Community Fellowship > 2026 Fellows

2026 Fellows

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Ainura Sagynova (Kyrgyzstan)

I am an entrepreneur, engineer, and eco-activist working at the intersection of technology and sustainability. With a background in computer vision and machine learning, I founded Kyrgyzstan’s first green tech platform to prove that environmental innovation can emerge from Central Asia. In 2022, the BBC named me one of the 100 most influential women in the world.

Throughout my career, I have driven community projects that turn ideas into measurable impact, such as co-founding the online magazine SHEISNOMAD and teaching coding to girls across Kyrgyzstan. I also organized the first JavaScript conference in Central Asia with a focus on including people with disabilities in the tech industry.

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Alapayo Mathew Lubari Alison (South Sudan)

I’m an advocate for digital literacy, repair activism, and sustainability. I am a leader in the repair movement in East Africa and the co-founder and executive director of Community Creativity for Development (CC4D), a youth-led initiative advancing digital literacy and a culture of repair to empower communities. I lead impactful work in Uganda and South Sudan as an information and communication technology (ICT) and repair café educator.

My work integrates ICT and repair to educate young people—including refugee youth, women, and girls—on digital competence and electronics repair while raising awareness on the safe use of digital technologies for self-reliance.

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Amelia Kamanalagi (France)

I am a mentee with Cyber4Women. I care deeply about digital empowerment, community resilience, and making sure vulnerable groups are not left behind as technology evolves.

I previously worked with nonprofits in the Pacific region, helping with training programs and community awareness activities. These experiences shaped my commitment to promoting safer and more inclusive digital environments, particularly for families and migrant communities adapting to new technologies.

Outside my advocacy interests, I enjoy yoga and board games, and I like keeping up with news on technology and related laws.

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Baljinnyam Chinzorigt (Mongolia)

I’m the founder and ceo of YOUTHinc—the Young Mongolian Professionals Association—and an executive of the Internet Society Mongolia Chapter. Through 12 cohort-based programs, I’ve helped young Mongolians grow personally and professionally, building the skills and competencies to lead meaningful lives.

As a former coordinator of the International Labour Organization (ILO)-funded Decent Work for Youth Network campaign, I led a multistakeholder social media effort that reached nearly 1 million young people with labor rights awareness.

My advocacy now focuses on Internet governance.

My goal is to establish Mongolia’s first Youth Internet Governance Forum so the country’s young people—more than a third of the population—have a real voice in shaping their digital future.

When I’m not building programs or coalitions, you’ll find me training as a competitive natural fitness athlete or spending time with my two children and family.

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Beverly Leblanc (Dominica)

I am an educator, inclusive education advocate, and emerging global leader from Dominica, working at the intersection of education, policy, and community development.

I support curriculum design, teacher training, and student-centered learning through my education consulting ECAAM and non-profit Circle of Friends, with a strong focus on ensuring that all learners, especially those with diverse needs, are meaningfully included.

I am currently pursuing a Doctorate in Public Administration with a focus on Global Leadership, exploring how governance and policy can drive inclusive and sustainable development, particularly in small island states.

I am especially interested in digital inclusion and equitable access to the Internet.

I am driven by a belief that access to education, opportunities, and connectivity should never be a privilege. Beyond my work, I enjoy singing, reading, and creating content that inspires and uplifts others—reminding me that impact is always about people.

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Brahima KONATE (Mali)

I am a finance and digital professional based in Bamako, specializing in public finance, bank management, and community development. With a background in management, data analysis, and web development, I connect traditional financial structures to digital solutions.

As an active member of the Internet Society Mali Chapter, I participate in initiatives and train in Internet governance to defend an open and secure digital ecosystem. I also serve as an ambassador for ADCE Mali and digital lead for IFE Mali, where I am committed to local transformation and innovation.

I believe that digital technology and sound finance are the pillars of community empowerment.

When I am not creating strategies, I collaborate on local development projects.

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Charles Nyongesa Mudimbia (Kenya)

I’m a community network practitioner and information and communication technology (ICT) professional from Kenya.

I’m passionate about expanding meaningful Internet access and empowering underserved communities through technology.

