Breaking barriers with Python: Naomi Ceder’s journey of identity, leadership, and community

How one developer’s path through transition, tech, and advocacy shaped a more inclusive open source world.

Naomi Ceder shares how Python and open source gave her the space to grow—personally and professionally. From embracing her identity to leading with purpose, her story highlights the power of inclusion and community.

Naomi Ceder’s journey into open source and the Python community wasn’t an easy path. It’s a story of persistence, identity, and finding her voice in more ways than one. Getting involved with open source, she found something even more powerful in the people using it, a welcoming spirit that valued learning and collaboration. That sense of belonging laid the groundwork for what would become a long and meaningful relationship with open source.

As Naomi became more involved, attending conferences, organizing events, and eventually helping lead the Python Software Foundation, she also began navigating her personal journey of gender transition. Coming out as a transgender woman in a public-facing tech space came with real challenges, but also with moments of clarity and purpose. Her lived experience deepened her commitment to creating spaces where others could show up fully, without fear.

As chair of the Python Software Foundation, Naomi used her platform to push for stronger codes of conduct and better representation. She also helped establish the Trans*Code hackathon and other community spaces where underrepresented developers could thrive. For Naomi, it wasn’t just about policy—it was about people.

Today, Naomi continues to speak, teach, and mentor, helping the next generation of developers find their place in tech—not despite who they are, but because of it.

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