Grants:Programs/Wikimedia Community Fund/Rapid Fund/MY ABILITY IN DISABILITY WIKIMEDIA TRAINING (ID: 22282605)

statusFunded

Rapid Fund

MY ABILITY IN DISABILITY WIKIMEDIA TRAINING

proposed start date2023-10-28

proposed end date2023-11-28

grant start date2023-11-10T00:00:00Z

grant end date2023-12-15T00:00:00Z

budget (local currency)1678000 NGN

budget (USD)2392.36 USD

amount recommended (USD)2200

grant typeIndividual

funding regionSSA

decision fiscal year2023-24

applicant• Usmanagm

organization (if applicable)• N/A

Friendly Space Policy

Universal Code of Conduct

Application Privacy Statement

Review Final Report

This is an automatically generated Meta-Wiki page. The page was copied from Fluxx, the grantmaking web service of Wikimedia Foundation where the user has submitted their application. Please do not make any changes to this page because all changes will be removed after the next update. Use the discussion page for your feedback. The page was created by CR-FluxxBot.

Applicant Details

Main Wikimedia username. (required)

Usmanagm

Organization

N/A

If you are a group or organization leader, board member, president, executive director, or staff member at any Wikimedia group, affiliate, or Wikimedia Foundation, you are required to self-identify and present all roles. (required)

N/A

Describe all relevant roles with the name of the group or organization and description of the role. (required)

Main Proposal

1. Please state the title of your proposal. This will also be the Meta-Wiki page title.

MY ABILITY IN DISABILITY WIKIMEDIA TRAINING

2. and 3. Proposed start and end dates for the proposal.

2023-10-28 - 2023-11-28

4. Where will this proposal be implemented? (required)

Nigeria

5. Are your activities part of a Wikimedia movement campaign, project, or event? If so, please select the relevant project or campaign. (required)

Other (please specify) It is a training.

6. What is the change you are trying to bring? What are the main challenges or problems you are trying to solve? Describe this change or challenges, as well as main approaches to achieve it. (required)

The primary objective of the "My Ability in Disability Wikimedia Awareness" project is to address the longstanding issue of the underrepresentation of individuals with physical disabilities in Wikimedia projects. This exclusion, though unintended, is rooted in the lack of accessibility and preparedness required to instill the confidence to participate. The goal is to rectify this situation by actively involving individuals with physical disabilities, with a primary focus on partnering with the Deaf Association in the Northeast region, who have expressed interest in training their 50 active members and officials. Subsequently, these trained members will take on the responsibility of training others in various locations.

Challenges and Problems:

1. Lack of Accessibility: Physically challenged individuals, particularly members of the Deaf Association in the Northeast region, our target group, have shown a keen interest in participating in Wikimedia projects. However, they encounter significant accessibility challenges that hinder their engagement. A major barrier is the absence of sign language interpreters during training sessions. To overcome this obstacle, our approach involves providing proficient sign language interpreters to ensure effective communication and engagement.

2. Inadequate Training Format: Another substantial challenge arises from the standard format of Wikimedia training, which often occurs online. While this format suits many participants, it may not be inclusive enough for physically challenged individuals who require more personalized, one-on-one training sessions. In response, our project addresses this by offering tailored training sessions designed to accommodate their unique needs and preferences.

3. Lack of Preparedness: Wikimedia projects frequently lack specific preparations to facilitate the participation of physically challenged individuals. This oversight creates difficulties for their full engagement. To address this, we propose integrating inclusive practices into Wikimedia activities. This may involve considerations for accessibility features in event planning, the formulation of guidelines to accommodate various types of disabilities, and actively seeking input from physically challenged participants to continuously enhance the overall experience.

• Importance of the Training:

The inclusion of physically challenged individuals in the Wikimedia movement holds immense significance. Their unique perspectives and life experiences bring invaluable contributions to the platform. Furthermore, their involvement will help bridge the existing content gap related to disability-related topics within Wikimedia projects. This not only promotes diversity but also ensures a more comprehensive coverage of subjects, enriching Wikimedia as an inclusive knowledge resource.

