A Python user group has been founded on the island by Gareth Maddock, an analyst and software engineer at Ascot, the specialty insurer and reinsurer.

Mr Maddock, who relocated to Bermuda in 2022, said PyBermuda was initiated to organise regular Python meet-ups, following the established example of groups of the programming language’s users located everywhere from Australia to Zimbabwe.

He said the primary goals of PyBermuda are to share knowledge, promote networking and build community among Python enthusiasts and professionals.

A launch event drew a diverse crowd of software engineers, ranging from novices to veterans with decades of Python experience, Mr Maddock said.

He added that the gathering served as a platform for participants to exchange best practices and build a sense of community, particularly beneficial in Bermuda’s environment, where Python professionals often work on their own or in very small teams.

Atiya Furqan, a Bermudian aspiring actuary, said: “I was first introduced to Python’s power in data analytics at school. I’m excited that PyBermuda will offer me an opportunity to enhance my skills and connect with like-minded professionals in the field.”

Mr Maddock added: “In Bermuda, most Python professionals work in isolated settings. PyBermuda aims to bridge this gap, allowing for the sharing of best practices and fostering a sense of belonging and community among Python enthusiasts.”

Mr Maddock envisions PyBermuda growing into a hub that maintains open-source projects.

The group’s aim is to have each meet-up session feature a unique coding challenge to engage and inspire participants.

Mr Maddock said the first challenge is to develop a Python method to solve the popular Wordle game.

Details of the challenge are available at github.com/pybermuda.

Mr Maddock said Python’s relevance in actuarial fields because of its data analytics capabilities was underscored at the inaugural event.

However, he said, PyBermuda welcomes individuals from all industries and disciplines, and at all levels of interest and expertise in Python.

The first meet-up was sponsored by Cactus, the tech company behind the award-winning insurance technology platform Marmalade.

James Robinson, founder of Cactus, said: “We are delighted in supporting the initiative, highlighting the benefits of Python in the insurance industry and its broader applications in Bermuda.

“Cactus hopes to grow its headcount during 2024 and the more Bermudians we can get interested in Python the easier it will be for us to do that locally.”

Mr Maddock thanked Ignite, Bermuda’s entrepreneurial accelerator, for allowing the use of its space for the first meet-up, thanks to the relationship Cactus has as an alumnus of the Ignite programme.

• Interested individuals are invited to join the PyBermuda community by signing up to their e-mail list at pybermuda.com