GeekGirlCon has recently been lucky enough to welcome three Seattle area high school students as interns to a 6-week internship with GeekGirlCon. They have lent us their creativity, passion, and energy and even taught us some things in return. Each amazing GGC intern has not only written a blog post, they have been working on individual projects, creating presentations, and attending learning sessions with the marketing department, the programming department, and even with the GeekGirlCon Board of Directors! They weren’t the only ones learning – the GeekGirlCon volunteers already have ideas for improvements for any future internship programs.
We asked the interns for feedback on the GeekGirlCon Intern experience, and here is what they said:
Sumaya:
Working with GeekGirlCon has been an incredibly enriching experience for me. I’ve learned so much about marketing, from creating engaging campaigns to understanding audience insights. This hands-on experience allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios, significantly enhancing my skills. The collaborative environment and the opportunity to work with passionate individuals made the journey even more rewarding. Overall, it was a great experience that has not only broadened my knowledge but also inspired me to pursue further opportunities in marketing!
~ Sumaya A.
Yarinet:
At this internship, I have had a great time getting to know all these amazing people, and the different things they do for GeekGirlCon (GGC). In my first year of high school, I took a marketing class, so I had some background knowledge when I entered the internship. With the internship, I got to expand my knowledge on marketing. I learned, and actually got to use the websites the marketing team uses when making posts on platforms such as Facebook, and Instagram. GGC uses the website Hootsuite where the team can upload posts made in Canva, and schedule a post on different sites, whether it be Instagram, or Facebook. I really enjoyed this app, not only because you could schedule the posts, but because you could add the same description and hashtags to both without having to move from post to post, unlike as if one was to post directly from the site.
I also got to learn how to use twitch, which is what the twitch team uses for their live streams, which I also learned how to upload onto Hootsuite. At my time in the internship, I was also given the opportunity to actually create a post for the upcoming GGC trivia night, which was later edited, and will later be posted! Another great thing I absolutely enjoyed doing during my time at the internship was the photoshoot for the merch. What I loved about this, was that it was all in person! I enjoyed getting to see people, and meet them in-person for the first time! This was also something I got to do with another intern, Halleluia! I had a great time working with her, taking photos, and striking different poses!
GeekGirlCon was a great experience, and I would love to work with them again in the future, as a volunteer or staff member! If anyone is interested in working with awesome geeks, with knowledge on just about anything, but are also interested in marketing, gaming, design/creativity, GGC is the to-go!
~ Yarinet
Halleluia:
Some of the things I learned at GGC was not only how to use new platforms for me like Discord and Hootsuite, where the team can upload posts made in Canva, but I also got to learn more about marketing and community communications. Since I want to go into the communications field when I go to college, it was great getting real life experience in what I could be doing in the future and it also piqued my interest in marketing.
Creating new content on social media was also something I truly enjoyed doing! One of my other favorite things from the content on social media was making Tik Toks for the account that will be seen soon I hope! I also had a great time doing the photoshoot with Yarinet. I enjoy modeling for pictures and modeling in general so this photoshoot was really fun to do. I did not have a least favorite part of this internship. I had a great time overall and would gladly intern again if I can. For anyone who wants to intern at GGC I think it would be the best idea for any student.
To students who are considering interning with GGC in the future I’d say you will definitely have a great time interning. This organization is so inclusive and makes you feel right at home when you first start. There are so many different opportunities at GGC so I would say it is the perfect place to be an intern at!
What excites me most about potentially attending GGC is finally meeting many of the people I met at this internship. I met and got to know so many amazing people at the internship.
~ Halleluia
A huge thank you to our three excellent interns, Sumaya, Yarinet and Halleluia, as well as to our internship contact Vanessa. And thank you to members of the GeekGirlCon staff who participated in supporting these geeks – from putting together trainings and projects, setting schedules, donating extra time, coordinating I.T., and even uploading this blog to the website – we appreciate every one of you!
Thank you to our GeekGirlCon intern, high school student Sumaya for the following blog post: More Geek Spaces? By Sumaya
Having geek spaces are very important because they provide a close and welcoming environment for people who share the same interests and hobbies. These spaces can help create creativity, collaborations and sense of belonging. They allow people to connect with others who have the same passions, which could be very valuable for those who might feel like a black sheep or isolated in social settings. On top of that, geek spaces often encourage learning and innovation, which can lead to new ideas and friendships.
