Day 1: Kicking Off My Devcon 2024 Week with a Unique Side Event

I’m here in Bangkok for Devcon 2024, and let me tell you, the city is buzzing with energy. The conference hasn’t even officially started, but the side events surrounding it are already setting the tone. Can you believe that there’s almost 800 side events surrounding Devcon 2024? It still blew my mind at how many side events there are.

My Day 1, however, took a bit of a surprising turn—my first side event upon arriving in Bangkok wasn’t a crypto panel or a networking mixer. Instead, it was a Sunday Catholic Mass at Assumption Cathedral, Bangkok.

I’ll admit, when I saw the Mass listed among Devcon’s side events, I was intrigued. I’ve been to my fair share of crypto events, but never have I seen a religious gathering mixed into the schedule. Since I'd never visited the Assumption Cathedral before, I figured it would be a unique way to start the trip.

A Gathering of Faith and Crypto

The turnout surprised me. Around 15 of us—Catholics and non-Catholics alike—gathered at the beautiful Assumption Cathedral. It was a serene experience stepping into the church, its stunning architecture offering a moment of stillness before the whirlwind of conferences and panels kicked off. We entered the church quietly, celebrated the Mass.

When Mass ended, the sense of community grew stronger. We lingered in front of the Cathedral, getting to know each other. It was refreshing to meet people in the crypto world who shared this experience, and our conversations weren’t just about faith. We talked about our backgrounds, our projects, and what drew us to Bangkok for Devcon.

A Lunch with New Friends

Our little group decided to grab lunch together afterward, turning the spiritual gathering into an unexpected networking opportunity. It was a fascinating blend of conversations—talks about crypt interspersed with reflections on life, faith, and why we chose to gather that morning. It was one of those moments that reminded me how diverse and interconnected this space really is.

Starting my trip with a Mass wasn’t what I expected, but it set the tone for a memorable and reflective day. As I gear up for more side events and the main conference, I’m looking forward to the mix of experiences and connections that only a place like Devcon can offer. Stay tuned—this adventure is just getting started!