Affiliations Committee/Candidates/June 2021

The Affiliations Committee (AffCom) – the committee responsible for guiding volunteers in establishing and sustaining Wikimedia chapters, thematic organizations, and user groups – is seeking new members!

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Candidates

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Houcemeddine Turki (User:Csisc)

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I am Houcemeddine Turki. I was born on May 24, 1994 in Sfax, Tunisia. I speak Tunisian Arabic as a native language. However, I am keen on other varieties of Arabic including Modern Standard Arabic, Algerian Arabic, Libyan Arabic, Egyptian Arabic and North Levantine Arabic. I speak French and English as an upper-intermediate user (CEFR B2) and Italian as an elementary user (CEFR A2) and I am a beginner in German and Maltese (CEFR A1). So, I consider myself as a polyglot. In my real life, I am a medical student and a research assistant in Biomedical Data Science, Computational Linguistics, Library and Information Science and Semantic Web at University of Sfax, Tunisia. As a Wikimedia volunteer, I have been a Wikipedian between 2009 and 2019 before shifting all my interest to Wikidata. I am mainly interested in developing tools and efficient methods to ameliorate reference support and data quality of Wikimedia projects and in ameliorating the coverage of regional and scholarly topics in Wikipedia and in sister projects. I have participated to several Wikimedia conferences and shown several works in this context: WikiConvention Francophone (2016), WikiIndaba Conference (2018), Wikimania (2019), WikiCite (2020) and Wikimedia Hackathon (2020 and 2021).

What roles have you served across any Wikimedia projects and affiliates that you think have prepared you for this role?

2019 - present: Vice Chair, Wikimedia Tunisia
2019 - present: Board Member, Wikimedia and Libraries User Group
2018 - present: Member, Wiki Indaba Steering Committee
2018 - 2019: Member of Program Committee, Wiki Indaba
2016 - 2019: GLAM and Education Coordinator, Wikimedia Tunisia
2016 - 2020: Test wiki administrator, Wikimedia Incubator
2015 - 2018: Regional Coordinator, The Wikipedia Library

AffCom members need to manage time, confidentiality, conflicts of interest, and diverse situations across the global movement. How do you envision managing these?

I manage to retire from all the Wikimedia affiliates I am involved in to avoid any conflict of interest. I am leaving my position at Wiki Indaba Steering Committee and Wikimedia and Libraries User Group very soon. Concerning Wikimedia Tunisia, I will leave my positive in December.
I will be free to allocate five hours per month for being an AffCom member. I am available any time in the afternoon or night UTC.
I will not disclose any information discussed in AffCom meetings.
If I see that a situation does not allow me to make good judgements on assessed facts, I will be neutral.

Members of AffCom serve on one of two subcommittees: Recognitions OR Conflicts Intervention. Which one of these are you most interested in serving on?

I am more comfortable working on Recognitions.

If you are interested in serving on the Recognitions subcommittee, what do you think makes a group of Wikimedians ready to function together as an affiliate?

Having at least two members with more than 2000 edits across Wikimedia Projects, with a successful Wikimedia grant application and with four years of history. This will allow to ensure that the affiliate will be stable in the next few years.
Having at least twenty members. It is useless to make an affiliate about a topic that does not interest anyone now.
Not having a conflicting Wikimedia affiliate. It will not be productive to have two affiliates working on the same topic or region. The two affiliates will be disputing all the time.

If you are interested in serving on the Recognitions subcommittee, what do you think are the benefits and responsibilities of functioning as formal affiliates?

Being known and tracked by the Wikimedia Foundation
Being supported in case of problems by other Wikimedia affiliates and the Wikimedia Foundation
Developing an annual plan for regular projects and campaigns
Coordinating efforts about the topic of the Wikimedia affiliate
Organizing specific events for capacity building

