Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda/Board Elections 2025/Owobusingye
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Candidate details
Name: Christopher Liberty
Username:Owobusingye
Motivation and Contributions
Why are you running for the Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda Governing Board? What unique contributions would you bring to the board? What do you hope to learn through this role?
I am running for the Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda Governing Board because I am deeply passionate about contributing to the creation and dissemination of knowledge. My journey as a Wikimedian has been transformative, and I am eager to bring my unique experiences and skills to the board.
On December 19, 2024, I edited Vitor Perreira's Wikipedia page when he joined Wolverhampton Wanderers FC as coach in the English Premier League. This experience unexpectedly deepened my connection to the club, which I realized on February 1, 2025, while watching their game against Aston Villa. Additionally, my participation in the Wiki Loves Human Rights initiative in 2023, where I created the second most articles, underscores my commitment to documenting and preserving important information. One of my most memorable contributions was an article about the Kitubulu Central Forest Reserve [Central Forest Reserve] in Entebbe. I drove from Nansana to Entebbe to take photos for the article, accompanied by my daughter and a friend from Germany who was visiting. These photos are now part of the article, reflecting my dedication to ensuring the quality and authenticity of the content I contribute.
My time in the UK opened my eyes to the importance of documenting and making information accessible. This aligns perfectly with my values and has motivated me to take my role as a Wikimedian seriously. The impact of my contributions is evident in the pride I feel when I see the Kitubulu forest reserve, knowing I have documented it for the world to see. Serving on the board will allow me to further this mission and leverage my professional and academic experience.
Through this role, I hope to learn more about the governance and strategic planning of Wikimedia projects, enhance my leadership skills, and collaborate with like-minded individuals to advance our shared goals. I am dedicated to serving with passion and commitment, ensuring that our work continues to make a meaningful impact.
Wikimedia Experience
Please describe your involvement with the Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda and the wider movement, including: Contributions to Wikimedia projects, Participation in User Group activities..
My involvement with the Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda and the wider movement has been both extensive and impactful. On June 27th, 2023, I was thrilled to win the Wikipedia for Human Rights Editathon, an achievement that not only recognized my contributions but also deepened my understanding of forest reserves and their critical role in our ecosystem. During this campaign, I created 10 articles, 47 Wikidata items, and uploaded 24 images, all aimed at raising awareness and inspiring others to protect these vital areas.
In 2024, my contributions continued as I emerged as a runner-up in the Wiki Soccerthon, creating the second highest articles on Wikipedia. Additionally, I played a pivotal role in training Makerere University students during the Wiki Gap activity. Importantly, I served as an intern for Wiki Education. My volunteer work with Wiki Education involved establishing key partnerships with Amani Academy, the Uganda National English Language Teachers' Association, and Ashinaga Uganda, further supporting the execution of Wiki Education activities.
Beyond these specific events, I have been actively engaged in strategic community discussions, both online and in person. My commitment to the Wikimedia movement is also reflected in my efforts to mentor new contributors and recruit others to join the Wikimedia community. These experiences have equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of the Wikimedia projects and a strong network within the community, making me a valuable candidate for the Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda Governing Board.
Strategic Priorities
From your perspective, what should the Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda prioritize over the next 3–5 years? Why do you consider these priorities the most important?
Over the next 3–5 years, the Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda should prioritize the creation of more language programs and the establishment of an active and iterative buddy support system. These priorities are crucial for several reasons.
Firstly, Uganda is a multilingual country with over 70 languages, of which 41 are indigenous. Currently, our user group actively runs a program in only one local language, Luganda. This is a missed opportunity to preserve and promote our rich linguistic heritage. By targeting at least four local languages, starting with one of the Runyakitara languages, we can significantly increase the content available in these languages on various Wikimedia projects. This effort will not only help in preserving our local languages but also make knowledge more accessible to a broader audience in Uganda.
Secondly, the creation of an active and iterative buddy support system is essential for fostering a more engaged and productive community. Pairing active volunteers with less active ones for peer support can facilitate learning, encourage participation in Wikimedia activities, and drive higher contributions. Many users already possess the basics but need a little push to become more active. For instance, my participation in projects like Wiki for Human Rights and the Soccerthon has always led to increased edits and contributions. Scaling this approach through a structured buddy system can amplify our collective impact.
By focusing on these priorities, we can enhance the inclusivity, engagement, and overall effectiveness of the Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda, ensuring that we punch above our weight and make a lasting difference.
Relevant Experience
Please describe any relevant skills and knowledge you have in areas such as, Governance, management, finance, leadership, or similar fields.
I bring a wealth of relevant skills and knowledge in governance, management, project planning, and leadership, which I believe will be invaluable to the Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda Governing Board. My experience includes leading several impactful projects and initiatives, such as the Kampala Youths ABCs for Waste and Climate Action project, funded by the Chevening Alumni Programme Fund. As a leader in the Chevening Association of Uganda, I successfully guided this project to completion, focusing on enhancing climate literacy in Uganda.
In addition, I have served as an ambassador for the Programme for Africa Leadership (PFAL) at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) in the UK, where I also held the position of Course Coordinator for the Development Management 2021-2022 cohort. The roles above have honed my expertise in project planning and management, leadership, education, and sustainability.
Moreover, I have received bespoke executive training in board management. Starting in January 2023, I completed the "Journey to the Boardroom" executive course, designed to prepare professionals for board roles with a strong emphasis on mentorship and leadership.(https://www.linkedin.com/posts/journey-to-the-boardroom-ug_journeytotheboardroom-jtbgrandfinale2024-activity-7205945947074310144-0kyE?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop). This training has equipped me with the necessary skills to contribute effectively to boardroom discussions and strategic decision-making.
Additionally, I am an excellent writer and editor, particularly in English and Runyankore-Rukiga, having been a teacher of English Language and Literature for over 3 years.My comprehensive training and diverse experience in governance and leadership will enable me to contribute significantly to the strategic leadership of the Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda, ensuring that we achieve our goals and make a lasting impact.