In loving memory of Zeel Thakkar, a passionate contributor to the WordPress community

On November 18, the WordPress community was shaken by heartbreaking news: Zeel Thakkar, a valued contributor and beloved community member, passed away at WordCamp Surat 2025. We, along with everyone who had the privilege of knowing her, deeply mourn the loss of such a bright, talented, and painfully young soul.

Prior to her tragic passing, Zeel’s nomination led to her being honored as a recipient of the Yoast Care Fund. With the help of her nominator, Michelle Frechette, she shared her WordPress journey and some of her cherished memories with us. Her kindness, compassion, and genuine love for the community shine through every one of her answers.

Nominator Michelle Frechette: “It was my honor to nominate and interview Zeel prior to her sudden and tragic passing.

Zeel was a bright light in the WordPress community, and specifically in the Indian WordPress community. She received the Kim Parsell Memorial Scholarship in 2025. She volunteered on the WP Accessibility Organizing team. She had just announced that she was starting a new position as Co-Founder of the LinkedIn AI Community. She loved people and WordPress. She will be deeply missed.

I am so thankful that Zeel was aware that she had won this award and was very happy and excited about it. And I’m proud to have known her.”

Remembering Zeel Thakkar

Zeel touched many lives with her warmth and dedication. Her legacy will continue to inspire contributors, organizers, and community members for years to come. We invite you to read the interview she graciously shared with us, offering a glimpse into her journey and the light she brought to WordPress.

Hi Zeel, what do you do in the WordPress space?

I’m Zeel Thakkar, a passionate WordPress Developer with 3 years of experience creating elegant and efficient WordPress websites. I believe a great website should not only work flawlessly but also engage and delight users. My focus is on building intuitive interfaces and seamless experiences that make every interaction meaningful.

I actively contribute to the WordPress ecosystem as a Core Contributor, Meta Contributor, Pattern Author, Photo Contributor, Training Contributor, Translation Contributor, and WordCamp Organizer/Volunteer. Within the Training Team, I also serve as a mentor, guiding new contributors and helping those who want to get involved in the WordPress community.

As a proud member of the WordPress Ahmedabad Community, I regularly participate in local meetups, contribute to organizing events, and encourage more women to take part in WordPress contributions.

What advice would you give to someone just starting with WordPress?

My advice for anyone starting their WordPress journey is to begin contributing as early as possible. Getting involved in contributions not only builds a sense of pride but also helps you learn new skills and deepen your understanding of WordPress. It’s one of the best ways to grow personally and professionally while becoming an active part of this amazing community.

For women starting with WordPress, my advice is to get involved in contributions, whether you’re a student or just beginning your career. Join a local WordPress Campus Connect or meetup to learn, grow, and build connections within the community.

Who is your WordPress mentor?

My WordPress journey has been deeply shaped by my mentor, Jagir Bahesh. He guided me during my internship and has continued to support me ever since. Whenever I needed help, whether it was contributing to the community, preparing for WP events, or navigating new challenges, he was always there to advise and encourage me. His constant guidance and mentorship have played a huge role in my growth as a WordPress contributor.

What’s your favorite WordPress memory or something you’re most proud of?

One of my proudest WordPress memories is being selected by the WordPress Global Community Team as a recipient of the Kim Parsell Memorial Scholarship 2025 for WordCamp Asia 2025. It felt like a dream come true. My contributions opened the door for me to travel outside India for the very first time and attend a flagship WordPress event.

It was an unforgettable and emotional milestone not just because it was my first flagship WordCamp, but because it symbolized how my hard work and community involvement were recognized on a global level. This scholarship experience remains one of my most meaningful and cherished WordPress memories, reminding me how powerful and inclusive the WordPress community truly is.

Zeel Thakkar gave so much to the WordPress community, and her impact will not be forgotten. We honor her memory today and always. Rest in peace, Zeel.