Meet the Members is a look into the lives and stories behind the incredible human beings whose contributions have helped shape our project and community.
Our featured member today is Leó Kolbeinsson (@leok)
What’s your name?
Leó Kolbeinsson (leok on launchpad)
Can you please tell us a little bit about yourself?
I live in Hafnarfjorður, Iceland and am recently retired. Previously employed as Network and Systems Engineer by local software firm and later as Specialist Computer and Information Systems at Iceland Consumer Agency. Was very involved with implementation of digital signatures in Iceland.
Most recently before retirement was self employed IT Consultant.Education: Algonquin College, Ottawa, Canada (Advanced Networking Technologies) and Msc. Information Security, Royal Holloway, University of London
How did you first get involved in the Ubuntu Community?
I have always been interested in Operating Systems and played around a bit with many Linux distros. Stumbled onto the Ubuntu ISO test tracking website and tried Ubuntu and many of the flavors. Lubuntu appealed to me and before I knew it became a regular tester.
Can you tell us about your contributions that lead to Ubuntu Membership?
My main contributions have been ISO testing and bug reporting. Have also tried to be available for any extra testing the developers might have requested.
I was also a member of the Lubuntu Council for one year.
What is the core motivation that keeps you contributing to Ubuntu and the open source movement?
My main motivation is the desire to take part and give something back to open source.
What’s your proudest moment or most memorable interaction within the Ubuntu community?
Hard to find one particular thing – but Lubuntu and Ubuntu membership, being elected to the Lubuntu council and every small pat on the back from teammates stand out.
How has being a part of the Ubuntu community impacted you personally or professionally?
The great thing about the Ubuntu community is that all members are valued equally.It is truly amazing seeing how ever contribution however small or large is welcomed. This gives one the feeling of belonging.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone who wants to start contributing but doesn’t know where to begin?
Take a good look at the website https://ubuntu.com/community. Here are very good links to the various ways to contribute. Another great site is https://discourse.ubuntu.com/
Start with whatever interests you and do not be afraid to ask questions!
Outside of the world of Ubuntu and tech, what are some of your other passions or hobbies?
Hiking, History, and Travel.. And of course my GYM workouts!
What excites you about the future of Ubuntu?
The wonderful thing about the tech world is that we can hardly imagine what the future will be ..look back 10 years and see the changes. I think we might see AI playing a bigger role in Ubuntu development in the next few years. Expect Ubuntu will have a great future!