Talk Time: Episode 004 – Rita Robles Loaiza

4,025 words, 21 minutes read time.

Editor’s Note

In our fourth Talk Time episode, Rita brings curiosity.

🇵🇰 Roman Urdu Version

Rita Robles Loaiza ka Talk Time interview ab Roman Urdu mein bhi parhein.

👋 INTRODUCTION & BACKGROUND

Let’s start by getting to know you. This section covers your background, current work, interests, and the experiences that have shaped your journey.

Please introduce yourself.

I’m Rita Robles Loaiza. I believe in lifelong learning and the power of communities to create opportunities. I love teaching, traveling, exploring the world of specialty coffee, and contributing to open-source projects.

What’s your hometown, and where do you currently live?

I’m originally from Cartago, Costa Rica, and I currently live in Cartago as well.

What do you do professionally?

Professionally, I work at the intersection of education and technology. I’m a university professor and Associate Director of the Faculty of Computer Science at Universidad Fidélitas. I also serve as the Program Manager for LATAM for the WordPress Credits program, helping universities engage with the WordPress open-source ecosystem.

What is your educational background?

I’m a Computer Systems Engineer with a Master’s degree in Innovation, along with a professional certification in UI/UX. I’m passionate about continuous learning and enjoy expanding my knowledge through professional certifications and lifelong learning opportunities, especially in education, technology, and innovation.

What are you working on these days?

These days, I’m focused on growing the WordPress Credits program across Latin America by building partnerships with universities and helping more students contribute to open source. At the same time, I’m working with my university on initiatives related to innovation, curriculum development, and preparing the next generation of technology professionals.

What achievement are you most proud of?

I don’t think my greatest achievement is a title or an award. It’s seeing the look on my students’ faces when they finally understand something they once thought was impossible and start applying it with confidence. Those moments remind me why I chose a career in education.

What hobbies do you enjoy outside WordPress?

Outside of WordPress, I enjoy exploring the world of specialty coffee, discovering new coffee shops, and learning about different brewing methods. I also love traveling, listening to music, reading about history, building LEGO sets, and experimenting with different drinks and flavors.

What motivates you in life?

I’m motivated by continuous learning and by helping others grow. I enjoy creating opportunities for people to discover a new passion, develop a skill, or gain the confidence to achieve something they once thought was impossible. Knowing I’ve contributed, even in a small way, to someone’s growth is what inspires me the most.

What is something the WordPress community doesn’t know about you?

Something the WordPress community probably doesn’t know about me is that I’m naturally curious. Besides technology, I’ve always been fascinated by voice-over and broadcasting, and I even took some basic training in it.

How would your friends describe you?

I actually asked two of my closest friends this question, and between the two of them, they described me as someone who is warm, genuine, and approachable—someone they can trust, laugh with, and truly be themselves around. They said I have a way of making people feel comfortable and welcome, and that I value building meaningful, authentic connections. They also described me as a good listener and a person of integrity. According to them, I stay true to my values, treat others with honesty and respect, and remain authentic without pretending to be someone I’m not. While I have a relaxed personality and a good sense of humor, they also see me as hardworking, dependable, and deeply committed when something truly matters. They both agreed that I enjoy taking on new challenges. They see me as intelligent, capable, and determined, someone who embraces opportunities to learn and grow. Once I commit to something, I give it my full effort and persevere until I achieve my goal.

🔍 DISCOVERING WORDPRESS

Every contributor has a beginning. Share how you first discovered WordPress, what attracted you to it, and how your journey started.

How did you first discover WordPress?

I first discovered WordPress while I was in college, after attending a local Meetup out of curiosity. Shortly afterward, my friend Ericka Barboza invited me to get involved in the community, and that’s when my WordPress journey truly began. From that point on, I started studying the platform professionally, built numerous projects with WordPress, and found a community where I’ve been able to learn, teach, and contribute.

What was your first WordPress project?

My first official WordPress project was born at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. I developed a platform called Un Café para Seguir, where specialty coffee shops across Costa Rica could create a profile to sell gift cards and generate income while their businesses were closed. It was a collaborative project with a group of friends who were coffee producers and baristas. I was responsible for all the technical development, with the support of my friend Fabiola Camacho. It was a very meaningful experience because it showed me how technology can make a real difference by supporting a community during a difficult time.

What attracted you to WordPress?

What attracted me most to WordPress was that it wasn’t just a tool for building websites—it was an open community where people collaborate, share knowledge, and build things together. I realized I could learn from people around the world, contribute my skills, and help others grow at the same time. That combination of technology, education, and community is what made me want to stay involved.

Who helped you when you were getting started?

I was fortunate to have people who believed in me from the very beginning. Ericka Barboza was the one who invited me to get involved in the WordPress community and encouraged me to participate more actively. Over time, I also learned a great deal from many other community members who were always willing to share their knowledge and support newcomers. That culture of collaboration is one of the reasons I chose to stay.

