VanLUG Technical Talk @Burnaby Public Library

Join us for our FREE monthly gathering that is not just a meeting --- it's a stepping stone to advancing your journey with Linux and Open Source Software. For this event, we have two important speakers with a wide variation of topics!

Technical Talk 1: Knowledge Offline & Gaming On-the-Go: Steam Deck Meets Kiwix
Speaker 1 : Alex Gaidachev
Description: Discover how to turn your Steam Deck into a portable powerhouse for both offline learning and Linux-based gaming. In this 30-minute session, we’ll explore how to install and manage Kiwix, an open-source tool for accessing offline knowledge like TED Talks and Wikipedia. We’ll also dive into the Steam Deck’s dual modes—full-screen SteamOS and desktop Linux—covering performance tweaks and practical tips. A live demo using the Steam Deck and dock will show how versatile this device can be for both education and entertainment. Ideal for open source enthusiasts, Linux tinkerers, and anyone curious about mobile-first computing.

Technical Talk 2: Behind the Interface: Open Source Agents and the Future of AI Workflows
Speaker 2: Eduard Maievskyi, Ph.D.
Description: What really powers tools like ChatGPT and Grok? This session pulls back the curtain on modern AI systems, offering a practical overview of open-source and proprietary language models, their core use cases, and how AI agents and multi-agent systems are being built today. We’ll explore platforms used to create agents, introduce the concepts of agentic flows, and touch on emerging ideas like MCP and A2A. Whether you're curious about what drives today’s AI or looking to build your own open agent system, this talk offers a thoughtful entry point—with a focus on open-source frameworks and tools.

Why should you attend?

1. Join a Culture of Innovation: Be part of a community that advocates for a collaborative, transparent, and innovative software development culture. This meeting will be a hub for sharing ideas that can stimulate our local software development industries, offering more reliable and secure software options.
2. Network and Grow: Connect with fellow Linux / OSS users and developers to create a strong community network. Our meeting will be a platform for you to find better software solutions, support structures, and opportunities for learning and professional growth.
3. Showcase and Learn About Innovations: Witness and discuss the latest innovations in Linux/OSS. Our event is an opportunity for networking, learning, and discovering how these technologies are driving local economic growth and technological advancement.

Mark your calendars and join us in shaping the future of open-source technology in our community. Looking forward to seeing you soon!