Endorsements

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Strong support - A committed, experienced and hard working wikimedian, always available to help. I strongly support his application.Yamen (talk) 02:59, 18 May 2021 (UTC)[reply]
A committed, experienced and hard working wikimedian, always available to help. I strongly support his application--Ganlihao (talk) 08:03, 18 May 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support A very good and experience candidate.- M-Mustapha (talk) 20:20, 16 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support An experienced Wikimedian and a library enthusiast! I support his application. Imelda (Talk) 07:16, 21 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support I know Houceddine from Wikimedia Tunisia and I strongly support his application. --Dyolf77 (talk) 17:10, 22 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support Mounir Touzri (talk) 09:45, 24 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support Houcemeddine work very hard in his community, he can be a perfect member of affCom.--Reda Kerbouche (talk) 10:55, 28 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support Nehaoua (talk) 18:36, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support he is hardworking and very active in wiki-research and wikidata.--Avicenno (talk) 19:28, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
SupportJ'apprécie les efforts envisagés pour éviter les conflits d'intérêt (COI)--Papischou (talk) 11:39, 3 July 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - I have had the opportunity to work with Houcemeddine and I can confidently say that he is able to interact with individuals without making them feel like they ought to know better or more, very tactful and diplomatic and knows when to say no. He is very active in the African Wikimedia Community and easily moves between between the French and English speaking Wikipedians so you can be sure that he knows what's going on at any one point. When approached, he offers practical help that call on his expertise, it does not matter what - editing, Wikipedia, Wikidata, projects you think are obscure,administration, reporting, elections, name it. With him serving on AffCom, I am confident that the community will benefit from his clarity and purpose. AKibombo (talk) 11:59, 3 July 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support Per Reda Kerbouche and Papischou. -Filipinayzd (talk) 15:02, 3 July 2021 (UTC)[reply]

Wojciech Pędzich

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I feel I can enrich the AffCom with my experience as Wikimedia Polska's functionary and the functionary of the Wikimedia projects. I have a background in English and in organisational management, with my M. Sc. on content creation limitations on Wikipedia; I have also made a failed attempt at a Ph. D. in leadership in open collaboration projects. I am also a translator, including of Wikimedia and open collaboration-related books.

What roles have you served across any Wikimedia projects and affiliates that you think have prepared you for this role?

I am a long-standing administrator on Polish Wikipedia, as well as the project's bureaucrat and checkuser. Apart from these current roles, I have served as a Wikimedia steward, an OTRS volunteer, periodically an admin on other (usually Polish-language) Wikimedia projects. I have helped establish Polish Wikipedia's Arbitration Committee, preparing many of the rules, serving on the initial term and a few subsequent terms. I was also the godfather of sorts for Silesian Wikipedia, guiding the project through the requirements for it to be established as an independent language domain.

I am also a long-standing member of Wikimedia Polska, where I also served on the Board for three terms (2 years each, two of these terms as the Secretary of the Board). Even after stepping down from the Board seat, I am involved in a range of activities of the chapter as a volunteer. I have also been active in the offline space, being part of the CEE Meeting 2017 Warsaw team, as well as a participant to other CEE Meetings (including preparing and giving presentations) and the full range of events, both on- and offline, hosted by Wikimedia Polska, including providing simultaneous interpretation between Polish and English.

AffCom members need to manage time, confidentiality, conflicts of interest, and diverse situations across the global movement. How do you envision managing these?

I see the management issues as a matter of finding common grounds with the other committee members - be it in terms of meeting times, tools to be used, etc. I have been in positions where confidentiality is a must (CU, OTRS, steward), and I feel I can manage varying levels of confidentiality / anonymity, as required by the situation. Experience has also shown me the need to take a different perspective, to be able to think out of one's box and to appreciate others' perspectives.

Members of AffCom serve on one of two subcommittees; Recognitions OR Conflicts Intervention. Which one of these are you most interested in serving on?

It is likely the part of me that has served on pl.wikipedia's Arbcom which has the voice now, but I rather see myself in Conflicts Intervention. By saying "rather" I am indicating that I am not totally polarised towards this option and depending on the mix of skills and preferences within the Committee, I may serve the other role as well.

If you are interested in serving on the Recognitions subcommittee, what do you think makes a group of Wikimedians ready to function together as an affiliate?

I found that - at least in the areas where I was active - a sheer sense of belonging is a powerful motivator for people to convene under a name, an organisation, a group. Even when not everyone within the group is always active, always helping out, being united by common values (with the drive to make the total of knowledge freely accessible to anyone a universal motivator in the Wikimedia world), feeling that together the group is stronger than the sum of its individuals, knowing that a group is more likely to reach self-set goals - these are the factors that I think of most strongly.

If you are interested in serving on the Recognitions subcommittee, what do you think are the benefits and responsibilities of functioning as formal affiliates?

The ability to shape the global voice of the movement but also to be the local part of this global voice. This meaning that the needs of the local communities can be heard by the Foundation and its bodies on the one hand - the other side is that the Foundation's mission and values are represented on the local level by an entity with a recognised name which can function as the extension of the Foundation.

If you are interested in serving on the Conflicts Intervention subcommittee, please describe your experience working with conflicts resolution.

Polish Wikipedia's Arbcom, established over a decade ago, has seen me serve on multiple terms, including the posts of the Head and the Secretary, with varying volumes of incoming cases. The establishment of the ArbCom was in itself an exercise in finding common grounds and reaching towards consensus so that the community felt the ArbCom was designed the way they can trust it.

