Early Career Fellowship > 2024 Fellows

2024 Fellows

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Amged B. Shwehdy (Libya)

My name is Amged B. Shwehdy and I’m from Libya. Currently, I am working as a Digital Policy Advisor at Annir Initiative, where I am leading the digital public policy reforms in Libya. I have over seven years of specialized experience in digital transformation, and my career is defined by a deep-seated dedication to utilizing ICT to propel development, innovation, and governance forward.

I hold a Master’s degree in Public Sector Innovation and eGovernance from KU Leuven et al. and a bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering from the University of Tripoli.

My academic background, coupled with my extensive on-the-ground experience, equips me with a wide-ranging skill set to design, implement, and evaluate digital solutions that tackle and overcome complex challenges across different sectors.

Throughout my career, I have led various projects that have had a significant impact on the organizations I have worked for. These initiatives have played a crucial role in promoting digital citizenship, developing digital transformation strategies, and driving public sector reform. The main focus of my work has always been to bridge the digital divide and ensure that technology is an inclusive and accessible tool for everyone.

Outside of my professional pursuits, I find balance in traveling and enjoying nature. Exploring new places and immersing myself in the serene beauty of the natural world provides me with the rejuvenation and perspective needed to excel in my dynamic and challenging field.

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Aminata Dembele (Mali)

I am currently a Ph.D. researcher in electrical engineering, specializing in the field of cybersecurity with a focus on the application of artificial intelligence techniques to detect network intrusion attacks. I am based at The Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology and Innovation (PAUSTI) in Nairobi, Kenya.

My work blends academic rigor with practical technical expertise, and I am passionate about promoting global cybersecurity resilience. Through my research, I have not only contributed to the academic community but have also developed practical solutions that can be applied to real-world cybersecurity challenges.

I am result-oriented and have a proven ability to turn theoretical knowledge into tangible outcomes.

I hold a Master’s degree in Network and Telecommunications Engineering and have several years of experience in the industry. My goal is to use technology to make a positive impact on society.

I am the CEO and founder of MASSAMOUSSO (Queens of Technologies) in Mali. The primary challenge addressed by this initiative is the limited access and low capacity of Malian women aged 18 to 45 to utilize new technologies and digital tools effectively. This project follows feminist principles by empowering women through technology and aims to bridge gender gaps in economic and social spheres. MASSAMOUSSO focuses on artificial intelligence and digital content creation, which not only addresses the digital divide but also promotes inclusivity and skill development, fostering gender equality. The initiative recognizes the transformational potential of technology to enhance women’s economic independence, contributing to positive societal change in line with feminist values.

In addition to my academic and professional engagements, I am an active contributor to various digital initiatives, such as hackathons and digital camps. One of my notable achievements was winning first prize in the ”HACKATHON” organized by the Tuwindi Foundation in collaboration with USAID. This event took place in May 2019, where I led the team that developed a mobile alert application to combat corruption and road harassment in Mali. My ultimate goal is to use technology for social change and to empower marginalized communities.

Outside of my academic and professional pursuits, I enjoy engaging in sports and exploring avenues for personal and professional growth.

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Angie Leguizamón (Colombia)

I am a Systems Engineer from EAN University, currently working as the coordinator of the M&M Foundation. My role involves designing and implementing educational projects for vulnerable communities in my region. I focus on ending the cycle of poverty caused by the violence experienced in the 2000s. Additionally, I am responsible for directing and teaching STEM subjects.

I strongly believe that education can transform lives and that every child has the potential to become a leader, regardless of their background. I enjoy learning languages and have a particular interest in deepening my knowledge of Mandarin Chinese.

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Charity Ncube (Zimbabwe)

I’m an IT (Information Technology) Lecturer at Solusi University in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. I hold a Master of Commerce degree in Information Systems in addition to other academic qualifications and professional certifications. Some of the courses I teach include data communications and computer networks, IT governance, and systems analysis and design. My background is in Information Technology, and I love mentoring and helping my students to come up with innovative IT solutions that address problems in their communities and deliver business value to their organizations.

I am a member of the Computer Society of Zimbabwe and also a tutor for the Internet Society. Additionally, I work as a consultant for the Internet Society’s DDCN Project in Zimbabwe. My job involves training tutors and overseeing the dissemination of knowledge, skills, and experiences gained from the trainings to various communities. I also coordinate the deployment of community networks throughout Zimbabwe. In 2023, our team of 42 trained tutors successfully trained 1365 participants, including high school students, technical vocational training teachers, and university lecturers across seven provinces in Zimbabwe.

In addition to that, I’m the current Head of Policy and Governance for the Internet Society Zimbabwe Chapter. In this role, I engage with various stakeholders in the Internet ecosystem to discuss crucial issues related to Internet access, digital rights, cybersecurity, privacy, and emerging technologies. I then propose policy recommendations to the government based on these discussions.