What was the biggest challenge in your early days?

I think my biggest challenge was taking the first step and overcoming imposter syndrome. In the beginning, I felt like I didn’t have enough experience to participate or contribute to the community. Over time, I realized that no one expects you to know everything, and that there’s always room to learn, ask questions, and contribute in different ways. Along the way, I built my confidence by drawing on my experience as an educator and the leadership skills I had developed. In the end, everything came together, helping me grow, contribute more to the community, and take on new challenges.

When did you realize WordPress would become part of your career?

It happened gradually. At first, WordPress was simply the technology I used to build projects. Over time, opportunities to teach, organize events, and contribute to the community started to appear. When I realized I could combine my passion for education with open source, I knew WordPress was going to become part of my career.

What was your first contribution to WordPress?

My first real contribution to WordPress was as a speaker at WordCamp Central America 2021. Sharing my experience with the community was a very special moment because it made me realize that contributing isn’t just about writing code. We can also contribute by sharing knowledge, inspiring others, and helping the community grow.

What skills did WordPress help you develop?

WordPress helped me develop much more than technical skills. It strengthened my leadership, communication, teamwork, and ability to collaborate with people from different cultures and backgrounds. It also taught me how to build communities, coordinate projects, and understand that open source is built by people, not just by code.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I would tell my younger self to trust herself more and not be afraid to ask questions or take on new challenges. We often think we need to be completely ready before taking the next step, when in reality, growth happens along the way. I’d also remind her to enjoy the journey, because the best opportunities often come when we step outside our comfort zone.

What keeps you interested in WordPress today?

What keeps me interested in WordPress is that there’s always something new to learn and a new way to contribute. The community is constantly evolving, new challenges continue to emerge, and there are always opportunities to make an impact. I’m especially inspired by seeing how WordPress can change people’s lives, particularly by helping students and new contributors take their first steps into open source.

< /> CONTRIBUTION JOURNEY

Contributions are at the heart of the WordPress project. Tell us about your contribution, experiences, motivations, achievements, challenges, and lessons learned along the way.

What does open source mean to you?

To me, open source means the opportunity to learn, collaborate, and create a collective impact. It’s a space where knowledge is shared freely and where anyone, regardless of their experience, can contribute and grow alongside a community.

How did you get involved in contributing?

My involvement happened naturally. I first attended Meetups, then started volunteering at events, gave my first WordCamp talk, and gradually discovered that there are many ways to contribute beyond coding. Each experience motivated me to become even more involved.

What was your first contribution experience like?

It was exciting, but also a little intimidating. Speaking at WordCamp Central America 2021 made me realize that contributing is also about sharing knowledge and helping others learn.

Which contribution are you most proud of?

The contribution I’m most proud of is leading the integration of WordPress Credits at Universidad Fidélitas. Seeing students make their first open-source contributions and discover new professional opportunities has been incredibly rewarding.

Which teams or projects have you contributed to?

I’ve contributed to initiatives related to WordPress Credits, event organization, the Photos Team, polyglots, and educational outreach within the community. I’ve also participated as a speaker, organizer, and mentor in various WordPress initiatives.

What motivates you to contribute?

I’m motivated by knowing that even a small contribution can create opportunities for others. I enjoy sharing knowledge, connecting communities, and helping more students discover the value of open source.

What have you gained from contributing?

I’ve gained friendships, professional opportunities, and a community that constantly inspires me. I’ve also developed leadership, communication, and collaboration skills that have had a positive impact on my career.

What challenges have you faced as a contributor?

One of the biggest challenges has been balancing my professional responsibilities with time for contributing. I’ve learned that every contribution matters, no matter how small, and that consistency is more important than trying to do everything at once.

What contribution would you like to make in the future?

I’d like to continue strengthening WordPress in education and help more universities integrate open source into their academic programs. I believe there are still many opportunities to bring academia and the WordPress community closer together.

How has contribution changed your career?

Contributing transformed my career by opening doors I never imagined. It allowed me to develop new skills, connect with people from around the world, and take on leadership opportunities that have shaped my professional growth.

Why should others contribute?

Because contributing is one of the best ways to learn. Whether you write code, organize events, translate content, or help others, every contribution matters. Along the way, you’ll develop new skills and become part of a community that’s ready to support you and grow with you.

🗓️ COMMUNITY & EVENTS

The WordPress community is built by people. We’d love to hear about your experiences with meetups, WordCamps, community building, and the connections you’ve made.

What was your first WordCamp experience?

WordCamp San José 2019

What is your favorite WordCamp memory?

Without a doubt, organizing WordCamp San José 2023 and later volunteering and leading a contributor table at WordCamp Europe 2026. Seeing people from different countries work together toward a common goal is something that never stops inspiring me.

