Hi, I'm a nerd.
So tiktok is going away for us in the US. I'm tempted to circumvent the ban with a VPN and esim but gosh it's gonna be quiet over there. Where have you all gone aside from here? I'm on rednote but as someone who uses a screen reader, I'm a bit out of luck unless I learn Chinese which might be cool to do anyway.
That initial post about the TikTok ban really got me thinking, not just about VPNs and eSIMs, but about the bigger picture for us women in tech and nerd culture. It’s more than just losing a platform; it's about where we find our tribe, our voice, and how we continue to share our passions. Especially for those of us who are deeply invested in STEM fields, comics, gaming, or anything traditionally labeled 'nerdy,' these online spaces are often where we feel most at home. Being a woman in tech, or frankly, a female enthusiast in any male-dominated 'nerd' sphere, can sometimes feel a bit isolating. We often navigate spaces where we're underrepresented, or sometimes, even overlooked. That’s why the sense of community we build online is absolutely vital. It’s where we can share our successes, ask for advice, celebrate our unique perspectives, and genuinely connect over shared interests – whether that’s debating Star Wars lore or discussing the latest breakthroughs in AI. When I think about 'influencers' in our niche, it’s not always about having millions of followers. For many of us, it’s about authentically sharing our journey. It could be documenting a coding project, reviewing a new sci-fi book, showcasing a cosplay build, or simply sharing thoughts on the latest tech gadgets. These acts of sharing are incredibly powerful. They inspire others, demystify complex topics, and create avenues for meaningful discussion. Every time we share our genuine experiences, we're influencing, we're building, and we're showing younger generations that there's a place for them too. For me, as someone who relies on a screen reader, accessibility is a huge part of my digital life. It highlights how important it is for platforms to be inclusive, and why diverse voices in tech development are so crucial. When I’m looking for new communities or thinking about sharing my own content, I often consider how accessible it is for everyone. It’s part of our responsibility as members of this 'nerd culture' to advocate for spaces where everyone feels welcome and can participate fully. So, where are we all going? Beyond the VPNs and trying to keep up with specific apps, I think it’s about cultivating resilient communities wherever we can. Explore niche forums, join Discord servers dedicated to your specific interests, or even start a small group on platforms like Lemon8. Don't be afraid to be the one to kick off a conversation, share your latest tech project, or your deepest Star Wars theories. What are your go-to platforms or strategies for finding and connecting with your fellow female nerds and tech enthusiasts? I'd love to hear your thoughts and discover new spaces together!