Serving on the Board of Wikimedia Polska, including the post of the Secretary, has also been an extensive exercise in managing varied points of view and needs. Not necessarily a conflict resolution post but close enough to it so that it does not matter.

In 2021, I completed a base mediation course, with a certificate issued by the training organisation.

If you are interested in serving on the Conflicts Intervention subcommittee, please describe how you have helped build consensus and support diversity.

It is a matter of having all the voices heard - something that grows out of one of the fundamental rules Wikipedians must abide by, the neutral point of view rule, which is immensely helpful when building a decision that everyone will acknowledge. it needs time, sure, but haste makes waste and in situations where time in not of the essence, having more time is valuable, including the possibility of standing up from the table, regrouping one's thoughts, may lead to better solutions than sticking to one's point of view. During the mediator training, I found out that it will be very valuable to voice the rules at the beginning of a meeting, session, or project, and have all parties verbally agree to them - this makes enforcing the rules later much easier. One of the rules ought to be acknowledging - among the participants - the fact that we are different, that our points of view might vary, and be prepared to work with these variables.

Endorsements

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Strong support – an experienced and helpful wikimedian, suitable for this ;) Aramil Feraxa (Write to me!) 20:02, 10 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - a person who is very actively involved in Wikipedia projects. PawełMM (talk) 11:11, 11 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - deeply engaged in Wikimedia mission, with a great understanding of the wikiverse, both on a global and on local level. And (I worked with Wojciech on some projects so I am speaking out of personal expierence here) - an amazing team player who is great in supporting fruitful cooperation and making sure that all the voices are heard. Magalia (talk) 14:55, 17 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - Engaged, experienced and helpful. Ircpresident (talk) 18:52, 22 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - per Magalia. SHB2000 (talk | contibs | en.wikivoyage | w:User:SHB2000) 13:01, 23 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - a great person, very committed to Wikimedia, both locally and internationally. A trustworthy man full of good energy :) Like Magalia, I had the opportunity to work with Wojciech and knowing him, I fully support his candidacy :) Fokaczino (talk) 08:45, 26 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support – I am impressed with his tact, open-mindedness, gentle persistence and perseverance.--Frhdkazan (talk) 10:22, 28 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support --Reda Kerbouche (talk) 10:55, 28 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support Highly motivated, experienced colleague.--HakanIST (talk) 12:52, 28 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support as per above. —DerHexer (Talk) 14:36, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support --Margott (talk) 16:03, 30 June 2021 (UTC) +1 with user Magalia[reply]
Strong support, great candidate. His experience, open-mindedness, attention to detail and a sense of humor will ensure that he is of help to the entire Affiliation Committee and the entire Movement! Nadzik (talk) 19:41, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]

Linar Khalitov (rubin16)

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I am a long-term Wikimedian mainly active in Russian Wikipedia and Commons. I started contributing in 2007, and during that time, I have been in different roles: sysop and bureaucrat in ru.wiki, OTRS member, sysop on Commons (still keep the status), ombudsman, member of IEG and PEG (still hold position), Wikimedia RU member (still there). I am also an active bot owner with more than 1 mln edits on the bot account.

I am based in Kazan, Russia, have a financial degree and have practically finished my EMBA in London Business School (graduation in July 2021). I know English, Russian and Tatar languages (though my English is better despite being a Tatar native). I have a full-time executive job in Russia. Still, I am sure that I will be available enough as my MBA finishes, and my grant committee participation will be over soon, too, due to the relaunch of the grant approach by WMF.

I believe in the mission of Wikimedia movement and have always tried to help and participate in promoting knowledge. I am sure that there is much work to do as even in my region (European part of Russia) most people still don't understand how Wikimedia projects operate, what benefits they provide and how others can contribute. I think that chapters are the way of promoting Wikimedia values around the globe and want to dedicate my experience and knowledge in helping chapters to build sustainable models. rubin16 (talk) 20:08, 29 May 2021 (UTC)[reply]

What roles have you served across any Wikimedia projects and affiliates that you think have prepared you for this role?

I am the member of Wikimedia RU and have some understanding of problems facing a chapter, especially in a not-friendly political/economical environment. I am also a member of grant committees (IEG and PEG) for a long time and got some experience of dealing with diverse grantees and communities while handling grant requests.

AffCom members need to manage time, confidentiality, conflicts of interest, and diverse situations across the global movement. How do you envision managing these?

I am absolutely sure that I can manage my time as I revised it lots of time in my life: when job changed, when promoted to an executive role, when became a parent, when entered an MBA program, etc. I understand COI policies and feel myself mature enough to restrain from such issues. I also have experience of dealing and communicating with diverse communities (again, from MBA and grant committee experience).