Through my work with the TechVillage Community Network, I help build and maintain community-led connectivity initiatives while promoting digital inclusion, digital skills, and local innovation. My background is in fiber-optic networking, ICT infrastructure, and community engagement.

I’m particularly interested in how technology can improve education, livelihoods, and community development.

I believe that sustainable solutions are created when people have access to both connectivity and the skills to use it effectively.

When I’m not working on community projects, I enjoy spending time in my garden. Recently, I’ve developed a strong interest in applying artificial intelligence (AI) to farming, using it to better crop planning, fix agricultural challenges, and increase productivity. I’m eager to share these experiences and practical lessons with community members, encouraging more people to embrace AI as a tool for smarter, more sustainable agriculture.

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Clever Kondwani Sibale (Malawi)

I am a systems and network engineer based in Lilongwe. I focus on designing and managing robust Internet exchange infrastructure and private cloud environments to better regional connectivity.

My day-to-day work is about making networks more resilient, efficient, and accessible. With a background in business information technology, I’m motivated by the philosophy of continuous improvement. I constantly seek ways to optimize infrastructure so it can better serve the community.

I believe that a reliable, open Internet is a fundamental driver for development and collaboration across Sub-Saharan Africa.

When I’m away from the server racks, you can usually find me practicing my Japanese, tracking my Fantasy Premier League team, or jogging.

Dr. Abdelmounim Mahamat (Chad)

I am a pediatric physician, social entrepreneur, and secretary general of the Internet Society Chad Chapter.

Every day, I work to better Internet access, digital inclusion, and community engagement in Chad. I also serve as president of the Dari Prevent Health Association, where we lead health awareness and access initiatives for populations far from health centers.

My background blends health, education, and technology. I also teach English and volunteer to train young people because I believe that digital skills and leadership are powerful drivers for their future.

What gets me up in the morning is the idea that a healthy, connected, and trained child can transform their community.

I advocate for meaningful connectivity rooted in local realities to provide fair opportunities for everyone in Chad and across Africa.

I love connectivity and the Internet. When I’m not at the clinic, in a meeting, or training young people, you’ll probably find me exploring new digital uses or playing football with the neighborhood kids.

Dr. Khaoula El habyb (Morocco)

I am a researcher and assistant professor specializing in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and smart building applications. Currently affiliated with the National Institute of Statistics and Applied Economics (INSEA), my research focuses on using AI-driven approaches to fix challenges in energy management, predictive maintenance, and sustainable construction materials.

Beyond research, I am passionate about mentoring students and leading innovative projects that bridge theory and real-world applications.

I believe that AI is a powerful enabler of innovation, offering new opportunities to advance research, better systems, and address societal and industrial challenges.

When I am not working on research or teaching, I enjoy traveling, discovering new cultures, and reading. I also value contributing to community initiatives that promote education, collaboration, and social development.

Emmanuel Elolo Agbenonwossi (Togo)

I am an international technology policy expert and AI governance specialist with more than 12 years of experience helping governments and regional institutions across Africa.

My work focuses on artificial intelligence (AI) governance, digital public policy, Internet governance, and cybersecurity cooperation. I have led the development of national AI strategies and digital transformation frameworks in collaboration with the World Bank, UNESCO, and the Internet Society.

I currently serve as president of the Internet Society Togo Chapter and coordinator of the West Africa Internet Governance Forum (WAIGF).

My research explores the regulatory and geopolitical implications of emerging technologies, and I am the author of the bestselling policy book, Decolonizing Artificial Intelligence Ethics.

Esengeldiev Uran (Kyrgystan)

I am a technology policy and digital development expert, recently working as a consultant with the World Bank to drive digital transformation, open data initiatives, and digital resilience in the Kyrgyz Republic. I helped organizations navigate complex tech strategies and bridge the gap between policy and implementation. I believe in using technology to build open, resilient communities and creating meaningful digital opportunities for everyone.

My background blends executive leadership with advanced technology management. I previously served as vice president and chief technology officer for major national and mobile telecom operators and managed client work at Huawei’s country office.

I hold degrees in radio electronics and management at universities in Kyrgyzstan and advanced my expertise in technology policy in the US under the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program.

Outside of work, my primary interests are exploring our mountains and cycling.

