About me

I am a critical information science researcher dedicated to exploring the intersection of data sovereignty, personhood, and the societal impacts of smart city initiatives. My work draws from human-computer interaction (HCI), smart city ethics, more-than-human narratives, and privacy, all aimed at fostering technology that enhances our shared experiences.

I believe technology should respect and uplift diverse identities and experiences. My research addresses complex issues such as the socio-economic impacts of smart city technologies, privacy in data-driven societies, and the ethical considerations of emerging technologies. By focusing on how smart city initiatives intersect with data stewardship and personhood, I aim to expose the power dynamics embedded in urban technologies and propose frameworks for more inclusive and just urban futures.

As a Ph.D. student in Information Science at the University of Washington, I work closely with Professor Lindah Kotut to explore these critical themes. My goal is to contribute novel insights and strategies that ensure a more equitable technological landscape.

I also bring my insights into the classroom, where I have been a Teaching Assistant for courses on design methods, research methodologies, and the intersection of gender and technology. My lesson plans emphasize critical engagement with technology, encouraging students to consider the broader social implications of their work and to strive for inclusivity in all aspects of design and development.

Before my Ph.D. journey, I gained valuable industry experience as a Senior Analyst at Aleada Consulting, where I led privacy research and project management initiatives, helping clients navigate the complex landscape of data protection and privacy regulations. My work there reinforced my commitment to ethical technology practices and informed my approach to research and education. Prior to attending UW, I attended Cornell University, majoring in Information Science and Government, with a Law and Society minor.

Throughout my academic and professional career, I have been recognized for my contributions to research, teaching, and service, including nominations for awards such as the Forbes 30 Under 30 and multiple travel awards for academic conferences. Feel free to browse my resume!

News and Updates

  • May 2024: My first presentation at the CHI Conference in Honolulu, Hawaii, presenting Begone, Orthot: A Near Future Exploration of Bodily Autonomy.
  • April 2024: Attended the CRA-WP Grad Cohort Workshop for Women in Computing in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where I received invaluable feedback on my CLEAR poster.
  • February 2024: Invited to present my research at my alma mater, Cornell University, where I gave a presentation entitled “Digital Marble: Chiseling Data Sovereignty into Tomorrow’s Technology
  • August 2023: Awarded a scholarship to attend the CMD-IT/ACM Richard Tapia Conference, where I engaged with a vibrant community of diverse computing professionals.
  • September 2022: Began my PhD in Information Science at the University of Washington, marking the start of an exciting chapter in my academic career.
  • October 2021: Honored to be nominated for Forbes 30 Under 30 for my impactful work in consulting, a recognition that continues to inspire my research and professional endeavors.

My Passions

Some of my personal and professional passions!

01.

User Research

My professional passion lies in the intersection of human-computer interaction and tech policy research, where I hope to user behaviors, craft user-friendly interfaces, and drive innovation while ensuring ethical and equitable deployment through informed policy frameworks.

02.

Teaching

I find immense joy in fostering a dynamic learning environment where students are engaged, empowered, and inspired to explore new ideas. With a dedication to facilitating understanding and growth, I strive to cultivate critical thinking skills, encourage active participation, and nurture a supportive community of learners.

03.

Graphic Design

Whether crafting compelling visuals for projects or simply enhancing everyday experiences with creative design elements, I enjoy leveraging graphic design to communicate ideas and express my creativity across all facets of life.

04.

volunteering & Outreach

Volunteering and outreach are integral parts of my life, allowing me to give back to my community while making a positive impact. Whether it’s mentoring students, organizing community events, or supporting local charities, I find fulfillment in connecting with others and contributing to meaningful causes. I’m always looking for new opportunities to get involved and make a difference.

05.

Project management

Enthusiastic about project management, I excel in orchestrating plans, fostering collaboration, and delivering exceptional results. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for problem-solving, I thrive on balancing timelines, resources, and stakeholder expectations to drive success.

06.

Languages

Fluent in Urdu and Hindi, I’m currently mastering French and Pashto to broaden my cultural and linguistic skills.