Members of AffCom serve on one of two subcommittees; Recognitions OR Conflicts Intervention. Which one of these are you most interested in serving on?

Recognitions Committee.

If you are interested in serving on the Recognitions subcommittee, what do you think makes a group of Wikimedians ready to function together as an affiliate?

First, the chapter needs to be sustainable. It should be able to recruit new members and retain old ones, as people are the ultimate treasure of a chapter. Then, the chapter needs advice and help not to re-invent a bicycle every day and to concentrate resources on productive activities, not general administrative duties.

If you are interested in serving on the Recognitions subcommittee, what do you think are the benefits and responsibilities of functioning as formal affiliates?

It is easier to communicate with external partners, sometimes. It is more sustainable as projects and tasks are performed by an organisation, not an individual who can be sick, tired, etc. It can attract external funding (sometimes) easier and be more transparent in using these funds. And it gives a sense of affiliation to members that you are doing something together and you are supported by your peers, you are not alone.

Endorsements

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Strong support – an very experienced and helpful wikimedian.--Ctac (talk) 19:53, 22 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support – Can be very productive and work hard. ― Niklitov (talk) 21:14, 22 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support – I am impressed with his tact, open-mindedness and gentle persistence.--Frhdkazan (talk) 10:23, 28 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support Good and proven organizing abilities --Ssr (talk) 10:36, 28 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support I believe that he is a good person with good skills. Support--Reda Kerbouche (talk) 10:55, 28 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support Can support this candidate as experienced editor and good community member. Красный^{wanna talk?} 15:23, 28 June 2021 (UTC).[reply]
Support -- कन्हाई प्रसाद चौरसिया (talk) 18:42, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support Le candidat fait preuve d'un pragmatisme pertinent, qui suggère qu'il a une bonne connaissance et vision des défis de durabilité de la communauté, notamment dans des contextes difficiles.--Papischou (talk) 11:41, 3 July 2021 (UTC)[reply]

Ruby Damenshie-Brown (Ruby D-Brown)

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A statement describing your relevant education, experience, abilities, skills, knowledge, availability, and motivation for joining the committee. I have been a Wikimedian for the past 3 year. My official language is English. Am passionate about open knowledge and open education. I hold a masters degree in population studies and participated in a number of developmental project especially in the field of education in Ghana prior to joining the movement. I have quantitative, qualitative and analytical skills. I have also contributed to Wikimedia and other sister project. Am part of the team at Open foundation where I have had the opportunity to lead, organize campaigns both within and outside my country (Ghana). I have experience, conducting virtual training, and hosting virtual meetings. I have also volunteered on other project including the viral language project during the pandemic and with organizations like the Locked Down Economy Think Tank of Alter Contacts and Shaping Horizon.
What roles have you served across any Wikimedia projects and affiliates that you think have prepared you for this role? I have served as community engagement officer, and I currently double as the Administrative Executive and programs manger at Open Foundation West Africa. I have led several trainings within my community, coordinated and organized campaigns, run projects, coordinated partnerships for the organization, design training curriculums, conducted evaluations amongst many. I have acquired valuable experience and knowledge over the years and believe that it has sharpened my understanding, role and impact within the movement. I also advised and supported the Ghana Histo Cita Thon Community project.
- Projects organized/managed includes
  - Africa Wiki Challenge
  - Founders Day Ghana Writing Contest
  - Kiwix4school ProjectLocal version of 1Lib1ref
  - Content campaign drives such as Women of the Wiki Campaign, Wiki p3 Eduane Contest,etc
  - Afro History month
  - Local organizer, Visible Wiki Women Campaign Ghana 2021
  - WLA Local organizer/coordinator for Ghana
  - GOES Project
AffCom members need to manage time, confidentiality, conflicts of interest, and diverse situations across the global movement. How do you envision managing these? All the above mentioned are very important and if not managed well can lead to inefficiency. For me, setting goals, timelines and being organized is something I always do on a daily basis. Using the google calendar as well as project management tools such as Asana or Trello allows my to keep proper track of my time and help me stay organized and ensure that i deliver on time. These are tools that are easy to use and will ensure that members will be trained on how to use any of these tools to proper manage their time. Conflict of interest and diversity situations are things that cannot be prevented;I will try to be neutral as possible and ensure that we work together in the best and collective interest of all affiliate to achieve a common goal.
Members of AffCom serve on one of two subcommittees: Recognitions OR Conflicts Intervention. Which one of these are you most interested in serving on?I am interested in serving on either Recognition or Conflict Intervention subcommittee.
If you are interested in serving on the Recognitions subcommittee, what do you think makes a group of Wikimedians ready to function together as an affiliate? I believe that a group of Wikimedians are ready to function together as an affiliate if they have. First of all if their goal aligns with the interest of the Wikimedia movement. Secondly if they have acquired the needed skills, have been consistent in their contributions and participation of events around the movement as volunteers. Additionally, if they have proven to be dedicated as a group and have proven records of recruiting and sustaining their community. Also if the area of focus brings diversity within the movement as well as content creation. Also they should be willing to use fund received from Wikimedia on Wikimedia related activities and be willing to report on expenses and funds received.
If you are interested in serving on the Recognitions subcommittee, what do you think are the benefits and responsibilities of functioning as formal affiliates? There are lots of benefit enjoyed when functioning as a formal affiliate. You will be able to attract partners and other organizations within your country. Its easy to form partnerships with other organizations/institutions and collaborate on projects. You will be able to receive the needed recognition and function formally with little or less challenges in your community/country. You will be able to apply for annual grant to effectively run project throughout the year. It also increases your visibility within the movement, and other Wikimedia affiliate are able to connect and work together with you on other projects. You can also benefit from the Wikimedian in resident role and sustain the capacity building needs of your community.
If you are interested in serving on the Conflicts Intervention subcommittee, please describe your experience working with conflicts resolution. Conflict is something that one cannot avoid. The world is a global one and more than ever, work places are becoming more and more diverse, connecting people with diverse background to achieve a common goal. Conflict can arise from a number of reason and in different situations. In all of these, the ability to properly mange conflict that arise is very key for sustenance and progress within an organization or movement. My experience in conflict resolution stems from my listening and understanding personality. I always try to avoid offensive language in resolving conflict and try not to take sides and be objective as possible. In doing so I also try to ensure that the outcome of the resolution is in the best interest of the organization as well as parties involved in the conflict. Avoiding discriminations and putting personal interest aside is also key in resolving conflict.
If you are interested in serving on the Conflicts Intervention subcommittee, please describe how you have helped build consensus and support diversity. I will encourage participation from under represented or marginalized communities, ensure fairness and equitable distribution of opportunities, provide opportunity for their voices to be heard. In doing so, I believe we will be able to achieve a better and quality outcomes, build consensus and support diversity as well as empower all affiliates within the movement towards achieving a common goal.

