May 2025 - Npoc-discuss - lists.icann.org

2025 NPOC Election Results
by Juan Manuel Rojas May 31, 2025

May 31, 2025

Dear NPOC Members, Congratulations to our newly elected leaders, who will assume their positions following the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting (AGM). We thank all the candidates who participated and all the members who voted, your engagement strengthens our community and reinforces the democratic values we stand for. Please see the 2025 election results below. NPOC Chair Juan Manuel Rojas 55 Abstain 12 NPOC Secretary Bolutife Adisa 59 Abstain 8 NPOC Policy Coordinator Yao Amevi A. Sossou 31 Carlos Dionisio Aguirre 29 Abstain 6 NPOC Outreach and Engagement Coordinator Caleb Ogundele 62 Abstain 6 There were a total of 73 voters for this election. JUAN MANUEL ROJAS, M.Sc. Director - MINKA DIGITAL ColombiaNPOC Chair - NCSG/GNSO M.Sc. Information Technology Registered Linux User No.533108. http://www.jmanurojas.com Cel. +57 301 743 56 00 Instagram: jmanurojas -----BEGIN GEEK CODE BLOCK----- Version: 3.1 GIT d- s: a+ C+++ UL P+ L+++ !E !W+++ !N !o K+++ w-- !O M- V PS+ PE-- Y+ PGP+ t+ 5 X++ R tv+ b+ DI D G e+++(+++)>+++ h+ r++ y+ ------END GEEK CODE BLOCK------

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Know a little more about Carlos Dionisio AGUIRRE, candidate policy coordinator NPOC EC
by carlos dionisio aguirre May 21, 2025

May 21, 2025

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Questions for PC Candidates
by Juan Manuel Rojas May 20, 2025

May 20, 2025

Hi everybody, I would like to send a few questions to our PC candidates: 1. What is your vision for the Policy Committee over the next year, and how would you ensure that NPOC/NCSG policy positions are effectively represented in ICANN's policy development processes? 2. Can you describe a time when you led or contributed to a policy position or working group? What was your approach to building consensus across diverse stakeholder perspectives? 3. What are the most pressing policy issues facing the non-commercial community today (e.g., DNS abuse, human rights, data protection, AI implications), and how would you prioritize them in the committee’s work? 4. How do you plan to engage and empower members who may not have prior experience in policy work to contribute meaningfully to the committee’s efforts? 5. ICANN policy work can be highly technical and time-consuming. How do you plan to balance efficiency with transparency and ensure that policy positions are developed in a participatory and well-documented manner? Best Regards, JUAN MANUEL ROJAS, M.Sc. Director - MINKA DIGITAL ColombiaNPOC Chair - NCSG/GNSO M.Sc. Information Technology Registered Linux User No.533108. http://www.jmanurojas.com Cel. +57 301 743 56 00 Instagram: jmanurojas -----BEGIN GEEK CODE BLOCK----- Version: 3.1 GIT d- s: a+ C+++ UL P+ L+++ !E !W+++ !N !o K+++ w-- !O M- V PS+ PE-- Y+ PGP+ t+ 5 X++ R tv+ b+ DI D G e+++(+++)>+++ h+ r++ y+ ------END GEEK CODE BLOCK------

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2025 NPOC Election Ballot Information
by Andrea Glandon May 20, 2025

May 20, 2025

Hello all, The voting for the 2025 elections will begin on Wednesday, 21 May, 2025. Ballots will be sent to all members who completed check-in. The ballots will come from noreply(a)eballot.com<mailto:noreplay@eballot.com>. Please make sure to allowlist/whitelist this email address. Voting will end on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 at 23:59 UTC. If you confirmed that you did check-in and do not receive a ballot, please email me directly. Please make sure to visit the election wiki to review the candidate’s statements: https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AYAxDQ. Important Remarks: 1. For all positions, please select 1 candidate only; if you select more than 1 your vote won’t be counted 2. You can change your vote until the deadline on, 23:59 UTC. Only the last selection will be counted. 3. If you don't select any choice for a seat, the vote for that seat will be counted as zero. 4. You will receive several reminders during the election with the same link to your ballot. 5. The candidate with the most votes wins. If the abstention count is greater than any candidate for a seat, the seat will remain vacant. Thank you! Andrea Glandon Policy Operations Sr. Coordinator Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)

