Fernanda G. Weiden

Fernanda G. Weiden URL:
Email: fernanda@softwarelivre.org

How long have you been using Debian?

Since the 22nd of November of 2003.

Are you a Debian Developer?

Not yet.

What areas of Debian are you involved in?

Packaging. (officially and unofficially), advocacy.

What got you interested in working with Debian?

Its adherence to principles and the development model. Also, it feels good taking part on the creation of something I use daily.

Do you have any tips for women interested in getting more involved with Debian?

Do not be intimidated is the first advice, but mainly, have people know about your work and do not let anyone diminish it. Something I've been noticing since I started working with women's groups inside the Free Software community is that many women are there taking part, but just a small number of them expose their ideas. Give priority to that. having an opinion, even if it is not the brightest, is better than having none or hiding it so nobody knows about it. Any idea is a bright idea when people around you get to know it.

Are you involved with any other women in technology group? Which one(s)?

Yes! I am one of the founders of PSL-Mulheres (Projeto Software Livre Mulheres). We work on projects to increase digital inclusion of women, assist feminist NGO's and social groups with understanding and using Free Software.

A bit more about you...

I work for IBM as a developer at their Linux Technology Center installed at UNICAMP, a university of the State of São Paulo. I became involved with Free Software in 1997. I still haven't finished university, although I've started two university courses, already: mathematics, and computer science, but I'm planning to start (and finish, this time) a technology-related course real soon now.