Endorsements

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Strong support – Engaged, punctilious and willing to learn new things. I support and endorse her application.NanaYawBotar (talk) 19:31, 22 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - Ruby is highly skilled, she is committed, experienced and industrious wikimedian, I endorse her candidacy for this application.James Moore200 (talk) 19:35, 22 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - Ruby is hard working, a leader and a nice person to work with. I endorse her nomination
Strong support - Ruby is a motivator, a selfless being and she inspires. I endorse her on this. DaSupremo (talk) 19:46, 22 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support- l endorse Ruby because she is hardworking.Jwale2 (talk) 19:59, 22 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - I endorse Ruby because she delivers on what she says she will do.Agoni Abraham (talk) 20:26, 22 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - I endorse Ruby for her strong sense of leadership, penchant for hardwork and her devotion to the cause of the open movement. Gkbediako (talk) 20:35, 22 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - Ruby is a valuable member of our community, with a fun and friendly personality; her skills and leadership qualities would make her an invaluable addition to AffCom. I am delighted to support Ruby's candidacy. Selorm18 (talk) 08:12, 23 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - Ruby's addition to this committee will go a very long way to help in achieving the goals of the committee. Her ability to Contribute meaningfully to committees, her organizational skills, attention to details and the zeal to deliver towards wikimedia projects make her a good candidate. I strongly endorse her.Kwaku Berko (talk) 22:03, 22 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support
Strong support –Ruby is a highly skilled motivated individual with a knack for developing initiatives and bringing them to fruition. I highly endorse her nomination.Pambelle12 (talk) 21:52, 22 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support – Ruby is adept to the complexities of the Wikipedia and Open movements. She’s a brilliant leader who executes tasks to the letter. I endorse her.Kwabran (talk) 22:01, 22 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - Ruby has over the years demonstrated compentence and loyalty in working on projects.She is goal oriented and a progresssive learner with great organizational skills.xibitgh (talk) 22:04, 22 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - She is a great teacher and accommodates different personalities. Uprising Man
Strong support - Ruby is a very resourceful person and committed as well. I strongly believe that she will deliver as expected being part of the committee. I highly endorse her. Anani A. George (talk) 08:53, 23 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - Ruby is very professional and has a skilled leadership character. She has a leadership character and believe that she will be a good assert for the committee. I highly endorse her nomination. fquasie (talk) 13:05, 23 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - Ruby is a people person. She's committed, focused, hardworking and goal oriented. I endorse her nomination.
Strong support - Ruby is a very competent and brilliant individual. Her commitment to her work is impeccable. I vehemently endorse her .Kaffzz (talk) 18:00, 25 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support – I have seen her positive engagement in Africa Wiki Challenge.--Frhdkazan (talk) 10:24, 28 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support from the statement Ruby looks like she can give to the affCom a new expertise.--Reda Kerbouche (talk) 10:55, 28 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support Ruby is highly skilled and qualified for the work at hand. I strongly support and endorse her candidacy.Alisuleiman0 (talk) 17:55, 29 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - Ruby is a committed and goal-focused lady, I have no doubt she would be a good fit for this role. I enthusiastically endorse her.-- Lwazilwenkosi Mpofu (talk) 07:16, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support – Over the past few years working with Ruby D. Brown has been one one of my most successful careers in the wikimedia movement. Due to her hardworking personality, dedication and strong focus,I can boldly say having Ruby on board will yield to greater result and much impact in the Wikimedia movement .--Joris Darlington Quarshie (talk)

