Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda/Board Elections 2025/Ssemanda Willy
Thank you for your interest in running for the Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda Board Elections 2025.
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Candidate details
Name: Ssemanda Willy
Username: Ssemmanda will
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 firmly believe that open knowledge fosters cross-cultural understanding, educational development and propel social progress in Uganda. It is my dream to be part of the leadership that will spearhead such a crucial change in our society.
I possess a comprehensive knowledge of Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda since I joined it in 2016 and its inner workings. I am well-positioned to provide continuity while on the incoming board.
Wikimedia Experience
Please describe your involvement with the Wikimedia Community User Group Uganda and the wider mov ement, including: Contributions to Wikimedia projects, Participation in User Group activities..I have been actively engaged in Wikimedia activities since November 2016, serving in various capacities. Since 2020, I have held the position of Team Lead for Luganda Wikipedia, the only Ugandan indigenous language represented on Wikipedia.
In this role, I have successfully sensitised, recruited, trained, and onboarded numerous volunteers, growing the team from just 4 active members to over 40. I have also developed expertise in event organisation, financial accounting, and reporting, adhering to the organisation's expectations.
Furthermore, I have trained a team of event organisers, enabling the effective management of a large group. I have actively participated in and led the team in forging partnerships with various Wikimedia projects, including Wiki Gap, Wiki Source, GLAM, Wiki Loves Africa, Wiki Loves Monuments, Wiki Loves Earth, Wiki For Human Rights, Wiki Loves Women, and Wiki Soccer, among others.
I also actively contributed to the development of the Community's new strategy, which will guide our efforts from 2025 to 2029. Having been involved in the drafting process, I possess a deep understanding of the strategy, enabling me to effectively guide and support others in its implementation.
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?
Now that the Community has launched a new strategy prioritising Content Creation and Improvement, as well as community growth and development, I recommend the following:
Promoting and prioritising local languages is crucial. To start, we should enhance the quality and quantity of Uganda-related content on Luganda Wikipedia. Furthermore, we should facilitate the addition of other indigenous languages to Wikimedia. With over 54 indigenous languages in Uganda, aiming to introduce at least three more languages within my two-year tenure would be impactful.
To achieve this, we must improve accessibility of Wikimedia projects, particularly in local languages. Languages such as Lusoga and Runyakitara(that embeds Runyankore, Rukiga, Rutooro and Runyoro) are prime candidates for inclusion.
Forging partnerships with organisations like cultural institutions and educational establishments will be vital in securing support and expertise.
Relevant Experience
Please describe any relevant skills and knowledge you have in areas such as, Governance, management, finance, leadership, or similar fields.
In my previous role as Luganda Wikipedia Team Lead, I was responsible for drafting and implementing project activities, managing budgets, ensuring accountability, and submitting timely reports in accordance with organisational policies. This experience has instilled in me a strong sense of accountability.
Beyond Wikimedia, I have held various leadership and organisational positions, including Chairperson of the Church Youth Ministry and Secretary of the Parish Executive Committee at St Stephen's Kireka Church of Uganda. These roles have afforded me valuable and extensive experience, which I am confident will serve me well as a member of the Wiki Board.