Neloshi Silva
UXPA 2024 Reviews Chair
Meet Neloshi, a dedicated UXPA conference volunteer who discovered the organization while working with Sara Mastro. Neloshi continues to help UXPA create great conference experiences!
1) How did you first learn about UXPA International?
I learned about UXPA through my work colleagues. I was fortunate to be working with Sara Mastro who was a board member of the UXPA when we first started working together. I remember being very impressed with her work and the organization itself that I asked if there were any opportunities for me to volunteer as well.
2) What are your activities as a UXPA Int’l Volunteer?
At first, I have been a reviewer for UXPA conferences for a number of years. Since UXPA 2021, I have been volunteering as the Reviews Chair. I assign, manage, and gather reviews for all conference proposals that we receive each year to make sure that we have a good amount of high quality reviews from the UX community. The conference committee then uses those reviews to select the best program for each year. Over the years, I have taken on other roles in the conference committee such as Unconference Chair and Web Chair as well.
3) What motivated you to become a volunteer with us?
Everything. The people, the conference, and the work that UXPA as an organization do for the UX community.
4) What challenges have you encountered in your role as a volunteer?
Life gets quite busy during the review period for me. To make sure that all submissions get an evenly balanced amount of reviews, I have to stay pretty vigilant and constantly monitor and reassign as the reviews come in. It is challenging, especially towards the end, but I must also say that it is quite fun and very rewarding at the same time.
5) What is the most rewarding, the most enjoyable aspect of being a volunteer?
Every year I marvel at how the UX community comes together and puts together such a remarkable event for all of us. Every year that I got to attend the UXPA Int’l conference, I have always been very impressed with the conference program, and now I’m so proud to be part of such a wonderful event.
6) What would you say to someone who would like to become a volunteer?
You should definitely reach out. UXPA is mostly a volunteer run organization and we are always looking for more people to join the fun. You’re going to meet some great, like minded people and learn a lot no matter what stage you are in your career.
7) How can people find out more and connect with you?
Feel free to find me on LinkedIn or if you sign up to be a reviewer for the next UXPA Int’l conference, you will automatically connect with me and can also be a part of the UXPA International Conference as well.