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REMINDER-Next Step in the Election Process – Candidate Q&A for Policy Chair
by Andrea Glandon May 18, 2025

May 18, 2025

Dear all, As you know, we are currently in the middle of our election process. The next step involves a candidate engagement session for the Policy Chair position, for which we have two highly qualified candidates: Yao Amevi A. Sossou and Carlos Dionisio Aguirre. Unfortunately, we have not been able to agree on a suitable time for a joint call to allow members to engage with the candidates directly. As an alternative, we propose conducting this part of the process through our mailing list. If you have any questions you would like to ask either candidate, please send them directly to Andrea (andrea.glandon(a)icann.org) We will compile a questionnaire and share it with both candidates. Once received, the candidates will be asked to send their responses directly to the mailing list, so all members can review their answers. Please note the following deadlines: * Deadline for members to submit questions: Friday, May 16th * Deadline for candidates to respond: Monday, May 19th This timeline will allow us to receive and share the responses in a timely manner before voting begins on Wednesday. Thank you for your participation and continued support. Best regards, JUAN MANUEL ROJAS, M.Sc. Director - MINKA DIGITAL Colombia NPOC Chair - NCSG/GNSO M.Sc. Information Technology Registered Linux User No.533108. http://www.jmanurojas.com [jmanurojas.com]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__http:/www.jmanurojas.com__;!!PtGJab4!_eiNjbss02…> Cel. +57 301 743 56 00 Instagram: jmanurojas -----BEGIN GEEK CODE BLOCK----- Version: 3.1 GIT d- s: a+ C+++ UL P+ L+++ !E !W+++ !N !o K+++ w-- !O M- V PS+ PE-- Y+ PGP+ t+ 5 X++ R tv+ b+ DI D G e+++(+++)>+++ h+ r++ y+ ------END GEEK CODE BLOCK------

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2025 Election Reminders/Information
by Andrea Glandon May 16, 2025

May 16, 2025

Hello all, The election check-in period will end on Monday, 19 May 2025. I will send another check-in reminder email. Everyone will receive this email, even if you have already checked in. You can confirm your check-in by going here<https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/CwArDQ>. The candidates for NPOC chair and other positions are listed here<https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AYAxDQ>. Candidate statements are being sent to the NPOC Discuss email list and they will be listed here<https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AQAyDQ>. Please scroll down to see all candidate statements. A candidate’s Q&A will be completed through email. Voting will begin on Wednesday, 21 May 2025. If you have any questions, please email only me. Thanks! Andrea Glandon Policy Operations Sr. Coordinator Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)

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Candidate Statement for Secretary – NPOC Executive Committee
by Bolutife Adisa May 16, 2025

May 16, 2025

Dear NPOC Members, My name is Bolutife, and I am seeking your support as I run for re-election to the position of Secretary on the NPOC Executive Committee. Having previously served in this role, I have a deep understanding of its responsibilities and a proven track record of contributing to the efficiency, transparency, and effectiveness of our operations. During my previous term, I prioritized clear communication, dissemination of information, and meticulous record-keeping. I supported the coordination of our membership meetings and worked closely with fellow committee chairs to uphold NPOC’s values and advance our goals. My decision to contest again is driven by my continued commitment to our community and the belief that my experience can further strengthen our internal processes. If re-elected, I aim to build on the foundations already laid by improving accessibility to documentation and ensuring that our executive committee functions with even greater cohesion and accountability. As you may already know, I am not new to policy work. I have been a penholder for public comments on multiple occasions and have also represented NPOC on the Africa Regional Plan Working Group, where I led the drafting team. It would be a privilege to continue serving you in this capacity, and I respectfully ask for your vote and trust as we take the next steps forward together. Sincerely, Bolutife Adisa.

