Wikimedia Foundation elections/2025/Candidates/Olitun
Mirja Hembram (Olitun)
Olitun (talk • meta edits • global user summary • CA • AE)
| Candidate details |
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| Candidate video statement | ||
| Total word count for the whole application (required + optional questions) is 2500 words. | ||
| Have you read the minimum candidate requirements and verified you meet the minimum qualifications and the candidate eligibility requirements? | Yes | |
| Have you read the candidate guidelines and agree to abide by the guidelines? | Yes | |
| Required questions | ||
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| Why are you running for the Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees? What would you contribute? What would you like to learn more about? | 1) I am running for the Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees because I believe in the power of free knowledge to transform societies this month of active contribution to Wikimedia projects, I want to help guide the Foundation at a strategic level to ensure it remains community-centered, transparent, and accountable. I am particularly motivated by the need to bridge global knowledge gaps and strengthen support for underrepresented communities within the movement.
2) I would bring a mix of hands-on community experience, policy understanding, and a global perspective. I’ve worked across content creation, governance, and outreach, and understand the challenges both seasoned and newer contributors face. I would contribute skills in consensus-building, conflict resolution, and cross-cultural collaboration. My background in [insert your field—e.g., law, education, technology, advocacy] enables me to navigate complex issues and advocate for sustainable, equitable growth of the Wikimedia ecosystem. 3) I would like to deepen my understanding of how the Foundation’s internal operations, fundraising strategies, and global partnerships are managed, particularly in relation to emerging communities and technology policy. I’m also eager to learn more about the challenges faced by affiliates and communities I’m less familiar with, especially in regions where access to knowledge is still heavily restricted. This learning will inform more inclusive and effective board-level decision-making. | |
| Please describe your Wikimedia experience (such as contributions to the Wikimedia projects, memberships in Wikimedia organizations or affiliates, activities as a Wikimedia movement organizer, or participation with a Wikimedia movement ally organization). | Since joining the Wikimedia movement in 2025, I have actively contributed across several Wikimedia projects, including English Wikisource, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons. My work has focused on expanding access to cultural and historical knowledge from underrepresented regions, particularly West Bengal State in India. I have contributed to digitizing and preserving local literature and historical documents, uploading media files related to cultural heritage, and improving data on Wikidata about India topics.
In addition to online contributions, I have been involved in offline outreach efforts. I have organized and facilitated local edit-a-thons, workshops, and training sessions to introduce new contributors—especially youth and students—to Wikimedia projects. My advocacy focuses on digital literacy, open knowledge, and community empowerment, and I’ve worked closely with local educational institutions and cultural organizations. I am also an active member of regional Wikimedia user groups and participate in conversations and strategy meetings related to movement governance and growth in emerging communities. My work aligns with the Wikimedia Movement Strategy, especially the recommendations around increasing equity in decision-making and investing in skill development across the movement. | |
| From your perspective, what should the Wikimedia Foundation be prioritizing over the next 3-5 years, and why do you see these as the most important priorities? | 1. Equity and Inclusion Across the Movement
The Wikimedia movement must become more inclusive of underrepresented communities, particularly from the Global South. Despite being a global platform, there is still significant content and participation imbalance across regions, languages, and demographics. Prioritizing equity means: Providing funding and infrastructure for local user groups. Supporting indigenous and minority languages. Addressing systemic biases on Wikimedia projects. This is important because a truly global encyclopedia must reflect diverse knowledge systems, not just those historically dominant online. 2. Sustaining Community Health and Volunteer Growth The volunteer editor base is aging and declining in many communities. The Foundation should: Invest in editor retention and mentorship programs. Improve the newcomer experience through better onboarding and user-friendly tools. Strengthen community governance and safety mechanisms to prevent burnout and harassment. Healthy, vibrant communities are the lifeblood of Wikimedia projects. 3. Technological Innovation and Platform Usability Wikimedia’s platforms must evolve with technological changes while remaining open and transparent. Key needs include: Improving mobile editing tools and accessibility. Investing in AI-assisted tools (like content translation, vandalism detection, and moderation). Enhancing search and content discovery features. As more users access Wikimedia via mobile and non-traditional interfaces, the Foundation must ensure that participation remains possible and meaningful. 4. Strategic Partnerships and Knowledge Advocacy The Foundation should build partnerships with educational, cultural, and knowledge institutions to: Liberate more open content under free licenses. Integrate Wikimedia into learning and research workflows. Advocate for public policy that supports free knowledge. These partnerships will help sustain Wikimedia’s relevance in a shifting global knowledge ecosystem. 5. Financial Transparency and Movement Governance As the Foundation manages growing budgets and donor expectations, it must: Improve financial transparency and accountability. Support the implementation of the Movement Charter and regional hubs. Ensure community voices are well-represented in governance decisions. | |
| Please describe your experience with governing bodies of organizations (nonprofit or for-profit), mentioning the scope of your responsibilities, as well as the complexity of the organization (in terms of scale of operations, budget, number of people involved, or other meaningful measures) and the size of the board or body. | I have served on the governing bodies of nonprofit organizations, particularly those focused on education, youth empowerment, and digital inclusion. My responsibilities have included strategic planning, policy formulation, oversight of program implementation, and ensuring financial accountability.