Moreover, by actively engaging physically challenged individuals, we empower them to become advocates for the free knowledge movement. They can assume a pivotal role in spreading awareness about the importance of open knowledge and inspire others within their communities to actively participate in Wikimedia projects.

Approaches:

1. Building Trust and Awareness:

  - Expand Trust: Our first approach focuses on expanding trust in Wikipedia and its sister projects within the target group, both locally and online. To achieve this, our team of experienced Wikimedia editors will launch comprehensive online and offline campaigns. These campaigns will emphasize that Wikimedia is an inclusive platform, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds into the movement.
  - Create Informative Flyers: As part of these efforts, we will design informative flyers that highlight the accessibility and openness of Wikimedia projects. These flyers will be strategically distributed to draw maximum attention within the target community. By doing so, we aim to break down misconceptions and inspire confidence in the Wikimedia platform.

2. Engaging the Deaf Association:

  - Empower Deaf Association: Our second approach focuses on actively engaging the Deaf Association in the community to become contributors to Wikimedia projects. Their expressed interest provides a strong foundation, and our next step is to provide them with the necessary training and resources.
  - Promote Contribution and Learning: Through this approach, the project will promote awareness among the Deaf Association on how to contribute to Wikimedia projects effectively. Participants will not only learn how to contribute but also how to enhance the content of these platforms, ensuring that their unique perspectives and knowledge are well-represented.

3. Sustainable Collaboration:

  - Partnership with Hausa Wikimedians User Group:** Building on past successful collaborations, our project will partner with the Hausa Wikimedians User Group, an active and experienced user group in the region. This partnership ensures the long-term sustainability of the project.
  - Integration as User Group Members: Participants in our project will be integrated as members of the Hausa Wikimedians User Group. This integration goes beyond the project's duration and provides them with continuous support, guidance, and a sense of belonging to a larger Wikimedia community. This collaborative effort ensures ongoing engagement and growth within the Wikimedia movement.

These approaches aim to not only build trust, awareness, and engagement within the target group but also establish a foundation for sustainable collaboration and growth within the Wikimedia community, ultimately fostering diversity and inclusivity in Wikimedia projects.

7. What are the planned activities? (required) Please provide a list of main activities. You can also add a link to the public page for your project where details about your project can be found. Alternatively, you can upload a timeline document. When the activities include partnerships, include details about your partners and planned partnerships.

Planned Activities:

The "My Ability in Disability Wikimedia Awareness" project will consist of five sessions and activities designed to engage the Deaf Association and other physically challenged individuals in Wikimedia projects. The following planned activities will be executed:

1. Awareness Trips:

  - Sensitization and awareness trips will be organized to tour the community and explain the activities of Wikipedia and its sister projects.
  - Distribution of Informative Materials: During these trips, fliers and handbills containing essential information about Wikipedia and its sister projects will be distributed.
  - Community Engagement: The community has shown eagerness to welcome the project, and during these trips, we will identify and invite fifty (50) participants for the project.
  - Knowledge Sharing: Subsequently, the Deaf Association and other participants will take it upon themselves to extend the knowledge gained to other members of their respective communities.

2. First Physical Onboarding Session:

  - Introduction to Wikimedia: This session will introduce the newly recruited Wikimedia editors to the Wikimedia projects and their activities.
  - Account Creation and Minor Editing: Participants will be guided through the process of account creation and address minor editing issues.
  - Onsite Surveys: On the first day, onsite surveys will be conducted with the participants to gather valuable insights. The data collected will be made available to user groups and organizations for their use.

3. Second Physical Workshop:

  - One-on-One Interaction: This session will involve one-on-one interaction with the fifty recruited participants, allowing for personalized guidance.
  - Practical Sessions: Practical sessions will be conducted to teach participants how to effectively improve Wikipedia and its sister projects.