Have you organized a meetup or WordCamp?

Yes. I was the Lead Organizer of WordCamp San José 2023, which was especially meaningful to me because it became the first WordCamp in Costa Rica to achieve gender parity among its speakers. We also made a conscious effort to prioritize many new voices, giving first-time speakers the opportunity to share their knowledge and become part of the community. In addition, I’ve contributed to Meetups, WordCamps, and other initiatives that help grow the WordPress community.

📈 WORK & PRODUCTIVITY

How do you approach your work and manage your day? This section explores your work habits, productivity, tools, and professional insights.

What does a typical workday look like?

No two workdays are the same. I usually divide my time between teaching, academic leadership, meetings with universities, WordPress projects, and planning new initiatives. I enjoy having a career that combines strategy, technology, and working with people.

Where do you usually work from?

I work in a hybrid environment. Some days I’m at the university, and other days I work from home, which allows me to collaborate with people and communities from different countries.

Morning person or night owl?

Definitely a night owl. I feel most creative and focused in the evenings, and many of my best ideas come when everything is quiet. Even though my schedule sometimes requires early mornings, if I had the choice, I’d happily work late into the night with a good cup of coffee.

How do you handle stress and avoid burnout?

I try to set healthy boundaries between work and my personal life. I also make time to travel, enjoy my hobbies, and remind myself that not everything has to be solved in a single day.

🍽️ FOOD & DRINKS

Now for the fun part! Share your favorite foods, drinks, food memories, and the meals that bring you comfort, joy, or inspiration.

What is your favorite food?

If I had to choose, I’d say pasta and French fries. They’re two things I simply can’t say no to. Even though I love trying local food whenever I travel, I’m always happy to come back to a great plate of pasta or some perfectly crispy French fries.

What is your favorite drink?

Without a doubt, specialty coffee. I love exploring different origins, brewing methods, and flavor profiles.

Tea or coffee?

Coffee! That answer has never been in doubt.

What food reminds you of childhood?

Stuffed squash baked with ground beef and crema de ayote (Costa Rican squash soup). Those are the dishes that remind me most of my childhood and home-cooked meals. Every time I have them, they take me back to family moments around the table.

What is your comfort food?

Without a doubt, freshly made bean soup with pasta. It’s one of those meals that instantly makes me feel at home, especially on a rainy day or whenever I need to slow down. It’s simple, but nothing feels more comforting to me.

What is your favorite breakfast?

A traditional Costa Rican breakfast with “gallo pinto”, and of course, an excellent cup of coffee.

What is the best meal you’ve ever had?

It’s hard to choose just one, but the meals I remember most are the ones I’ve shared while traveling. For me, a great meal is always a combination of good company, local culture, and a memorable experience.

What do you usually eat while working?

I try not to eat while I’m working, but on busy days I’ll usually have fruit and water

What local dish should visitors try?

Without a doubt, gallo pinto. To me, it’s one of the most iconic dishes in Costa Rica—a simple but delicious combination of rice and beans, usually served with cheese, plantains, tortillas, and sour cream. It’s especially popular for breakfast, and if someone wants to start their day like a Costa Rican, that’s definitely my number one recommendation.

🔥 COOKING & KITCHEN

Whether you’re an experienced cook or just enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, we’d love to learn about your cooking experiences, favorite dishes, and kitchen stories.

Do you cook?

Yes, I do. I enjoy cooking because I find it relaxing, and it’s also a great way to share moments with the people I care about.

What was the first thing you learned to cook?

White rice in a rice cooker when I was six years old. It was my first step into cooking, and thankfully, it turned out well.

What dish can you cook perfectly?

I’d say white rice and Aztec soup. I’ve made them so many times that I can almost cook them from memory.

Who taught you to cook?

My brother Antonio. He’s the one who sparked my interest in cooking and taught me many of the basics I still use today.

What is your signature dish?

Definitely Aztec soup. It’s the dish I most enjoy making for my family and friends.

What food would you like to learn to cook?

I’d love to learn more about cooking meat—different cuts, cooking techniques, and how to achieve the perfect doneness.

What ingredient do you always keep at home?

Black pepper and sweet peppers (bell peppers). They’re two ingredients I use in almost everything I cook.

If a team of WPKitchen visited your home, what would you serve?

I’d serve “picadillo de papa”, a traditional Costa Rican dish made with potatoes, vegetables, and spices, served with warm corn tortillas. It’s simple, homemade, meat-free, and a great example of the kind of food you’d find in a Costa Rican home.

What is the most challenging dish you have ever cooked?

A roasted turkey for Christmas. It’s one of those dishes that requires a lot of planning, patience, and attention to detail.

What meal would best represent your personality and why?