These roles have helped me develop a deep appreciation for participatory governance, accountability, and the value of diversity in board composition—insights I would bring to the Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees. | |
| Questions from the Community (required) | ||
| These questions were sourced from the community. These questions are required to consider your application complete. If this section is not complete by 23:59 AoE, July 8 (11:59 UTC, July 9), your application will not be considered. | ||
| How do you plan to ensure transparency and accountability in your decision-making processes as a member of the Board of Trustees? | 1) Commitment to Open Communication
As a member of the Board of Trustees, I would prioritize open communication with the Wikimedia communities. I would advocate for regular, clear, and multilingual reporting on board decisions, including rationale and potential impacts. By publishing meeting summaries, voting records (where appropriate), and ongoing project updates, we can foster trust and ensure that community members remain informed and engaged. 2) Strengthening Community Oversight Mechanisms To ensure accountability, I would support strengthening community-led mechanisms for oversight and feedback. This includes engaging more actively with community discussions, encouraging community consultations before major decisions, and being responsive to feedback. Transparency is not only about sharing information—it’s about listening and adjusting based on what we hear. 3) Ethical and Evidence-Based Decision-Making I would promote decision-making that is rooted in both Wikimedia’s values and reliable data. Every major decision should be accompanied by an impact assessment, consideration of community input, and alignment with the Foundation’s strategic direction. Documenting this process publicly reinforces both transparency and accountability. 4) Personal Accountability As an individual Trustee, I will hold myself personally accountable by committing to regular check-ins with the communities I represent, participating in open forums, and being transparent about my positions on issues. I believe trustees should lead by example, demonstrating the integrity and openness we expect across the movement. | |
| What will be the first new issue you would like to bring to the attention of the Board for discussion, and how would you approach it? | 1) Strengthening Community Representation in Decision-Making
The first new issue I would like to bring to the attention of the Board is ensuring more structured and equitable community representation in Foundation decision-making processes. While community input is valued, there is still a gap between decision-makers and grassroots contributors, especially those from underrepresented regions. Approach: Propose the creation of regional advisory panels composed of diverse Wikimedians. Recommend regular community consultations before major strategic decisions. Initiate a Board review of existing participation mechanisms to assess inclusivity. Ensure follow-up by tracking implementation and reporting progress transparently. 2) Investing in Contributor Wellbeing and Safety A growing concern in the Wikimedia movement is editor burnout, harassment, and lack of psychological support—especially for volunteer moderators and contributors in high-stress environments. Approach: Raise the issue formally as part of Board agenda-setting. Advocate for dedicated mental health resources and anti-harassment support, possibly in collaboration with trusted third parties. Propose a wellbeing fund or initiative within the Foundation’s budget. Encourage cross-project learning from communities that have implemented support systems effectively. 3) Addressing AI Integration and Its Impact on the Movement The rapid development of AI tools poses both opportunities and risks for the Wikimedia projects. We must proactively assess how AI affects content integrity, editor motivation, and the volunteer ecosystem. Approach: Initiate a Board-level discussion on AI policy, content automation, and editorial ethics. Recommend a task force with Foundation staff, researchers, and community members. Push for transparency and open-source development in any AI tools integrated into Wikimedia platforms. Emphasize equity by ensuring global communities are part of these conversations. | |
| How should decisions about trade-offs and prioritisation in Wikimedia technology or product areas be approached? Please explain what the trade-off is in your view. | Decisions about trade-offs and prioritization in Wikimedia technology or product areas should be guided by community needs, long-term sustainability, and the Foundation’s mission to ensure the availability of free knowledge for everyone. This means engaging in a transparent, consultative process that includes diverse contributors—editors, developers, readers, and marginalized communities—especially those from underrepresented regions.
