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

Endorsment from Huzaifakumo (talk)

STRATEGIC AND IMPACTFUL PROJECT !

I am glad to wholeheartedly endorse the ambitious and crucial proposal titled "My Ability in Disability Wikimedia Training" submitted by Usmanagm. This initiative tackles a pressing issue within the Wikimedia community – the underrepresentation of individuals with physical disabilities in its projects. Usmanagm's proposal is a well-crafted, comprehensive plan that outlines clear objectives, innovative approaches, and robust strategies to empower and engage individuals with disabilities, particularly focusing on the Deaf Association in the region.

The proposal acknowledges and addresses the multifaceted challenges faced by physically challenged individuals in participating fully in Wikimedia projects. These challenges, including accessibility barriers, inadequate training formats, and a lack of preparedness within Wikimedia activities, are tackled systematically and innovatively.

The commitment to providing sign language interpreters during training sessions is a testament to the project's dedication to ensuring effective communication and engagement for Deaf Association members and others with hearing impairments. This approach exemplifies inclusivity and accessibility at its core.

Moreover, the recognition that traditional online training formats may not be inclusive enough for physically challenged individuals is both insightful and practical. The tailored training sessions, designed to accommodate the unique needs and preferences of participants, demonstrate a profound commitment to making sure that every individual can learn and contribute effectively.

The proposal's emphasis on integrating inclusive practices into Wikimedia activities is commendable. By considering accessibility features in event planning, formulating guidelines to accommodate various types of disabilities, and actively seeking input from physically challenged participants, the project aims to ensure that Wikimedia becomes a more inclusive platform for everyone. This approach reflects the Wikimedia community's dedication to its core values of openness, diversity, and knowledge sharing.

The importance of this training goes beyond mere inclusion; it enriches Wikimedia with diverse perspectives and knowledge related to disability. This project promises to bridge content gaps and make Wikimedia a more comprehensive and inclusive knowledge resource. It's about creating a platform where all voices are heard and valued, regardless of physical abilities.

Additionally, empowering physically challenged individuals to become advocates for the free knowledge movement is a highly commendable goal. By actively engaging these individuals, the project not only empowers them but also spreads awareness about the importance of open knowledge within their communities. This ripple effect has the potential to inspire countless others to participate actively in Wikimedia projects, furthering the movement's mission.

The proposed approaches, such as building trust and awareness, engaging the Deaf Association, and fostering sustainable collaboration, are well-structured and designed for long-term impact. The commitment to partnering with the Hausa Wikimedians User Group, an experienced and active user group in the region, ensures the project's sustainability and ongoing engagement.

Moreover, the project's dedication to integrating participants into the Hausa Wikimedians User Group, providing continuous support, guidance, and a sense of belonging, is pivotal. This collaborative effort ensures that participants remain engaged with the Wikimedia community beyond the project's duration, fostering diversity and inclusivity in Wikimedia projects over time.

Furthermore, the detailed list of planned activities showcases the project's thorough planning and execution. The awareness trips, distribution of informative materials, community engagement, and knowledge sharing initiatives are designed to not only raise awareness but also create a sense of ownership among participants. The hands-on training sessions, problem-solving activities, and fine-tuning of editing skills promise to equip participants with valuable skills and knowledge.

The proposal introduces a sign language interpreter as a crucial addition to the project team, emphasizing the importance of effective communication for all participants. This demonstrates a deep understanding of the specific needs of the Deaf Association members and a commitment to breaking down communication barriers.

One particularly noteworthy aspect is the project's commitment to follow-up with participants after the activities. This demonstrates a dedication to ongoing support and growth within the Wikimedia community. Participants will be encouraged to continue their contributions, and regular check-ins will ensure that any issues or challenges are addressed promptly. This approach fosters a lasting impact, empowers participants to become active editors, and contributes to the development and enrichment of Wikimedia projects.

Regarding the team, Usmanagm, the project lead, comes with a track record of successful facilitation and project delivery in the Northeast region. His experience and leadership have already resulted in over 200 editors in the region, significantly contributing to Wikimedia Projects, the sign language interpreter also brings his own unique expertise and experiences to the team, ensuring a well-rounded and capable group to lead this initiative.

In terms of community involvement, the proposal emphasizes collaboration with the Hausa Wikimedians User Group. This established partnership is a testament to Usmanagm's commitment to engaging with the Wikimedia community and aligning the project's activities with broader community goals. The continuous communication with the Hausa User Group, both before and after project delivery, ensures their active involvement and valuable guidance.

As for youth safety, the proposal adheres to the Wikimedia friendly space policy and actively works to create a safe, supportive, and equitable environment for all participants, including children and youth. Safety and inclusivity are paramount throughout the project's planning and execution.

This project's goals align perfectly with the Movement Strategy 2030 recommendations, particularly in providing for safety and inclusion. It embodies the values and principles that the Wikimedia community holds dear, making it a project of great importance.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly endorse the "My Ability in Disability Wikimedia Training" project. It is a visionary initiative that addresses a crucial issue within the Wikimedia community while promoting inclusivity, diversity, and knowledge sharing. I encourage the Wikimedia community to support and endorse this vital project. Let us come together to ensure that Wikimedia truly becomes a platform where every voice is heard, valued, and empowered.