Fadumo Jeylane Adullahi (Somalia)

I am an ICT professional working at the National Communications Authority (NCA) of Somalia in the Universal Access Department.

My work focuses on promoting inclusive digital connectivity and expanding access to communication services for underserved communities. I am passionate about digital inclusion, community development, and advancing policies that help equitable access to information and communication technologies.

I am particularly interested in bridging the digital divide and empowering communities through meaningful connectivity.

I believe that affordable and accessible Internet access is essential for sustainable social and economic development.

Ferhan Mohammed Umer (Ethiopia)

I am a tech leader, digital literacy trainer, and community advocate dedicated to driving sustainable development through innovation. I serve as the ceo of Prolink Teck Center and work as a youth training facilitator.

As an active member of the Internet Society, I hold professional certifications from the U.S. Embassy Addis Ababa and am recognized as a UPG Sustainability Leader.

My work connects digital transformation with youth-led peacebuilding and inclusive climate action. I am fully committed to equipping the next generation of changemakers with the digital tools and leadership skills needed to transform their communities.

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Gladys Chibanda (Zimbabwe)

I’m the vice president of the Internet Society Zimbabwe Chapter and founder of The Digital Society Lab, where we explore the intersection of culture, code, and Africa’s digital future.

My work centers on making sure the Internet actually reaches the people it’s meant for. I led a research project surveying over 1,000 women across Zimbabwe about their access and digital literacy and helped bring satellite connectivity to rural communities that had never had it before.

I’m endlessly curious about the gap between technology’s promises and people’s lived realities and what it takes to close it.

Outside of advocacy work, I run Krafted Ink, a design studio that turns discarded African fabric into packaging with a story.

When I’m not in fieldwork or fellowship sessions, you’ll find me writing personal essays, sketching new designs, or adding to an ever-growing reading list.

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Hugo Miranda (Portugal)

I’m an associate professor at the University of Lisbon, where I teach and research computer networks, mobile networks, distributed systems, and information technology (IT) management.

I served as vice dean of the Faculty of Sciences, where I worked on General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) issues. This aligns with my long-term research on privacy in the digital world. I’m a Linux enthusiast and a strong believer in the power and principles of open source software.

In my free time, you can find me hiking.

Issa Ibrahim (Niger)

I am a data engineer and artificial intelligence (AI) developer based in Niamey, where I lead technical infrastructure projects at Dev4Smart Think-Innovation.

I have over five years of experience deploying sovereign, on-premise digital infrastructure. This includes Niger’s national eCHIS system, which I’ve helped set up to serve more than 3,000 community health workers for the Ministry of Health.

My advocacy connects technical work with policy. I believe that having control over infrastructure is a digital rights issue, not just a technical choice.

I’m also pursuing a grant from the Internet Society Foundation to bring affordable community connectivity to about 2,500 residents in Niamey. I hold a master’s degree in AI from ESCEP-Niger, where I was an African Development Bank Excellence Scholar, and an engineering diploma from IAI-Niger.

I speak English, French, Haoussa, and Zarma.

James Kunle Olorundare (Nigeria)

I am the president of the Internet Society Nigeria Chapter based in Abuja. I am an ICT expert with over 20 years of experience.

As a registered engineer, I coordinate the Nigerian School on Internet Governance and serve on the Nigeria Internet Governance Forum Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Group.

Globally, I am the vice chairman of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Focus Group on the Metaverse and an Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) Fellowship mentor.

I hold dual master of science degrees in communications management and information technology. My professional focus centers on robust advocacy for an open, secure, and resilient Internet. I am a prolific researcher and have published work on the Internet of Things (IoT), AI, and digital decolonization. I actively promote encryption, an open and affordable Internet, and general online safety as core pillars of digital governance.

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Jeun Bee Cha (Canada)

I am a community builder and Internet policy advocate based in Calgary. My work sits at the intersection of digital inclusion, online safety, gender equality, and civic engagement.

I serve as the regional lead for North America with the Internet Society Accessibility Standing Group and previously served as secretary of the Internet Society Gender Standing Group. I’m passionate about making policy and technology more accessible to the people they affect, and I believe everyone should have the opportunity to help shape the systems that influence their lives.

