Greetings & Salutations!

My name’s Nadya Arnaoot, and I also go by Nabil. I live in San Francisco with my partner, two immense fluffy white cats, and an impressive collection of science fiction. I’m a computer geek, a writer, and a sometimes-spoken word performer. Lately I’ve been experimenting with computer art, most recently by using PowerPoint for creative non-fiction and family history.

I’ve always moved back and forth between the worlds of computer and English Literature. I’ve got degrees in both, and particularly love translating techy topics for folks who are less comfortable and familiar with computers. This has involved teaching tech-phobic environmentalists how to use a web-based process management system; tutoring college students in pseudocode; setting up blogs for friends; and explaining single-payer health care to folks who find it confusing.

I’m particularly passionate about the ways that the internet lets folks produce culture, rather then just consuming it– I love the capacity for self-publishing. I spent a few years working on a website for queer Arab-world women and trans people, and I’m still proud of creating a resource that’s useful for folks around the world. Lately I’m frustrated by the ways I see women being discouraged from writing online by harassment and gender-based put-downs.

If any of this sounds interesting, check out my blog or drop me a line!

N