I strongly believe in engaging, empowering, and inspiring the next generation of Internet users to take action in shaping and defending the Internet of the future.

When I’m not at work, you can find me with my family, traveling, and seeing the world.

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Jung Seob Kim (USA)

As a Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst at McKesson, my daily duties involve conducting in-depth research on cyber ransomware actors and nation-state actors. I aim to uncover and understand their tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs). Besides, I serve as the Vice President of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Dallas Citizens Academy Alumni Association. In this role, I am responsible for operational oversight, engaging our community through social media, and leading initiatives that promote outreach and safety awareness.

I hold a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Lamar University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice, with a minor in Pre-Law, from the University of Texas at Arlington. My passion lies in educating the upcoming cohort of cybersecurity experts. To achieve this goal, I teach a graduate-level course on risk assessment and an undergraduate-level course in criminal justice. My courses aim to provide practical knowledge and foster critical thinking among students.

Outside my professional and academic endeavors, I enjoy the simple pleasures of life, such as having coffee with friends and exploring new cultures through travel. I strive to make a positive contribution to the safety and security of our community.

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Natálie Terčová (Czechia)

I am a researcher and a Ph.D. candidate at Masaryk University. My research is focused on exploring the digital skills of youth through an interdisciplinary approach to media psychology. In addition to academia, I am the founder of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) Czechia and Vice Facilitator on the Board of the Internet Society’s Youth Standing Group. I am passionate about bridging academia and policymaking and translating research findings into actionable policies.

When I am not traveling to conferences, I love spending time in nature or engaging in my hobby of skydiving.

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Noah Khan (Canada)

I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. degree at the University of Toronto in the Department of Social Justice Education. My area of research focuses on the relationship between humans and technology, and I analyze it from a philosophical perspective. I aim to develop theories that can help us better understand our interactions with our devices. Specifically, my research explores the personal and emotional aspects of these interactions, such as love, faith, and other feelings, to examine them as comprehensive relationships.

Outside of my research, I spend a great deal of time writing poetry, although I believe there are more connections between the two than is immediately apparent!

Preeksha Malhotra (India)

I am a journalist and media researcher who specializes in the intersection of media, technology, and society. Currently, I work as a Program Officer for Strategic Communications and Partnerships at DataLEADS in India. In my role, I focus on various aspects of the digital ecosystem, including misinformation, upcoming technologies such as AI, and journalism. Through my work, I hope to find solutions to the concerns we face in our digital world and raise awareness on how to deal with misinformation better. As a researcher and journalist, I explore the world of misinformation and disinformation, and I aim to spread knowledge on how to tackle these issues.

I have exceptional skills at finding birds around me, and I am a proud ornithophile who lives with five birds that brighten up my everyday life.

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Rose Payne (United Kingdom)

I am a technology policy and advocacy professional with experience working for organizations committed to ensuring that the benefits of digital technology are accessible to all. These include the International Chamber of Commerce, GSMA, and the United Nations Capital Development Fund. In these roles, I’ve worked on digital inclusion programmes, written reports on responsible AI and AI for good, and run campaigns on the relationship between cybersecurity and economic development.

I hold an MSc in Social Sciences of the Internet from the Oxford Internet Institute at the University of Oxford.

I’ve lived and worked in the UK, Malaysia, Fiji, and France.

I am particularly interested in the infrastructures that underpin the technologies we rely on every day. Throughout my career, I have observed that digital policy issues are often addressed in isolation. During this fellowship, I hope to develop my skills in analyzing and communicating the interconnected nature of digital policy decisions.

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Roua Deeb (Lebanon)

As a seasoned fintech consultant and head of research, specializing in digital transformation projects and securities for international corporations, celebrities, and notable entities. In my most recent role, I have led initiatives for clients such as Emirates Airlines, Hyperloop TT, Coffee++ (a Montesanto Tavares Group spinoff), and DIFC Courts, among others. My expertise spans a range of emerging technologies, including blockchain, DLT, CBDCs, AI, quantum encryption, and fractional Intellectual Property (IP).

I have a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, a Master’s degree in Web Science and Digital Economy, and a Master’s degree in Engineering focused on Road Safety Management.

I have also received a Certificate in Digital Transformation in Financial Services from ESA Business School. With my educational background and extensive experience, I am a versatile professional equipped to navigate the intersections of policy, legal, and technological aspects.

In my current capacity as an Admin Officer at the Internet Society Lebanon Chapter, I have a vital responsibility of advocating for reasonable Internet governance, access, and security rights. I take an active interest in promoting innovation at both local and regional levels, which is evident from my co-founding of a national technology cluster in Lebanon.