--Huzaifakumo (talk) 16:09, 11 September 2023 (UTC)

Impact

The "My Ability in Disability Wikimedia Awareness" project is a visionary undertaking, forging a path where none has ventured before. Its audacious mission to rectify the systemic underrepresentation of individuals with physical disabilities within Wikimedia projects is nothing short of groundbreaking. This initiative pioneers inclusivity and shatters barriers, serving as a lighthouse for future endeavors in the Wikimedia sphere. Its commitment to eradicating accessibility challenges and providing tailored, one-on-one training sessions exemplifies an unwavering dedication to equity and empowerment.

Furthermore, the resounding impact and steadfast sustainability of this project cannot be overstated. By actively involving physically challenged individuals, especially the Deaf Association, it catalyzes a transformation in the Wikimedia landscape. The project not only augments the platform with unique perspectives but also galvanizes its participants to become unwavering champions of open knowledge. Its meticulous approach, including robust follow-up strategies and integration into the Wikimedia community, ensures that the seeds of change sown today will yield a lasting legacy of diversity and inclusivity tomorrow. In sum, the "My Ability in Disability Wikimedia Awareness" project stands as a beacon of progress, beckoning us to invest in a more equitable and enriched Wikimedia future. I wholeheartedly endorse the funding of this pioneering initiative. SadiqY56 (talk) 13:02, 14 September 2023 (UTC)

Partially Funded

Hello @Usmanagm thank you for applying for the rapid fund grant. We reviewed and approved the grant in the amount of 1,616,000 NGN ($2,200USD) with the following comments:

Commendations to the team. The approach of providing tailored training sessions, integrating sign language interpreters, and creating a supportive community within the Wikimedia movement demonstrates a deep understanding of the needs of your target participants. Moreover, your emphasis on building trust, raising awareness, and fostering sustainable collaboration aligns well with the goals of the strategy principles of knowledge equity.

• We recommend that the team reviews the budget line items related to documentary, and certificates for participants. We suggest considering online certificates instead.

• The application has set specific targets for the number of participants, editors, and content contributions, consider including more qualitative metrics as well. For example, you could measure the impact of your project by tracking the quality of the content contributed, participant satisfaction, or the long-term engagement of participants after the project.

• Additionally, while the application mentions integrating participants into the Hausa Wikimedians User Group, elaborate on how you plan to ensure the long-term sustainability of the project's outcomes. Consider follow-up activities, or continued support mechanisms that will help participants remain active contributors even after the project concludes.

Best of luck with your project!

Best regards, (On behalf of the Middle East and Africa regional funds team) ~~~~ YPam (WMF) (talk) 23:08, 30 October 2023 (UTC)

Thank you so much for the elaborate response and also for the approval. We have reviewed and adjusted the budget, reflecting the points raised. Also, thank you for the commendation. We have also taken note of all the recommendations and will surely implement and effect them. Looking forward to sharing the results, outcomes, and learnings. Thank you. Usmanagm (talk) 09:09, 1 November 2023 (UTC)

w:en:Wikipedia:OABOT

I see you plan to make new users edit Wikipedia. Have you considered making them start with some assisted editing? For example OAbot is a tool to quickly edit references. It's educational on multiple fronts (templates, reliable sources, systemic bias, copyright) and can make the participants feel some sense of accomplishment quite quickly. Nemo 20:22, 20 November 2023 (UTC)

Thank you for sharing this. I will surely check it. Usmanagm (talk) 14:37, 27 November 2023 (UTC)

Extension

Good day YPam, The funds arrived just recently causing a 12-day delay from the starting date.

Considering that the project targets people with special needs, extending the project is crucial to ensure that the planned strategy flows smoothly and effectively.

I just need clarification. I've seen in someone else's project extension request where you mentioned that, since an agreement has been signed, only the end date can be shifted, not the starting date.

The grant start date for the project is November 10th, 2023, while the grant end date is December 15th, 2023. The report due date is January 14th, 2024.

So, could you please adjust the project dates to run from November 10th to December 30th, 2023? This change only affects the project's end date. I am completely fine with leaving the report due date as is, on January 14th, 2024.

This adjustment is crucial to ensure the effective delivery of planned approaches and activities, especially given its focus on people with disabilities. They've also requested this extension for effective engagement.

We are grateful for your mentorship, guidance, and inspiration. Thank you immensely.

Looking forward to your response, Ma. YPam Usmanagm (talk) 14:31, 27 November 2023 (UTC)

Hello @Usmanagm your request is understandable and approved. This means that the new end date for you project will be December 30, 2023 and your report will be due 30 days after on January 30. All the best, YPam (WMF) (talk) 08:42, 1 December 2023 (UTC)

Thank you very much, Ma. We are truly grateful and can't wait to share the outcomes and learnings. Thank you once again for approving the extension! Usmanagm (talk) 08:45, 1 December 2023 (UTC)