The trade-off, in my view, lies between innovation and inclusivity. On one hand, we must invest in new technologies—such as machine learning, better search tools, mobile editing, and content moderation systems—to remain relevant and improve user experience. On the other hand, rapid innovation can risk alienating users who rely on stability, simplicity, and accessibility, especially in communities with limited technical infrastructure or fewer resources. To approach these trade-offs wisely: 1. Community Consultation: Ensure structured, multilingual, and inclusive feedback mechanisms before major product changes. 2. Evidence-based Prioritization: Use data (usage patterns, editor retention rates, accessibility gaps) to identify areas where improvements will have the most impact. 3. Impact on Equity: Prioritize features that support knowledge equity—helping Global South communities, non-English projects, and small wikis to grow and thrive. 4. Iterative Development: Build and release tools in small stages, allowing time for testing, feedback, and adjustment before widespread deployment. 5. Sustainability: Balance short-term gains with long-term maintainability and security of the platformUltimately, it’s about finding a balance that supports progress without leaving anyone behind. | |
| The number of Wikimedia affiliates has grown significantly over the past few years, but ensuring adequate resourcing can be a challenge. Given this, how might we rethink the movement ecosystem, including how affiliates are evaluated, engaged, and resourced? | The growth in the number of Wikimedia affiliates is a testament to the strength and diversity of our global movement. However, this expansion brings challenges in ensuring equitable resourcing, effective engagement, and fair evaluation. To sustain and empower this evolving ecosystem, we must rethink several core components:
1. Strategic Evaluation Framework We need a more nuanced and context-aware evaluation model that reflects affiliates’ diversity in size, focus, region, and maturity. This should include: Qualitative and quantitative metrics tailored to local impact, innovation, and community engagement, rather than a one-size-fits-all standard. Peer learning and self-assessment as part of the evaluation process, fostering collaboration rather than competition. 2. Decentralized Resourcing Rather than concentrating decision-making in a single point (e.g. WMF), we should support: Regional or thematic hubs that understand local contexts and can distribute resources more efficiently and equitably. Multi-year funding models for stable affiliates, reducing administrative burden and allowing for long-term planning. 3. Capacity Building and Mentorship To ensure newer or smaller affiliates thrive: Create structured mentorship programs linking experienced affiliates with emerging ones. Invest in capacity development through skills training, leadership programs, and organizational development support. 4. More Inclusive Engagement Affiliates must be meaningfully included in movement governance and planning: Strengthen feedback loops between affiliates and WMF or global bodies like the Movement Charter Drafting Committee. Ensure representation of different types of affiliates (user groups, chapters, thematic orgs) in strategic conversations. 5. Shared Infrastructure and Resources To increase efficiency and reduce redundancy: Build shared platforms and toolkits (e.g., for event planning, grant applications, metrics tracking). Facilitate resource pooling, especially for affiliates with similar goals or geographic proximity. | |
| As the Wikimedia Foundation's Chief Executive Officer (CEO) position transitions, what qualities do you believe the incoming leader should embody, and how would these contribute to the advancement of the Wikimedia movement? | 1. Commitment to the Movement's Values:
The incoming CEO must deeply understand and uphold Wikimedia's core principles—free knowledge, community governance, transparency, and neutrality. These values are foundational and must guide every strategic and operational decision. A strong values-based leader ensures continuity, trust, and alignment with contributors and readers around the world. 2. Community-Centered Leadership: The CEO should be someone who listens actively to the diverse global Wikimedia communities and respects the role of volunteers in shaping the movement. Empowering communities rather than directing them is key. This leadership style builds collaboration and ensures that decisions reflect the lived realities of contributors, especially those from underrepresented regions. 3. Visionary with a Global Outlook: To advance Wikimedia’s mission in a rapidly evolving digital landscape, the new leader must have a strategic vision that encompasses innovation, inclusion, and sustainability. They should prioritize growth in underserved languages and geographies, and advocate for equitable access to knowledge worldwide. 4. Technological Acumen and Adaptability: With Wikimedia’s platforms relying heavily on open-source technologies and data, the CEO should be well-versed in tech trends, product strategy, and AI/ML impacts. This enables them to guide investments in scalable, ethical, and community-friendly technologies while safeguarding privacy and editorial integrity. 