Peering Fellowship > 2026 Peering Fellows

2026 Peering Fellows

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Amira Gomaa (Egypt)

I am a pharmacist and data scientist currently working with the Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population in vaccine supply and immunization services. My work focuses on managing vaccine data, cold chain systems, and public health operations while using data-driven approaches to better decision-making. I hold a strong interest in digital health, epidemiology, AI, and data science, particularly in building resilient health systems across Africa.

I am passionate about using technology and collaboration to fix public health challenges. Through the Peering Fellowship, I hope to deepen my understanding of Internet infrastructure and interconnection, explore how reliable connectivity enables digital health and research, and help build stronger technical communities.

Bemis Huntala (Timor-Leste)

I am an infrastructure-focused network engineer based in Dili, specializing in designing and optimizing robust networking ecosystems. With expertise in managing platforms such as Mikrotik and Juniper, I lead deployment initiatives to deliver reliable connectivity to regional areas. Driven by a passion for a secure digital environment, I integrate vulnerability assessments into core infrastructure frameworks.

I am dedicated to driving technical automation and implementing global routing standards to keep network traffic local, reduce costs, and strengthen our national Internet ecosystem.

When I am not optimizing routing protocols, I follow the latest advancements in technical automation tools.

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Camila da Silva Fernandes (Brazil)

I work at a regional Internet service provider in João Pessoa, where I support network operations and resolve connectivity issues that keep local communities connected. Alongside my work, I am pursuing a degree in software development and enjoy exploring how Internet infrastructure works beyond the networks we use every day. I’m driven by curiosity and believe learning is a lifelong process. As a woman from Northeast Brazil, I hope to contribute to greater diversity in the technical community and inspire more young people to pursue careers in this field.

Outside of work, I enjoy reading, learning about topics ranging from technology to astrophysics, and having meaningful conversations.

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Dastan Jaza Namiq (Iraq)

I am an Internet communications and telecommunications lawyer from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. I have a strong interest in Internet governance, digital policy, and the legal frameworks that help Internet infrastructure and connectivity.

I am committed to promoting an open, secure, and resilient Internet through policy and legal research. Through the Internet Society Peering Fellowship, I look forward to deepening my understanding of peering and interconnection while contributing to advancing Internet development in Iraq.

Dimon Biaou Satournin (Benin)

I’m a system, network, and cybersecurity administrator with a strong passion for building secure and resilient IT infrastructures.

My interests focus on cybersecurity, network security, Domain Name System (DNS) security, and Internet infrastructure. I enjoy securing systems, analyzing threats, monitoring networks, and implementing solutions that better the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of digital services.

I’m committed to continuous learning, exploring emerging technologies, and contributing to a safer and more secure Internet through innovation, research, and collaboration.

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Eesha Yasin Baloch (Pakistan)

I am a senior education associate at UNHCR and the founder of Tauheed NGO, with over six years of experience in Internet policy advocacy and digital inclusion. I work to connect refugee camps and border communities in Pakistan, where poor peering blocks education for more than 2,000 displaced youth.

I translate field evidence into policy briefs for the Ministry of IT, pushing for affordable interconnection and community networks.

This fellowship will give me the technical peering expertise to advocate effectively and bring interconnection solutions back to communities.

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Eric Nkunzi (Rwanda)

I am an ICT and digital transformation professional with over 14 years of experience across banking, telecommunications, and international development. I currently work as an ICT officer at the African Development Bank Group, where I help with digital systems, secure connectivity, business continuity, and process improvement initiatives.

My recent work includes designing and leading artificial intelligence (AI) assisted tools for internal workflows, inventory management, monitoring and reporting, and digital program mission coordination.

Through the Peering Fellowship, I aim to strengthen my understanding of Internet infrastructure, peering, and interconnection so I can better connect digital transformation work with resilient and inclusive Internet ecosystems in Rwanda and the region.

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Farah Abdou (Egypt)

I am an AI researcher and NLP specialist based in Aswan, Egypt, with expertise in voice AI and Arabic natural language processing. I hold an engineering degree and have worked across AI safety research and community education. My work focuses on building inclusive, multilingual AI systems that serve underrepresented communities.

I am passionate about digital equity, AI governance, and expanding Internet access for the Global South. Through this fellowship, I aim to advance Internet interconnection and amplify the voices of underrepresented communities.

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Gakire Alain Christ (Burundi)

I am an IT professional with more than five years of experience in information technology (IT) help, system administration, networking, and web development. I enjoy learning about Internet infrastructure, routing, and peering because I believe they are important for bettering Internet access. I like fixing technical problems and helping people use technology more effectively.

I am happy to join the Internet Society Peering Fellowship because it will help me learn from experienced professionals, improve my skills, and share ideas with other participants.

My goal is to use what I learn to help improve Internet connectivity and contribute to the growth of Internet infrastructure in Burundi.

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Hadia Yaseen (Jordan)

I am a network engineer at ASREN, where I help develop regional research and education network infrastructure across the Arab region. With a background in communications and systems engineering, I am passionate about Internet technologies and enabling connectivity that empowers research and innovation. I am highly interested in the Peering Fellowship Program because it aligns with my goal of expanding my expertise in peering and Internet infrastructure.

Outside of work, I enjoy following advancements in space exploration and AI tools, which inspire my curiosity.

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Imane Lakbachi (Morocco)

I’m an Indigenous Amazigh youth advocate working at the intersection of digital health, technology, and meaningful youth engagement. With a background in computer science and multimedia, I’m passionate about ensuring that emerging technologies are designed with, not just for, young people.