Not only do geek spaces create a close and welcoming environment, they’re also known for their inclusive atmosphere, where diversity, backgrounds, and identities are celebrated and embraced with a warm welcome. These open spaces welcome everyone, regardless of their level of expertise or specific niche interest, creating an ocean of ideas and perspectives. This inclusivity holds a culture of acceptance and mutual respect, allowing individuals to feel loved and supported. By destroying barriers and encouraging open-mindedness, geek spaces not only enrich the experiences of each and every member but also contribute to a more diverse, welcoming, and dynamic community.
Geek spaces offer amazing opportunities for learning, making them valuable center points for personal and professional growth. These environments are overflowing with scholarly and well educated individuals who are eager to share their expertise in areas like gaming, science fiction, technology, and more. Discussions, Workshops, and collaborative projects are not uncommon, supplying hands-on experiences that increase learning. Doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner looking to be interested in a new hobby or an expert aiming to increase your skill and knowledge, geek spaces provide the community support and resources needed to create continuous learning experiences and development.
Geek spaces play a critical role in community building with individuals with shared passions and interests coming together. These spaces produce a sense of belonging, where members can connect over common hobbies and experiences. By engaging in group events, discussions, and activities, individuals create strong friendships and bonds that reach out beyond the geek space itself. This feeling of community holds mutual support, collaboration, and a welcoming environment where everyone feels valuable and embraced. In essence, geek spaces help to sew a tightly knit community where individuals can blossom both collectively and personally.
Gamers Engaged 2023 gaming charity event at Mox Boarding House in Bellevue.
In conclusion, Geek spaces are amazing for their inclusive atmosphere, creating a welcoming environment where diversity in interest and identities is celebrated. These spaces foster a home for acceptance and mutual respect, enhancing the community with many different perspectives. The community also provides ample learning opportunities, with discussions, workshops, and collaborative projects that magnify skills and knowledge across various fields. Whether you’re a newcomer or a specialist, geek spaces support continuous professional and personal growth. Additionally, these spaces are the heart for community building, creating friendships and strong bonds through shared activities and passions. By connecting common hobbies to individuals, geek spaces cultivate a sense of belonging and support, making sure everyone feels valued. Geek spaces are dynamic portals that encourage inclusivity, community, and learning, making these spaces essential for fostering a vibrant and engaged group of individuals.
Thank you to our GeekGirlCon intern, high school student Halleluia for the following blog post:
We always hear stories about the athlete or the musician highlighting the defining moments in their lives that shaped their journeys and who they are. Today I will be interviewing someone who proudly identifies as a geek: my cousin, Helina Yohannes. We will be learning more about her geeky interests, what makes her consider herself a geek, what she thinks of the word geek, how it has changed over the years, some advice she has for today’s geeks and her younger self, and how embracing her geeky passions has influenced her life for the better.
What do You Geek Out About?
“Cars. I have always liked how they looked and have been interested in how they are built and how they work and how they are each programmed differently,” Helina says. “It was the one thing that brought me and my dad together when I was a kid. Something we could bond over. He actually taught me everything I knew about cars, which led to a deep love for them and how they are programmed,” She continues with a smile on her face. “I also geek out about music. I always found it to be interesting how different melodies, chord progressions, and production can make you feel a plethora of emotions. It is just so interesting how much of a moving experience it is.” Helina enjoys a lot of different genres of music and can tell you who produced a song based off of the melody alone. “I think it is so amazing how music can bring so many different people together and connect with one another. I love how you can always feel seen and understood and it is such a great tool to express yourself.”
This is a Porsche 911, one of Helina’s favorite cars. She says if she could she would definitely want this car to be her first one she buys by herself.
In What Ways Do You Consider Yourself a Geek?
“I tend to take interest in the randomest things. For example, music! I have a different attachment to it, like I internalize it a lot more than other people do and I tend to dive into the production and the lyrics. I feel like I get more excited about these things more than a regular music listener would.” Her love of music and music production led her to spend a lot of her free time producing music. She gets inspiration from artists like Adele and Charlie Puth.
This is the Weeknd, Helina’s favorite artist. He is also another artist she gets inspiration from all the time.
