Candidates for 2024 Election

First Name Surname Short biography Vision for Internet South Africa
Jody Daniels Beyond two
decades of leading diverse marketing teams across Southern Africa, I bring a
unique blend of formal and social leadership experience to the ISOC ZA
committee. As Chairperson of the Diageo SA (Brandhouse) VEO, I managed
volunteer funds and spearheaded impactful programs with national NGOs.

For almost a decade, I held leadership roles at the Good Hope Christian
Centre and various colleges, empowering youth and underprivileged communities
through academia, arts & culture initiatives and technology access
programs. This combination of strategic planning, communication, and advocacy
skills, honed in both my professional and volunteer work, positions me to
make a significant contribution to shaping a more inclusive digital future
for South Africa.

I envision a
South African internet that empowers all citizens, fostering
entrepreneurship, free expression, and responsible social engagement. This
future requires a balanced approach, ensuring accessibility without stifling
innovation through over-regulation.
My passion for inclusivity aligns perfectly with ISOC ZA’s mission. My
experience leading marketing teams and social initiatives equips me to
advocate for programs that bridge the digital divide and empower marginalised
communities. I believe in the internet as a platform for self-actualisation,
allowing individuals to find their voice, explore opportunities, and
contribute meaningfully to society.

On the board, I would prioritise initiatives that expand internet access,
promote digital literacy, and advocate for responsible online discourse. I
would also champion economic opportunities through using the internet, for
the youth and marginalised. My diverse skillset and unwavering commitment to
a free and inclusive internet make me a valuable asset to ISOC ZA.

Kodisang Tshwaane As
a long-standing member of the Internet Society and a current executive
committee member of Internet South Africa, I am deeply committed to advancing
our mission. My passion lies in establishing & supporting community
networks, implementing skills transfer programs, and empowering the youth of
South Africa. These initiatives are crucial for our country’s digital future.
I am eager to continue serving on the executive committee because I believe
we have much more to accomplish, and I am dedicated to contributing to the
ongoing progress of Internet South Africa.
I
envision communities taking ownership of their infrastructure and managing
their of networks. I see a future where Internet access is free or is at a
very affordable price. I see a future where young people are more involved in
data center operations, Internet exchange points and are more technically
skills to maintain our Internet infrastructure. 
Mondli Mungwe I
have been actively involved in initiatives organised by the Internet Society
South Africa Chapter, including the Internet South Africa webinar series.
This series provided insightful and engaging discussions on critical topics
such as cybercrime and online safety, promoting awareness and fostering
dialogue on the challenges and solutions within our digital society.
Additionally, I participated in global events such as Global Encryption Day
and Universal Acceptance Day, furthering my commitment to internet security
and inclusivity. My work with Internet South Africa in KwaZulu-Natal has been
instrumental, with over 40 individuals from the University of South Africa
adopting our initiatives. All efforts were conducted in collaboration with
Durban University of Technology (DUT), demonstrating a robust commitment to
enhancing internet standards and safety within the region. 
I
am deeply committed to advancing the Internet in South Africa, particularly
within the KZN chapter. My vision is to create an inclusive, secure, and
accessible online environment for all South Africans. Having actively
participated in the Internet South Africa webinar series on Cybercrime and
Online Safety, I understand the critical importance of addressing cyber
threats and ensuring online safety.

My key goals and priorities include:
Expanding Membership: Grow the KZN chapter to over 40 active
individuals.
Educational Outreach: Adopt schools and deploy networks at the University
of South Africa, enhancing digital literacy and access.
Promoting Online Safety: Continue advocating for robust cybersecurity
measures and awareness, leveraging insights from events like Global
Encryption Day and Universal Acceptance Day etc.
I believe my dedication and experience will contribute significantly to the
success of our chapter, fostering a safer and more connected digital society
in South Africa. 

More Manda Currently
serving in the ISA committee.
My
vision for the future of the Internet in South Africa is a connected,
inclusive, and innovative society where digital access empowers every
individual and community. I am passionate about serving on the board of
Internet South Africa to drive initiatives that bridge the digital divide,
promote digital literacy, and ensure secure, affordable internet access for
all.

Percy Nhau I
am a past member of the Board and believe that I can add a perspective that
is rooted in the community struggle that I am involved  in KwaZulu Natal
I
would like to see Internet Society of South Africa to be involved in
initiatives that enables poor communities to access the internet easily and
cheaply
Roland Giesler I
have had hands-on experience with Internet Service Provision since 1995 when
I started an ISP.  Since then I have
been a vocal advocate against domination of large corporations in the
Internet space.  I also served on the
exco of ISOC-ZA in previous years.
The
internet must retain it’s distributed, independent nature and security
measures (like the Let’s Encrypt project) must be expanded, to facilitate
privacy, security and freedom from unwarranted and unwanted snooping by any
party. 