I am the #MyHealthFutures community manager at the Digital Transformations for Health Lab (DTH-Lab), where I lead global youth engagement initiatives, support research, and strengthen a growing international network of young leaders.

I also serve as DTH-Lab’s alternate to the World Health Organization (WHO) Youth Council, advocating for youth-centered digital health policies and governance.

Beyond my work at DTH-Lab, I serve as the director of network engagement at the International Youth Alliance for Family Planning (IYAFP). I also serve on the board of the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn & Child Health (PMNCH) and on the lived experience advisory group member at United for Global Mental Health (UGMH). I’m an alumna of the U.S. Department of State Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program and have spoken at global forums, including the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). I recently completed my mandate on the NATO Youth Advisory Board as its only partner-country representative. In 2022, I was honored with The Diana Award for my contributions to youth leadership and social impact.

When I’m not working, I enjoy traveling, collecting books, and spending time by the ocean whenever I get the chance.

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Joseph Ince (St. Vincent and Grenadines)

I am a digital transformation and project management professional with more than 20 years of experience leading initiatives in information technology, digital government, and international development. My work focuses on information and communication technology for development (ICT4D), business process improvement, and stakeholder engagement to better lives and strengthen public institutions.

Throughout my career, I have successfully delivered complex projects supported by the World Bank, helping to modernize government services and expand access to digital solutions.

I have a master’s degree in project management and a background in computer science.

I believe in collaborative leadership, continuous learning, and helping others through innovation and meaningful partnerships.

Md Abul Faysol Azad (Dhaka, Bangladesh)

I’m a PS core lead engineer and telecom professional with expertise in IP networks and digital transformation. At Banglalink, I lead the packet core network strategy for over 35 million subscribers, focusing on Internet interconnection and scaling global content caching. I am incredibly passionate about advancing peering ecosystems and local traffic exchange to build a seamless world.

My background is in telecommunications engineering, and my focus centers on shaping Internet policy and bridging infrastructure gaps in emerging economies.

When I’m not optimizing the network, you can find me exploring new destinations with my camera.

Mikaela Aguirre (Ecuador)

I’m a cybersecurity professional with 10 years of experience working at the intersection of technology, security, and governance. My work spans intelligence, strategy, risk analysis, and emerging technologies. I’m passionate about building resilient, accountable, and human-centered digital ecosystems. Inspired by the interconnectedness of the Ecuadorian Amazon, I approach technology through a lens of adaptability, critical inquiry, and responsible stewardship.

Beyond work, I mentor youth through NPower, climb, ride my bike, and read to better my understanding of the systems and communities shaping our future.

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Muhammed Nafih Chungath (United Arab Emirates)

I am a digital enthusiast and community-focused professional based in the United Arab Emirates. I work in marketing and have experience in technology, design, and international youth initiatives. I’m passionate about advancing digital inclusion, Internet accessibility, and sustainable technology solutions.

I have participated in global youth programs, including the UNESCO 3rd Global MAB Youth Forum 2026, engaging with international communities on innovation. Through the Peering Fellowship, I aim to strengthen my knowledge of Internet infrastructure and peering.

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Patrick Olofia (Solomon Islands)

I am a senior operations support engineer at the Solomon Islands Submarine Cable Company, where I support operations of the Coral Sea Cable System. I work closely with partners to manage this critical infrastructure, which delivers Internet capacity to operators across the Solomon Islands.

I am a certified submarine cable systems expert with extensive experience in network operations and infrastructure maintenance.

I believe that submarine cables are key enablers of digital transformation, driving social and economic development.

Outside of work, I enjoy going to the gym, continuous learning, and applying technology to solve real-world challenges.

Pedram Rahmani (Afghanistan)

I am an IT and database officer based in Afghanistan, working with Help – Hilfe zur Selbsthilfe. I have a background in computer science and experience in IT infrastructure, database management, and digital solutions for humanitarian programs.

My work involves managing information systems and maintaining secure and reliable IT services.

I am passionate about Internet infrastructure and the role of technology in bettering access to information.

Through the Peering Fellowship, I aim to strengthen my knowledge of Internet peering and network development.

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Richard Huchani Cahuana (Bolivia)

I am an IP transport engineer specializing in Internet infrastructure, peering, routing, and network security. I currently work on IP transport networks, Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) routing, and Internet interconnection while also serving as a university lecturer.

I was an LACNIC R&D ambassador for Bolivia and an ICANN 85 Fellow. I actively contribute to the Internet technical community through research and training, promoting Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6), Resource Public Key Infrastructure (RPKI), and RIPE Atlas.

My goal is to strengthen peering ecosystems across Latin America and help build a more secure, open, and resilient Internet.

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Russell Deka Harada (Papua New Guinea)

I am the director of ICT at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) and chair of the Pacific Islands Chapter of the Internet Society (PICISOC). With nearly three decades of experience in ICT leadership, I’m committed to strengthening Internet infrastructure, cybersecurity, and digital capacity across the Pacific.

My current work focuses on modernizing university ICT services and promoting regional collaboration through Internet governance.

Through the Peering Fellowship, I look forward to deepening my knowledge of peering while contributing practical perspectives to help build a more resilient and inclusive Internet.

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Yazareth Alejandra Sánchez Rivera (Mexico)

I am an attorney, policy strategist, and international speaker specializing in public policy, technological normativity, and digital innovation governance. I have a track record across the public and private sectors, driving regulatory design for digital transformation.

I previously served as the deputy director of technological normativity at Mexico City’s Digital Agency for Public Innovation (ADIP), where I led the architecture for Llave CDMX.

I’m a prominent advocate for gender inclusion and serve as a core team member at HER DAO México. I also co-built Woman Way to advance Web3 literacy and decentralized governance.

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