How Do You Define “Geek”?
“To me, I would define a ‘geek’ as someone who is very passionate about a certain topic or subject. Someone who could completely dive into a topic, try to collect all the knowledge they can, and be able to talk about it for hours. We are enthusiasts about our certain area of focus,” Helina explains.
How Do You Think The Term “Geek” Has Changed Over the Years?
“ I feel like at some point as the internet and social media grew and became more and more of a thing, the word geek was used as a more derogatory term against people that were interested in some things that not many people were into,” Yohannes thinks. “And, since it was the norm to be the same as everyone else, everyone that was different was made fun of for being that way. So, the word geek, instead of just describing people who have particular interests and are very passionate about them, was used to alienate those same people who are eager to talk about their interests. But, now as we evolve and grow into a more conscious society, the word geek is slowly finding its way back to the meaning it was meant to have and has become more of a compliment than an insult like it was before,” Helina says she is proud to be considered a geek though and is glad that the word has been brought back to its original meaning.
Do You Have Any Advice For Today’s Geeks?
“I think my only advice for today’s geeks would be there is nothing to be ashamed about when being called a geek, or geeking out about certain interests of yours like cars, music, art history etc. Be who you are because it’ll also help others be who they really are too,” Helina advises.
If You Could Give Your Younger Self Any Advice, What Would It Be?
“I think I would say the same thing I said for today’s geeks, to own it and own who you are. Growing up I felt like I was ashamed of my interests and would hide it from others for the longest time because I just didn’t think they were cool. So, I would tell my younger self to just own it. Believe it or not those interests make you more interesting than everyone else and that ended up being the reason a lot of people wanted to be your friend.”
How Has Embracing Your Geeky Passions Influenced You and Your Major?
“Being able to embrace my passions for cars and how they work and music and how it is produced led me to want to major in computer science in college,” Helina gushes about what she chose as her major. “ Once I was able to finally be true to myself and attend clubs like Robotics, I felt like I was closer to finding what I truly wanted to do in college. Taking my first computer engineering class made me realize I found something that I would truly enjoy doing for the rest of my career.”
Robotics is a club that Helina joined later on in high school. Her robotics club was one of the reasons she realized she enjoyed computer science.
Overall
Helina had a lot to say when it came to being a geek, her opinions on the word, and how being a geek helped shape who she has become. But, overall we really got to hear how proud she is to be considered a geek and how grateful she is to finally be true to herself and her geeky passions. Without those passions and without her confidence in those passions, she wouldn’t have met and bonded with the people she knows today and she wouldn’t have found her true passion that she will be pursuing for the rest of her life. Thank you Helina!
GeekGirlCon is super excited to welcome some Seattle area high school students as they lend us their creativity, passion, and energy through their 6-week internship with GeekGirlCon. Each amazing GGC intern has written a blog post on the geeky topic of their choosing to be published on the GeekGirlCon blog!
Intern Yarinet chose to write a tv review of one of her favorite tv shows: Gilmore Girls! Here is what she has to say about it:
We are all a geek at heart, whether it be about a book, podcast, movie, or tv show. I am a geek for the tv show Gilmore Girls. I love talking about the main character, Rory Gilmore, and her development throughout the series; how many of the other characters in the show influence her in both negative and positive ways. An example can be found in the 6th season of the show. Rory had previously dropped out of Yale University, and it was not until she encountered Jess, and his famous “Why Did You Drop Out of Yale” Speech, (that all us Gilmore Geeks know my heart,) that motivates Rory to return to Yale.
I also love having debates with my friends on who the best boyfriend for Rory was, in my opinion, it was Dean. Dean was a very kind and caring boyfriend; he read Rory’s favorite books, movies, and shows. Dean put himself in uncomfortable situations, to be with Rory and see her happy. DEAN BUILT RORY A CAR, A CAR!! Dean was amazing in the first season, an amazing first boyfriend. After season one, his character started to change, and not for the better… The writers really ruined his character. But overall, in my opinion… Season 1 Dean was superior, and an amazing first boyfriend.
But what I love the most about Gilmore Girls is how it sets a role model to many girls to follow the steps of Rory Gilmore; a hardworking and studious girl, always setting goals for herself, and doing her best to strive in school, allowing her to succeed greatly academically, leading to her acceptance to Princeton, Yale, and Harvard.
