Who We Are
Meet the person building this community space for trans folks and LGBTQ+ community members.
Our Team
Quinn Penney - She / Her
Quinn Penney
She / Her
Founder & Creator
I'm a 31-year-old trans woman who started HRT at 27. Over nine years as a software developer - including five years as a principal architect and director of research and development - I've had the privilege of working alongside incredible LGBTQ+ people in tech. Through that experience, I've seen how powerful it can be when we have spaces designed specifically for us, where our needs and experiences are centered from the start.
Right now, with trans rights under constant attack and the current administration actively working to erase our identities, it's more critical than ever for our community to have somewhere to lean on each other. We need spaces where we don't have to explain ourselves, where we can build skills together, and where we can support each other through whatever comes next. Tech literacy, digital safety, and having allies who truly understand our experiences aren't just nice-to-haves - they're survival tools.
PHX Beyond Binary is my way of creating the change I want to see in the world. A place where trans people can gather safely, grow together, learn from each other, and build the skills we need to protect ourselves both online and off. This is about creating real community, real safety, and real opportunities for people like us to thrive.
Why We're Building This
When I started exploring my gender identity and eventually came out as trans, I was already working in tech. I saw firsthand how many LGBTQ+ people gravitate toward tech spaces - we're drawn to communities where being different is often an asset, where problem-solving and creativity matter more than fitting traditional molds.
What I realized is that Phoenix needed a space designed specifically for trans people from the ground up. A place where trans folks could show up and just exist without having to code-switch or explain ourselves. Where our specific needs - from digital security to community support to just having somewhere to belong - are the foundation, not an afterthought.
PHX Beyond Binary exists because we deserve spaces that center us, resources that serve us, and community that truly gets it. This is about building something meaningful for people like us - because we're worth it.
Want to Get Involved?
We're building this space for our community, and your input matters. Whether you want to be a founding member, help shape what we become, or just stay updated on our progress - I'd love to hear from you. Take the survey to share your thoughts and let me know how you'd like to be involved.