When I think of the Africa School on Internet Governance (AfriSIG), I see more than simply an event: I see a turning point moment. It was more than just a programme, it was an opportunity for me to grow, connect, and refine my role in the realm of internet governance.
As a Pan-African Youth Ambassador for Internet Governance (PAYAIG) and an advocate for digital inclusiveness, AfriSIG provided the ideal forum for me to dive more deeper into the convergence of technology, policy and activism. It was more than simply a learning experience, it was a platform for me to elevate my voice and participate in significant conversations regarding Africa's digital future.
Walking into AfriSIG, I was both eager and curious. What fresh views would I discover? How could I share my experiences? From the start, I was surrounded by people who shared my enthusiasm for building an inclusive digital ecosystem, and who recognised the value of youth leadership in defining Africa's internet governance environment.
The lessons were hard but enriching, combining technical information with personal anecdotes. We addressed crucial concerns ranging from data protection and digital rights to ensuring that marginalised perspectives are heard in policy conversations. As a PAYAIG ambassador, I was particularly drawn to conversations on youth empowerment. How can we attract more young Africans into decision-making positions? How can we ensure their voices are not merely heard, but acted upon?
AfriSIG also allowed me to show the work that I've been doing with initiatives such as the African Girls Can Code Initiative (AGCCI) under UN Women Tanzania and Binti Dijitali, as well as my support for young women and girls in technology. Sharing my path as a young leader and hearing about others' stories reminded me that the obstacles we face are not insurmountable. We can generate the inclusive digital future we want by working together, being determined, and taking deliberate action.
But AfriSIG was more than just policy, it was personal. The connections I had with other participants, mentors and specialists were remarkable. We weren't only there to learn, we were also establishing a community and network of changemakers who could rely on one another to push things and generate effect throughout the continent.
This encounter confirmed my position as a leader in internet governance. It pushed me to think critically about how we can make digital spaces safer and more inventive while leaving no one behind. It also encouraged me to raise the voices of African youth in global discourses, because our continent has so much to give and our experiences are important.
Looking back, AfriSIG was more than a stride ahead in my journey, it was a leap. It confirmed my dedication to being a youth advocate, a champion for women in technology, and a bridge for inclusive policies.
Matilda Mashauri is a Pan-African Youth Ambassador for Internet Governance (PAYAIG) and an advocate for digital inclusiveness. She has worked on projects such as the African Girls Can Code Initiative (AGCCI) under UN Women Tanzania and Binti Dijitali, among other efforts to provide support for young women and girls in technology.