4. Third Physical Workshop:

  - Problem-Solving: Participants who have gained an understanding of editing will be given the opportunity to explain any challenges they are facing.
  - Issue Resolution: The project team will address the issues raised by the participants, ensuring their concerns are heard and resolved.

5. Fourth and Final Session:

  - Fine-Tuning Editing Skills: This session will be another training session aimed at fine-tuning the editing skills of both new and existing editors.
  - Certificate of Excellence: Participants will be awarded a certificate of excellence for their active participation and contributions.
  - Introduction to Wikimedia Community: Participants will be introduced to the Hausa User Group and provided with access to join the broader Wikimedia Community, fostering ongoing engagement and collaboration.

These planned activities are structured to not only raise awareness but also provide hands-on training, address challenges, and empower participants to actively contribute to Wikimedia projects while fostering a sense of community and belonging within the Wikimedia movement.

8. Describe your team. Please provide their roles, Wikimedia Usernames and other details. (required) Include more details of the team, including their roles, usernames, Wikimedia group, and whether they are salaried, volunteers, consultants/contractors, etc. Team members involved in the grant application need to be aware of their involvement in the project.

Project Team:

• Usmanagm (Project Lead):

  - Background: Usmanagm has a track record of successful facilitation and project delivery in the Northeast region. His efforts have resulted in over 200 editors and more in the region, contributing significantly to Wikimedia Projects.
  - Role: As the project lead, Usmanagm will guide the team towards the successful delivery of the project. His experience and leadership have already led to a transformation in Wikimedia Projects in the region, making him a valuable asset to the project.

• Huzaifakumo (Facilitator and Moderator):

  - Background: Huzaifakumo is an experienced editor with a deep understanding of Wikimedia projects. He is also a member of the Kumo community, where the target group is located, which will greatly contribute to community engagement.
  - Role: Huzaifakumo will serve as a facilitator and moderator for the project. He will ensure that all online sessions run smoothly and align with project targets.

• SadiqY56 (Facilitator and Anchor):

  - Background: SadiqY56 is an experienced Wikimedia editor and trainer who is passionate about knowledge sharing and community engagement. He played a pivotal role as the anchor in the recently concluded Wikimedia Awareness project at Pen Resource University.
  - Role: SadiqY56 will continue his role as an anchor in this project, leveraging his expertise to ensure its success and effectively engage with the participants.

• Sign Language Interpreter:

  - Background: A sign language interpreter will be an essential addition to the team to facilitate effective communication with the Deaf Association participants.
  - Role: The interpreter will play a crucial role in bridging communication gaps and ensuring that all participants, including those with hearing impairments, can fully engage in the project activities.

This diverse and experienced team is well-equipped to lead and facilitate the "My Ability in Disability Wikimedia Awareness" project, ensuring its success and meaningful engagement with the target group, including individuals from the Deaf Association.

9. Who are the target participants and from which community? How will you engage participants before and during the activities? How will you follow up with participants after the activities? (required)

Target Participants and Community:

The primary target participants for our project are members of the Deaf Association in the northeast region. Specifically, we are engaging with their active members and executive committee (escos) within their community. It's important to note that no prior experience with Wikimedia is necessary to participate in our project.

Engagement Strategies Before and During Activities:

Engaging participants is a key aspect of our project's success. We will employ various strategies to ensure their active involvement:

• Community Interaction: We will actively engage with potential participants within Kumo community and nearby places, where the Deaf Association is predominant. Through community interactions, we will introduce the project, its goals, and the benefits of participating. This approach ensures that potential participants are well-informed and enthusiastic about joining the project.

• Personal Outreach: We will conduct personal outreach to members of the Deaf Association, explaining the project's objectives and how their participation can contribute to Wikimedia projects. This approach allows us to address any specific questions or concerns they may have.

• Clear Communication: Throughout the project, we will maintain clear and open communication channels with participants. Regular updates, reminders, and notifications about project activities will be shared to keep participants engaged and informed.