Mohsen (Mardetanha)

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A statement describing your relevant education, experience, abilities, skills, knowledge, availability, and motivation for joining the committee.

Having joined wikimedia in 2005, I have been more serious about contributing in 2007. Since then, I have been full time wikimedian, actively involved in many projects and in different languages, and been an administrator for many, including meta and commons. After graduating, I worked in a different field, but I have a background in engineering. Currently, I'm living in Zanjan, Iran. Farsi and Azeri are my native languages. Additionally, I know English well, have extensive knowledge of Turkish, and I am familiar with many Iranian language.My belief has always been that affiliates are the heart of our movement, so the stronger the affiliates, the greater the movement overall, In light of this, I feel compelled to join affcom and strengthen the movement.

What roles have you served across any Wikimedia projects and affiliates that you think have prepared you for this role? Since becoming an admin in farsi Wikimedia in 2007, I have been a meta steward since 2009 and active since then.

I have been admin on farsi Wikimedia since 2007 and meta steward since 2009 and been active since then. I am the founder of Iranian Wikimedian user group, A number of other user groups have been part of my experience, Currently I am a member of the board of trustees' Election Committee I have been an aid to enwiki to oversight their Arbcom and been on scholarship of committee wikimania in the past

AffCom members need to manage time, confidentiality, conflicts of interest, and diverse situations across the global movement. How do you envision managing these?

Having been a member of both the Stewards' group and Oversight and CUs and OTRS (VTR) since 2009, I have dealt with confidential issues very well during my time. I have been involved in many projects that have needed a lot of meetings online within groups of colleagues.

Members of AffCom serve on one of two subcommittees: Recognitions OR Conflicts Intervention. Which one of these are you most interested in serving on?I As a long-time steward and administrator, I have been involved with many conflicts, so I think I am well suited for conflict interventions and finding solutions. Given my experience, I would be more suitable in conflict intervention, but if needed, I am also available to serve on Recognition. If you are interested in serving on the Conflicts Intervention subcommittee, please describe your experience working with conflicts resolution.

Putting an end to baffling conflicts among affiliates involves finding common ground and making it clear that their differences are harmful to them and the organization. For this, mediation skills are needed rather than only your authority.

If you are interested in serving on the Conflicts Intervention subcommittee, please describe how you have helped build consensus and support diversity.

I have had to deal with conflicts and issues and disagreements all of the time as founder of UG and member of many other UGs. I've helped a few people and affiliates through some challenging situations. My goal is to ensure that the existing affiliates learn how to work together.

Endorsements

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Strong support – I am impressed with his tact, open-mindedness, gentle persistence and ability to show his wiki-passion.--Frhdkazan (talk) 10:25, 28 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support finally you did this my respect and my support for you--Reda Kerbouche (talk) 10:55, 28 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support – A very good and experience candidate. Albatros777 (talk) 11:26, 28 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support Mohsen is a very competent Wikimedian. I have countless times witnessed him using his experience and expertise to make an impact on volunteer work.--HakanIST (talk) 12:49, 28 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support Experienced, patient and humane candidate.--Wertuose (talk) 18:33, 28 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support Mohsen is experienced and very active user. Sakhalinio (talk) 20:12, 28 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support Mohsen is an approachable, respectful and open-minded person. Ircpresident (talk) 10:48, 29 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support as per above. —DerHexer (Talk) 14:37, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support --Margott (talk) 16:04, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support I appreciate an increased number of Asians in the AffCom. --Exec8 (talk) 17:21, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support -- Nehaoua (talk) 18:37, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support Mardetanha is very experienced and trusted Wikimedian. I trust him to defend the interests of the Wikimedia Movement in AffCom.--- Darwin ^Ahoy! 13:30, 7 July 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support Good luck, Mohsen! -- Freedom's Falcon (talk) 11:11, 14 July 2021 (UTC)[reply]

