Bobby Shabangu - 2025 WMF Board of Trustees candidate statement

Pisha Bamu, a candidate from Johannesburg, South Africa, is seeking election to the Wikipedia Foundation Board of Trustees, emphasizing his extensive background within the Wikimedia movement as both an editor and a governance participant. He highlights his leadership experience in drafting the Movement Charter, supporting annual planning processes, and contributing to the shaping of the 2030 Movement Strategy. Currently serving as the president of his local chapter in South Africa, Bamu has gained firsthand insight into the complexities of leading diverse communities across various languages, races, genders, and demographics, which he believes is crucial for effective board representation. In addition to his chapter leadership, Bamu holds significant roles within the broader movement structure, including serving as the chair of WikiCom, the committee responsible for organizing the Wiki Indaba regional conference, and co-founding Africa Paraza, a platform dedicated to amplifying African voices. He also acts as an advisor on the Affiliations Committee, further demonstrating his commitment to fostering collaboration and growth across different regions. His diverse portfolio of responsibilities showcases a deep understanding of both community dynamics and affiliate relations, positioning him to bridge gaps between local initiatives and global strategy. Bamu argues that the Board must not only guide the foundation's governance but also reflect the global diversity of the movement while remaining responsive to community needs in a rapidly evolving landscape dominated by artificial intelligence. He pledges to ensure that equity and transparency remain central to decision-making processes, advocating for strategies that are inclusive and adaptable to long-term sustainability challenges. By prioritizing the voices of the Global South, particularly underrepresented regions, he aims to create a more balanced and representative leadership body that can navigate the future complexities of the Wikimedia ecosystem. Ultimately, Bamu's campaign is built on a promise to bring deep contextual knowledge, a strong advocacy for marginalized regions, and an unwavering commitment to fairness and openness in all board decisions. He invites voters to support his candidacy as a means to strengthen the movement's ability to thrive amidst technological shifts and demographic changes. His message concludes with a heartfelt appeal for votes, expressing gratitude and hope that his election will contribute positively to the continued growth and inclusivity of the Wikimedia Foundation.