Small businesses are a major driving force in market economies and as such
the internet must be accessible and usable without the domination of vested
interest of multi-national corporations and/or governments.  It is my aim to support and enable
individuals and SME’s to have this ability as much as possible.

Shaun Courtney I’ve
been involved with the Internet Society for the last 3 years, first as a
committee member, then treasurer and finally as the Society Chair.
Shaun
works in the Internet Service provider industry and has been involved in
networking and computing for over 25 years.
I am wholeheartedly committed to the five year objectives of the Internet
Society which are broadly speaking 
fall into five categories: COLLABORATION, INCLUSION, RESPECT, PEOPLE,
PASSION
1. To collaborate in building the Internet and in the South African context
to be inclusive and promote access in under-serviced areas.
2. To promote the Internet  mode of
networking,  promoting respect and
connecting people.
3. To defend the Internet. This ensures a free, safe and fair internet for
all with everyone’s rights promoted and protected.

We can do this together – and we are here to help where we can.

Sikho Msomi I
bring extensive local and international leadership and advocacy experience in
the digital and technology sectors. As Regional Managing Director for
Southern Africa at the Africa Chamber of Digital Commerce, I spearheaded
initiatives for digital innovation and economic empowerment. My tenure as
Chairperson of the Umbilo Business Association strengthened my skills in
community-driven leadership and collaboration. Additionally, I co-founded
CodeAfrica, On Point Communications, and City People eThekwini, leveraging
technology for societal advancement. Serving as Programs & Systems
Officer at innobiz DUT Centre for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, I led
impactful digital skills development programs. I was also shortlisted for the
Executive Team of the Wikimedia Foundation as CEO, showcasing my leadership
potential globally. Furthermore, I have been invited to speak at prestigious
events such as the Transformative Impact Summit Africa, the United Nations
World Cities Day Webinar on Inclusive Cities, and the panel on e-governance
at the EU:Africa The Journey Conference. 
My
vision for the future of the ISA revolves around fostering universal access
and equitable participation. I envision a future where every citizen,
regardless of their background or location, has equal opportunities to
harness the transformative power of the internet for economic, educational,
and social advancement. I’m motivated to serve on the board of ISA to drive
initiatives that promote digital inclusion and bridge the existing gaps in
access and digital literacy. My goals includes leveraging partnerships to
expand internet access to underserved communities, enhancing digital skills
training programs, and advocating for policies that prioritize digital
equity. Addressing cybersecurity challenges and ensuring a safe online
environment will also be a priority. Drawing from my experience in leadership
roles within the digital and technology sector and my commitment to
community-driven initiatives, I’m confident in my ability to contribute
effectively to the success of ISA.
Sithembiso Mqadi I
Will do job of intefelloship
To
achieve my ambitions of my company and serve peoples
Sthembiso Xhakaza Sthembiso
Xhakaza is committed to Task, High Performance, Good Quality Service and
Result Oriented. He value his contributing through, Good Team Work and Profit
Maximization Growth and Development. Sthembiso Xhakaza is an Award Winner
under Gauteng Premiers Office & Department of Education at the “Premiers
Youth Excellence Awards 2014”. Sthembiso Xhakaza participate in the internet
Governance Forum board ,  Afrinic,  ISOC Global and Global IGF, Young African
Leaders SA. 
My
vision for the future of the Internet in South Africa is to achieve
universal, affordable access that bridges the digital divide and empowers all
citizens. I am interested in serving on the board of Internet South Africa to
drive initiatives that promote digital literacy, foster innovation, and
ensure a free, open internet. Key goals include expanding internet access to
underserved areas, advocating for policies that support net neutrality, and
enhancing cybersecurity awareness. A specific challenge I aim to address is
the affordability of internet services, which is crucial for equitable
access. With my background in digital education and community engagement, I
can contribute to the success of our chapter by developing educational
programs, forming strategic partnerships, and advocating for inclusive
internet policies. My commitment is to create an internet ecosystem in South
Africa that is accessible, secure, and beneficial for all.
Thoko Miya I
have served on the board of the Internet South Africa for the past two years
in this time I’ve been instrumental in establishing programs, initiatives and
events towards strengthening the Internet, Capacity building like
international Girls in ICT day, Universal acceptance, Cyber security training
webinars, global encryption day and helped the chapter move from gigabit to
megabit status and maintain the chapters Megabit status. This year I aim to
introduce more technical trainings, To run programs and initiatives that
empower and enable Internet service providers And entrepreneurs and more
young people from capacitated areas into the Internet space. I also serve on