When I’m not working, you can usually find me at a local theater production, watching films, or singing karaoke.

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Jose Carmelo B. Cueto (Philippines)

I am an electronics engineer based in the Philippines. I currently serve as an engineer III at the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), where I lead infrastructure and emergency telecom projects to keep communities connected when it matters most.

My background blends engineering with a master’s degree in cybersecurity, fueling my passion for exploring emerging technologies and advocating for safe, ethical governance of artificial intelligence (AI).

I firmly believe that digital progress should be inclusive, secure, and designed to better the lives of every citizen.

When I step away from the server racks and tech frameworks, I love focusing on creative habits. You can usually find me at home practicing the piano or studying a new foreign language.

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Jules Nizeyimana (Rwanda)

I’m a digital skills and community development practitioner engaged in digital literacy, online safety, Internet governance, and community-centered connectivity initiatives.

My background is in information and communication technology. My work spans community engagement, workshops, training, and project coordination among youth, educators, and marginalized communities to advance digital inclusion and responsible Internet use.

I actively contribute to Internet Society Rwanda Chapter initiatives and advocate for equitable Internet access for all.

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Katarine Gevorgyan (Armenia)

I am the manager of external relations at ISOC NGO, where I focus on building strategic partnerships, strengthening stakeholder engagement, and helping initiatives that advance Internet governance and digital development.

My work involves collaborating with government institutions, the technical community, civil society organizations, and international partners to promote an open, secure, and accessible Internet. I serve as a board member involved in policy and decision-making processes related to Armenia’s country-code top-level domains, .am and .հայ.

I am also actively engaged in organizing the Armenian Internet Governance Forum (ArmIGF) and the Armenian School on Internet Governance (ArmSIG).

I am also a board member of the Internet Society Armenia Chapter, the Chapter Advisory Council (ChAC) representative, and secretary of the ChAC SC. My professional interests include Internet governance, digital inclusion, Universal Acceptance, and multistakeholder cooperation.

In my free time, I enjoy traveling, reading, attending cultural events, and participating in community initiatives.

Kristina Hakobyan (Armenia)

I am the director of Internet Technology Center LLC, the technical operator of Armenia’s .am and .հայ domain names. I also serve as vice-chair of the board of the Internet Society NGO and as a board member of the Internet Society Armenia Chapter.

My work focuses on Internet infrastructure, domain name management, Internet governance, and digital cooperation. Through my engagement with ICANN and the Internet Society community, I work to strengthen multistakeholder collaboration and promote a secure, stable, and inclusive Internet. I am particularly interested in Universal Acceptance, multilingual Internet access, and Domain Name System (DNS) security.

I believe that meaningful Internet development starts with empowered local communities working together to fix global challenges.

Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, meeting people from different cultures, and spending time with my family.

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Laura Gabrieli Pereira da Silva (Brazil)

I am a chapter leader at the Internet Society Brazil Chapter, where I support advocacy, policy discussions, and community building on Internet governance. I focus specifically on intermediary liability and online speech.

I’m also a project lead and senior researcher at the Getulio Vargas Foundation (FGV), where I analyze public debates on social media and Internet policy. My background is in social sciences, and I’m particularly interested in platform governance and making complex Internet policy issues easy to understand. I care about connecting research, policy, and people to help an open, rights-based, and inclusive Internet.

I also like to walk and train my dog, read a good book, and go on long walks while I’m traveling.

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Lerato Phelane (South Africa)

I am a chartered accountant, transformational leader, and founder of Life Changing Lerato Services. Recently named a silver winner in the National Impact category at the 2026 Women Changing the World Global Awards, I work at the intersection of institutional governance, digital equity, and social justice.

I serve as chairperson of the audit committee for the South African Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) and board member and treasurer for Citizen Leader Lab.

Locally and globally, I lead initiatives as an IFWY global navigator and Africa chair for the Global Centre for Risk and Innovation.

As the founder of Nuru Youth Collectiv, I am dedicated to bridging the digital and entrepreneurial divide for 100,000 African youth by 2030, using my governance expertise to advocate for an open, secure, and inclusive Internet.

Maciej Piasecki (Poland)

I am a digital safety expert. Before venturing into the digital field, I worked as a digital journalist covering protest movements and humanitarian work.