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Candidacy Statement-Yao Amevi A. Sossou for NPOC Policy Chair
by Yao Amevi A. Sossou May 15, 2025

May 15, 2025

My name is *Yao Amevi A. Sossou*, affiliated with the *Youth IGF Benin Initiative*, FGI Benin, and an active contributor to both NCSG and NPOC. I am a*pplying for the position of Policy Chair within the NPOC*. I am running for this position to strengthen NPOC’s voice in the ICANN policy development process. With experience coordinating grassroots initiatives like the Citizens’ Dialogue on the future of the Internet and Youth IGF Benin, and *having contributed to public comments within the NCSG/NPOC process*, I believe I can help bridge policy complexity and grassroots participation. I *have no conflicts of interest to declare* and am prepared to *dedicate 8 to 12 hours per week to this role*. I am currently involved in various public comment processes and contribute to discussions related to policy development efforts, especially within the non-commercial space. I hold a Master’s degree in Applied English Linguistics, a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, and a Master’s in Communication, Media, and Interaction Design. This interdisciplinary background allows me to bridge technical, linguistic, and design perspectives,skills that are especially valuable when translating complex Internet policy concepts into accessible language and inclusive processes for diverse communities. Since 2019, I have been actively engaged in the Internet ecosystem, beginning my journey as a NextGen fellow during a training jointly organized by ICANN and FGI Benin in Cotonou. That experience sparked a deep commitment to Internet governance and to amplifying the voices of underrepresented communities (particularly youth and ordinary citizens). Over the years, I have worked to make Internet policy processes more inclusive. One of my proudest contributions was coordinating the national contribution to the Global Citizens’ Dialogue on the Future of the Internet in Benin and Burkina Faso (2020–2022). Through this initiative, I facilitated grassroots input into high-level global discussions, including the Global Digital Compact, with contributions submitted under the “We, the Internet” coalition. In 2023, I initiated and currently help coordinate the Youth IGF Benin Initiative, which empowers youth to engage meaningfully in national and global Internet policy spaces. Recently, I have also led and contributed to public comments within the NCSG and NPOC processes, engaging in community discussions and helping draft policy responses that reflect the values and concerns of our diverse membership. My work has consistently focused on breaking down complex policy issues into simple, accessible language that enables broader participation. I believe that effective Internet policy must be people-centered, inclusive, and informed by those whose voices are too often left out. *If elected Policy Chair, I commit to:* - Broadening access to NPOC’s policy work by engaging more grassroots organizations, newcomers, and underrepresented voices; - Strengthening the quality and timeliness of NPOC’s policy contributions through collaborative and well-coordinated processes; - Providing capacity-building opportunities to empower members to confidently participate in ICANN’s policy development work; - Fostering collaboration with other ICANN constituencies and stakeholder groups to advance our shared non-commercial interests; And above all, leading with transparency, openness, and responsiveness to member concerns. I bring to this role a strong foundation in grassroots engagement, cross-regional coordination, and inclusive Internet governance advocacy. Together, we can ensure that NPOC remains a leading voice for the global nonprofit sector (one that listens, represents, and delivers). *Public comments contribution:* - IRP-IOT – Proposed updates to the IRP Supplementary Procedures - Proposed Updates to the Operating Standards for Specific Reviews - IANA Functions Review 2 Draft Report - Draft PTI FY26 Operating Plan and Budget - Draft PTI Strategic Plan covering 2025 to 2030 (Pedro er al). - Continuous Improvement Program Framework - How We Meet project I remain available to discuss how we can move NPOC forward together. Thank you. ............................................................. Yao Amevi A. Sossou UX/UI| IT Support | Project manager| Human centered Entrepreneurship| SDG Advocate | Internet Governance | Youth IGF Email: soyames(a)gmail.com Twitter: *https://twitter.com/_amevY2 <https://twitter.com/_amevY2>* LinkedIn: Yao Amevi A. sossou | LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/in/ameviy/> ............................................................. *We need your support for the West African Design Forum*: https://www.westafricandesignforum.africa/ *Donate today: *https://buy.stripe.com/dR6aIl0ZZg3SfFm8wH ............................................................. To promote respect for the environment, thank you to only print this email only when necessary

