Change Makers What motivated you to become an advocate for Internet freedom in Africa, and how did you get started? As an advocate for Internet freedom, I strongly believe in the Internet 's transformative potential and the importance of ensuring that its benefits are accessible to all. My passion for this cause has been a part of my values and interests for as long as I can remember, and it has been fuelled by my desire to bridge the digital divide and address the unique challenges that Africans face in the digital age. My journey into advocating for Internet freedom in Africa began when I worked as an advocacy researcher in Zimbabwe, where I assisted in developing advocacy strategies to influence regional bodies, governments, communities, local organisations, human rights defenders, politicians, and other decision-makers to tackle human rights challenges. I then joined another civil society organisation and focused on media representation of minority voices in South Africa's 2009 general elections, authoring a report on the coverage of race, racism, and xenophobia in local community media. In these roles, I gained first hand insights into the profound impact of digital technologies on society and the imperative for policies that safeguard both freedom of expression and individual rights in the online sphere. These early experiences motivated me to take on diverse roles in civil society and the private sector, where I sought to shape policies and engage with stakeholders to champion digital rights and promote Internet freedom. My time at the Association for Progressive Communications (APC) was particularly instrumental in nurturing my growth as a tech policy leader. APC is a dynamic membership-based network of organisations and activists that empowers individuals, organisations, and social movements to leverage information and communications technologies (ICTs) to facilitate equitable human development, uphold social justice, and ensure environmental sustainability. Throughout my journey, I have had the privilege of collaborating with numerous visionary individuals and organisations, including CIPESA, the Kenya ICT Action Network, the Women of Uganda Network, and Protege QV (Cameroon). Additionally, I have been mentored by strong women in the tech policy space, such as Anriette Esterhuysen, Chat Garcia Ramilo, Karen Banks, Claire Sibthorpe, Dr. Towela Nyirenda Jere, and Dr. Rosemary Okello. These experiences and partnerships have profoundly influenced my advocacy work, enriching my perspective and fortifying my dedication to promoting Internet freedom and digital rights in Africa and globally. I remain inspired by the emerging generation of African technology and human rights policy leaders. What progress have you seen in the expansion of Internet freedom in Africa over the past ten years? Over the past decade, Africa has made significant progress in expanding Internet access and promoting Internet freedom. Governments and stakeholders have increasingly recognised the importance of an open and secure digital environment. Improved policy frameworks, increased connectivity, and growing digital literacy initiatives have contributed to broader access to information and online services. The establishment of regional organisations and policy initiatives focusing on digital rights has spurred collaborative efforts among African stakeholders, resulting in more informed and balanced policy discussions. Numerous countries have taken significant steps to bridge the digital divide by increasing Internet availability and reducing access disparities. Several countries have also improved their regulatory frameworks, creating more favourable conditions for competition and investment in the telecommunications sector. This has enhanced connectivity options and reduced costs, making the Internet accessible to a broader population. 18 A CIPESA Series