My work has been used as evidence before numerous courts and in reports by the Council of Europe and the National Endowment for Democracy. I now provide digital first aid, training, and threat modeling to users facing digital threats, including journalists, lawyers, and activists.

Recently, I’ve trained dozens of users in multi-factor authentication (MFA), encrypted communications, and the compartmentalization of collaboration tools.

I also help resolve disputes between vulnerable users and large platforms, including cases of stolen identity and false accusations.

Mai AbdeIlateef (Egypt)

I am a technical change manager at Vodafone with over 15 years of experience in the telecommunications industry.

In my current role, I manage complex network changes and apply risk mitigation strategies to ensure customer platforms remain stable and resilient. Since 2016, I have participated in Internet governance forums and training programs to deepen my understanding of the policies and multistakeholder processes that shape the Internet ecosystem.

I am also the founder of Inspiring Women of Africa, an online platform that helps African women and amplifies their impactful stories.

Through this platform, I have collaborated with organizations to provide free digital skills training for women entrepreneurs and small business owners. I am passionate about online safety, trustworthy digital content, and Internet ethics in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). My interests include misinformation, deepfakes, cyberbullying, hate speech, and the responsible governance of emerging technologies.

Outside of work, I enjoy reading and getting lost in a good book.

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Maria Fernanda De Brasdefer De Gante (Netherlands)

I’m a digital rights and policy professional working in the nonprofit sector. In my current role as a digital affairs policy and research officer, I advocate for the importance of anchor community infrastructure for those who are at greater risk of digital exclusion.

I also believe that decolonial approaches are essential to developing more people-centered technologies, policies, and healthier regulatory spaces.

Previously, I led digital and AI literacy projects and initiatives supporting democracy and women’s political participation.

I have a master’s degree in public policy and human development from the United Nations University and Maastricht University.

Despite working in a technology-adjacent field, I like to maximize my offline time and try to spend as much time as possible outdoors in nature, ideally close to the water.

Mohammed Awal Alhassan (Ghana)

I’m an Internet governance advocate, open knowledge practitioner, and education specialist from Northern Ghana. I believe in an open, secure, and inclusive Internet for everyone.

As the leader of several Wikimedia communities in Ghana, I’ve mobilized hundreds of people to contribute free knowledge in local African languages. This directly fixes the language gaps that define much of the Internet’s content today.

In my role as executive director of the Foundation for Indigenous Oral Knowledge Archives (FIOKA), I work to ensure traditional knowledge is protected in digital spaces.

My work with the Scaling Inclusive Home-Based Learning Initiative (SIHELI) reflects my belief that connectivity and education are vital for social inclusion.

Dagbani is my native language, but feel free to communicate with me in English.

Patricia Donald (Northern Ireland)

I’m the head of communications and digital at Advice NI, a nonprofit helping people access their rights. I lead our communications, digital transformation, and digital inclusion work, helping people build the skills to participate in an online world.

While my background is in information systems, I care deeply about helping people who are digitally excluded. I’ve traveled to Australia and Japan to learn how those countries are advancing digital inclusion and used that learning to better my own practice.

My work is driven by a belief in social justice and that everyone has the right to the information and services they need to thrive.

Outside work, I love traveling—especially by train—and never miss an opportunity for a dip in the sea.

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Perseveradan Padilla (Philippines)

I am a master trainer in AI literacy in the Philippines, working with the ASEAN Foundation to train Filipinos. As a certified AI ethicist and legal professional, I provide training and consulting on AI governance, fluency, and readiness.

I am also a director of a nonprofit that does outreach for open knowledge in my home country and is expanding collaboration across Southeast Asia and the Pacific. We build and grow communities through capacity training and help them find strategic partners to sustain their growth.

When I’m not working, I help develop legal tech apps and snorkel to explore the seabeds.

Peter Mechels (Belgium)

I am the lead of the FediVariety.org research project, supported by the NLnet.nl and SABOA.eu foundations. This initiative investigates the evolution of open-source technologies and decentralized communication platforms and their societal and democratic impacts.