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Candidate Statement
by Juan Manuel Rojas May 15, 2025

May 15, 2025

Nomination Statement – Juan Manuel Rojas I’m truly honored to put my name forward for continued service in ICANN’s policy development and governance processes. With more than ten years of experience in Internet governance, digital policy, and advocating for the public interest, I bring a solid mix of technical expertise, strategic policy insight, and a knack for engaging stakeholders. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Social Communication, followed by a Master of Science in Information Technology. My career has taken me from leading E-Government initiatives in Colombia, where I focused on building capacity and transforming digital services in regional governments, to advising on E-Gov strategy at Villavicencio City Hall. Since 2011, I’ve also been involved in academia, which continues to shape my dedication to inclusive and evidence-based policy. Since 2011, I’ve been an active participant in the ICANN ecosystem, particularly within the Non-Commercial Stakeholder Group (NCSG) and the Not-for-Profit Operational Concerns Constituency (NPOC), where I currently hold the position of Chair. My roles at ICANN have included: - GNSO Councillor (2020–2022) representing NCSG- Member of the New gTLD Subsequent Procedures Working Group, focusing on Geographical Names- Active contributor to the Transfer Policy Implementation Review Team, CCOICI, and more- Member and former Executive Committee participant in both NCSG and NPOC In all these roles, I’ve championed equity, inclusion, and civil society representation in Internet governance. I have experience in policy drafting, multistakeholder negotiation, and building consensus, always with a focus on the public interest, digital rights, and ensuring meaningful access. In 2019, I was proud to receive Second Place for Best Government Social Media Campaign at the Premios Interlat for the campaign “Tenemos vocabulario criollo, enamórate de nuestra llanura.” Additionally, I was honored as Best Researcher by UNIMINUTO in 2014, recognitions that highlight my ongoing commitment to impactful communication and policy. My candidacy is driven by a clear purpose: to actively contribute to the ongoing development of inclusive and effective policies within ICANN. Best Regards, JUAN MANUEL ROJAS, M.Sc. Director - MINKA DIGITAL ColombiaNPOC Chair - NCSG/GNSO M.Sc. Information Technology Registered Linux User No.533108. http://www.jmanurojas.com Cel. +57 301 743 56 00 Instagram: jmanurojas -----BEGIN GEEK CODE BLOCK----- Version: 3.1 GIT d- s: a+ C+++ UL P+ L+++ !E !W+++ !N !o K+++ w-- !O M- V PS+ PE-- Y+ PGP+ t+ 5 X++ R tv+ b+ DI D G e+++(+++)>+++ h+ r++ y+ ------END GEEK CODE BLOCK------

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Meeting with ICANN CEO
by Juan Manuel Rojas May 14, 2025

May 14, 2025

Dear all, Our one-on-one meeting with the ICANN CEO is scheduled for tomorrow. As we have not yet received any questions from members, I’m reaching out to kindly ask for your support in formulating a question to be addressed during the session. Your input would be greatly appreciated. Best regards, JUAN MANUEL ROJAS, M.Sc.Director - MINKA DIGITAL ColombiaNPOC Chair - NCSG/GNSO M.Sc. Information Technology Registered Linux User No.533108. http://www.jmanurojas.com Cel. +57 301 743 56 00 Instagram: jmanurojas -----BEGIN GEEK CODE BLOCK----- Version: 3.1 GIT d- s: a+ C+++ UL P+ L+++ !E !W+++ !N !o K+++ w-- !O M- V PS+ PE-- Y+ PGP+ t+ 5 X++ R tv+ b+ DI D G e+++(+++)>+++ h+ r++ y+ ------END GEEK CODE BLOCK------

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