2025-10-04 –, Guiting-guiting
OpenStreetMap (OSM) thrives on teamwork and the desire to accurately depict the globe. Nonetheless, within its contributor base, gender disparities still exist. In addition to reflecting larger cultural trends, this underrepresentation affects the type of data gathered and the viewpoints given priority.
Mappers, community organizers, and advocates get together on this topic to explore various aspects of gender in the OSM ecosystem. The workshop will highlight initiatives to promote diversity, talk about how cultural norms affect participation, and share personal experiences navigating gendered expectations. We will look into issues like: What are the ways in which mapping communities exhibit binary gender assumptions? What aspects of gender are influenced by linguistic and cultural contexts? In what ways can we establish environments that embrace a range of gender identities?
By examining these questions, the workshop aims to:
• Draw attention to the difficulties that underrepresented genders in OSM confront.
• Discuss ways to encourage equal participation and combat gender biases.
• Promote the use of inclusive terminology and methods in mapping projects.
Those working on diversity projects, community participation, and the creation of mapping tools and policies may find this conversation very relevant. Participants will get knowledge about creating an OSM community that is more inclusive and celebrates the diversity of its members.
Arnalie Vicario, Laura Mugeha, Letwin Pondo
Talk keywords:Community, gender, language, participatory, discussion
Workshop requirements:No specific requirement
I'm a passionate geospatial enthusiast and a volunteer in the OpenStreetMap community, currently serving as Co-Chairperson of the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT) Community Working Group. Additinally , I am a certified drone pilot driven by a commitment to inclusivity. I aim to bridge the geospatial data gap, empowering underrepresented groups and individuals. Currently pursuing a Master's degree in Geoinformation Science, I continue to explore innovative solutions for a more equitable and representative mapping ecosystem.
Arnalie from the Philippines advocates for open data and is passionate about building inclusive spaces in the open mapping and open geo community.
She has been an Openstreetmap contributor since 2016, the same year she joined and became part of the OSM community in the Philippines. She is a supporter and ally of various communities and networks such as Geochicas, Women+ in Geo, and more. In 2023-2024, she served in the OSM Foundation Board focused on the community agenda. Currently, she works with the UN Global Service Center as Community Engagement Specialist for the UN Maps Programme.