Regeneration and Contribution from The Younger Generation in FOSS Projects

The sustainability of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) projects depends on the regeneration of contributors across generations. As priorities shift with age, many senior contributors reduce their involvement, leaving gaps in community activities. This highlights the importance of empowering the younger generation to take on active roles in project development and community management. Their participation brings faster innovation, fresh perspectives, and awareness of new technological trends that ensure projects remain relevant. However, challenges such as imposter syndrome, lack of mentorship, and unclear entry points often hinder their involvement. To address this, senior contributors must provide guidance, share success stories, and build meaningful engagement that resonates with younger contributors’ lifestyles and skills. By fostering mentorship and collaboration, the open-source ecosystem can achieve both continuity and innovation, ensuring long-term community vitality.