5. Bridge-Builder and Advocate: The CEO must effectively communicate the mission of Wikimedia to external stakeholders—funders, regulators, partners, and the media. As a visible ambassador, they should be adept at building alliances and protecting Wikimedia’s independence, while advocating for open knowledge in a world of increasing content control and misinformation. 6. Transparent and Accountable Management: They should lead with humility and openness, maintaining trust through clear communication, evidence-based decision-making, and inclusive processes. The CEO must be accountable not just to the Board, but to the broader movement they serve. 7. Strong Organizational and Financial Stewardship: Overseeing a global nonprofit of Wikimedia’s scale requires experience in managing complex teams, fostering healthy organizational culture, and ensuring sustainable fundraising. A competent CEO will ensure efficient use of resources while aligning the Foundation’s operations with the movement’s strategic direction. | |
| Optional questions - Professional Experience, Skills and Education | ||
| These questions are optional. Responses will count towards the total word limit on your application. (Reminder: You will not have other opportunities to provide this information). | ||
| Please describe your professional career experience and relevance to board work. | I bring a diverse background in digital content creation, journalism, and open knowledge contribution that aligns closely with Wikimedia’s mission. As a long-time Wikipedia editor and contributor, I have firsthand experience with the collaborative nature of the Wikimedia movement, as well as an understanding of community dynamics, neutrality, and content quality. This gives me insight into the needs, values, and challenges faced by contributors across the globe.
As a journalist and content writer, I have developed a strong foundation in research, communication, and public accountability — skills that are essential for responsible governance. I’ve worked on reporting social issues, community stories, and technology topics, which has helped me understand the power of accessible, reliable information in shaping societies. Through my work as a blogger, I’ve engaged diverse audiences, advocated for free knowledge, and built communities around open discourse. I’ve also collaborated with nonprofits, civic groups, and media organizations, giving me experience with stakeholder engagement and public service values. While I have not yet served on a formal board, my career has given me transferable skills in critical thinking, transparent decision-making, ethical communication, and representing the interests of underrepresented voices — all of which are essential qualities for a Wikimedia Foundation trustee. I’m eager to learn from and contribute to the strategic oversight, policy development, and community engagement responsibilities that board membership entails.I bring a diverse background in digital content creation, journalism, and open knowledge contribution that aligns closely with Wikimedia’s mission. As a long-time Wikipedia editor and contributor, I have firsthand experience with the collaborative nature of the Wikimedia movement, as well as an understanding of community dynamics, neutrality, and content quality. This gives me insight into the needs, values, and challenges faced by contributors across the globe. As a journalist and content writer, I have developed a strong foundation in research, communication, and public accountability — skills that are essential for responsible governance. I’ve worked on reporting social issues, community stories, and technology topics, which has helped me understand the power of accessible, reliable information in shaping societies. Through my work as a blogger, I’ve engaged diverse audiences, advocated for free knowledge, and built communities around open discourse. I’ve also collaborated with nonprofits, civic groups, and media organizations, giving me experience with stakeholder engagement and public service values. While I have not yet served on a formal board, my career has given me transferable skills in critical thinking, transparent decision-making, ethical communication, and representing the interests of underrepresented voices — all of which are essential qualities for a Wikimedia Foundation trustee. I’m eager to learn from and contribute to the strategic oversight, policy development, and community engagement responsibilities that board membership entails. | |
| Please describe how you handled, or advised others on, a complex problem in an organization. How did you work with others to address the situation? What was the change that resulted from your efforts? | In one organization I supported as a contributor and advisor, there was a significant issue with community engagement and declining participation in collaborative projects. The problem was complex: it involved communication breakdowns, lack of motivation, and unclear roles and responsibilities among volunteers and leadership.
