hanging directional signs and markers
  • Cloakroom - setting up the cloakroom area
  • General setup - furniture, cleaning, etc.
  • Brown papering - covering walls and ULB displays with brown paper

Task workflow

Section titled “Task workflow”
  1. Arrive at Infodesk K at 12 noon or as soon as you can
  2. Check in and receive your volunteer t-shirt
  3. You’ll be assigned to a task or team
  4. Work under guidance of staff/experienced volunteers
  5. Tasks may change - stay flexible!
  6. Take breaks as needed
  7. Stay hydrated and drink water
  8. Enjoy the volunteer dinner at 18:30-19:30
  9. Sign out and return any equipment before leaving

Safety

Section titled “Safety”
  • Lift properly - use your legs, not your back; ask for help with heavy items
  • Watch your step - cables, boxes, and uneven surfaces are tripping hazards
  • Take breaks - this is physical work; pace yourself
  • Stay aware - lots of activity happening at once
  • Report issues - tell staff about any safety concerns
  • Dress warmly - it’s February in Belgium; you may work outdoors
  • Wear gloves - we’ll provide gloves to if you need them

What to bring

Section titled “What to bring”
  • Comfortable, practical clothing you don’t mind getting dirty
  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes (essential!)
  • Warm layers - you may be going in and out of buildings
  • Personal phone - for Matrix communication if needed

Why volunteer?

Section titled “Why volunteer?”
  • Be part of creating FOSDEM from the ground up
  • Meet other volunteers and staff in a great atmosphere
  • Learn how FOSDEM works behind the scenes
  • Free food and dinner included
  • Huge satisfaction seeing everything come together
  • Essential contribution - without you, there is no FOSDEM!

Questions? #volunteers:fosdem.org