• Tailored Training: During the training sessions, we will provide personalized instruction and support to ensure that participants, regardless of their prior experience, gain the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to Wikipedia and sister projects. This approach fosters a positive learning environment.

Follow-up with Participants After Activities:

Our commitment to participant engagement extends beyond the project's activities. We have a robust plan for follow-up:

• Hausa Wikimedians User Group Membership: To ensure sustainability and continued engagement, we will welcome participants into the Hausa Wikimedians User Group. This affiliation provides a sense of community and ongoing support, allowing participants to stay connected to Wikimedia projects and receive guidance as they continue their contributions.

• Feedback and Support: We will actively seek feedback from participants about their experiences and challenges post-project. This feedback will inform any necessary adjustments or additional support. Regular check-ins and assistance will be provided to address any issues that may arise.

• Encouraging Continued Contributions: Participants will be encouraged to continue contributing to Wikipedia, Wikidata, and Wikimedia Commons. We will offer guidance on how to find and work on projects of interest to them, ensuring their sustained involvement in the Wikimedia community.

By employing these engagement and follow-up strategies, we aim to create a lasting impact, empower participants to become active editors, and contribute to the development and enrichment of Wikimedia projects while fostering a sense of belonging.

10. Does your project involve work with children or youth? (required)

Yes

10.1. Please provide a link to your Youth Safety Policy. (required) If the proposal indicates direct contact with children or youth, you are required to outline compliance with international and local laws for working with children and youth, and provide a youth safety policy aligned with these laws. Read more here.

We will strictly adhere to the Wikimedia friendly space policy before the event starts. We are also taking active measures to create a safe, supportive, and equitable environment for all participants. This includes providing a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. We are also providing the necessary resources and materials to assist participants and addressing any concerns or issues that may arise during the activities. https://foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Policy:Friendly_space_policy#Youth_Safety

11. How did you discuss the idea of your project with your community members and/or any relevant groups? Please describe steps taken and provide links to any on-wiki community discussion(s) about the proposal. (required) You need to inform the community and/or group, discuss the project with them, and involve them in planning this proposal. You also need to align the activities with other projects happening in the planned area of implementation to ensure collaboration within the community.

Throughout my past projects, I have consistently maintained a strong connection with the Hausa Wikimedians User Group, keeping them informed about project developments, both before and after delivery. This practice has been invaluable, as their words of encouragement and guidance have consistently contributed to the success of my initiatives.

For this project, which holds particular significance, I will continue to prioritize communication and collaboration with the Hausa User Group. Their involvement is essential to the project's success, and I am confident that their insights and support will be instrumental.

Pre-Delivery Engagement:

• Project Updates: Right from the project's inception, I will keep the Hausa User Group informed about our progress, plans, and any significant milestones. Regular updates will ensure that they are aware of our objectives and the steps we are taking to achieve them.

• Sharing Developments: As the project unfolds, I will share visual updates, including pictures of project activities and developments. This transparent approach allows them to witness the impact of their support and fosters a sense of inclusion in the project's journey.

Post-Outcomes Engagement:

• Lessons and Outcomes: Beyond the project's completion, I will continue to engage with the Hausa User Group to share lessons learned and outcomes achieved. This feedback loop is essential for mutual learning and improvement.

• Stakeholder Involvement: I am confident that the stakeholders within the Hausa User Group will remain welcoming and supportive. I will ensure that they are kept informed from the beginning to the end, providing insights into project challenges, successes, and the valuable contributions made by the participants.

By maintaining this open line of communication with the Hausa User Group, I aim to not only keep them aware of our progress but also ensure their active involvement and guidance, which will be instrumental in the successful delivery of this vital project.

