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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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Next Step in the Election Process – Candidate Q&A for Policy Chair
by Juan Manuel Rojas May 14, 2025

May 14, 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 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 Election-Nominations Closed
by Andrea Glandon May 13, 2025

May 13, 2025

Hello all, Thank you for all of the nominations. The nominations are now closed. If you have been nominated for a position, please make sure that you accept your nomination and submit your candidate statement to the necessary discuss list by Friday, 16 May 2025. Please find below the NPOC election wiki page to confirm nominations and to see the information that should be included in the candidate statement. NPOC Election Wiki: https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AYAxDQ Please reply to only me if you have any questions. Thanks! Andrea Glandon Policy Operations Sr. Coordinator Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)

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2025 Election-Nominations end Monday, 12 May 2025
by Andrea Glandon May 12, 2025

May 12, 2025

Hello all, Thank you for all of the nominations so far. The nomination period ends today, Monday, 12 May 2025 at 23:59 UTC. If you have been nominated for a position, please make sure that you accept your nomination and submit your candidate statement to the necessary discuss list by Friday, 16 May 2025. Please find below the NPOC election wiki page to confirm nominations and to see the information that should be included in the candidate statement. NPOC Election Wiki: https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AYAxDQ Please reply to only me if you have any questions. Thanks! Andrea Glandon Policy Operations Sr. Coordinator Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)

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NPOC 2025 Election Timeline
by Andrea Glandon May 12, 2025

May 12, 2025

Dear all, Please see below the election timeline and the positions that are open. You can also find the election wiki here<https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AYAxDQ>. ELECTIONS TIMELINE 05 May-19 May: Check-in period 05 May-12 May: Nomination period 16 May Deadline for nomination acceptance and candidate statement. 19 May: Meet the candidates call (if necessary) 21 May (00:00 UTC)-28 May (23:59 UTC): Voting 29 May: Results All current ExCom positions are open, all are eligible for re-election: • Chair currently held by, Juan Manuel Rojas-eligible for re-election • Secretary currently held by, Bolutife Adisa-eligible for re-election • Policy Chair currently held by, Emmanuel Vitus-eligible for re-election • Outreach and Engagement Coordinator currently held by Caleb Ogundele-eligible for re-election Thank you! Andrea Glandon Policy Operations Sr. Coordinator Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) Skype ID: acglandon76

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Save the date-ICANN83 NCSG Readout
by ICANN Policy Calendar May 9, 2025

May 9, 2025

Please join the NCSG for an ICANN83 Readout scheduled for Thursday, 03 July 2025 at 11:30 UTC for 60 minutes. Check your time zone here.<https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/fixedtime.html?msg=ICANN83+NCSG+Read…> Join Zoom Meeting https://icann.zoom.us/j/98878189584?pwd=ZVpkSVVuaXVqeGRMelNEWW1LMkxQUT09 Meeting ID: 988 7818 9584 Passcode: i!y7.qx+11 Audio Only Details: One tap mobile +13017158592,,98878189584#,,,,*7740925615# US (Washington DC) +13126266799,,98878189584#,,,,*7740925615# US (Chicago) Meeting ID: 988 7818 9584 Passcode: 7740925615 Find your local number: https://icann.zoom.us/u/ajz2OnZm6

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2025 Election Reminders
by Andrea Glandon May 9, 2025

May 9, 2025

Hello all, Thank you for the nominations that have been submitted so far. The nomination period ends on Monday, 12 May 2025. If you have been nominated for a position, please make sure that you accept your nomination and submit your candidate statement to the necessary discuss list by Friday, 16 May 2025. Here are the wiki pages for each group to confirm nominations and to see the information that should be included in the candidate statements. NCSG 2025 election wiki: https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AYDZD [icann-community.atlassian.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AYD…> NPOC 2025 election wiki: https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AYAxDQ [icann-community.atlassian.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AYA…> NCUC 2025 election wiki: https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AYDdD [icann-community.atlassian.net]<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/AYD…> If you have any questions, please respond to me only. Thank you! Andrea Glandon Policy Operations Sr. Coordinator Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)

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NPOC EC | Attendance & Zoom Recordings | Thursday, 08 May 2025 at 20:00 UTC
by Andrea Glandon May 8, 2025

May 8, 2025

Hello NPOC Community, The NPOC EC holds an EC meeting each month. Below are the details from the April meeting. All details are always posted on the public wiki listed below as well. Please see attendance and recordings from the NPOC EC call held on Thursday, 08 May 2025 at 20:00 UTC. These details can also be found here<https://community.icann.org/x/BIplAw>. Attendees: Bolutife Adisa, Emmanuel Vitus. Juan Manuel Rojas | Apologies: Caleb Ogundele | ICANN org: Daniel Gluck, Andrea Glandon Zoom Replay<https://icann.zoom.us/rec/play/lSkjPiK3dMU__g2zm0esPPniF6gU-VNaeHbM9ST02Wos…> Audio Replay<https://icann.zoom.us/rec/play/imQ9Exmn3pXenoCgiTJBQCSUEUKS-bYw3_6opca9BEeM…> Thank you! Andrea Glandon Policy Operations Sr. Coordinator Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)

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