Language capabilities (language and level of proficiency): English (4), Nigerian Pidgin (5), Yoruba (5), Gungbe (5)
Regional experiences: Sub Saharan Africa
What experience do you have participating on committees, within or outside the Wikimedia movement?
While I may not have experience participating in committees within the Wikimedia movement, I have actively served on committees in my professional capacity outside the movement. I have been a member of project evaluation committees and organizational boards, where I played integral roles in decision-making processes, contributing thoughtful insights and recommendations. These experiences have honed my ability to work effectively in a committee setting, collaborate with diverse stakeholders, and practice good governance.
What skills, experience, or perspective would you bring or contribute to the committee, if appointed?
If appointed, I would bring a range of skills, experience, and perspectives to the AffCom Recognition Committee. As an experienced administrator on the Nigerian Pidgin Wikipedia and a co-founder of the Wikimedians of Lagos User Group, I possess a deep understanding of the challenges and needs faced by affiliates, particularly within diverse and culturally vibrant communities. My perspective as a representative from an underrepresented language community can contribute to more inclusive decision-making and ensure that the voices of marginalized communities are heard. Furthermore, my experience in off-wiki committees has equipped me with strong organizational and leadership skills, as well as the ability to handle sensitive situations in a respectful and empathetic manner.
Is there any other pertinent information that you would like us to take into account when reviewing your application?
My proficiency in English will enable me to effectively communicate and engage with community members from different regions and backgrounds. While I may lack direct experience within the Wikimedia movement, my transferable skills and commitment to learning will enable me to contribute effectively to the committee.
Which sub-committee are you interested in working with (Conflict Intervention, Recognitions)?:
Recognitions sub-committee
What do you think are the benefits and responsibilities of functioning as formal affiliates, and when is a group of Wikimedians ready to form an affiliate?
Functioning as formal affiliates offers numerous benefits for Wikimedians. It provides official recognition from the Wikimedia Foundation, which enhances credibility and facilitates access to resources necessary for the success of affiliate projects. Being a formal affiliate allows Wikimedians to self-organize into chapters, thematic organizations, or user groups, promoting collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and the formation of networks. By operating as a formal affiliate, a group of Wikimedians gains a platform for in-depth coordination and organization. However, the responsibilities of formal affiliates should not be underestimated. Affiliates should adhere to good governance practices to ensure transparency, accountability, and proper utilization of resources. Annual reporting is essential to demonstrate ongoing commitment and to retain affiliate status. A group of Wikimedians is ready to form an affiliate when they have a shared vision aligned with the Wikimedia mission, a demonstrated commitment to collaboration, and the organizational capacity to carry out their intended activities effectively.
Please describe your experience working with conflict resolution, and how you have helped build consensus and support diversity.
While my experience in conflict resolution within the Wikimedia movement is limited, I have been actively involved in fostering consensus and supporting diversity in other contexts. In my role as a co-founder of the Wikimedians of Lagos User Group, I have dealt with diverse perspectives and varying opinions among our members. Through open dialogue and active listening, I have successfully mediated conflicts, built consensus, and created an inclusive environment where individuals feel valued and respected. I believe in celebrating the diversity of voices and perspectives within the Wikimedia movement, as it enriches our collective knowledge and leads to more equitable outcomes. In my off-wiki capacity, I have encountered and successfully resolved numerous conflicts. I am skilled at identifying underlying issues, facilitating communication among parties involved in the conflict, and finding mutually acceptable solutions. In conflict resolution scenarios, I prioritize open dialogue, active listening, and empathy in order to build consensus and maintain a supportive environment. Supporting diversity is ingrained in my approach to conflict resolution, as I believe that diverse perspectives and voices are essential for a thriving community. I strive to create an inclusive space where everyone feels valued and respected, and I actively encourage the participation of underrepresented groups.
Strong support. Biowikician's demonstrated understanding of the benefits and responsibilities associated with formal affiliates reveals his commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the Wikimedia community. He will be a valuable asset to the committee. He has my full support. Misteld (talk) 20:18, 6 November 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support. I appreciate your ability to identify underlying issues and find mutually acceptable solutions when problem arises. This quality showcases your analytical and problem-solving prowess. I have seen you demonstrated this within our local community. I can't wait to see you bring this skill to the Affcom.Jonywikis (talk) 02:50, 7 November 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support I trust Biowikician to foster a productive and supportive environment within the committee because of his unwavering commitment to effective communication and collaboration.Pingponging (talk) 04:24, 7 November 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support You have my support because of your exceptional communication and leadership skills which is evident in how you handle sensitive situations with respect and empathy.Jamex18 (talk) 06:20, 7 November 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support. Biowikician's mediation, consensus-building, and inclusivity skills will be incredibly valuable in an AffCom committee that deals with diverse perspectives and opinions.Sagbosam (talk) 09:11, 7 November 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support. I support Biowikician's candidacy because of his dedication to celebrating the diversity of voices and perspectives within the Wikimedia movement which exemplifies his comprehension of the importance of equity and inclusivity.Joshateji (talk) 14:55, 7 November 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support. I know for certain that Biowikician's passion for promoting inclusion and creating supportive environments will play a vital role in fostering a collaborative and respectful approach to problem-solving within AffCom. He has my undivided support. Gadarawamo (talk) 07:08, 8 November 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support. He has strong passion for promoting inclusion. He has demonstrated that in the past and I am sure he will do the same in his role in the committee.Morewealth (talk) 07:26, 8 November 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support - I am impressed by Joel's dedication to continuous learning and honing of his skills, which will undoubtedly enable him to contribute meaningfully to the committee. I have absolute confidence in his ability to deliver within the committee. I support his candidacy.Samliverj (talk) 21:35, 8 November 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support. Biowikician's alignment with the values of the Wikimedia movement, particularly in promoting diversity and inclusion is commendable. He will a added value to the committee.Omegor1 (talk) 11:04, 11 November 2023 (UTC)[reply]
Strong support. Biowikician's demonstrated understanding of the benefits and responsibilities associated with formal affiliates reveals his commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the Wikimedia community. He will be a valuable asset to the committee. He has my full support. Misteld (talk) 20:18, 6 November 2023 (UTC)
Support I like the commitment to WMF Guiding Principle, that Joel declared. --KuboF Hromoslav (talk) 22:21, 13 November 2023 (UTC) --KuboF Hromoslav (talk) 13:36, 17 November 2023 (UTC)