Gilmore Girls is an amazing tv show. Having amazing and funny characters, such as Michel and his amazing sassy attitude. Sookie, a great chef, and her nice and caring ways toward everybody. Luke, another amazing character, who’s grumpy, but whose caring attitude could make anyone laugh. Lane, an amazing drum player, with great taste in music. Emily Gilmore, who wouldn’t love a baddie like her?! And of course, Lorelai Gilmore, Rory’s mom, with her amazing taste in fashion! And how could I forget the iconic Kirk?! Too many awesome characters in this show that could be discussed, all with different stories to follow.
And, of course, like many shows, Gilmore Girls has its ups and downs. One thing I strongly dislike is the relationship between Lorelai and her mom, Emily. Their relationship could be described as a love and hate one. Because of their strong, and different points of view, they always clash. At times they wouldn’t even talk to one another. It isn’t until big moments in the show, like Richard’s (Lorelai’s father) heart attack, that they come to understand each other, and have sympathy for one another. But stuff like this, the “negatives” of shows is what teaches us, the audience, what to avoid, and what to expect, when talking to certain people, and making certain decisions. Overall, Gilmore Girls is a great show, a 10 out of 10, I would definitely recommend!
Mark your calendars now because we’re thrilled to announce the dates for GeekGirlCon 2024:
Saturday, November 9 & Sunday, November 10! at The Seattle Convention Center
Dive into the world of geek culture, connect with like-minded individuals, and celebrate the strength of diversity in the community. From panels and workshops to cosplay and gaming, GeekGirlCon is the ultimate gathering for all things nerdy and fantastic!
We’re on the lookout for passionate speakers, panelists, and workshop hosts to make this year’s con unforgettable! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a rising star, your unique perspective is what makes GGC special, and we can’t wait to hear your awesome ideas!
There are several programming submission forms:
Panel Submission: To submit your own panel or presentation for consideration.
Panelist and/or Moderator Application: To be considered as a panelist or moderator on any panels needing additional participants.
Workshop Submission: To submit interactive/educational content (Paint ‘n Take, hands-on wig styling tutorial, learn-to-code hour, etc.).
Games Floor Host Application: To submit a game you/your company created for consideration for the Gaming Floor.
We will accept submissions to all forms until Tuesday, April 30 at 11:59pm PST. Remember to read over our Mission & Values and ensure that your submission is in line with them.
Questions? See our Programming FAQ or contact info@geekgirlcon.com
Don’t wait – submit your programming ideas HERE today!
Vendor Applications
Calling all vendors and creators! Vendor applications for the astounding GeekGirlCon vendor hall are officially open! Secure your spot to showcase your awesome craft and creations and connect with the vibrant GGC community. The deadline for applying is June 15.
Stay connected with all your favorite GGC BFFs on our newly created community Discord channel. Join us to chat with friends old and new about your favorite geeky topics, stay connected and experience GeekGirlCon content all year round!
You can also follow us on our socials @GeekGirlCon for more details, including upcoming guest announcements, programming highlights, and more! It’s going to be an event to remember, and we can’t wait to share the geeky goodness with all of you!
Ngozi Ukazu(she/her) Bio: Ngozi Ukazu is a New York Times-bestselling author and the creator of Check, Please!, an online graphic novel whose printing campaign remains one of the most funded webcomics Kickstarter ever. She graduated from Yale University with a degree in Computing and The Arts, and later received a masters in Sequential Arts. Since 2020, her cartoons have appeared in The New Yorker.
Mad Rupert (she/they) Bio: Mad Rupert is less than 5 feet tall and lives in Somerville, Massachusetts. She got her start in online comics over ten years ago, and authors two ongoing webcomics: Sakana, a slice-of-life workplace comedy, and Robber-Robert, a sci-fi romance for mature readers. She has also worked extensively on comic adaptations of Cartoon Network properties like Adventure Time, Regular Show, and Steven Universe, and is the artist for Bunt!, an upcoming ogn written by Ngozi Ukazu, published in Feb 2024 through First Second. When not making comics, Mad enjoys spending time with her partner and their very old dog, going to the gym, and playing Minecraft. ‘Mad’ is short for Madeline, she’s not actually angry.
