Digital Diaspora began as a response to a simple but persistent question: why do so many talented Afro-descendant technologists remain invisible in the global tech ecosystem?
In this talk, I share the story of how Digital Diaspora was built from the ground up in Colombia, without institutional backing, funding, or proximity to traditional tech power centers. As an Afro-Latina woman working in global technology, I will explore what it means to lead without permission, build credibility outside dominant narratives, and create community as a form of infrastructure.
The session reflects on the challenges of leadership at the intersection of identity, geography, and technology, and how open source values, Python communities, and intentional design helped transform an idea into a sustained and growing network. Rather than focusing on success stories alone, the talk highlights real lessons learned, mistakes made, and the strategies that allowed the community to grow while staying rooted in purpose.
This talk is for anyone interested in community building, inclusive leadership, and how meaningful tech ecosystems can emerge from the Global South.