Juan Bautista H. Alegre (Buszmail)

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My birthname is Juan Bautista (given name) Alegre (surname) y Hernaez (maternal surname). I was born on June 4, 1955 of mixed parentage. My father is half American on his mother's side (surname: Sargent) and Spanish-Filipino on the paternal side, descended from exiles from the Carlist Wars in Spain. My mother is a native Filipino of Malay descent who instilled in me life principles, Filipino traits such as service to others ("bayanihan") and gratitude ("utang ng loob"). I won a prestigious national literary award (the Palanca Award) when I was a teenager and bought an electric guitar with the prize money in 1974. I joined a band that became a finalist in our country's 1st National Battle of the Bands, that led to my first studio recording and a professional musical career. In the decades following, I cultivated a body of musical work that sustains my presence in the Philippine music industry to the present. I was fortunate to have built a successful musical career at the right time, which opens many doors for me today wherever I go. I get a lot of cooperation from many sectors of Philippine society from the goodwill my artistic activities have created. How will this benefit Wikimedia? Picture this as a cultural perspective.

During the turn of the 80s/90s decade, in the early days of the Personal Computer revolution, my accumulation of self-authored MS-DOS batch files landed me a monthly column for PC Digest Magazine, a publication of IDG (the International Data Group), which in turn got me hired as an electronic archivist, then an IT Specialist, for the Ayala Group, the oldest business institution in the Philippines. My interest in all things Internet attracted me to my first Wikipedia copy edit --nothing serious-- 15 years and 8 months ago. I joined a WM affiliate (now defunct, sadly), Wikimedia Philippines, and became its President for a term, during which I attended the Wikimedia Conference in Berlin in 2015. All these milestones culminated by an early retirement from corporate life.

While still very gainfully employed as a company executive, I was ably managing IT infrastructure projects with budgets running into the millions of pesos, frequently multiples, without any hint of controversy or incident (for my send-off, I was lunched by the company's top tier and gifted an Omega wristwatch). The executive education programs I attended brought me to training centers in Melbourne AU, Singapore, Hongkong, Leeds UK, New Hampshire, San Jose CA, and Atlanta GA. My tapestry of involvements in the arts, the corporate world and, later, social work have made my life very much worth living. I became the President of the Rotary Club of Makati Rockwell in 2019, became a Paul Harris Fellow, and attended Rotary International's global conference in Hamburg. My Rotary Club was awarded 25 hectares (roughly 61.5 acres) of protected mountainous landscape in need of reforestation. We conduct annual planting activities and forest management in cooperation with our country's Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Wiki Loves Earth? -- we protect an entire mountainside, all on voluntary basis.

As a Wikipedia editor, the bulk of my contributions are music-related. The focus of my Wikipedia writing tends towards popular culture and arts, and will most likely be the nexus of my proposed activities as a member and Metro-Manila Coordinator of the Philwiki Community usergroup. As you may know, Manila is an ancient settlement, a bamboo fortress even before brigands and colonialists arrived -- it is a GLAM city of rustic museums, libraries and art galleries, not to mention performance venues. Since the onset of the Covid19 pandemic, my seclusion at home led me to come full circle with my Wikipedia editing passion, and renewed my ties with the WM movement. My interactions with ESEAP have been very rewarding and brought me in proximity with the Strategic Wikimedia Affiliates Network discussions and visioning sessions.

What roles have you served across any Wikimedia projects and affiliates that you think have prepared you for this role?

2015 - President, Wikimedia Philippines
2021 - Coordinator, Philwiki Community Usergroup

AffCom members need to manage time, confidentiality, conflicts of interest, and diverse situations across the global movement. How do you envision managing these?
Confidentiality is utmost and, honestly, I don't have a horse in this race, as I just want to serve. I certainly have the time for this, as I am retired from corporate life. I have a beautiful home life with a generous nest egg, and the hours I give will be well worth it. I can accept criticism as well, sometimes even hurtful and demoralizing, and this will be my test.

Members of AffCom serve on one of two subcommittees: Recognitions OR Conflicts Intervention. Which one of these are you most interested in serving on?
Recognitions will be a good start for me.

If you are interested in serving on the Recognitions subcommittee, what do you think makes a group of Wikimedians ready to function together as an affiliate?
In my view, this should best be a matter of scale. 10 members, perhaps, as a bare minimum. From the outside looking in, draconian requirements must be tempered for communities which only have so much. What I deem more important are the possibilities for growth through development and stimulation..

