Reflecting on Domain-Driven Design Europe in Antwerp: A city that embodies innovation and community

As the dust settled on another successful edition of DDD Europe, Anneke Schoonjans, the event manager, shares the event's highlights and legacy, particularly what made this year’s event in Antwerp truly special. Bringing together a diverse and international community of software professionals, thinkers, and innovators, Antwerp proved to be not just a host city but a partner in delivering an exceptional experience.

“From the outset, accessibility stood out.” Anneke begins. “Its central location, excellent rail connections, direct access via Eurostar and seamless transfers from both Brussels Airport and Schiphol meant that our attendees from across Europe and even Australia could join us without any hassle. Antwerp provided the logistical ease needed to support this global event.”

But it wasn’t just about getting here. “The event venue, A Room with a ZOO, perfectly positioned next to Antwerp Central Station, offered a welcoming and professional setting tailored to the needs of the multidisciplinary sessions and workshops,” Anneke explains. “The quality of service from local partners, from the proactive venue staff to the flexible and eco-conscious caterers, gave us complete peace of mind. We could focus entirely on our content and our community, knowing every detail was handled.”

What resonated most with the DDD Europe team and attendees was Antwerp’s alignment with the conference’s values.  “Innovation, inclusivity, collaboration – these are at the heart of DDD Europe,” Anneke says. Antwerp’s thriving tech ecosystem, home to more than 5,000 IT companies and startups, echoed the energy and ambition of our audience. It made every session feel that much more relevant and inspiring.”

Antwerp’s creative and welcoming spirit also fostered meaningful connections. “Through social meetups, conference buddy systems, and even Slack channels for evening plans, our community came alive well beyond the conference walls. Anneke notes. “Whether it was spontaneous conversations in a hotel bar or local tips from Antwerp attendees, the city made it so easy for people to come together.”

Sustainability and inclusivity were key priorities, and Antwerp delivered. “From fully vegetarian catering to gender-inclusive facilities, we felt supported every step of the way,” Anneke says. “It helped us create a space where everyone felt considered and empowered.”

Looking back, Anneke is proud of what the team achieved together in Antwerp:

“We were hesitant to leave Amsterdam, but Antwerp surprised us in the best way! From the top-notch venue A Room with a ZOO and excellent accessibility, to the proactive Flemish work ethic. Hosting DDD Europe in a city that lives and breathes innovation just makes sense. And Antwerp’s creative energy and strong tech community make it the ideal home for conversations that shape the future of software. The fact that DDD Europe will return here next year says it all. Antwerp truly understands what our community needs. We couldn’t be happier with how the city helped us bring our vision to life.”