I firmly believe that technology has the transformative power to strengthen societal structures. Beyond strategic consulting and leading multiple European open innovation initiatives, I’ve co-authored key publications, including Digital Belgium and belgium.be.

My work covers digital ethics, innovation, and storytelling—topics I also lecture on.

This stems from a curiosity about how the convergence of real, virtual, and immersive environments is reshaping public spaces and driving societal change. My mission is to foster a future in which technology advances collective, inclusive social progress.

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Providence Baraka (DRC)

I am the founder and program associate at Bingwa Civic Tech Lab, a civic tech initiative based in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) that addresses community issues through digital technology and co-creation.

I hold a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems and Programming with eight years of experience as an information technology consultant, software developer, and system administrator.

In the civil society sector, I have served several organizations based in Africa and the DRC, working on Internet freedoms, digital inclusion, democracy, and advocacy as a program officer, researcher, trainer, mentor, and consultant on digitizing monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning systems.

My current work focuses on digital safety for local communities and helping frontline human rights defenders working in high-risk environments. I am passionate about making the Internet a secure, trustworthy space and a tool that empowers the community, rather than fueling chaos.

In my free time, I enjoy taking a walk with wired earphones, playing football, or watching and reading about tactics and facts behind great moments in history.

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Randriamiharisoa Domoina Valisoa (Madagascar)

I’m an economist, financial management specialist, and community leader. As a consultant, I collaborate with diverse organizations and initiatives, dedicating much of my work to advancing digital literacy, online safety, youth empowerment, and the inclusion of women in technology.

I am passionate about the transformative power of the Internet and digital skills to create opportunities, reduce inequalities, and help individuals and communities reach their full potential.

Growing up in a country where access to opportunities remains uneven, I’ve witnessed both the challenges and the possibilities that technology brings when used for positive change.

Reginald Wickham (UK)

I am the co-founder of 2020Media.com. I’ve built a career at the intersection of technical operations and public-interest Internet governance.

With decades of hands-on experience running one of the UK’s independent hosting companies, I bring a practitioner’s understanding of Domain Name System (DNS) stability, infrastructure resilience, and the operational realities that shape the online ecosystem.

I also serve as a member-elected non-executive director at Nominet UK, where I contribute to the strategic oversight of the .UK registry.

My focus includes security, accountability, and ensuring that critical Internet infrastructure is managed to support trust and long-term public benefit. Active in the wider governance community, I participate in ICANN and the UK-IGF, engaging in multistakeholder policy development and advocating for transparent, inclusive decision-making. My work with Code Club UK adds a grassroots dimension, grounding my governance perspective in digital inclusion and real-world user experience.

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Richard Mawa (South Sudan)

I am a digital transformation leader and youth advocate working to bridge the gap between technology, development, and social impact.

I am a founding member and vice president of the Internet Society South Sudan Chapter, founder of the Wise Consult Initiative, and a Pan-African youth ambassador for Internet governance.

I have contributed to global policy spaces, such as the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), and led civil society engagement in South Sudan’s digital transformation strategy.

Through these initiatives, I help communities, entrepreneurs, and farmers adopt technology for sustainable growth.

Salema Saad Mahmoud Younus (Libya)

I am a lecturer at the College of Electrical and Electronics Technology (CEET) in Benghazi.

I hold a master’s degree in information technology and work in training in modern IT fields, with a focus on digital transformation and practical digital skills.

I also conduct research in information and network security, as well as applications of AI. I serve as a focal point for collaboration between my college and the Huawei ICT Academy, helping students connect with industry practices.

I am also a member of the Internet Society Libya Chapter and one of the co-founders of Wikimedia Libya, where I contribute to promoting open knowledge and open education.

I am motivated by the belief that education and collaboration can make the digital world safer and more welcoming. I care about empowering individuals to navigate the online world with confidence and security.

Sapargul Abdinabieva (UK)

I am a media and communications expert and consultant with experience in environmental sustainability, education, community development, strategic planning, project management, and public policy.

Since 2021, I have been a media expert with the Internet Society Kyrgyzstan Chapter, working on digital inclusion, community engagement, and Internet development.

Over the past 10 years, I have worked as a journalist and communications consultant with organizations including BBC Kyrgyz Service, UNICEF, the European Union, and the Aga Khan Development Network.