If you are interested in serving on the Recognitions subcommittee, what do you think are the benefits and responsibilities of functioning as formal affiliates?
Affiliation provides a clearer path for grants and, therefore, larger projects. This status also creates an incentive for the affiliate's movers and shakers to stay the course. In my view, we must not just be the gatekeepers.

Endorsements

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Support Having worked with Juan on ESEAP, his experience with the movement, and with professional career experience, I think Juan will an asset for the Affiliate Committee. Gnangarra (talk) 17:34, 28 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support He has the experience, passion, and wisdom knowing him as a fellow Wikimedian who once held the top position in his Affiliate and other organizations. He is also a respectable and committed Wikimedian who will be a great addition to the Committee if appointed. -Filipinayzd (talk) 22:55, 28 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support I have known him for a very long time and I can vouch for his integrity and diligence. He will be a great addition to the committee. Slvrdlphn (talk) 03:38, 29 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support I had the privilege to interact with Juan in the ESEAP virtual meetings since last year. He is an experienced Wikimedian and respected member of the ESEAP community. His presence in the Committee would greatly help the growth and development of Wikimedia affiliates, especially within the region, and contribute towards a better model of Wikimedia movement governance overall. I trust that he would be a valuable Committee member. RamzyM (talk) 07:01, 29 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support His strong corporate experience will be a valuable asset to the AffCom, as is his strong passion and commitment to the movement. -- Titopao (talk) 07:09, 29 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support An experienced Wikimedian with proven intellect, dedication, and leadership. As a respected community member, he led a lot of organizations in the Philippines — inside and outside of the Wikimedia movement. Looking forward for his addition to the Affiliations Committee! -Ralffralff (talk) 12:46, 29 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support An experienced Wikimedian who had greatly been involved in it for years. His expertise, experience and passion will prove to be a valuable asset to AffCom and to the community as well. I strongly believe that his appointment in the Committee will contribute greatly to the development of different Wikimedia affiliates and the Wikimedia movement in general. Jp2593 (talk) 14:02, 29 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support Juan Bautista is a long time wikimedian with a large and very valuable experience in local based affiliates and a comprehensive understanding of our movement. He will be a great addition to the AffComm if appointed. Patricio.lorente (talk) 17:31, 29 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support His addition to the committee will improve its diversity. Maffeth.opiana (talk) 01:21, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support Juan Bautista has a long proven track record and it speaks for itself. I am looking forward to uniting the Wikimedia movement in the Philippines. He will surely be a great addition to the Committee if appointed. Franz710 (talk) 01:47, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support His time, effort and skill can be of good use in the Committee once chosen. He is reliable, principled and firm. --Lady01v (talk) 09:18, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support Having someone from the ESEAP as a member of AffCom might be a good step in understanding what works best for the diverse communities in this region. For a short period of time meeting this Wikimedian, I have seen his dedication to work for the Movement. Experienced, open to criticisms, respecting individuality and confidentiality. -- Imelda 10:47, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support as per above. —DerHexer (Talk) 14:37, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support Well experienced Wikipedian. His experience in serving the local community is laudable. He will surely be a valuable Affiliations Committee member. -Nickrds09 ^{(Talk to me)} 16:01, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support Johnny is a good addition to the AffCom. --Exec8 (talk) 17:17, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support per above reasons cited and mentioned by Ralff Ralff, Titopao, Franz710, Brazal dang, et.al.. JWilz12345 (Talk|Contrib's.) 17:35, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support as per Brazal.dang (Imelda) Ninja✮Strikers ^«☎» 18:57, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support I organised two consecutive Wikipedia Asian Months With Asian Wikimedians. They are enthusiastic and always encouraging for contribution in enriching Asian content through collaboration with Wikipedia Education Program at Hashemite University in Jordan which I lead. I support their representation at Affcomm--Avicenno (talk) 19:33, 30 June 2021 (UTC)[reply]
SupportUn autre candidat que je trouve très pragmatique dans son approche de la reconnaissance des affiliés. Bonne chance!--Papischou (talk) 11:46, 3 July 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support I can vouch for Juan's measured responses and probity. I have known him since we engaged him at the Philippine Congressional Planning and Budget Office (CPBO), now known as the Congressional Planning and Budget Department (CPBD), in the late 1980s. zirconaut (talk) 14:35, 01 July 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support Johny is a good person. He is passionate in achieving the goals of the wikimedia foundation particularly the Wikimedia Philippines. Johny will surely be an additional asset to the AFFCom. He is the guy!—- Markadan (talk) 17:17, 4 July 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support We need more diverse AffCom member. --Arupako (talk) 13:09, 9 July 2021 (UTC)[reply]
Support Johnny is a good person and he was a good Wikimedia Chapter President! --Pinay06 (talk) 11:01, 20 July 2021 (UTC)[reply]