2026 Workshop Presenters

Deb Almond

Deb Almond is a Washington, DC-based artist whose work serves as a visual message of solidarity with women and girls. After a decade-long career in global sexual and reproductive health, Deb returned to painting in early 2020. Her art is a direct extension of her core belief that a woman’s power to choose her own path depends on her education, health, safety, economic security, and freedom to express her true sexuality and gender. Drawing inspiration from global protest art and her own journey, Deb’s vibrant pieces weave together messages of unity and resistance. Originally from London, Deb has called the District home since 2014.

Kim Narby

Kim Narby is a queer fiction writer and essayist from Seattle. She has organized with the New York City Dyke March, and is an alum of the McCormack Writing Center (formerly known as the Tin House Summer workshop). Kim lives in Brooklyn with her anxious-attached cocker spaniel, Georgia. Her debut novel Saturn Returning, about a trio of messy lesbians in their 20s, was published with the Sapph-Lit imprint of Bindery Books in May 2026. You can find her on social media @kimnarby.

Irina Normatov

When I was 10, I intuitively chose my grandmother’s name, Miriam, as my middle name—without asking anyone. For Russian families, having a middle name is unheard of. My family and I immigrated to NYC from Uzbekistan (the part of the Soviet Union) in 1989, and I’ve been “Americanized” for 36 years while staying deeply connected to my Middle Eastern, Mizrahi, and Sephardic roots. I’m a proud New Yorker with a love for nature. I enjoy writing, photography, traveling, sunrises/sunsets, music, and swimming in the ocean. I’m also a fur mom to Emma, my 11-year-old Maltese/Shih Tzu. In flow, I show up as an interpreter, dharma/soul joy coach, caregiver, and coordinator—always aiming to create a space where people feel light illumination within. I love what I do.

2026 ASL Interpreter Team

Sarah Fornelli-Pepitone

I’m looking forward to spending time with all the incredible Women of the Wild!

Born and raised in the Garden State, I’m a Jersey girl at heart. Nature has always played a big role in shaping who I am—there’s nothing that nourishes and grounds my soul quite like time spent outdoors.

I completed my ITP in Houston, TX, and spent a few years interpreting in Boston before making my way to Brooklyn. These days, I live on the Hudson in New York with my wife and our curious kitten, Luna. When I’m not outside, you can usually find me crafting, strumming my guitar or soaking up quality time with the people I love.

I aim to create a safe, accessible space where everyone feels seen and held. 

Can’t wait to see y’all in the woods!

Serena James

My name is Serena, 

I am from the PNW and currently live in Denver Colorado. I have been Interpreting since 2018 and have been loving the field and all the opportunities to grow in work and as a human. I enjoy being in nature, creating things, and making new friends, and pouring into the ones I have.