12. Does your proposal aim to work to bridge any of the content knowledge gaps (Knowledge Inequity)? Select one option that most apply to your work. (required)

Cultural background, ethnicity, religion, racial

13. Does your proposal include any of these areas or thematic focus? Select one option that most applies to your work. (required)

Advocacy

14. Will your work focus on involving participants from any underrepresented communities? Select one option that most apply to your work. (required)

Disabilities

15. In what ways do you think your proposal most contributes to the Movement Strategy 2030 recommendations. Select one that most applies. (required)

Provide for Safety and Inclusion

Learning and metrics

17. What do you hope to learn from your work in this project or proposal? (required)

Introduction - Building on Past Achievements:

Building on the achievements of my previous projects, I have realized that these initiatives have not only created awareness but have also resulted in significant outcomes. They have successfully recruited and trained editors, fostering the growth of a more active and engaged Wikimedia community. Moreover, beneficiaries of these projects have emerged as mentors and facilitators in various initiatives, and leading projects in their communities. These outcomes have served as valuable lessons for me.

Lessons for This Project:

In the context of this present project, I aim to build upon these lessons and achieve the following lessons :

1. Increase Active Editors with Disabilities: I aspire to witness more individuals with physical challenges becoming active editors on Wikimedia projects. By breaking down barriers and providing tailored support, we aim to empower these individuals to contribute actively and make their unique perspectives and knowledge available to a wider audience.

2. Enhance Disability-Related Content: Another objective is to see a significant increase in the creation and improvement of content related to disabilities on Wikimedia Projects. This expansion will contribute to a more comprehensive and inclusive representation of disability-related topics, making Wikimedia a valuable resource for diverse audiences.

3. Empower People with Disabilities as Facilitators: Beyond participation, I hope to learn how individuals with disabilities can take on facilitator roles in projects. Their firsthand experiences and insights can be incredibly influential in reaching and inspiring more people within their communities. Empowering them as facilitators has the potential to create a positive ripple effect.

4. Sharing Lessons Widely: Just as in my past projects, the lessons learned in this initiative will be made readily available to user groups, communities, and other stakeholders. Sharing these insights will enable others to benefit from the experiences, challenges, and successes of this project, fostering knowledge exchange and growth within the Wikimedia community.

18. What are your Wikimedia project targets in numbers (metrics)? (required)

Number of participants, editors, and organizers

Other Metrics	Target	Optional description
Number of participants	54	Participants: This represents the total number of people available for activities, including both editors and organizers. New Participants: There are fifty new participants, that is, the newly recruited editors. Returning Participants: There will be three returning participants, consisting of the facilitators. And then, one interpreter.
Number of editors	50	New Participants: There are fifty new participants, that is, the newly recruited editors.
Number of organizers	4	Usmanagm (Project Lead): - Background: Usmanagm has a track record of successful facilitation and project delivery in the Northeast region. His efforts have resulted in over 200 editors and more in the region, contributing significantly to Wikimedia Projects. - Role: As the project lead, Usmanagm will guide the team towards the successful delivery of the project. His experience and leadership have already led to a transformation in Wikimedia Projects in the region, making him a valuable asset to the project. Huzaifakumo (Facilitator and Moderator): - Background: Huzaifakumo is an experienced editor with a deep understanding of Wikimedia projects. He is also a member of the Kumo community, where the target group is located, which will greatly contribute to community engagement. - Role: Huzaifakumo will serve as a facilitator and moderator for the project. He will ensure that all online sessions run smoothly and align with project targets. SadiqY56 (Facilitator and Anchor): - Background: SadiqY56 is an experienced Wikimedia editor and trainer who is passionate about knowledge sharing and community engagement. He played a pivotal role as the anchor in the recently concluded Wikimedia Awareness project at Pen Resource University. - Role: SadiqY56 will continue his role as an anchor in this project, leveraging his expertise to ensure its success and effectively engage with the participants. Sign Language Interpreter: - Background: A sign language interpreter will be an essential addition to the team to facilitate effective communication with the Deaf Association participants. - Role: The interpreter will play a crucial role in bridging communication gaps and ensuring that all participants, including those with hearing impairments, can fully engage in the project activities.