Aiden Thomas (he/him and they/them) Bio: Aiden Thomas is a trans, Latinx, New York Times bestselling author of young adult novels. They received an MFA in Creative Writing from Mills College. Originally from Oakland, California, they now make their home in Portland, OR. Aiden is notorious for not being able to guess the endings of books and movies, and organizes their bookshelves by color.
Jay Justice (she/her) Bio: Jay Justice (@ThatJayJustice) is an IDIC award-winning editor, consultant, cosplayer, and game developer from New York City, based in Bangkok, Thailand. Her work has been featured by SyFy, Disney+, BBC America, and Marvel Comics, and she has been the inspiration for new characters in DC Comics and Boom Studios. Since 2009 Jay has crafted over 120 costumes and created inclusive programming at conventions, libraries & schools across the country. Jay’s most recent work includes editing books for Macmillan Publishers, consulting on the video game ‘Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical’ and working for BioWare as a member of the Mass Effect Legendary Edition Community Council. As an outspoken POC, LGBTQIA+, and disability advocate, Jay is dedicated to creating lasting change within her community & inspiring others to do the same.
Banana Chan (she/they) Bio: Banana Chan is a Cantonese Canadian game designer, writer and publisher living in the US. Her latest work has been on Forgery, Jiangshi: Blood in the Banquet Hall, Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft and Betrayal at House on the Hill: 3rd Edition. They recently won Dicebreaker Awards’ Game Designer of the Year 2022 and 2 Silver ENnie Awards in 2022.
Featured Contributor Panels and Events:
Saturday:
Let’s Tell a Story: Storytelling through Games 11:00 am In Let’s Tell a Story: Storytelling through Games we’ll be discussing the art of narrative in games. Whether its a role playing adventure, a thematic board game, or something in between, stories told via the table top help us connect with those around the table. Additionally, storytelling in games adds atmosphere, educates, and gives players an opportunity to create something together. Our panel will discuss the whys and hows of storytelling in games, and the importance of storytelling in play. Special Guest: Banana Chan
Seeing Yourself in YA 12:00 pm Representation matters—but what makes it so important? And especially so in Young Adult literature? Join Aiden Thomas (Cemetery Boys, The Sunbearer Trials) and Ngozi Ukazu (Check, Please!, Bunt!) as they discuss what makes representation in YA essential for young readers.
Mystery Box Design Challenge 2:00 pm Teams will work together with table top industry experts to create a game using only a box of mystery items. At the end, games will be judged on a predetermined criteria and a winner selected! Sign up at the Tabletop Info Booth to participate.
Cosplay Contest 2:00 pm It’s time to wear your fandom on your sleeve and join us for our annual Cosplay Contest at GeekGirlCon 2023! Come support the hard work and talent of your fellow geeks as they showcase their finest wears and craftmanship while bringing their favorite characters to life. There will be LIVE performances by 8-Bit Brass Band – the cosplaying, mobile party band specializing in video game tunes, anime anthems, movie mashups, and fandom favorites – celebrating everyone’s inner nerd! If you are interested in participating in the Cosplay Contest, applications can be found here: https://bit.ly/44GrX4J
The Art of Publishing a Graphic Novel 5:00 pm Are you an artist or a writer? Why choose when graphic novels are right there! Graphic novels are flying off shelves, marrying two evocative storytelling forms: illustration and writing. Join Ngozi Ukazu (Check, Please!, Bunt!) and Mad Rupert (Bunt!) as they share tips and tricks to building a great story, and getting it out there.
Not just Science Fiction: Trans Identities in SFF 6:30 pm Sci-fi and fantasy have a long history of breaking barriers and binaries alike. From Star Trek to Lord of the Rings, trans identities can be found in the genre everywhere. But where does the line between interpretation and canon diverge? When can it be harmful vs. satisfying representation? Join our panel to explore these questions and more, and bring a few of your own!
Sunday:
Write Now: Getting Your Idea out of Your Head and Onto the Page 9:30 am Writer’s block is no joke, but never fear, Aiden Thomas (Cemetery Boys, The Sunbearer Trials), Ngozi Ukazu (Check, Please!, Bunt!), Mad Rupert (Bunt!), and more are here to offer their expertise on making a dream a reality.