My work focuses on education, women’s empowerment, governance, and sustainable community impact. I have spoken at nearly 20 international conferences and forums, including events organized by the World Bank, EU, and UK Aid.

I recently completed my master’s degree in the UK and now work with UNICEF and local councils in London, helping child well-being, inclusive governance, and community engagement. I am passionate about education, sustainability, and creating inclusive societies.

Saso Nozic Serini (Ethiopia)

I am an international development professional, entrepreneur, and advocate for digital transformation and inclusive growth. I’ve worked across business, civil society, and international cooperation initiatives, focusing on building partnerships that create economic opportunities.

As the executive director of the Slovenia–Zimbabwe Chamber of Commerce, I work to help international collaboration, promote trade, and connect stakeholders from different regions.

My professional interests include Internet governance, digital innovation, and policy advocacy.

I believe the Internet should remain open, accessible, and inclusive so people can participate fully in the digital economy. Through my advocacy, I help multistakeholder approaches that bring together governments, businesses, and technical experts to fix digital challenges.

I am passionate about fostering international cooperation and sharing knowledge to make sure technology benefits everyone.

Seabata Makoae (Lesotho)

I am a feminist man with over 15 years of experience in social work, gender equality activism, and development cooperation. I have worked with several civil society organizations in Lesotho, focusing on the prevention of violence against women and girls and engaging men and boys for gender equality.

My career includes roles at the German Agency for Development Cooperation (GIZ) and the Christian Council of Lesotho. I am a conversationalist who enjoys challenging gender norms and a trainer in gender-transformative approaches (GTA). Currently, I serve as deputy chairperson of the Internet Society Lesotho Chapter.

Shadrach Ankrah (Ghana)

I’m an information technology (IT) specialist and the founder and executive director of the Africa Rural Internet and STEM Initiative (AFRISTEMI).

I work to bridge the digital divide in rural communities in Ghana through digital skills training, community networks, and technology-driven initiatives. I’m passionate about digital inclusion and believe everyone deserves meaningful access to the opportunities the Internet provides.

From 2024 to 2026, I served as a lead facilitator for the Internet for Education Special Interest Group, helping collaborative projects around digital equity in education.

I’ve participated in global forums such as ICANN and served as a fellow in the 2024 DWeb and Open Social Incubator programs.

Outside of work, you’ll usually find me at the gym, out jogging, or finding new ways to stay active and fit.

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Suun Faye (Gambia)

I am a computer science graduate and digital technology specialist for the World Bank-funded Gambia Inclusive Resilient Agriculture Development Project (GIRAV).

Previously, I served as ICT manager at the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), where I gained experience in type approval, radio spectrum monitoring, and amateur radio.

With over 10 years of volunteer experience, I mentor young women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) as an executive member of Girls in ICT Gambia, GamChix, and the Internet Society Gambia Chapter. I am also the founder of Tech4All Gambia, which promotes digital inclusion.

Tamara Virginia Bengesai (Zambia)

I’m a digital inclusion advocate, community network practitioner, and Internet governance professional passionate about expanding meaningful connectivity and digital opportunities for underserved communities.

My work focuses on community-centered digital empowerment, digital literacy, online safety, digital rights, and community-owned connectivity initiatives. I have collaborated with civil society organizations, technical communities, and development partners to strengthen digital inclusion and help community participation in digital policy and governance processes.

I’m particularly interested in digital rights, encryption, artificial intelligence (AI) governance, and the role of community networks and digital hubs in creating sustainable and locally driven solutions to connectivity challenges across Africa. I believe that access alone is not enough—communities should have the skills, knowledge, and agency to participate safely and meaningfully in the digital world.

When I’m not working on connectivity and digital empowerment initiatives, you’ll likely find me exploring new technologies, mentoring young people, or contributing to community development projects.

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Thoko Miya (South Africa)

I am a digital inclusion advocate, Internet governance leader, and telecommunications professional.

I serve as president of the Internet Society South Africa Chapter and expansion operations manager at Too Much WiFi. In my role, I help with the planning, deployment, and scaling of broadband infrastructure to expand affordable Internet access to underserved communities across South Africa.