the ZAIGF the official committee for South African Internet governance forum.
I am the CEO at Girlhype Whome who training and empowering woman in digital
skills to better be able to gain access to STEM Fields. I am passionate about
women  and African youth and exposing
them to greater opportunities. In my time secretary at the Internet South
Africa I’ve learnt a lot and I hope to come back for another term so that I
can continue to be off service.
My
vision for the Internet South Africa is that we can have more technical
trainings we can have more open events more webinars and that we can continue
to create an online space where there is access, collaboration, transparency,
accountability and regulation. My aims to continue to grow the membership
this year I think we’ve grown by over 100 members the minutes will say but I
aim that we can grow by 1000 members per annum Through an impact through
partnerships and by actively rolling programs that seek and create investment
into the Internet South Africa.
Wadzanai Ndlovu As
an active member of Internet South Africa, I’ve led initiatives focusing on
girls’ ICT training, cybersecurity awareness, and inclusive technology
workshops for educators. Recently, I helped initiate online training for
South Africa and successfully co-instructed Internet Governance training at
the Youth Expo in Soweto, Johannesburg. These experiences complement my
17-year career in ICT4D and Information Science. My leadership roles in
Internet Society include serving as Head of Policy and Governance for the
Zimbabwe chapter and Vice-Chairperson of ISOC Global’s ChAC (SC). I
spearheaded ISOC Zim’s inaugural School of Internet Governance and delivered
digital literacy training to over 130 participants. I have also been the
MOnitoring and reporting officer for the ISOC Gender Standing Group. With an
academic background in Information and Knowledge Management from Stellenbosch
University, I’m committed to bridging the digital divide through
collaborative policymaking and grassroots initiatives. My expertise in
Internet governance, community empowerment, and local engagement makes me
well-suited for this Internet South Africa committee role, where I can
continue driving positive change in the digital landscape.
As
a leader, I envision an inclusive and innovative internet future for South
Africa. I aim to bridge the digital divide by expanding affordable access and
improving digital skills, targeting a 50% increase in rural connectivity
within three years. I will launch a nationwide digital literacy program,
partnering with educators to train annually. A “South African Digital
Content Hub” will promote local content creation, aiming to increase
locally hosted content by 30% in two years. I will implement a comprehensive
cybersecurity framework to protect users and reduce online fraud by 25%
within 18 months. An “Internet Entrepreneurship Incubator” will
support 50 start-ups annually, driving technological advancements and job
creation. I am committed to collaborative leadership, transparent governance,
and measurable progress, ensuring Internet South Africa becomes a catalyst
for digital transformation and social equality.
William Stucke Has
been part of the Internet from its start in South Africa. Ex-ICASA member,
Ran an ISP – etc.
I
guess to make a more open, inclusive but more secure Internet industry system
in South Africa
Zandile Kabini As
the Board Chairperson of Broadband Infraco (BBI) in South Africa, I have been
at the forefront of expanding the nation’s broadband infrastructure to foster
digital inclusion and economic growth. My leadership has been pivotal in
overseeing strategic initiatives that enhance connectivity, particularly in
underserved areas. I have spearheaded multiple projects that leverage
cutting-edge technology to improve internet access, ensuring robust and
reliable broadband services. My role involves close collaboration with
industry stakeholders, government entities, and community organizations to
drive policy advocacy and implement sustainable solutions. Additionally, I
bring extensive experience in governance, having served on various boards
where I focused on driving innovation and operational excellence in the tech
sector. My deep involvement in the technology and telecommunications
industries underscores my commitment to advancing South Africa’s digital
landscape, making me a valuable asset to the committee of Internet South
Africa.

My
vision for the future of the Internet in South Africa is to achieve
universal, affordable, and high-speed internet access for all citizens,
driving socio-economic development and bridging the digital divide. Serving
on the board of Internet South Africa, I aim to prioritize initiatives that
expand infrastructure, enhance digital literacy, and foster innovation. Key
goals include advocating for policy reforms that support open and equitable
internet access, addressing cybersecurity challenges, and promoting local
content creation. I am particularly interested in tackling issues such as
rural connectivity and ensuring that marginalized communities benefit from
digital advancements. With my experience at Broadband Infraco, I bring a
strategic perspective on infrastructure development and stakeholder
engagement. I am committed to leveraging my expertise to drive impactful
projects and collaborations that align with Internet South Africa’s mission,
ultimately contributing to a more connected and inclusive digital future for
our country.

The post Candidates for 2024 Election appeared first on Internet South Africa.