Hello, I’m Kathara Sasikumar, a Debian intern in the Outreachy program, currently working on the Debian Wiki modernization project under the guidance of my mentor, Lucas Kanashiro. I graduated from NSS College of Engineering with a B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering.
Navigating life’s challenges, I find strength in Resilience—the commitment to learn, adapt, and grow. Curiosity is my compass, turning every experience into a chance for discovery and continuous learning. Compassion, for me, is about helping others grow, creating a supportive community where we all flourish together.
Discovering Open Source: How I Got Introduced
In 2019, during my first year in college, FOSSNSS was inaugurated. I vividly remember attending the kickoff, wide-eyed and clueless. I might have been more lost than a penguin in a desert, but hey, I was there, and that’s what counts, right? Fast forward a few weeks, from sitting at the inauguration without a clue to actively participating and helping organize events. It was like going from “Hello World” to “Hello FOSSNSS World” in the blink of an eye.
Say FOSSNSS is the sole reason that got me into open source.
Oh, and did I mention you can explore our crew? Check out our website at fossnss.org. Looking back at my college journey, FOSSNSS holds a special place in my heart. It’s not just about technology; it’s about building a community, sharing laughter, and creating memories. If our adventure aligns with your interests, you’re more than welcome to join the FOSSNSS journey! Let’s grow, learn, and laugh together! 🚀
Choosing Debian: Why This Community?
Picking Debian for my internship was a no-brainer because of its incredibly friendly community. Debian is all about welcoming everyone, no matter their background or skill level. Being part of Debian feels like joining a big, supportive family where everyone is not just accepted but cheered on. Debian’s strong belief in free and open-source software aligns perfectly with my values. It’s not just a tech thing; Debian is like a warm, inclusive home where every contribution matters. I’m excited to learn, contribute, and be part of the Debian journey! 🌟
Why I Applied to Outreachy: What Inspired Me
Joining Outreachy is fueled by my firsthand experience as a woman navigating the challenges of the tech industry in India. The scarcity of role models and guidance inspired me to be the representation I wished for during my early career. Outreachy offers the ideal platform to contribute meaningfully, bridging the gender gap, and fostering a more diverse and inclusive tech community. It’s not just an internship; it’s an opportunity to inspire change and empower people in technology.
Buckle up for an exciting journey ahead, and thank you for joining me on this adventure! See you in the next blog. 👋✨