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 @rubi1200!
What’s your name (username)?
rubi1200
Can you please tell us a little bit about yourself?
Father of 2 sons and 2 cats. Consider myself to be a Linux hobbyist. Love helping the community to the best of my abilities.
How did you first get involved in the Ubuntu Community?
In 2005, after watching a television interview with Klaus Knopper, the creator of Knoppix, I started experimenting with this amazing new world of Linux. It fascinated me then and still does today. My first Ubuntu install was Dapper Drake. In March 2010, I joined the Ubuntu Forums and was immediately impressed by the friendly and welcoming community as well as the knowledge and willingness to help others.
Can you tell us about your contributions that lead to Ubuntu Membership?
I identified a need on the Ubuntu Forums for a clear, documented topic to help users with Wubi installs. With the assistance of forum members bcbc and drs305, I put together the Wubi Megathread. I devoted time to helping new users and was asked to become a member of the forum staff, where I continued to offer support as well as contributing to the smooth running of the forum.
What is the core motivation that keeps you contributing to Ubuntu and the open source movement?
The people. For me, that is the single most important motivation. Over the years, I have interacted with users both on the Ubuntu Forums and now Ubuntu Discourse who willingly offer their help and knowledge, all the time adhering to the spirit of Ubuntu.
What’s your proudest moment or most memorable interaction within the Ubuntu community?
Being accepted as an Ubuntu Member and being asked to join the moderation team on Ubuntu Discourse.
How has being a part of the Ubuntu community impacted you personally or professionally?
Professionally, not. My work has nothing to do with Linux. On a personal level, the interaction with users and moderators has been a fascinating and rewarding experience that continues to this day.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone who wants to start contributing but doesn’t know where to begin?
Read as many topics as possible, read documentation (this is critical), ask others for advice, be humble.
Outside of the world of Ubuntu and tech, what are some of your other passions or hobbies?
Cooking/baking, nature walks, history, archaeology, mountain biking, jazz.
What excites you about the future of Ubuntu?
The people, the developers, the engineers, the community. I see passion and committment, I see dedication to something that benefits people from all walks of life no matter where they live or what they do in their regular lives.
Editor’s Note:
Rubi has been part of the effort to revitalize the Ubuntu Discourse over the past year. His enthusiasm and dedication to making this a safer, more productive and welcoming space cannot be overstated. It’s a real joy to work alongside him and I’m glad I could give him a few well earned flowers today. 