PyDev of the Week: Raza (Rython) Zaidi

This week we welcome Raza Zaidi (@razacodes) as our PyDev of the Week! Raza is a content creator on Twitter and YouTube. You can learn about Python, data science, Django, and more on Raza’s YouTube channel. Check it out when you get a chance!

Now let’s spend a few moments getting to know Raza better!

Can you tell us a little about yourself (hobbies, education, etc):

Hi I’m Raza, Head of Dev Rel at thirdweb. An accountant by profession, but technology enthusiast by heart. Wildly passionate about emerging technologies and educating about them. I consider myself a below average developer and the walking proof that anyone can learn how to develop. Currently I’m focused on teaching developers on how to get started in Web3 through his Twitter, Tiktok and YouTube channel. By no means do I think that Python is the best programming language out there. In my spare time, I love to binge-watch anime.

Why did you start using Python?

I used to be head of a Data engineering platform and honestly I thought all these devs were so cool. I just started to hang out with the devs and asked them to use me as a test bunny. I learned how to spin up environments and run basic Python scripts and that’s how I got started with Python.

What other programming languages do you know and which is your favorite?

I know a bit javascript and solidity. I like solidity, but nothing beats Python.

What projects are you working on now?

A couple. I think Python is tremendously underrepresented in the web3 space. There are so many cool libraries and I’m working on content to bring more awareness. Besides that I’m diving into the beginner space again, a platform to help more people get started with Python.  Stay tuned!

Which Python libraries are your favorite (core or 3rd party)?

  1. Pandas
  2. Turtle (I love drawing in Python!)
  3. thirdweb’s sdk

How did you decide to become a content creator?

I guess I look at myself as a really bad programmer and use that power to simplify concepts for myself to understand. Then I just share that information. So it wasn’t a conscious decision, I kind of rolled into it.

What challenges have you had as a content creator and how did you overcome them?

I guess finding new ideas and structure. I’m learning a lot by engaging in the community and I need to do that more. But that’s great way to get inspiration.


Is there anything else you’d like to say?

Please reach out if you also want to spread the message about Python. I’m looking for like minded devs who want to contribute to beginner content and to help people get started to develop in Python!

 

Thanks for doing the interview, Raza!