Previously, as the ceo of GirlHype Coders, I led programs focused on digital skills, technology education, and economic empowerment for women and youth.

I currently serve on the multistakeholder advisory group (MAG) of the South African Internet Governance Forum (ZAIGF) and I’m an ISPA Fellowship Program alumna.

I actively engage in global and regional Internet governance processes, including the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) and the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), where I advocate for community-led broadband and digital inclusion. I am passionate about multistakeholder collaboration and increasing the representation of women in technology.

I enjoy sunrise walks on the beach, pilates, and anything matcha.

Tom Muthoka (Kenya)

I am a telecommunications engineer specializing in frequency spectrum management and regulation, currently serving with the Communications Authority of Kenya.

I am passionate about bridging the digital divide, with a particular interest in community network models as sustainable solutions to better connectivity for underserved and rural communities.

I believe that great things are done by a series of small things brought together.

TOSSOU Djidjoho Jean-Junior (France)

I am a Beninese student studying computer science and mathematics after earlier studies in cybersecurity. I am interested in the foundations of secure systems, specifically cryptography and the mathematical principles that build digital trust.

Through my studies, I explore how security can contribute to a more resilient Internet. I care deeply about digital inclusion and education, believing that access to digital knowledge should be a right. I engage in advocacy through the Internet Society Youth Standing Group.

Exchanging with others and learning from different perspectives matters to me. Outside my studies, I enjoy reading novels and playing basketball.

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Umut Pajaro Velasquez (Colombia)

I am a researcher and advocate, and the current president of the Internet Society Colombia Chapter.

My work primarily focuses on the intersections of education, digital rights, and the ethics and governance of artificial intelligence (AI). I am dedicated to identifying and addressing biases related to gender, race, and diversity in the data structures that power modern technologies.

As a leader in the global Internet governance ecosystem, I’ve served as chair of the Gender Standing Group and coordinated Youth IGF Colombia.

I’m a frequent speaker and moderator at international forums, including the Internet Governance Forum and RightsCon, where I champion youth rights and the protection of marginalized communities.

My background with organizations like Mozilla and LACNIC underscores my commitment to cybersecurity as a human right.

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Valerie Chua Yan Tong (UK)

I am a postgraduate scholar in design engineering at Imperial College London and the Royal College of Art. My work explores new media and interaction design to help people flourish in complex information environments. I contribute to computing and design research as an author and reviewer.

My recent project, DUST Media, shown at Milan Design Week 2026, is a pocket device exploring “minimal media” as an alternative to high-density digital feeds to reduce news overwhelm. Within the Internet Society, I am interested in how design can help a safer, more intentional Internet.

I also value collaboration and interdisciplinary exchange in shaping technological futures.

Vashkar Bhattacharjee (Bangladesh)

I am a disability inclusion and digital accessibility expert with over 19 years of experience. As a person with a visual disability, I serve as a consultant on accessibility for the Aspire to Innovate (a2i) program, an inclusion advisor at YPSA, and the country representative of G3ict in Bangladesh.

I have led the development of award-winning accessible information and communication technology (ICT) solutions and work with organizations to better inclusive development, humanitarian action, and digital accessibility.

My contributions span inclusive disaster management, climate change adaptation, and policy advocacy.

My story was featured in Bangladesh’s Class Six textbook in 2023, and I am the first Bangladeshi to receive the UNESCO/Emir Jaber al Ahmad al Jaber al Sabah Prize for Digital Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities.

A young woman with long curly hair wearing a red sweater

Yarden Amir (Israel)

I’m the head of government affairs and academic outreach at the Israel Internet Association, working at the intersection of digital policy, Internet governance, and user safety.

My work focuses on driving multidisciplinary research and turning complex data into actionable outcomes, from evidence-based insights for decision-makers to high-impact public campaigns. I’m driven by a mission to produce knowledge and tools to make our digital environment safe and secure.

My work is continuously enriched by my academic background, as I hold a master of arts in East Asian studies from Tel Aviv University.

As an avid content developer and digital media strategist, I use storytelling to bridge these worlds, turning rigorous research into tangible societal impact.

Disclaimer: The Internet Society reserves the sole right to decide if an applicant proposal meets the eligibility requirements.