On 2/16/2017 4:30 AM, Seun Ojedeji wrote:
... Overall like I earlier hinted, I recognise the individual membership challenge in the current structure ...
Focusing on this particular point, perhaps we can summarize some alternatives that are already currently available for direct *individual* participation ... Others have already noted (or indicated that they wished to have) [a] Some RALOs already accept individual members. It is also true that currently: [b] Some ALSes (including some ISOC chapters) accept members from outside the ALS' home country; and [c] some ALSes (or ISOC chapters) do not yet currently charge membership fees. As an example, given [b] and [c] above - it is possible for an individual (or even a group) from any country to 'virtually' join, say, ISOC-PH, then introduce various ICANN and At-Large matters for consideration. Whether the local members of such an ALS (or chapter) will follow the lead and engage on ICANN/At-Large issues is not guaranteed. But given the perennial shortage of active knowledgable people, there is a good chance that the local ALS will take-up some of the 'expat's' initiatives. It will depend more on whether the topics introduced are relevant to the locals, and whether the positions arrived at align with the local sense on the matter in question. It is, of course, also very possible that the 'guest' individual will have to do most of the work and go it alone, at least initially. As an option for 'virtual' individual participation, this is, at least, doable now. And, if actually executed, has the additional benefit of the 'expat' acting as a mentor and building awareness if not capacity within the 'host' ALS. Possible? WYn