My previous work experiences include serving as a strategic consultant for the Al Makassed Philanthropic Association 1878 in Beirut. During this time, I was involved in the development of action plans aimed at increasing revenue generation and expanding operations. As an Economic Consultant at the High Council for Privatization and Public-Private Partnership in Lebanon, I collaborated with international organizations on PPP projects in ports and contributed to best-practice case studies. Notably, I have also worked on oil and gas projects, where I helped draft laws and conducted due diligence for major infrastructure projects.

Sarah Forland (USA)

I am a senior research associate working at the Open Technology Institute (OTI) in New America. My background in public diplomacy and international relations has sparked my interest in investigating how digital transformation, emerging technologies, and information spaces are affecting privacy, security, and democratic resilience. I firmly believe that by working together as a community, we can create a safer, more equitable, and just digital future for everyone.

I have a strong interest in pop culture, iced coffee, chunky rings, and em dashes. I am also interested in studying information integrity, analyzing rhetoric, and examining tech ethics.

When I am not online, I enjoy teaching yoga, visiting national parks, or reading at a local coffee shop.

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Sruthi Vanguri (India)

I am a researcher in the digital economy with academic training in economics, public policy, and political science. My research interests include technology policy, data feminism, and development economics. As a fan of the lyric from the Broadway musical Hamilton – “If you stand for nothing, Burr, what’ll you fall for?”, I am passionate about feminist research on the digital economy. This passion stems from my personal experiences of feeling unsafe and uncertain while navigating digital spaces as a woman.

During and after my fellowship, I aim to work towards creating equitable and safer digital futures for women and marginalized genders. Additionally, I will advocate for responsible handling of data and improved privacy frameworks.

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Timi Olagunju Esq. (Nigeria)

As the founder and executive director of Youths in Motion, I have led initiatives that have reached over 8,000 youths in policy advocacy and leadership development. These initiatives have been supported by partnerships including the United States Consulate. As a consultant at Speyside, I have impacted public policy in emerging markets. My passion lies in shaping digital policy and governance across Africa, with a focus on ensuring that it is inclusive and equitable. At the core of my work is the drive to make digital democracy and governance accessible to all.

I served on the advisory board of the Nigerian Internet Governance Forum (NIGF) and contributed to the African Academic Network on Internet Policy. These roles were important in promoting digital rights, access, and innovation. I am grateful to have received recognition through various awards and to represent Africa on the Advisory Board of the International Republican Institute’s Generation Democracy.

I am an active member of the Nigerian Bar Association and the International Association of Information Technology Lawyers. In addition to my professional commitments, I am dedicated to technology policy and digital rights. I have authored two books and actively contributed to policy discussions on digital governance, privacy, and ethics locally and internationally.

I strongly believe that technology should be a tool for equal empowerment for everyone. To achieve this vision, I’m dedicated to contributing to research that supports self-determination and autonomous systems. My involvement in the Sprint Research program at the Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society, Harvard University, which was supported by the President of Germany, reflects my unwavering commitment to these principles.

When I’m not working on digital policy, I like to delve into the relationship between technology and society by writing and teaching. My goal is to educate and motivate the next generation of policy leaders to navigate the intricacies of our digital world.

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Victoria M Lengaram (Tanzania)

I am a social worker, researcher, and the founder of the Timiza Ndoto Initiative. My passion lies in empowering communities through STEM education, digital skills, and Internet access for a more sustainable future. I am also an enthusiastic advocate for human rights and digital rights. My current research involves using the Open Observatory of Network Interference (OONI) to investigate Internet shutdowns in Tanzania. I believe that access to information is fundamental, and no community should be left in the dark.

At Timiza Ndoto Initiative, I lead the charge in equipping Tanzanians, especially the underprivileged,
with the tools they need to thrive in our digital age. We focus on STEM education and digital literacy because knowledge is power, especially when it comes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

My background as a social worker fuels my desire to empower others. I leverage my skills in volunteering and community engagement to drive positive change and ensure marginalized voices are heard, both online and offline.

In my spare time, I like reading books, traveling, and connecting with nature. Let’s bridge the digital divide through Internet access, one connection at a time!

Wei-Ting Hung (Taiwan)

I am pursuing a master’s degree at the University of Tokyo, Japan. My background is in computer science and information engineering, but I have decided to switch to studying law and policy relating to the telecommunication and IT industry. Specifically, I am interested in regulation based on the principle of network neutrality. I believe that keeping the Internet open and accessible to everyone is crucial to ensuring that the technology benefits everyone in the end, even with broad bandwidth and low latency.

I enjoy exploring the world through the languages of Chinese, English, and Japanese. When I’m not working on a deadline, you might find me cycling through the city or reading somewhere.