Number of content contributions to Wikimedia projects

Wikimedia project	Number of content created or improved
Wikipedia	50
Wikimedia Commons	200
Wikidata	50
Wiktionary
Wikisource
Wikimedia Incubator
Translatewiki
MediaWiki
Wikiquote
Wikivoyage
Wikibooks
Wikiversity
Wikinews
Wikispecies
Wikifunctions or Abtsract Wikipedia

Optional description for content contributions.

As an integral part of the practical sessions within this project, we are committed to ensuring the delivery of quality contributions to Wikipedia, Wikimedia Commons, and Wikidata. These contributions will reflect not only the dedication of our participants but also the effectiveness of our training and guidance.

Our approach includes meticulous attention to detail and adherence to Wikimedia's content guidelines. Through hands-on training and mentorship, we will equip participants with the skills and knowledge required to create and enhance content that meets the high standards expected within the Wikimedia community.

Quality contributions are essential not only to maintain the integrity and reliability of these valuable platforms but also to ensure that the content we add aligns with the broader goals of knowledge dissemination and inclusivity. By fostering a culture of quality within our project, we aim to contribute meaningfully to the Wikimedia ecosystem and enrich the experience of its users.

19. Do you have any other project targets in numbers (metrics)? (optional)

No

Main Open Metrics Data

Main Open Metrics	Description	Target
N/A	N/A	N/A
N/A	N/A	N/A
N/A	N/A	N/A
N/A	N/A	N/A
N/A	N/A	N/A

20. What tools would you use to measure each metrics? Please refer to the guide for a list of tools. You can also write that you are not sure and need support. (required)

Creation of Outreach Dashboard:

To facilitate effective project management and performance evaluation, we will develop an outreach dashboard. This dashboard will serve as a centralized platform for monitoring and tracking participant activities and project metrics, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the project.

Dashboard Functionality:

The outreach dashboard will encompass the following functionalities:

1. Participant Activity Monitoring: We will use the dashboard to track and monitor the engagement and contributions of participants. This will include keeping records of their edits, uploads, and other relevant activities on Wikimedia platforms.

2. Project Metrics Measurement: The dashboard will play a crucial role in measuring various project metrics, including but not limited to:

  - Number of Participants: Tracking the count of individuals actively involved in the project.
  - Articles Created/Improved: Recording the number of new articles created and existing articles improved as a result of the project.
  - References Added: Quantifying the contributions of references to articles to enhance their reliability.
  - Article Views: Monitoring the views of articles to gauge their impact and reach.

Benefits of the Outreach Dashboard:

The outreach dashboard will offer several benefits, including:

• Real-time Data: Providing access to real-time data on participant activities and project progress.
• Performance Evaluation: Enabling comprehensive evaluation of the project's effectiveness and impact.
• Transparency: Ensuring transparency in project management and reporting.
• Decision Support: Assisting in informed decision-making for project adjustments and improvements.

By implementing this outreach dashboard, we aim to streamline project monitoring, assess our achievements against predefined goals, and enhance our ability to make data-driven decisions that contribute to the success of the "My Ability in Disability Wikimedia Awareness" project.

Financial proposal

21. Please upload your budget for this proposal or indicate the link to it. (required)

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1-4yMSUac0IL0NS_Aao_zNhLcIZUfHL2x2mNKZRnuvzE/edit

22. and 22.1. What is the amount you are requesting for this proposal? Please provide the amount in your local currency. (required)

1678000 NGN

22.2. Convert the amount requested into USD using the Oanda converter. This is done only to help you assess the USD equivalent of the requested amount. Your request should be between 500 - 5,000 USD.

2392.36 USD

We/I have read the Application Privacy Statement, WMF Friendly Space Policy and Universal Code of Conduct.

Yes

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• Analysing if the proposal is coherent in terms of the objectives, strategies, budget, and expected results (metrics).

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