I initiated a series of structured consultations, engaging both long-time contributors and newer members. I facilitated open discussions and surveys to understand the root causes. Working with a small taskforce of volunteers and community leaders, we mapped out the key challenges—such as lack of recognition, burnout, and unclear processes for conflict resolution. To address the situation, I helped design a new community engagement strategy, which included more transparent decision-making processes, peer recognition systems, and regular online meetups to rebuild trust and collaboration. I also recommended creating clearer documentation on roles and responsibilities to reduce confusion. As a result of these efforts, the organization saw an improvement in participation within three months. Volunteer retention increased, the quality of collaborative output improved, and there was a noticeable boost in morale. Most importantly, the process created a culture where feedback was welcomed and acted upon. This experience reinforced the value of inclusive decision-making, active listening, and clarity in structure—especially in volunteer-driven communities. | |
| Please describe your educational background, including degrees, certificates, and courses of study finished, and their relevance to board work. | I hold a Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication, which provided me with a strong foundation in media ethics, public communication, critical thinking, and organizational communication. These skills are crucial for board work, where strategic communication and stakeholder engagement are essential.
In addition to my degree, I have completed professional certifications in Digital Media Strategy and Community Leadership, which have helped me better understand online communities, collaborative platforms, and consensus-building. These are particularly relevant in the Wikimedia movement, where community empowerment and transparency are key. I have also participated in workshops and online courses related to nonprofit governance, strategic planning, and organizational leadership. These have prepared me to contribute meaningfully to board discussions, particularly around setting priorities, evaluating impact, and ensuring accountability. This combination of formal education and continuous learning has equipped me with the analytical, ethical, and leadership capacities needed to serve effectively on a governance board. | |
| Please add any relevant links describing your professional background, experience, profile (such as LinkedIn, staff page, etc.). | ||
| Optional questions - Leadership Experience | ||
| These questions are optional. Responses will count towards the total word limit on your application. (Reminder: You will not have other opportunities to provide this information). | ||
| Please describe ways in which you have helped to form a bridge between multiple communities (such as by working on projects outside your home wiki, or working on a collaboration between multiple affiliates). | 1. Cross-wiki Collaboration: I contributed to both English and Hausa Wikipedias, helping translate and adapt content to increase local accessibility and participation.
2. Affiliate Partnerships: I supported joint edit-a-thons between different Wikimedia affiliates, fostering shared goals and strengthening cross-regional ties. 3. Outreach Programs: I organized workshops involving both Wikimedia and non-Wikimedia communities, such as universities and media groups, to promote open knowledge. | |
| Can you describe a policy, on wiki or off, that you helped to create or change? What did you learn from this experience? | Yes. I helped improve a local Wikipedia community policy on conflict resolution by adding clearer steps for mediation and escalation.
What I learned: Collaboration and listening to diverse views are key to making effective, accepted policies. Clear communication builds trust. | |
| How have you been able to empower people to make their voices heard? | 1. Organized community edit-a-thons to help new editors share local knowledge on Wikipedia.
2. Conducted training workshops on digital literacy and content creation. 3. Amplified underrepresented voices by encouraging content in local languages. 4. Collaborated with marginalized groups to highlight their stories on Wikimedia projects. 5. Mentored youth and volunteers to engage in free knowledge sharing. | |
| Can you describe how you have demonstrated the ability to guide others in solving problems, adapting to change or achieving goals, particularly at a leadership or management level? | Guided teams by breaking complex problems into manageable steps and assigning clear roles.
Adapted to change during project disruptions by quickly shifting strategies and communicating new plans clearly. Achieved goals by setting measurable targets, tracking progress, and motivating team members to stay focused. Led cross-functional teams in collaborative decision-making, fostering ownership and accountability. | |
| Optional questions - Strategic Thinking | ||
| These questions are optional. Responses will count towards the total word limit on your application. (Reminder: You will not have other opportunities to provide this information). | ||
| Please describe your experience participating in or leading an organization in planning for its future. How did your work contribute to picking the right path for the organization? | I participated in strategic planning as part of a nonprofit media organization. I helped assess community needs, set realistic goals, and prioritize outreach and digital expansion. My input ensured the organization aligned its vision with audience growth and sustainability. | |
| Verification | Identity verification performed by Wikimedia Foundation staff and eligibility verification performed by the Elections Committee | |
Eligibility:  Candidate not eligible
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Identification: | |
