HISTORY OF THE INTERNET
In the first episode of Internet Changemakers, hosts Noha Ashraf AbdelBaky and Claire van Zwieten welcome Dr. Vinton Cerf, often referred to as one of the fathers of the Internet, to discuss his groundbreaking contributions to the creation of the TCP/IP protocol and the early days of Internet development. Dr. Cerf shares his favorite uses of the internet, recalling the first email he sent and the origins of networked email. He also delves into the design choices behind TCP/IP and the vision for the Internet as a tool for command and control, collaboration, and connecting powerful systems.
The conversation explores the evolution of the Internet, challenges it faces today, including security and accountability, and the promising growth of AI and the interplanetary Internet. Dr. Cerf emphasizes the importance of openness, interoperability, and teamwork in the Internet's development, while reflecting on the Internet Society's role in fostering a global community around Internet governance. This episode serves as a foundation for understanding the Internet's history and its transformative impact on society.
To Support us see: https://donate.internetsociety.org/?form=essential
The conversation explores the evolution of the Internet, challenges it faces today, including security and accountability, and the promising growth of AI and the interplanetary Internet. Dr. Cerf emphasizes the importance of openness, interoperability, and teamwork in the Internet's development, while reflecting on the Internet Society's role in fostering a global community around Internet governance. This episode serves as a foundation for understanding the Internet's history and its transformative impact on society.
To Support us see: https://donate.internetsociety.org/?form=essential
And for learning, visit https://www.internetsociety.org/learning/
Creators and Guests
Host
Claire van Zwieten
Claire van Zwieten is the Alumni Specialist at the Internet Society Foundation, where she leads a global network of changemakers shaping the future of the Internet. With a background in International Relations, Chinese Language and Culture, and a master’s in Crisis and Security Management, Claire brings a sharp eye for global dynamics and digital resilience. She thrives on building connections across borders and elevating the voices of those driving Internet accessibility, safety, and inclusion in their communities.
Host
Noha Ashraf AbdelBaky
Noha is a Storage Engineer, an ISOC fellowships Alumna, a member of ISOC Egypt Chapter and Youth SIG and an enthusiast of Youth Engagement and Women Empowerment in Internet Governance and dialogues about Tech policy.
Producer
Abdulrahman Abotaleb
Abdulrahman Abotaleb is a Yemeni ICT engineer, journalist, Internet governance advocate and digital transformation strategist. He has a distinguished track record of leadership and engagement in Internet policy through key initiatives and events such as ISOC, ICANN, RIPE, and the AIGF. He is the founder of Yemen Science Network and has conducted exclusive interviews with Internet pioneers including Vint Cerf, Whitfield Diffie, and Robert Metcalfe. His work bridges technology, storytelling, and digital rights, amplifying voices from the MENA region.
Producer
Alan Ramirez Garcia
Alan is a Peruvian policymaker, an ISOC Mid-career fellowship alumnus, and a lecturer at the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru. His central experience involves broadband policies, Meaningful and Universal Connectivity, Ethics, and international/multilateral affairs. He has been appointed a member of the UN IGF Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG) from 2022 to 2024.
Guest
Dr. Vinton G. Cerf
Widely recognized as one of the “Fathers of the Internet,” Dr. Vinton G. Cerf co-designed the foundational TCP/IP protocols that underpin the modern Internet. His pioneering work at DARPA in the 1970s laid the groundwork for the global network that connects billions today. Currently Vice President and Chief Internet Evangelist at Google, Cerf continues to champion Internet accessibility and innovation. A leader in both technical and governance arenas, he was the first president of the Internet Society (ISOC), former Chairman of ICANN, and the final chair of the IGF Leadership Panel. His numerous honors include the U.S. National Medal of Technology, the ACM Turing Award, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Dr. Cerf’s enduring vision has helped shape a resilient and inclusive digital world.
Producer
Kim Ochs
Kim Ochs is an EdTech consultant and ISOC Mid-career Fellow Alumna, with extensive experience designing and implementing digital learning solutions across global contexts. Her work today focuses on advancing digital inclusion and education through innovative technology and cross-sector collaboration. Kim’s career spans technology research and private equity, start-ups, and higher education. She has held fellowships at the University of Oxford and Center for Democracy & Technology.