The Great Board Game Design Show 11:00 am Join a panel of professional board game designers as they unveil a mystery box of components and scramble to design a board game in 1 hour. As part of the live audience, you’ll be asked to shout out suggestions and participate in the design process. Special Guest: Banana Chan
New Woke Same Old Slumber 12:30 pm What do you do when you cannot see yourself in the media you love? Why make it yourself of course! Join our panelists as they discuss how hard it was for them to see themselves in media growing up, how hard it still is, and how they started telling their own stories. Featuring Aiden Thomas (@aidenschmaiden)
Tea TRPG The Talk Show: Live! 2:00 pm Join Nikki Silveira (she/her) and Kristina Sisto-Kindel (any) for the last episode of Tea TRPG the Talk Show! Tea TRPG the Talk Show is an interview show where we interview guests of marginalized gender. We have had guests from all over the world including folks who have been on Dropout’s Adventuring Academy. This time, we will have Banana Chan (she/they/he) and Sarah L. Kinney (she/her) as guests.
Portfolio Reviews:
Mad Rupert, Ngozi Ukazu and Aiden Thomas doing Portfolio Reviews, so be sure to sign up here: https://bit.ly/3P3C1Pc
Working on a comic that will wow the world? Writing the Great American Novel? Submit your personal masterpiece to be considered for a portfolio review by one of our talented featured contributors. 🎨Option 1: Portfolio Review – An opportunity for artists and illustrators to gather feedback on their portfolio from working professionals. 🖊️Option 2: Query Package Review – An opportunity for unagented authors to gather feedback on their querying materials from a published author. Each author/illustrator has a limited number of spots to fill and will choose their reviewees personally, so submit your work today!
GeekGirlCon’23 is back for two days Saturday, October 7th through Sunday, October 8th! Join us for our exhibitor hall, geeky panels, nerdy workshops, epic gaming, cosplay, science and SO MUCH MORE! Passes are on sale now!
Applications for GeekGirlCon’23 PANELS, WORKSHOPS, and GAMING are now OPEN! Apply today!
A huge thank you to the Five(ish) Fangirls Podcast for chatting with our very own Jennifer Urrabazo about GeekGirlCon! They discuss the mission of GGC, Doctor Who, spider season in the PNW, and more. Give it a listen!
You asked and we listened, we’re pleased to introduce a discounted teen pass to GGC ’22!
We’ve also added new supporter/donor tiers this year for those of you interested in helping GeekGirlCon survive past the pandemic years. As always, we couldn’t do this without you all!
Like so much of the world, GeekGirlCon has been functioning on a skeleton crew for the past couple of years. In that time, despite all of tragedy surrounding us in so many different ways, we manageing to put on two whole epic digital events: GeekGirlCONLINE ’20 and GeekGirlCONLINE ’21. The backlog of that digital programming can always be found on our Youtube channel for whenever you’re hankering for some geeky content.
Though we’re unbelievably proud of our team and community for coming through and making in happen safely online, we’re beyond excited to announce that GeekGirlCon will be back and in-person on November 5, 2022 as a one-day event. You heard that right: GeekGirlCon ’22 will be a real-life IN-PERSON, ONE-DAY event on November 5, 2022 in Seattle.
We take protecting our community and staff seriously. To help us gather in-person safely, attendees of GeekGirlCon ’22 will be required to submit proof of vaccination and wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth during the event. To help us protect each other, we highly encourage our community members to further:
Have your badge mailed (instead of picking up in-person the day of)
Leave 6 feet of space between yourself and those outside of your party
Take a rapid test the day of the convention if one is available
Stay home if you feel sick!
We will definitely keep y’all posted as we further work out what meeting in person this year will mean, so please keep an eye here and on our social channels.
GEEKGIRLCON NEEDS YOU!
Lastly, we wanted to point out that we have a bunch of open positions on our year-round staff. The pandemic has been tough on us all, and GeekGirlCon’s staff is much smaller than it has been previous years. We need you to help us make GeekGirlCon ’22 possible! In particular, we’re seeking a Volunteer Manager, Registration Manager, Exhibitor Services Manager, and Cosplay Contest Coordinator. Please email us if you’re interested in those roles or any of the roles listed here.