I’d say “arroz con leche”. It’s sweet, comforting, and traditional, but every family has their own way of making it. I think that represents me well—warm, creative, and always adding my own personal touch to what I do.

🏠 Kitchen Photo: Please share a photo of your kitchen or cooking space. Tell us a little about this space.

Photo of my coffee bar: My coffee bar is one of my favorite spaces at home. I created it to enjoy coffee as an experience, not just a drink. It’s my little corner to try new flavors, prepare something special, and simply enjoy the moment. It reflects a lot of what I love: specialty coffee, attention to detail, and having a cozy space that feels completely my own.

😄 FUN & REFLECTION

A collection of lighthearted and thought-provoking questions designed to reveal more about your personality, perspectives, and interests beyond WordPress.

Pineapple on pizza: yes or no?

Yes! I’ve never understood why it’s such a big debate. I love it.

Sweet or savory?

It depends on the day. Sometimes I’m craving something sweet, and other times I definitely want something savory.

What food do you love that surprises people?

Freshly made bean soup with pasta. It’s a very simple dish, but it’s one of the most comforting meals for me.

What food do most people love but you don’t?

Eggs. They’ve never really been one of my favorite foods.

What hidden talent do you have?

I’d say experimenting with drinks and flavors. I enjoy learning about different ingredients, trying new combinations, and creating interesting drinks for friends and family.

What makes you laugh?

Spontaneous conversations with friends, clever humor, and those unexpected little moments that nobody plans but somehow become the funniest memories.

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

Teleportation. I’d love to be able to visit anywhere in the world in seconds, especially so I could travel without spending hours getting there.

What is something on your bucket list?

Visiting the Dolomites. It’s one of those places I’ve always dreamed of seeing because of the incredible landscapes and mountain trails.

What life lesson took you the longest to learn?

That I can’t do everything on my own. Learning to ask for help and trust other people has been one of the most valuable lessons in my life.

What are you grateful for today?

For the opportunities I’ve had to learn, travel, teach, and meet incredible people along the way. All of that has helped shape who I am today.

BEYOND THE QUESTIONS

Every Talk Time interview includes five personal elements that make it different from traditional interviews. These simple details help readers connect with the person behind the WordPress profile and add a uniquely WPKitchen touch to every story.

🎧 Current Playlist: What are you listening to these days?

Lately, I’ve been listening to Rumours by Fleetwood Mac on repeat. I love this album because it’s much more than a collection of great songs—it tells the story of a band that turned personal struggles and broken relationships into one of the greatest albums ever recorded. Every track feels genuine, and it’s amazing that, nearly fifty years later, the music still sounds fresh and emotionally powerful. It’s one of those albums that reveals something new every time I listen to it. https://open.spotify.com/album/1bt6q2SruMsBtcerNVtpZB?si=bveYUix3QZSwLNcUHK76Rg

🎵 Song Recommendation: Recommend one song to the WordPress community.

One Latin song I always recommend is “Plástico” by Rubén Blades and Willie Colón. It’s far more than a salsa classic—it’s a powerful social commentary wrapped in incredible music. I love how it combines meaningful lyrics with an unforgettable rhythm, making you want to dance while also reflecting on the message. Decades after its release, it remains just as relevant and impactful. https://open.spotify.com/intl-es/track/3ZIE8flTJ6WWn8wF0YzaaQ

💬 Favorite Quote: Share a quote that inspires you.

“Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.”

🍽️ Empty Plate Question: If you could invite three people from the WordPress community to dinner, who would they be?

Ericka Barboza, Cely Cruz e Isotta Peira

📸 A fresh selfie or photo for the interview

🖥️ Workspace: Share a photo of your workspace.

🌍 Favorite Place: Share a photo of a place that inspires you.

🎁 Favorite Gift: Share a gift from WordPress community that means a lot to you.

🧳 Travel Memory: Share a memorable travel photo or story.

A Message for WPKitchen

I would like to congratulate you on such an original and meaningful initiative. WPKitchen shows that building a community goes far beyond writing code—it also means caring for the people who make the project possible.

I truly appreciate the idea of supporting WordPress contributors through a good meal. It’s a thoughtful way to strengthen the community, encourage collaboration, and remind us that behind every contribution is a person who deserves to feel valued.

I wish WPKitchen continued success as it grows, and I hope that, over time, it can reach even more regions around the world, allowing more contributors to experience the positive impact of a community that genuinely cares about its people.

Thank you for inspiring the WordPress community with such a powerful initiative!

Guestbook Autograph

Until Our Next Tasty Conversation

Rita’s Talk Time interview brings curiosity, learning, community, and specialty coffee together. Her journey reminds us that contribution can be about teaching, sharing knowledge, creating opportunities, and helping others grow.

Thank you, Rita, for bringing curiosity to Talk Time and inspiring others to keep learning and exploring.